Services & Obituaries

SPRUYT, Coby…..

Coby Spruyt passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on Sunday October 4th, 2026 in London Ontario. Coby was born in 1943 in Gouda, Holland. She immigrated at the age of 10 to Canada along with her parents and her three older sisters. They all settled in London and London area. She leaves behind her son Richard (Noreen). Grandmother to Jacob, Tyler (Beverley), Mark (Madison). Great grandmother to Landon. Sister to Marie deWeerd (Cor) and Willy van Tooren of London. Dearly missed by her several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, Jacobus and Wilhelmina and her sister Tina Weits (Gerry). In Coby’s younger years she was an avid and accomplished bowler. She participated in many leagues, earned numerous awards, and even bowled multiple perfect games. Coby was a longtime employee of Air Canada where she worked as a ticket agent at the London airport. Her career gave her the opportunity to travel extensively, with memorable trips to Europe, Hawaii and Jerusalem. Coby was a member of the Hillcrest Home League at the Salvation Army Church. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting and knitting. She was a long-time volunteer for St. Josephs hospital where she worked at the giftshop. Her grandkids have fond memories of playing shuffleboard and sharing pie with their grandmother. Coby’s family would like to extend their thanks to the care provided by nurses Sarah and Maddy at Strathroy Hospital. For the past five years, Coby resided at Country Terrace in Komoka. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Resident Service coordinator, Heather as well as many PSW who cared for Coby throughout her time there. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels London. According to Coby’s Wishes burial has taken place Mount Pleasant Cemetery. A Celebration of Life for Coby will take place Sunday, October 25th at 3:00pm at Village Green Community Church, 505 Village Green Avenue, London. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LAIDLAW, Phyllis Marilyn (née McCowan)…
Peacefully at Craigwiel Gardens on October 3rd, in her 85th year. Beloved wife of 62 years to Andy Laidlaw. Loving mother of Sheri Laidlaw and her wife Lisa Burton, and Janice Webber and her husband Ken Webber. Cherished grandmother of Edward Butler and Kendra Webber. Dear sister of Shirley Elliott and her husband Bill. Predeceased by her parents, John and Mary McCowan.
Born in Goderich and raised on farms in Brucefield and Porters Hill, Phyllis graduated from Goderich High School and moved to London, where she worked at Eaton’s and PepsiCo before becoming co-owner of To Wheels, London’s oldest bicycle shop. She had a lifelong love of music, a passion for travel, and a deep interest in researching the McCowan family history.
Friends will be received by the family on Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 2-4pm & 7-9pm at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel Friday, October 16, 2026 at 11am. Burial to take place in Pond Mills Cemetery, London. Donations in memory of Phyllis Laidlaw can be made to Craigwiel Gardens via cheque, e-transfer to [email protected] or by following the website donation link at www.craigwielgardens.on.ca. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Fisher (nee Mollard)…
Peacefully, at Parkwood Institute on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, in her 103rd year. Betty was the beloved wife of the late Clair Fisher (2022). She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her two children, Blake Fisher (Nancy) and Barbara Arnold (Ted); grandchildren, William Fisher (Evette) and Heather Smyth (Alexander); and great-grandchildren, Liam Fisher and Maggie Smyth. She was predeceased by her siblings, Beverley (Fran) Mollard and Marjorie (Vern) Pillsworth, and will be fondly remembered by many extended family members and friends.
Born in Windsor, Ontario on January 14, 1924, Betty was the youngest of three children of Harold and Beatrice Mollard. She attended Walkerville Collegiate, and worked at Wyeth Laboratories during WWII. After meeting Clair at a Windsor Arena dance, she married ‘the love of her life’ in 1947. In 1951, Betty and Clair moved to London and joined Calvary United Church, where they established many friendships, a circle that expanded through Betty’s involvement in the IODE and Maycourt.
Gregarious and fun-loving, Betty cherished special occasions and extended family gatherings. She was the last of a large cohort whose roaring years centered around curling and golfing at Highland Country Club, and she fondly remembered and cherished those friendships. In retirement, Betty and Clair enjoyed bridge, travel and time spent at their winter home in Florida.
Betty leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and generosity, a nurturing spirit, and an amazing quick wit that kept all of us on our toes.
The family is sincerely grateful for the compassionate and attentive care Betty received at Victoria Hospital and Parkwood Institute. Special appreciation is also extended to the McKeough family for their enduring friendship, Lynne Kearns for her care and support, and the staff at Fox Hollow Retirement Home for their dedication and kindness.
The funeral will take place on Friday, October 9, 2026 at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The celebration will begin with visitation at 12:00 pm followed by a service at 1:00 pm. Donations in memory of Betty can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the MS Society of Canada. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

NORTH, Larry….

Peacefully at University Hospital, London, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, Larry North passed away at the age of 80. Beloved husband of Ollie (Peters) North of 45 years. Loving brother of Sharon Webb (Dave). Dear brother-in-law of Richard Hibma. Larry will be missed by his many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by Shirley Hibma, Lanny North (Sedella) and Sally Nemett. After retiring from TRW in Woodstock, Larry found great enjoyment in time spent at the trailer with Ollie and his cherished four-legged companion, Gracie. The family would like to thank the staff at University Hospital for their outstanding care provided to Larry. Cremation has taken place. A reception will be held on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 from 2-4 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home – Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Mission Services – Quintin Warner or the Canadian Lung Association would be appreciated. A private inurnment will take place at Woodland Cemetery, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

THORNTON, Marion…

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Marion (Hooper) Thornton announce her passing at Earls Court Village in London, on Friday, October 2, 2026, shortly after her 100th birthday. Beloved wife of the late Orwell Thornton (2020). Survived by her daughter Lucille Switzer (Lloyd) and her son Donald (Karn). Also survived by her 5 grandchildren Scott, Stuart, Christopher, Ashton and Kalvin and their families, as well as several great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the staff at Earls Court for the care and compassion provided to Marion. A private time of reflection and a private graveside service will take place at Woodland Cemetery, London. Donations in memory of Marion may be made to Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London, ON, N6C 1E7 or to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 498, 20 Municipal Drive, Grand Bend ON N0M 1T0. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at accepted at www.amgfh.com

RAYEW, Igor…

Igor Rayew passed away peacefully at the age of 87, Wednesday, September 30th, 2026 in London, Ontario.

He leaves behind his wife of 58 years Irene. Loving Father of Larissa (Shawn) and Tanya. Cherished “Deda” of Michael (Alicia) and Cassandra (Danny). Beloved Great-grandfather of Julian and Oliver.

Igor was born in Russia before immigrating to Canada at age 12. Igor married the love of his life, Irene in 1968. In his younger years Igor worked as a barber before moving on to the school board up until retirement. Igor cherished the time spent he vacationing with his family in Florida where they made many special memories. Igor was known for his strong will and loyalty to his family and friends. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he would never hesitate to help anyone in need.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Parkwood palliative unit for their compassionate care.

Prayers will be said on Monday, October 5th, 2026 starting at 6:00 pm at the Russian Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour, 140 Fairview Avenue, London, ON N6C 4T8. The funeral service will begin at 10:00am on Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 with Very Reverend Vladimir Morin. Burial to follow at Woodland Cemetery, London.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Igor’s memory may be made to the Russian Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour.

Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

VONKA, Jaromir…

Jaromir Vonka passed away with his daughter and son-in-law by his side at University
Hospital, London on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 in his 81st year.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Kveta (2023). He was the cherished father of
his only child, Caroline (Kevin) and a dear grandfather “Deda” to Eliska. He is greatly
missed by his nephew, Mojmir (Martina), great-nephew Mojmir (Aneta) and great-niece
Martina (Martin).

Jaromir was born in Trebon, Czech Republic. He embarked on the greatest adventure
of his life with his wife, Kveta, in 1969 when emigrating to Canada. In London, Ontario,
Jaromir sponsored Czech immigrants to Canada and was active in the Czech
community. He started his own TV repair business in 1971 which remarkably lasted
over 50 years until his death. Jaromir was very devoted to his wife, Kveta, and their
lives were closely intertwined through working at the business and facing life’s
challenges together. Jaromir, Kveta, and Caroline were a solid unit that supported each
other through thick and thin.

Jaromir will be remembered by his loyalty to those around him, and his wealth of
knowledge enhanced through the reading of his extensive library. He will be warmly
remembered by his uncanny ability to connect the Czech Republic to world events big
and small.

Cremation has taken place and in following Jaromir’s wishes, no services will be held.

In memory of Jaromir, donations may be made to www.dailytvmass.com. This program
gave him a reason to wake up every morning since his wife’s death, and brought him
great comfort in his final years.

CLARKE, Frederick…..

It is with great sadness that the family of Fred Clarke announce his passing on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 in his 81st year.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 4 years, Angela and his late wife Joan (2007), his sons Collin (Vanessa) of London, and Adam (Melodie) of Oakville, grandchildren Christian, Pearl, Violet, Emma and Brecken.

He is survived by his sister Karen (Kirk) Young of Calgary, and his brother Bob (Nancy) of Georgina, as well as various nephews and nieces. Fred is predeceased by his brother Jim and his parents George and Helen Clarke.

His life as a pilot was always framed with stories of great adventures.

Friends will be received by the family one hour prior (10-11am) to the Celebration of Life service at 11:00am, on Friday October 2, 2026 at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. For those who cannot attend in person, the Celebration of Life will be live streamed by visiting the AMG Funeral Home YouTube  channel.

Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Molloy, David MacFarlane…

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave after a short battle with cancer. Dave passed away surrounded by family at London Health Sciences Centre on September 3rd, 2026. Pre-deceased by parents David (2019), Alice-Marie (2016) and sister Michelle (2002). He is survived by brothers James (Sue), Robert (Kristina) and sister Suzanne (Brendon). He will be lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews Garrett (Melissa), Timothy and Emma (Jacob) Fraser, Sam Molloy and Matthew, Holly and Rebecca Pilgrim. He will be missed by many aunts, uncles and cousins as well as his brother-in-law Ian Fraser (Jane, Dayna, Kara), ‘adopted’ brother Fred Hutton and dear friend Rick Wituik.

Dave was born and raised in Newfoundland where he attended school at St. Bonaventure’s, Brother Rice High School and Memorial University. He was involved in sports at an early age and played softball, basketball, soccer and was the goalie for the Celtics hockey team. He moved to Toronto in the late 1980’s where he worked at Wrigley’s and met an amazing group of friends. In 1999, he moved to London and worked for 3M for 27 years where he made good friends and golf buddies over the years. He was a dedicated Habs, Yankees and Manchester United fan and an avid sports fan overall. Dave was knowledgeable about most things and was the best trivia partner. He had all the categories covered: history, movies, current events, sports and music.

Cremation has taken place and in keeping with Dave’s wishes there will be no service. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday October 24, 2026 from 2-5pm at The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 598, Delaware, ON. A second celebration will be held in St. John’s, NL at a later date when Dave’s ashes will be spread. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre or the charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HOWLETT, David….

It is with great sadness that his family announce the passing of David Howlett on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at Parkwood Institute after a sudden illness. David was a loving and devoted husband to Dagmar Howlett (Wolff) for 50 years and a loving father to Samuel and Elizabeth. Born in Kitchener to Maxwell and Madeline Howlett, David was the 2nd youngest of 5 children. He is survived by his brother Bruce Howlett (the late Diane) and was predeceased by his sisters Donna Wright and Mary Lou Acton and brother Allan Howlett. He will be missed by many nieces and nephews, great neighbours and many friends. David had many dogs and cats, and will be missed dearly by his sweet dog Bella. David enjoyed riding his motorcycle, golfing, and basically anything to do with trains, planes and automobiles! He found his new passion in lawn bowling which he took up in his later years and enjoyed the many friendships forged at the Elmwood Lawn Bowling Club. David’s long career in transportation began at the Canadian National Railway and then worked at Husband Transport where he met Dagmar in 1973. He went on to Canada Post as a Transportation Officer, and it was from here that he retired in 2013. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to the London Humane Society. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com