Services & Obituaries

SMITH, Donald….

On December 7, 2017, Donald Russell Smith passed peacefully at University Hospital in his 88th year. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 70 years, Mary Elizabeth Iris Smith (nee Trafford). Loving father of Linda Glassford (John), Richard Smith (Krystyna), Donna Smith (Brent), Patricia Postma (Mike) and Kathy Stallaert (Eric). Cherished grandfather of Brad, Kim, Robert, Jim, Jennifer, Mark, Leah, Jill, Alex, Melissa, Adam and David, and great-grandfather of Ronan, Kieran, Kalani, Carly, Bryce, Kayla, Izzy, Caidan, Evie and Hannah. Caring brother of Mary Kotanko. Also missed by several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his two sisters; Dorothy Pamplin and Edna Racher. Don retired from the OPP as Traffic Sergeant District 1 after 32 years of committed service. Donald was an honourable man who leaves behind a legacy of hard work and family values. A private family funeral service to be held with interment in Riverview Cemetery, Wallaceburg. Donations in Don’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BAKER, Harold Stanley
Peacefully surrounded by his family, in his 91st year on December 6, 2017. Beloved Husband of Joyce for 64 years. Cherished Dad of Sherri Cheadle (Burns), Tracey Baker (Andy) and Marci Kosac (Tony). Proud Grandfather of Kyle, Elysse, Greg (Karen), Richard, Ben, Jake and Lily. Brother of Thea, Dorothy, Vernon, and Raymond.  Predeceased by Viola, Ernest, Roy, Hazel and Neil. Friends will be received by the family from 10am on Saturday, December 9, 2017 at St. James Westminster Anglican Church, 115 Askin St, London, ON N6C 1E7, until the funeral service at 11am. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. James Westminster Anglican Church or the London Consistory Club (Masonic Lodge), 243 Wellington Road South, London, ON N6A 4V3. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Harold Baker celebrated milestones reached by few:  64 years of devoted marriage,  45 years of an illustrious banking career, and 32 years of spectacularly industrious retirement. Harold and Joyce both hailed from Meaford, and were married in 1953. Harold served the Toronto-Dominion Bank throughout his working years, beginning in Toronto, followed by transfers taking his family to Winnipeg, Thunder Bay and, finally, Sudbury where he ended his career managing one of the largest commercial centres in the TD system.  Long after retiring, Harold still received Christmas cards from his employees whose careers he helped shape.

As a father of three daughters, and grandfather to six grandchildren and one great grandchild, Harold was fiercely proud of his family. Large family Sunday dinners prepared by Harold and Joyce were the best start to every week. Children and grandchildren were encouraged, challenged, and taught many practical lessons through Harold’s entertaining dinnertime stories from a life of business, service and outdoor pursuits. Those lessons paid huge dividends, as befits a banking family – Harold and Joyce felt blessed by having each grandchild celebrate graduation from University.

Harold served the community as a Mason for over 50 years, working tirelessly in numerous volunteer roles to help people in need. In recent years, much of that work involved rebuilding wheelchairs, and he accepted his last position at 87 yrs of age as Logistics Co-ordinator of hospital beds in the London area.  Harold was organizing the moving vans last week. 

Although community service was a big part of his life, Harold also made time for some well-deserved recreation. Apart from the golf course, Harold spent his three decades of retirement in his favourite place – his workshop.  The bear claws, the wooden toys, the Christmas reindeers all poured out of the bandsaw!  His second hobby of gardening was equally productive – we all had countless big, juicy home-grown tomatoes in every meal during the summer months.

Harold and Joyce enjoyed close to 15 years of their winter home in Lakeland, Florida and also travelled to Greece, Alaska, Panama Canal, Bahamas, Hawaii, Portugal, Prague and Amsterdam.  Summers were celebrated with family trips trailering in Quetico and later many hours with Joyce refurbishing a log cabin on Shebandowan Lake, near Thunder Bay.  Summer mornings were fishing in his beloved 12’ boat, and evenings were saunas and bridge.

Harold made nine trips to Hudson Bay for duck hunting and a multitude of fishing trips to Lake Nipigon.  The van of four men in their 80s driving away from London enroute to the North would make anyone smile.

“15-2, 15-4”….”one no trump”.  Harold enjoyed countless games of cribbage, euchre, and was an avid bridge player.  No one came close to beating Harold in crokinole – even last year in games against his grandsons.  If Harold was not at the card table, he was cheering on his grandsons in hockey rinks, soccer pitches, lacrosse arenas, basketball and volleyball courts. Harold was constantly in motion, and got Joyce into the action when they took up square dancing in Florida and the CNE.

With a life so balanced between career, community, family and countless friends, it is no wonder Harold’s greatest legacy is his ability to tell stories.  And stories abound.  “Have I told you about the time…?

PAVAN, Tony….

Unexpectedly at his residence on Sunday, December 3, 2017, Anthony Pavan of London, in his 66th year. Spouse of Sandra Marie Pavan (Thompson). Loving father of Michael Anthony Pavan and Tara Marie Pavan (Max Guerin). Cherished brother of Michael Pavan (Estelle), Jerry Crawford (Joyce Persad) and Lesley Pavan (Brad Stevens). Tony loved a good read as much as he enjoyed a spirited debate. When not doing those things, he enjoyed outdoor pursuits; hunting, fishing and cottaging with his family. Cremation has taken place. Friends are invited for a Celebration of Tony’s Life at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Thursday, December 7, 2017 from 6-9 pm. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 123 St. George Street, London, ON N6A 3A1 or the Nature Conservancy of Canada, 410-245 Englinton Avenue East, Toronto, ON M4P 3J1. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

“Experience is the teacher of all things.”
-Julius Caesar

READ, Betty….

On Wednesday, November 29, 2017, Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Read passed peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice, London in her 87th year. Beloved wife of Robert A. “Bob” Read for over 66 years. Dear mother of Peggy Read of Burlington, Cathy Grasby (Bill) and Craig Read both of London. Cherished grandmother of Graham Janson (Sarah Couchie), Naomi Kuehnbaum (Adam), Heidi Janson, Erica Jewer (Tristan), Luke Grasby (Jill Audette), Paul Grasby (Hannah Bushby), Jessie Read, Adam Read and Cole Read. Much loved great-grandmother of Lincoln, Brielle, Chloe and Lincoln. Will be greatly missed by her nephew W. Scott Gray. Predeceased by her son David Read and her sister Jean Gray. Betty had a long and rewarding career in the legal secretary field. She took pride in her children and their families and was thrilled to become a new great-grandmother. Friends will be received by the family at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Tuesday, December 5, 2017 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. A funeral service will be held at Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London, ON N6C 1E7 on Wednesday, December 6, 2017 at 1 pm. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Donations in Betty’s memory may be made to Wesley-Knox United Church. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

FERRIS, Arthur Wellington…

At the age of 97, Art passed peacefully from this world on Tuesday, November 28, 2017, content in the knowledge that he had lived a full and wonderful life. Beloved husband of the late (1986) Nancy (Thorington).  Partner and special friend of Shirley Craib. Loving father of Barbara Dale (the late Stan) (Bob), Barry Ferris (Bonnie), Santa Cruz, CA, Wendy Ferris (Dave), and the late Alan McGill (Rosey), UK. Adored grandfather of Sherri Davis (Blake), Brian Dale, Lianne Dale, the late Jasmine Ferris, Jordan Destun (Kim), Jesse Ferris and Robin Destun. Dear great-grandfather of Brett, Leah and Jacob. Brother of Keith Ferris (Frankie), Calgary. Predeceased by his siblings Joan, Lorna, Velma, Cyril and Ralph. It is said that “When an old man dies, a library burns to the ground.” With Art’s passing, a world of knowledge has been lost. Friends are welcomed for visiting on Sunday, December 3, 2017 from 1-5pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Monday, December 4, 2017 at 11am with visitation 1 hour prior to the service (10-11am).  Cremation to follow. Donations may be made to Meals on Wheels London, 356 Queens Avenue London, ON, N6B 1X6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Nieciecki, Lukasz   “Luke ”
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Luke on Sunday November 26, 2017 at the age of 30. Survived by his loving parents Ireneusz (Eric) and Julitta; his siblings Patricia and Nicholas. Luke will also be missed by many other family and friends. Friends will be received by the family from 12:00pm-1:00pm on Friday, December 1, 2017 at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 1:00pm. Cremation to follow. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CAMPBELL, Hylton…

Peacefully in his sleep, Hylton “Lloyd” Amos Campbell passed away Friday, November 24, 2017 in his 73rd year.  He is now in the loving care of his Lord.  Dearly loved Husband to his wife Carol Campbell for over 29 years.  Loved by Children Andrea (Christopher), Jennifer, Marlene, Elaine and Robert.  Beloved grandfather of Krystal, Janesha, Jordan, Kadeem, Tevin, Quincy, Aaliyah, Shamar, Britney, Jalisha, Christian, Briana, Malik and great-grandson Geoffrey. Uncle and Great Uncle to Jean Vassell (Natasha, Andrew), Janet Vassell, Robert Thompson (Charlene, Nina, Patricia), Michael Pinnock, Auville Duffus and Elizabeth Bucknor (Lea-jean, Lechelle, Lesanne) of Canada and many nieces and nephews in England, Jamaica, and United States. Loving Brother of siblings in Canada, England and Jamaica; Venetia, Rachel, Benjamin, Eddie, Eva, Salah, Arnold and Vita. Predeceased by parents Emily and Lorenzo Campbell, twin sister Nan and Brother Roland. Hylton was very passionate about God, his church and church family. The family would like to thank his church family and friends especially Bennett and Miller for all their support over the years. Visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Thursday, November 30, 2017, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Service at Living Fountain Christian Centre, 138 Wellington Street, London ON N6B 2K8 on Friday, December 1, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in Hylton’s memory may be made to the Living Fountain Christian Centre, Building Fund, 519-859-0274. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MOLLOY, Stephen Patrick “Pat” …
After 97 years, Pat left us Thursday, November 23, 2017 knowing he had lived a full and blessed life. Predeceased by his wife Eileen (nee Hill) in 2010, Pat was a loving and generous father to his children Timothy (Kathleen), Peggy Frew, (the late John), Christine (Garry Hewett), Lynne (David) Brown, Adrienne (Ron) Pilkington, Thomas (Lisa) and Catherine (Perry) Hartin. Dad was Grandpa Pat to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren – all of whom seemed to know his special hiding places for the bags of treats. Born on Easter Sunday, April 4,1920 in Ormsby, Ontario, Dad spent his early years in farming and forestry.  He enlisted in the Army and went overseas during World War II.  Returning to Canada on a hospital ship that had to cross a North Atlantic full of German submarines Dad reached terra firma and spent the remainder of his life avoiding any form of boating. Pat’s family wishes to express their gratitude and appreciation to the staff at Parkwood Veterans Care – thank you for the care, compassion and friendship you shared with Dad throughout the past several years. Friends are welcomed for visiting one hour prior (9:30-10:30 am) to the funeral service taking place on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at 10:30 am in the chapel at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A private family internment will be held in St. Peter’s Cemetery, London. Donation’s in Pat’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of London, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WALLACE, John W.

John (Jack) Wallace passed peacefully after a short illness on Thursday, November 23, 2017. His family and friends remember Jack’s sense of humour and outgoing personality, which he displayed throughout his 90 years. He expressed a desire to join his late wife and love of his life Madeline (Hollingsworth) Wallace in another dance. They shared a passion for dancing and traveling the world. He will be greatly missed by his children Janis Wallace, Mark and Cheryl Wallace, and his grandchildren Andrew Hillman and Laura Male, Anthony Wallace, and Rachel Wallace who were the stars of his universe. He made them laugh, he made them aware of their history and he made them appreciate a good story. Jack was first a printer with a keen eye for colour and typography. He moved into community relations at The London Free Press because of his love of people. After retiring, Jack often volunteered in the print shop at Fanshawe Pioneer Village, sharing his stories and skills with visitors. Special thank you to all the staff at University Hospital and to his long-time friends at the Gartshore and throughout London. Friends are welcomed for visiting one hour prior (2-3 p.m.) to the Celebration of Life that will be held on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at 3 p.m. at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Memorial donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation London, 180-663 Colborne Street, London, ON N6B 2V3 or the London Community Orchestra (Young Artist Program), 815-520 Wellington Street, London, ON N6A 3R2, are greatly appreciated. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

KNIGHT, Mavis ….

Mavis passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London, surrounded by family, in her 95th year on Wednesday, November 22, 2017. Beloved wife of the late Derek Herbert Knight (1993). Dear mother of Wendy Knight. Predeceased by her son Jon Knight (2008). Also survived by her daughter-in-law Joy Knight-McIntyre and her husband Bruce. Dear grandmother of Michelle Marshall and her husband Andy, David Knight and his partner Sandy, Jason Parker and his wife Tera, Rob Parker and his wife Jaclyn and also missed by her 11 great-grandchildren. Mavis was an active member of the Hamilton Road Senior Centre. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Victoria Hospital for their care and compassion. Friends are welcomed for visiting on Monday, November 27, 2017 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will take place in the chapel on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 at 1 pm. Interment at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mavis’ memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 180-633 Colborne Street, London, ON N6B 2V3. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com