Services & Obituaries

KERR, Lotta…

Peacefully at Elmwood Place Long Term Care, London, on Friday, March 14, 2025, Lotta Kerr (nee Morton) passed away in her 101st year. Lotta was the beloved wife of the late James Austin Kerr (2008). She was the loving mother of Joan Horner and her husband Gord, Edward Kerr and Sandy Kerr. Adored granny of Lori McEwen and her husband Scott, Joe Horner and his wife Sophia, Michael Horner, Kyle Kerr and Kory Kerr. Loved by her great-grandchildren Isabel and Nicole Young-Kerr. Predeceased by her son Daniel Kerr (2004) and her two sisters Grace Slemon and Lou May. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 10:00-10:45 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, where the funeral service will be held at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. In memory of Lotta, donations may be made to St. Andrew Memorial Anglican Church, 55 Foxbar Road, London, ON N6C 2A6, the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 1414 Dundas Street, London, ON N5W 3B6 or to a charity of choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

UPMALIS, Ausma…

Ausma Upmalis passed away peacefully at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, London, on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 in her 100th year. Ausma was married to Dr. Henry Upmalis who predeceased her in 2017. She was the dear mother of Dr. David Upmalis (Patricia Leonhardt), grandmother of Jeffrey Upmalis (Lynn), Jordan Wilt (Joshua), Thomas Upmalis and Bob Upmalis (Meghan). Loving great-grandmother to Aurora, Deacon and Grace. Also survived by a number of nieces and nephews, sister-in-law Ruth Banga and daughter-in-law Gail Upmalis. Predeceased by her brother, Agris Banga, daughter Ann and sons John, Michael and Martin. Ausma was born in Latvia and came to Canada with her parents in 1949. She became a Registered Nurse and worked at Victoria Hospital in London while her husband attended medical school and completed his surgical residency. The couple then moved to Kitchener with their growing family, where Ausma became a full-time mother. As the children grew older she became more active in the community, particularly with the local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Ausma moved back to London in their retirement, where they enjoyed gardening, wines, music and letting her husband cook, instead of her! As her health declined and after her husband passed, she moved to Mount Hope, where she was an active participant in many activities. Ausma was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a good friend to others. She loved music and chocolates. The family wishes to thank the staff of fourth floor, St. Mary’s wing for their attentive care over the past 5 years. Cremation has occurred. Friends will be received by the family on Saturday, June 21, 2025 from 12:00-12:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the funeral service will take place at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of one’s choosing. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ANDERSEN, Grace…

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Grace Andersen, our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and the cherished queen of Nilestown, in her 99th year. Grace left us peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, as she joined her dear husband Carl in eternal rest.

Grace was married to Carl for 59 wonderful years, sharing a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories until his passing. Together, they built a beautiful life, and Grace continued to be a beacon of strength, wisdom, and warmth for all who knew her.

Grace was the proud mother of Ray (Carolyn) and Ingrid, who were her greatest joys, and a grandmother to Dane (Michelle) and Kiersten (Jeremey), who adored her. Her legacy lives on in her great-grandchildren, Kirk and Kallen, who brought her endless pride and happiness. She was a great friend of Jack Poels. She is predeceased by her siblings. Grace will also be missed by her nieces, nephews and extended families.

Known for her sharp wit and always having something to say, Grace had a way of making everyone around her feel special. She loved her family deeply, and her nurturing spirit touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her quick sense of humor and loving presence will be missed more than words can express.

As we say goodbye to our dear Grace, we take comfort in the song “Amazing Grace,” which reminds us of the love and grace she shared with us all. Rest peacefully, dear Grace, in the arms of your Carl. We will forever love you, and you will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace, Grace. You will always be our Queen.

The family would like to thank the staff at Kensington Village and Dr. Leger for their compassionate care of Grace over the past five years.

Friends and guests are invited to visitation on Monday, March 24th, 2025 from 11am-12:45pm at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Funeral service will follow in the funeral chapel at 1pm. Interment to take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Donations in memory of Grace may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LAMONT, Doris

Peacefully on Friday, March 7, 2025, at University Hospital, London, Doris passed away in her 102nd year. Beloved wife of the late James “Jim” Lamont (2012). Loving mother of Ken (Bernadette), Brian, and Ron (Gianina). Predeceased by her son Allan and survived by her daughter in law Audrey. Dear sister of the late Vera. Cherished grandma of Nareda (Pat) Mills, Kevin Lamont, Scott (Sandy) Lamont, and Kari (Pete) Fonti. Great-grandma of Brendan, Spencer, Nick, Nathan, Luca, and Lilly. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Doris was a dedicated volunteer at Parkwood Hospital, Meals on Wheels, and the Children’s Hospital, she found joy in giving back to the community and supporting the Boys and Girls Club. Doris was an avid reader and puzzle enthusiast; she enjoyed crossword and word searches while making a lasting impact through her volunteer work and kindness. Family and friends are welcomed for visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 11:00 am – 12:45 pm. A funeral service will follow in the chapel at 1:00 pm. Private family interment at Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Doris may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Middleton, Richard William

Richard “Slipped the surly bonds of earth” and found peace at last on Friday, March the 7th, 2025 at the Village of Glendale Crossing, London. Richard passed away in his 87th year. Beloved husband of Kathleen for 61 years. Loving father to Kerry Ann (Bruce) Weller, John Middleton, and Richard (Cara) Middleton. “Grips” to his cherished grandchildren, Taylor Weller, Kayla Weller, Sarah Middleton and William Middleton. Dear brother of Jane Ann Douglas and the late Mary Jo Merton.

Richard was a humble gentleman who demonstrated kindness and principle to all whom he met in business and daily life, always striving to do the right thing. Fond memories were made of skiing in Colorado, boating on Lake Huron and at Burleigh Falls. His diverse passions ranged from a deep interest in the history of World War II to feats of engineering, woodworking, and model boat building.

He will be missed and cherished by his loving family and friends.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. James Westminster Anglican Church, 115 Askin Street, London. As an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard may be made to London Public Library or the Alzheimer’s Society Southwest Partners. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PELLETIER, Mary Jane

Peacefully at Kensington Village, London, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, Mary Jane Pelletier of London, passed away at the age of 89. Predeceased by her husband John Noel (2018). Dear mother of Robert Pelletier and wife Susan, Michelle Palmer and husband Jean-Marc, Richard Pelletier and wife Carrie, all of London and Monique Pelletier and husband Eric of Windsor. Dear sister-in-law of Jeannine Pelletier of Orleans. Also loved by her grandchildren: Tammy and husband Rick, Jaime and wife Holly, Kristyn and partner Gage, Nicole and husband Michael, Andrew and partner Christiane, Iain and partner Alyssa, Victoria and husband Glenn, and by her great-grandchildren.
Mary (GG) will be remembered as an incredible mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She welcomed everyone into her home and treated everyone with love and kindness.
The family would like to thank the entire team at Kensington Village Long Term Care for their exceptional care and support of our mother.
Friends will be received by the family at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Wednesday, March 12, from 7:00-9:00 pm and from 10:00 –10:45 am on Thursday, March 13, 2025, followed by a memorial service which will be conducted at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Private family interment of cremated remains in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations to Community Living London or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MONK, Mary Veta…

The family of Mary Veta Monk (nee Pierce) of London, Ontario are saddened to announce her passing on Friday, February 28th, 2025 at the age of 95 years. She is survived by her four children Diane Rychliski (Rod), Susan Monk (Kevin), Sharon Monk and Doug Monk (Charlene). She was a devoted grandmother to her ten grandchildren, Devan (Taryn), Kristen (Fearghus), Mikel (Mikhaila), Katie (Paxton), Lauren (Parker), Ryan, Karyn, Oscar, Evelyn and Lyla. In her last year she became a great grandmother to Bailey and Fionn.

She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years Donald Victor Monk in 2012, her parents Duncan and Lila Pierce and her seven siblings, Don Pierce (Jean), Wesley Pierce (Ruth), Audrey Webb (Walter), Marge Priest (Jim), Dorothy Mann (Ted), Barb Chatterton (Tom) and Morgan Pierce (Linda). She was also predeceased by her sister-in-law Jean Strader (Nelson) and brother-in-law David Monk. She is survived by her brothers-in-law Walter Webb and Tom Chatterton, sister-in-law Linda Pierce and cousins, including Anne and Keith Ramey, and many nieces and nephews.

Mary was born on a farm near Appin, Ontario and lived most of her life in London, Ontario including over 60 years in Byron. She was happy to have been a member of the Byron Craft Club in the 1970s, spent many years working at Trudell Medical, enjoyed retirement winters with her many friends in Panama City Beach, Florida and was a loyal member of her bridge club for over 50 years. She hosted countless family dinners, even well into her 80s, and was an excellent cook and baker and always included everyone’s favourite desserts. She was an avid reader, funny, smart, always happy and cheerful. Most importantly, she was a dedicated mother and grandmother who was loved and will always be remembered.

Special thanks to neighbours, the Youngs and the Smiths, who generously helped her during the final years in her home, and more recently thanks to the staff at Horizon Place retirement home for taking good care of her.

Cremation has taken place. A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Salvation Army of London or Mission Services of London. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

FORRET, Charles “Charlie”…

Charles Forret, born in February of 1946 to Charles and Joan Forret, passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 28, 2025. Charles, known to friends and family as Charlie, had a full 79-year life with countless memories shared with many people.

He was the beloved husband of Penny Forret for 54 wonderful years, a devout father of two, Drew (Shauna) Forret and Mary (Angela) Forret and a proud Papa to Ewan, Brooke and Holden.

Charlie was an only child and kept busy playing with his friends and cousin Jo-Ann Dickson, who was more like a big sister than cousin. He was a caring, smart, and driven man that lead him to Western University, graduating with a Bachelor of Chemistry. From there he began work at London Biochemistry Reference Laboratories (now known as Dynacare) in 1969. When he left Dynacare in 1992 he was the President of the organization, something we were all proud of him for. The last part of his career he was the general manager at Highland Country Club where he was able to enjoy the balance between the sports he loved and an interesting end to his career before retiring in 2000. Charlie loved golf, curling and spending time outdoors with his family and dogs. Most will remember him for his caring and generous nature.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Byron United Church, 420 Boler Road, London. In memory of Charlie, donations may be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation, 350 Michael Cowpland Drive, Kanata, ON K2M 2W1 or March of Dimes Canada, Fundraising Department, 202-885 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3C 1V9. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HENERY, Norman…

Norman Henery of London, ON, passed away peacefully in his own home on Thursday, February 27, 2025 in his 95th year.

He attended Medway H.S., graduated from Western University with a BA and gained a teaching certificate from OCE. He married in 1957 and returned from his first teaching job in Waterford to London where he taught at multiple high schools including Clarke Road, Westminster and A.B. Lucas where he was the director of the business department. He was extremely active in many sports and the outdoors. His time spent each summer at his cottage on Manitoulin Island with his family was pleasurable. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Rita Henery, his sons Hance (Angela) and Neil (Lucy), and his three grandchildren Savanah, Nolan and Devon. Predeceased by his brother Thomas Henery (2006).

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Monday, March 3, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, where the funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 1 pm in the funeral home chapel. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London.

In memory of Norman, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414 Toronto, ON M4P 1E4 or the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formally London Regional Cancer Program), c/o London Health Sciences Centre, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LYNCH, Desmond “Desi” “Des”…

Desmond Lynch passed away in London, ON, on Sunday, February 23, 2025 in his 87th year. Beloved husband of Marie for 60 years. Proud father of Damian (Tammy) Lynch, Nicola Lynch, and Tara Roccatagliata (late Mark). Loving grandfather of Adam (Caileigh) Lynch, Taylor Lynch (Nick Laforge), Aaron (Joe) Stevens, Mian Lynch, and Pharyn Lynch. Great grandfather of Clara Lynch. Des will also be missed by Dan Stevens, Justin, Cameron, Kielyn, Meghan, Camilla, Luca, Aiden, Christopher and all of his fur babies Archie, Morty, Grover, Lucy, Buddy, Sunshine and Molly.

The family could not have got through this difficult time without the support and prayers of Pat and Betty McLaughlin. The family would also like to thank their neighbors John and Marg Van Dalen and family, as well as all the staff at Victoria Hospital for their wonderful and compassionate care of Des. To all of his friends at the YMCA, Scott’s Corner, and the Knights of Columbus at St. Peter’s Cathedral, the family thanks you for your companionship over the years.

Cremation has taken place. Family and guests are welcome to a funeral mass in honor of Des on Saturday, March 8th, 2025 at 11am at St. Justin’s Parish, 855 Jalna Blvd, London, ON. Donations in memory of Desi may be made to The Kidney Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com