Services & Obituaries

Brunt, Hazel Isabella (nee Murray)

Hazel died peacefully on December 29th, 2024, at the age of 100. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Peter in 1997. Hazel leaves behind daughters Elaine (Tom) and Wendy (Alex); grandchildren Mee-Ja (Shuhei), Marc (Molly), Justin (Lisa), Aaron (Mel), Laura (François), and Bradley (Lauren); and great-grandchildren Masaru, Maggie, Ryan, Olivia, Chloe, Cassie, Harry, Raphaël, Evelyn, William and Zoe.
Born July 25, 1924 to parents Edith and Murdo, in rural Québec, Hazel had vivid memories of her close knit family. She was the third of seven children and is predeceased by all her siblings (Mavis, Lennox, Alene, Walter, George and Martha), and countless dear friends. She is remembered with fondness by sisters-in-law Nancy and Phyllis, cousin Stanley, and many nieces and nephews.
Excelling at school and chosen valedictorian in her final year, Hazel’s goal was to become a nurse. When a brief illness with heart complications prevented her from completing her training, she channelled her disappointment into business studies and started work in a Montreal office. Through a co-worker, she met her husband Peter. He had served with the Royal Canadian Navy on the HMCS Restigouche. They were married in 1946, and Peter completed his education degree and taught at various Montreal high schools. They settled in family housing for Veterans in Crawford Park, Montreal, where their daughters were raised. Their modest home was always a place of welcome for visiting family and friends.
Hazel was a devoted wife, skilled homemaker and caring mother. Always resourceful with a limited budget, she excelled at cooking, baking and cake decorating. A talented seamstress, she made special outfits for her daughters and contributed to many church bazaars. She was artistic and produced delightful paper crafts and cards. She created lovely works of embroidery and crewel for her home and as gifts to others. Her handwriting was renowned. She had a flair for décor and was often teased about her furniture rearranging and refurbishing. She was known for her love of colour, especially deep red, and was often complimented for her outfits.
In 1977, the family left Quebec. Elaine’s family was transferred to Vancouver, BC and Wendy’s family moved to London, Ontario. Hazel and Peter also resettled in London and lived in the Cherryhill complex. Hazel and Peter spent the winter months in Florida visiting Peter’s brother, John and sister in law, Jean, where they made many new friends. Hazel and Peter drove yearly to Manitoba to visit Hazel’s parents and family and to Vancouver to spend time with Elaine and Tom and their children.
Other travels involved trips through Canada and the United States. Following Peter’s death, Hazel continued her love of adventure to include visits to Newfoundland, Bermuda, Israel, and hiking in the Rockies.
Hazel enjoyed being included in Wendy’s family events and circle of friends over the years, was part of discussion groups and delighted in all choral events, particularly those of the Amabile choirs. One of her favourite places was Wendy’s backyard garden, where she could sit quietly and listen to birdsong.
Hazel’s empathy for others was exceptional. From regular visits to seniors in care homes in Montreal, to forming a support group for widows and widowers in London after Peter died, to initially serving on the welcoming committee at Masonville Manor where she moved to in 2012 – she cared about people who felt alone and was an attentive and cheerful listener.
As a member of Riverside United Church, for many years, she phoned each of the ten households named in the printed worship bulletin, leaving a message of blessing and encouragement if they were not at home. She was formally recognized by the congregation for her compassionate ministry. This role meant a great deal to her and was especially important during the period of Covid isolation.
In the last few years, her declining health made it more difficult for her to interact with others. Wendy and Alex spent time with her each day and oversaw an increasing number of personal support workers. The family wishes especially to acknowledge her personal support worker Heather, Masonville manager Sandra Taggert, and resident Luisa Pires, a caring friend. In recent months, Hazel especially appreciated visits from Don and Sue Curtis and Nancy Murray. On her 100th birthday, she received over 100 cards and messages and was celebrated at a birthday tea held at Masonville Manor. Hazel never lost her beautiful smile and continued to receive compliments about her attractive outfits. She will be missed by many whose lives she touched.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life for Hazel for Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 1:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Peter ‘Pete’ Greenwood passed away in London, Ontario on December 23, 2024 in his 51^st year. Loving brother of Ann Greenwood (Amanda Maltby) of Manotick and Lynn Greenwood (Shannon Wright) of Toronto. Dear son of the late Bill and Madeleine Greenwood. Cherished uncle to Kate and Tyler Greenwood who he thought the world of. Peter will also be missed by his friends and extended family. He was a well respected and well liked financial planner for several years and had recently joined the London Mission as his way of giving back. Pete shared a love of cars with his mother and loved to watch old silly movies with his father. He cherished his family and friends and loved to help out anyone who needed him.  Family and friends are invited to visitation on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Donations in memory of Peter may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ELLUL, Ralph

Peacefully on Wednesday, December 24, 2024, at Victoria Hospital, London, Ralph passed away with family by his side. Cherished husband of Vivien (nee Bracken) Ellul for 55 years. Adored father of Jonathan Ellul (Amelie Lefebvre) and Natalie (Jeff) Pratt. Proud Nannu of Cameron, Charles, Eloise and Rosalie. Dear brother of Frances Vella and Moncia Davis. Brother-in-law to Ruth Bracken and Dolores Bracken. Predeceased by his siblings, May Ellul, Carmen Balaisis, Joesph Ellul, Lydia Coleiro and his sister-in-law Mary Galea and brothers-in-law, Carl Vella, Joseph Coleiro, Daniel Bracken and Fredric Bracken and his great nephew Tyler Coleiro. Loving son of the late Alfred and Rose Ellul and his in-laws William and Rachel Bracken. Beloved uncle to his adored nieces and nephews and countless Godchildren. Ralph will be missed by many extended family members and friends as he was known as the mayor of Mathers Street.
Ralph was a lover of bread and people. He had many friends throughout his career at CIBC, Central Chevrolet and Cochrane Pontiac & Buick and Courtesy (Motion) Ford Lincoln where he put in many dedicated years. Ralph was known for his joie de vivre and his cheeky sense of humour. Ralph was an active member of St. Justin’s Parish including The Knights of Columbus and music ministry. The last 17 months of his life were spent being happily and lovingly cared for by the dedicated staff at Glendale Crossing, in the Brighton neighbourhood.
Family and friends are welcome to visitation on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London from 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 6:00 – 8:00 pm. The funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Justin’s Parish, 855 Jalna Blvd, London on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be held an hour prior from 10:00 – 11:00 am. Cremation to follow.
In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Ralph may be made to The Tyler Coleiro 873 Foundation. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

van Kampen, Dela
December 3, 1935 – December 25, 2024

Dela van Kampen went home peacefully to be with her Lord and Saviour on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, at 89 years of age. Beloved wife of the late John (Jan) van Kampen who passed away in 2007. Dela will be missed by her five surviving children and her many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dearly loved mother and grandmother to Joanna and Derrick Boom (Nathan & Ashley, Joshua, Matthew, Michael) of Redding, California, Elsa van Kampen of Bracebridge, late Anita and late Wes Savage of Pickering, Joyce and Douglas Idema (Jodi & Matthew, Tanya & Matthew, Rebecca & Brandon, Sean & Darsana) of London, Audrey and Ed Laengert (Zachary, Kathryn) of Etobicoke, Roland and Jane van Kampen (Jonathan) of Brigden. Also missed by 14 great grandchildren and relatives in Holland. Visitation will take place on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Southdale Bible Chapel, 1214 Southdale Road, London. The funeral service will take place immediately following visitation at 2:00 pm in the sanctuary at Southdale Bible Chapel (Bob Fletcher officiating). The service will be livestreamed via Youtube. Interment is at Pond Mills Cemetery for family. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the London Youth for Christ (254 Adelaide St. South, London, ON N5Z 3L1) or New Life Prison Ministries (P.O. Box 6111, STN B, London, ON, N6A 0G7). Many thanks to LHSC Stroke Unit and Kensington Village Long Term Care for their amazing and loving care for our mom these past months. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements (519-433-5184). Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Lausanne, Brenda (nee Starling)

Peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Victoria Hospital, London, Brenda passed away in her 66th year. Supportive and beloved wife of David Lausanne. Adored and loving mother of Alexandra Lausanne and her fiancé Mark Pilkington and Madison Lausanne and her fiancé Scott Ward. Doting dog mom to Tucker (and Herc and Prints). Much loved aunt of Derek, Darby, Sarah, Jason, and Amanda. Brenda will be missed by so many cherished friends and family, including her beloved neighbours and group of warrior women from the Wesley Knox United Church community.

Brenda was born and raised in London, Ontario and grew up in a loving family with her parents Frances and Wilson Starling and her brothers Paul and David Starling. She went to Fanshawe College and became a writer working in marketing for 44 years, including at Total Marketing (where she met her husband David) and then the MC Group for 21 years (formerly the largest advertising firm in London).

Brenda was a true athlete and had a passion for sports such as volleyball, squash, basketball, track and field and later soccer. She was always up for an adventure and enjoyed many a day trip to the beach or antiquing with friends and her daughters. Brenda was an amazing mother and very proud of her daughters Alex and Madi. She loved hosting holidays and family gatherings and was incredibly loving, caring, inclusive and ever positive. Brenda fostered a beautiful and vibrant community wherever she went.

She was very active and healthy throughout her life. In November 2024 she had emergency surgery and was later diagnosed with a very aggressive form of ovarian cancer. Brenda fought a valiant battle against an unrelenting cancer and elected for palliative care in late December. We are forever grateful for all the time we had with her and for her amazing friends and extended family that never left her side in the hospital, including a rotation of visitors and friends doing night shifts. There are so many people to thank, but a special thanks goes to Lynn Donoghue, Jane Walker, and, Simone Fraser who were there night and day and helped us all navigate through this.

Brenda and her family would like to thank all health care personnel that helped her, with a special thank you to Dr. Sugimoto, nurse Amy, and the oncology team at Victoria Hospital.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcomed to a visitation and celebration of life in the coming months. The visitation will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Sunday, February, 23, 2025 at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LIEPINS, Sharon

With family by her side, Sharon Ann Liepins (McElhone) passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the age of 84.  She was predeceased by her husband of sixty years Gunars Liepins, parents Frank and Marguerite McElhone, brother Patric McElhone, and sister-in-law Velta Allbutt.  Sharon is survived by daughters Melinda Mapes (Scott), Laura Liepins (Jason Russell), and sisters-in-law Silvia Gesing (Witold) and Lorraine Van Puymbroeck.  She was a loving nana to grandsons Robert Mapes and Thomas Russell and is fondly remembered by her niece and nephews Lisa, Trevor, Paul, Geoff, Alex and Steven.  Sharon was born in Tillsonburg and attended Mount St. Joseph’s Academy.  Following her graduation from the Mount, Sharon enrolled in one of the first classes in the Radiology Technologist Program at St. Joseph’s Hospital where she met lifelong friends Betty Dodd and Charlene Abray (Dillon). The three friends subsequently travelled to the US, where they worked at Daniel Freeman Hospital in Inglewood, California. While back working in London, Sharon was introduced to her future husband Gunars on a blind date with Charlene and George Abray.  Sharon continued her career as an X-ray technologist with short breaks upon the arrival of her daughters. As much as Sharon enjoyed working at both Victoria Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital, she decided to accept a teaching position at Fanshawe College. Sharon’s natural warmth and sincere concern for her students earned her a reputation as a “favourite teacher”.  The glowing comments from many of her former students over the years enhanced our appreciation of the woman we only knew as Mom.  Sharon loved travelling, both as a couple with Gunars and as a family with her children.  Camping with family friends at provincial parks was another memorable experience.  Sharon’s travels continued well into retirement, and she especially loved spending winters in Florida where she readily made new friends.  She will be dearly missed by her daughters and sons-in-law.  Sharon was so proud of her grandsons and their accomplishments.  She had a wide network of friends, and particularly valued her fifty-year membership in Beta Sigma Phi sorority.  Visitation will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South in London, Ontario at 10:00 am- 11:30 am on Saturday, January 4, 2025, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 pm.  A reception will follow.  Cremation has taken place and will be followed by interment at a later date.  The family thanks Dr. Schreier and the palliative care team at Victoria Hospital, and the staff at Glendale Crossing Retirement.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BARR, Gordon…

Gordon Barr passed away peacefully after a short stay at the LHSC-University, on Sunday, December 15, 2024 at the age of 82. Gordon is the dear brother of Jacklyn Luton of Ancaster and Nancy Pepper (Brian) of Milton. He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews, Jeffrey, Micheal (Stephanie), Katie (Darryl) and Andrew (Jadie), as well as his five great nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place and interment will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Details to follow at a later date. Donations in memory of Gordon may be made to a charity of choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SCHAUS, Melba “Mae”…
Mae Schaus (nee Van Sickle) passed peacefully at University hospital with family by her side on December 11, 2024 in her 98th year. Predeceased by her beloved husband Harold Schaus (2011), her brother’s Maurice and Uel Van Sickle, sister in law Gladys Van Sickle and her nephew Rob Van Sickle. Survived by many nieces and nephews. She will be missed.
Cremation has taken place. Private family internment in Neustadt Ontario at a later date. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DIEZYN, Larry…..

Peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice, London, on Monday, December 9, 2024, Larry passed away in his 70th year. Survived by his beloved sweetie Debra of 30 years and her son Elias (Penelope). Yaya to little Emma. Dear son of Paula and the late Nickolas. Loving brother of Al (Diana), Ed (Julie) and Nick (Andrea). Uncle of Caroline, Sasha (Elice), Christien (Michelle), Stefan (Olivia), Katie (Thomas) and Natalie (Veronique). Larry will be dearly missed by his lifetime friend Dave Balch. Larry radiated positively and a fun adventurous spirit. He was generous with his skills and his time. Larry lived life on his own terms, managing to find the “last one of anything” (ie, the ticket, the bargain, the sale item on the shelf and the perfect rose). Eternal gratitude to his dream team Dr. Mark Levstick and Dr. Roberto Hernandez. Thank you to the incredible UH Multi-organ Transplant Team, Dr. Anour Teriaky, surgeons Dr. Douglas Quan and Dr. Jeffery Hawell and wonderful friendship with Paul, Lois and Barb; the LHSC Regional Cancer Program, Dr. John Lenehan, Dr. Timothy Nguyen, Dr. Anita Singh, and surgeon Dr. Richard Malthaner for their outstanding medical treatment and care. Heartfelt thanks to the St. Joseph’s Hospice team, Dr. Natalie Hertzman, Medical Director; Trang Pham, Director of Resident care, nurses, PSWs, support staff and volunteers for their exceptional compassion and care in championing a peaceful final journey for our dearest Larry. Larry and Debra would like to give special mention to Nurse Roz for providing Larry a bright spot in his day and SW Charles Skeete and Father Vladamir for their profound strength and spiritual guidance. The funeral service will be held at the Russian Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour, 140 Fairview Avenue, London, on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 11:00 am, with the Very Reverend Vladimir Morin officiating. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice directed to the Children’s Corner. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PEAKER, Margaret…

Margaret Peaker passed away peacefully at Dearness Home in London, Ontario, on Monday, December 2^nd, 2024 in her 96^th year. Loving wife of the late Orville Peaker for 32 years. Beloved mother of Michael (Janet) of London, John (Joan) of Belmont and Pamela (Rick) Lengua of California. Dear grandmother of Marcella, Chad, Nathan, Theresa, Melissa and Jennifer. Predeceased by her son Raymond (survived by his wife Heather) and her grandson Jason. Also missed by her great-grandchildren and her nieces and nephews.

She was an active and proud member of the Loyal Order of Moose and the women’s bowling league. Margaret also had a passion for playing cards. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to extend thanks to Dearness Home for their compassionate care of Margaret the last 5 years.

Family and friends are invited to visitation on Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 9:30am-10:30am at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, London to follow. Donations in memory of Margaret may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com