Services & Obituaries

STEPAN, Joseph Lewis “Joe”…

The family of Joe are saddened to announce his passing on Friday, August 22nd, 2025. He was in his 66th year. The son of the late Joseph Francis Stepan and Joan Merle Stepan (nee Campbell). Brother to Ernest (Sandra) Stepan and Arlyn (Vinny) Martin. Uncle to Alicia (Nick) Gerber, Steven (Niki) Goulden, Sarah (Evan) Birch, and James Stepan. Great Uncle to Alex, Gabriella, Brady, Aidan, and Penelope. Joe will also be missed by his large extended family in Canada, United States, and Australia, and all of his friends.

Joe was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, canoeing, camping and hiking. From a young age Joe would be at the side of the Thames River perfecting his fishing techniques, and he soon passed these talents on to his sister, Arlyn and her children, exploring and leading them into many adventures.

Joe’s favourite place to be when he wasn’t off exploring, was in his garden, where he grew all kinds of vegetables and berries. He could never eat everything so he shared with his friends and neighbours.

He was meticulous about making sure that everything worked perfectly, and would completely dismantle things only to put them back together in perfect working order. He loved to tinker and could create beautiful repurposed items which he usually gave away to his friends and neighbours. Joe was a free spirit who lived life on his own terms. It was always, “Don’t worry about it” and “Everything is fine”, no matter what was going on. He will be missed by his family and friends.

A special thank you goes out to the first responders including friends, the paramedics, and police officers who responded. Also, thank you so much to the staff at Victoria Hospital for their care and compassion at the end of Joe’s life.

Cremation has taken place, and a service and gathering to celebrate Joe’s life will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Saturday, September 6th, 2025 at 11 am. Everyone is welcome. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed on the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Joe can be made to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

KUSSNER, Christine…

Christine Kussner (nee Ede) passed away peacefully at Parkwood Palliative Care, London surrounded by her family on Sunday, August 24, 2025 in her 85th year. Beloved wife of Dietrich “Dick” Kussner for 64 years, uniting their British and German heritage to build a wonderful life in Canada. Loving mother of Deborah “Debbie” Hotham and her husband Wayne, Denise Jajal and her husband Agrim, and Bryan Kussner and his wife Rebecca “Becky”. Cherished Oma of Derrick Eus-Hotham (Janelle), Leslie Hotham, Hannah Kussner and Jacob Kussner and Great-Oma of Jones. Christine will also be missed by her brother Peter Ede (Lorna), her sister-in-law Monica Ede, her brothers-in-law Erhard “Chris” Kussner and his wife Irene, Hartmut “Art” Kussner and his wife Shirley and Detlev “Mike” Kussner and his wife Kristina, and her many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. Predeceased by her brother David Ede. Christine was a caring and selfless mother who was deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren. She was always present in their lives, encouraging them, cheering from the sidelines, and supporting their sports and extracurricular activities with love and pride. She remained devoted to her British roots and family, making multiple trips back to England to visit and always keeping in touch across the pond. A faithful and dedicated member of Calvary United Church, Christine gave her time and talents generously through many roles, including the UCW, Ministry and Personnel Relations, and as a Sunday school teacher. Her quiet leadership and steady presence were felt by all who served alongside her. Christine also cherished her time at the family cottage on Lake Huron, where she found peace and joy. She loved tending to her gardens, finding beauty in every season, and creating a warm and welcoming space for her family and friends. The family wishes to thank their incredible team of nurses for all of their care for Christine, especially Linda and Vergie. A memorial service will be held at Calvary United Church, 290 Ridout Street South, London on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 1:00 pm, with visitation from 12:00-12:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Arthritis Society Canada, or Calvary United Church Memorial Fund. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Elliott, Jean

Peacefully on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Victoria Hospital, London, Jean passed away in her 78th year. Beloved and cherished wife of Leonard “Len”. Loving mother of Len Jr. (Bettina Weber) and Kevin (Connie). Dear grandmother of Len, Kayla, Stephanie (Mitch Jamieson), Wesley, Adam and Kurtis. Stepgrandchildren Tanya McNicol, Sara Keys and Robin Campbell. Great-grandmother of 13 ranging in ages from 1-15. Predeceased by her older sister Joan Court. Jean will be fondly remembered by her extended family and friends.

Jean dedicated 25 years of service to Victoria Hospital, working as a secretary in many departments where she was valued for her commitment and support.

Family and friends are welcomed for visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 6:00-9:00 pm and on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 10:00-10:45 am. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Interment at St. Peter’s Cemetery, London.

In lieu of flowers as an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Jean may be made to Breast Cancer Canada would be appreciated.

Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ALEXIOU, Cathy “Catherine”…

Cathy passed away peacefully at STEGH the 11th of August, 2025 in her 68th year. Beloved wife of Bill Alexiou for 25 years. Cathy will be missed by her children Ken (Paula) Ross, and Leigh Ann. Cherished Nana, Nanu, Nona to Justin, Aylssa, Sydney, Kayla, Nathan, and Emmaleigh. Great grandchildren Eleanor and Timothy. Dear sister of Dorothy Collins, Sharon (Kevin) Sauer and Bill Ross (Marguerite). Cathy will be lovingly remembered by her nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Predeceased by her parents.

Cathy’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family, and she cherished every moment spent with her beloved grandchildren. Cathy may not have been a doctor but she had lots of patience.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 2-4 & 6-8 pm as well as on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 10:00-10:45 am. The funeral service will be conducted in the funeral home chapel at 11 am. Cremation to follow with interment will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London at a later date.
As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Cathy may be to Diabetes Canada or The Heart and Stroke Foundation. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MILTON, Winifred…

Peacefully surrounded by her family at University Hospital, London, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Winifred (Stanley) Milton passed away in her 90th year. Beloved wife of the late Don Milton (1990) and the late William Pond (2014). Loving Mom of Ron Milton (Rhonda) and Patty Hunking (Steven). Cherished Nana of Meredith (Jean-Luc), Megan, Dustin (Kristine), and Donika (Chris). Great nana of Harper and Remi. Dear stepmom of Steven and Edward Pond. Wyn will be dearly missed by her faithful furry companion, Jersey. Wyn had a passion for art and the thrill of discovering antiques. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Chris, Maureen, and Marlene for their cherished friendship. Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Happy’s Place, a charity to rescue senior dogs. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Marcon, Eunice

With great sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Eunice Marcon, who died peacefully at University Hospital on July 28, 2025, at the age of 89.

Eunice was a woman of warmth, wit and unwavering friendship. Her sense of humour, quick observations, talent for telling stories, and her joyful laugh brought light to even the most ordinary moments. She had an extraordinary gift for forming lasting friendships, and her life was beautifully full of people who loved her deeply and were loved by her in return.

Eunice was born in Hayes Middlesex, England on June 12, 1936. She emigrated to Canada from England when she was seventeen years old. After an adventure out west to Calgary for six months, she made London her home where her parents lived. After staying home to raise her two daughters, Eunice found joy working at Eaton’s (downtown) in the China Department. She was a natural at sales and took great pride in offering exceptional service. In addition, she worked at Sears in Men’s Suits and showed enthusiasm and warmth to all customers. Eunice was an incredible asset to her employers as she worked hard, built strong relationships and was well-respected by all. Her strong friendships with her colleagues and love of helping people kept Eunice in the workforce until she was 78 years old. Eunice had a passion throughout her life for dancing, music, reading, walking, animals, trying new recipes, and adventure. Above all, Eunice loved her family and friends.

Eunice was an incredible mother and friend to her children: Giustina (Todd) Tewkesbury and Lisa (Paul) Finlayson. Cherished and loving grandmother to Jennifer, Evan, Cole and Claire. Loving cousin to David (Nancy) McNamara of Michigan; Susan Harrison and Clare (Paul) Hayward of England; Patricia Mayfield and John Sillence of England. Loyal and loving friend to many who became like family to her over the years. Eunice was predeceased by her beloved parents, Irene and Harry Ansell and her step brothers, Robert and Michael; and close extended family, Mildred and David Smith and Linda Smith-Holbert of London; and, Thelma and David McNamara of Michigan.

As per Eunice’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Eulogy at 2:15 p.m.) at the A. Millard George Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London. All are welcome. A private interment will take place at Woodland Cemetery.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Eunice will forever remain in our hearts. While she will be deeply missed by her family and treasured friends, we are endlessly grateful for the life she shared with us and the joy she brought to so many.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McEWEN, Janet Elizabeth (nee Douglas)

Janet McEwen passed away quietly and peacefully with family by her side, at Amica Dundas, on Friday, August 1, 2025, on her 95th birthday.

Janet was the cherished wife of the late James “Jim” McEwen (1993). She was the loving mother of Anne McEwen, Jennifer McEwen-Hill (husband Steve Hill), Doug McEwen (wife Kimberley), Beth McEwen (husband Mark Goddard), Finley McEwen (wife Sophie Anand) and Chris McEwen (wife Angela). She was also the loving grandmother of Ted, Emily, and Ian Hill; Tabitha, Jamie and Issac McEwen; Nils and Kari Goddard; Katherine and Isabelle McEwen; Megan, Stephen and Rachel McEwen. She was also the great-grandmother of six, and the beloved sister of Ruth Earl of Ottawa. She will be missed by all of us.

Janet was born in Kingston, raised in Haileybury, Ontario and retained a lifelong love of Canada’s north, including the family cottage in the French River and visits to the Arctic. She had a life of service to her family and the community in which she lived. Janet was first trained as a registered nurse at Ottawa Civic Hospital, working in Public Health in Saskatchewan following graduation. On one of her visits home, after a courtship of only 9 days, she met and married Jim McEwen. Janet and her husband Jim had a long and happy marriage of 37 years – together raising six kids. They lived first in North Bay, then Toronto, and finally London Ontario.

In addition to serving the City of London first as an Alderman, later on Board of Control, Janet volunteered on the boards of many community organizations including the Women’s Christian Association, McCormick Home, St Leonard’s Society, the LHIN, and the Community Advisory Board at EMDC, among others.

Janet & Jim were members of Burns Church Mosa and Calvary United Church in London. They farmed land near Glencoe Ontario including a woodlot. Especially after Jim died, Janet was closely connected to the stewardship of this land and sharing the experience of the outdoors with others.

Janet was strong, fearless, generous, and a beautiful woman who worked hard for her family and community. She drew much fulfillment from her family and friends new and old, sharing a contagious joy and passion for improving life for those around her. She will be remembered by many and missed by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday October 4th 2025 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Words of remembrance will be shared around 11:00/11:15 am, and will be livestreamed on the AMG YouTube channel for those unable to attend. Interment is in Kilmartin Cemetery, Glencoe.

In Janet’s memory, donations may be made to McCormick Home, London Ontario through the McCormick Care Foundation, St. Leonard’s Society or a charity of your choosing.

The family is deeply grateful to the many kind and dedicated caregivers who supported Mom with compassion and dignity over the past few years. Your care meant so much to her and to all of us. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GOMES, Arlene…

Peacefully at Parkwood Hospital, Palliative Care, London, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Arlene Gomes passed away at the age of 87. Loving Mom of Susan Gomes, Andy Gomes, and Debra Ramjeawan, Cherished Mama of Roxanne, Nakita, Maria-Rosa, and Luigi. Beloved GG of Amaya and Gabriel. Predeceased by her sister Bona Koenig-Jay. Arlene was a truly giving, loving, and caring person, always putting others before herself with quiet grace and endless compassion. The family would like to thank the team at the Palliative Care – Parkwood Hospital, for their kindness and compassion. Visitation will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, from 12 – 12:45pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, the Funeral Service will be held at 1pm. Cremation to follow with interment in St. Peter’s Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation – Parkwood Institute – Palliative Care, PO BOX 5777, STN B, London, ON N6A 4V2. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Wilson, Anne “Lee”

Known for her beautiful smile, Anne “Lee” Wilson passed away peacefully at Westmount Gardens on Sunday August 3^rd, 2025 in her 93^rd year. Lee was predeceased by her beloved husband Richard “Dick” Wilson (2007) and their cherished son Richard John Wilson (2023), as well as her brother Terry Bullen, sister-in-law Jo-an Bullen and parents Elsie and Lloyd Bullen.

She is survived by her three daughters, Janet Mayr, Linda Wilson and Jill Armstrong, sons-in-law Heinz Mayr and Dale Armstrong, daughter-in-law Rebecca Wilson and her brother Ric Bullen and sister-in-law Lucille Bullen.

Lee was the adored Grandmother of Eric, Heidi, Colin and Stephen Mayr, Tara and William Sutherland, Lindsay Burton, Daryl Armstrong and Jessica and Jaime Wilson. Also loved by Josh and Victoria Roberts and great-grandchildren Wyatt, Sawyer, Willow, Foster, Cali, Gavin and Lia.

A lifelong Londoner, Lee was passionate about her volunteer work with Riverside United Church, the Kiwanis Club and Mission Services. She enjoyed successful careers as a legal secretary, realtor and administrative assistant at Spencer Hall. More than anything though, Lee loved being a homemaker, spending time with her four children and doting on her grandchildren.

A Memorial service will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Friday August 22^nd, 2025, at 11:30 AM followed by a reception. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

La VIGNE, Stephen…

Peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Stephen La Vigne passed away in his 62nd year. He is survived by his beloved wife Bridget La Vigne.

Cherished brother-in-law of Teresa and Gary Smith, and their children Fiona and Liam. Dear brother and uncle of Mark La Vigne and his daughter Kaitlyn, and Paul La Vigne, his wife Lorraine, and their daughters Kaylie and Lauren.

Stephen is predeceased by his loving parents Donald and Leona La Vigne.

In his youth, Stephen was an all-around athlete playing Hockey, Baseball, Soccer, and Football and excelled at all of them, especially Football.

Going to a Toronto Maple Leafs practice and meeting players when he was young was also a highlight for Stephen. He arrived home that day with a signed stick from Leaf’s goalie Johnny Bower.

He had a wonderful and varied career including working in guest services and being the incentive coordinator at Six Flags and working for the Colorado Rockies. He loved his job as the Front Doorman at the Hilton. It brought him so much joy because it allowed him to do what he did best – help people.

After he left his job at the Hilton, he continued giving back to our community by volunteering at the Senior’s program at the Boys and Girls Club of London.

Stephen loved country music and attending concerts. He was a great dancer; and he always gave the best spins and twirls. He also had a great sense of humour and would often quote lines from his favourite comedians and tv shows to lighten the mood during difficult moments.

Stephen loved to talk; and was a great storyteller. He often spoke of his many life adventures and of spending time during the summer as a child and teen in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.

Stephen was the best fur pawrent to our two beautiful dogs, Toby and Lucy. They were the best of friends and he was forever sharing his food with them and showering them with love.

Stephen loved with all of his heart and his number one priority in his life was his Bridget. He never missed an opportunity to tell people how much she meant to him. Even though he has left us far too soon, he will continue to live on in our hearts and will never be forgotten.

A special thank you goes out to the first responders including the paramedics, fire fighters, and police officers who responded. Also, thank you so much to the staff at Victoria Hospital for their care and compassion at the end of Stephen’s life. Bridget knew that he was placed in the best hands before God called him home.

Cremation has taken place. Because of his love for dogs, donations in Stephen’s memory may be made to Happy’s Place Dog Rescue organization. Information on how to donate is on their website: https://happysplace.ca/

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