Services & Obituaries

LEFAVE, Stephanie Leigh…

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Stephanie Lefave announce her passing at Oneida Long Term Care on February 7, 2024 at the age of 36, after a lengthy and courageous struggle with diabetic related illnesses.

She is survived by her mother Katharine McCurdy (Jay McCurdy), her father Dan Lefave, sister Chantelle Lefave, nephew Daniel Lefave, niece Serenity Lefave, and step-brother Brenden McCurdy. She will also be so greatly missed by her grandmothers Eileen, Patricia and Joyce, and was predeceased by her grandfathers Jim and Don. She had numerous aunts, uncles and cousins whom she adored.

Stephanie, affectionately known as Steph, was a beautiful warrior who embodied resilience and determination, never faltering in the face of adversity. Her creativity, humour, and intelligence shone brightly, lighting up the lives of those around her with laughter and inspiration. Family and friends held a sacred place in her heart, serving as the cornerstone of her existence. Even amidst her most trying times battling insurmountable illness, she brought her loved ones closer together, their bonds strengthened by their unwavering love and desire to ease her suffering. Steph’s recent connection to her Indigenous heritage allowed her to embrace a sense of cultural pride and belonging, and provided inner peace at the end of her life. As an enthusiastic storyteller, she effortlessly told tales that captivated the hearts and minds of all who listened, leaving an unforgettable impression on everyone she encountered.

The outpouring of love and grief upon her passing stands as a testament to the profound impact she had on the lives of countless individuals, from family and friends to caretakers. Steph’s empathy knew no bounds, as she consistently sought to uplift and appreciate others, ensuring they felt valued and cherished. In every aspect of her life, Stephanie’s spirit and grace touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will endure for generations to come.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at LHSC and Oneida Long Term Care for their dedication in caring for her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Diabetes Canada in her memory. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

RANGNEKAR, Paramanand “Alan”…

Alan Rangnekar passed away suddenly in London, Ontario, on February 6th, 2024, in his 96th year. Loving husband of the late Georgina (1997) for 30 years. Alan will be missed by his son Van. Dear brother of Baburao, Kusum, Shaila, and Pramila. Cherished uncle of Alpana, Rajaram, Rupa, Samir, Rahul, Sitaram, Hemant, Amol, Aditi and Shruti.

Alan was renowned for his love of gardening and cooking, and leaves behind a treasured legacy of laughter and storytelling cherished by his family. His infectious laugh and captivating narratives will be deeply missed, as he brought joy to those around him with his warmth and humor. Alan’s passion for cultivating both plants and relationships leaves a mark on all who knew him, ensuring his memory will live on through the stories he shared and the gardens he tended.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Alan may be made to Plant a Tree, Humane Society London & Middlesex, or the London Health Sciences Foundation.

Friends and guests are invited to visitation on Sunday, February 11th, 2024, from 2-5pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Prayers will take place at 2:30pm. Cremation will take place as per his wishes. Private family inurnment to take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Johnson, Gordon Glenn

May 16, 1928 – February 5, 2024

Glenn passed away peacefully at age 95 surrounded by his family. He leaves his loving wife of 72 years, Joan, sons Christopher (Helen), Thomas (Linna) and Andrew, and daughters Holly, Karen, and Shelley (Doug), brother Curtis (Peggy), Joan’s sister Gael Webster (Bill), six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces. He is pre-deceased by brothers Russell and Raymond, and sisters Ines, Agnes, Joyce, and Helen.

Glenn was born in Edmonton, Alberta, and spent his early years in Cochrane, Ontario. Throughout his life he was forever in search of adventure and up for a challenge. His wide-ranging career involved: auditor, owner/operator of a pulpwood logging camp, wholesale distributor of chainsaws, school supplies, and romantic fiction, and manufacturer of farm machinery and heat recovery ventilators. These ventures took him and his family from Cochrane to North Bay, Stratford, London, and Sydney Australia.

Glenn epitomized the spirit of philanthropy and community service. He was 70 years a Mason and was a member of the Scottish Rite and Mocha Temple. He was a proud Rotarian for almost 50 years where he was awarded the distinguished Paul Harris Fellowship Award. He exemplified the ideals of Rotary in all aspects of his life: acting with the highest ethical standards and service to community. His leadership skills made him an obvious choice to lead and expand the London Community Foundation, and to establish and Chair the Grand Bend Area Health Services Foundation to build a multi-disciplinary healthcare facility, both with ambitious fundraising goals which were quickly exceeded. For his leadership and commitment he was recognized as Grand Bend Community Leader of the Decade. Throughout his life he also devoted continuous service and leadership to his church. In recognition of his lifetime of service to others and to community, he was awarded the prestigious Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteering.

A celebration of Glenn’s life will be held at Elmwood Avenue Presbyterian Church, 111 Elmwood Avenue East, London on February 16. Visitation at 1 pm and celebration of life at 2 pm following a Masonic Service under the auspices of Tuscan Lodge No. 195 A.F. & A.M.

Donations to Elmwood Avenue Presbyterian Church or the London Community Foundation in lieu of flowers. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

REX, John

Our beloved brother John Rex, unexpectedly passed away peacefully on February 3, 2024-age 69. Survived by brother and best friend Dave Rex, sisters Margaret Fenn (Murray) and Eilleen Deault. Special uncle to Mike Fenn (Jenn). Close Friend John MacDonald. Nephew of Joyce Shoebottom. Predeceased by parents Nelson and Shirley Rex, sister Sharon Rex (January 27, 2024) and brother-in-law Rodger Deault. John will be deeply missed by his siblings and Mike. We love you Johnny. John will be missed by many friends and cousins. He was a loyal Toronto Maple Leafs fan. Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, February 9, 2024 from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 2:00 pm. A private family interment at a later date. In memory of John, donations would be appreciated to Parkwood Veterans Care. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SOWA, Frank…

Quietly and peacefully at Lion’s Head Hospital, Frank Sowa passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024 in his 105th year. Beloved husband of the late Emilie Hermiene (nee Ulbricht) Sowa (1998). Predeceased by his son Richard Sowa and his daughter Sonja Sowa. Frank is survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, as well as extended family members.

Frank was a remarkable individual known for his clever mind and a deep love for learning even to his last days. He loved to entertain company and would always share the most wonderful stories of history and his own amazing life experiences over an entire century. Everyone who met him was always rewarded with handfuls of candies and chocolates. Frank found solace and joy in the beauty of his hideaway in Tobermory, where he could watch the “bird show”, his foxes and other wildlife.

Family and friends are welcome to visitation on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will follow on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 11 am in the funeral home chapel. Cremation to follow with a private inurnment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In memory of Frank, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, or the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

A celebration of Gunars’ life will be held at the A. Millard George Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Saturday February 3, 2024 from 1:30 – 3:30 pm. Words of Remembrance will be shared at 2:00 pm.

SWEENY, Barbara…

Peacefully at Belmont House, Toronto, Barbara Marie Sweeny passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 in her 85th year. Beloved wife of the late Michael Linley Sweeny (1991). Loving mother of David Sweeny and his wife Donna, and Pamela Sweeny and her partner Greg Kobold. Adored grandmother of Christine and Michelle. Long time friend and companion Fred Smith.

Barbara was a remarkable individual, known for her kindness, generosity and her unwavering commitment to volunteering at the Legion for many years. She had a way of brightening everyone’s day with her genuine smile and positive outlook. She was an enthusiastic gardener who enjoyed spending many hours outside.

Barbara’s family wish to thank “Dr. B.” and all of the Belmont House staff for the care, compassion and kindness shown to her over her stay.

At Barbara’s request, cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held in the spring at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In her memory, sympathy donations may be made to the Belmont House, 55 Belmont Street, Toronto, M5R 1R1. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DICKSON, Shirley…

Shirley Dickson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London, on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 in her 81st year. She was the cherished wife of Dennis Dickson for nearly 54 years. Adored mother of Shannon Dickson (Deborah Lambert) and Ryan Dickson (Amanda). Proud Mimi of Fiona and Sheena. Dear sister of Mary Jayne vanPypen (Henry) and Susan Power-Calhoun (John Key). Godmother of Louise Kanary. Shirley will also be missed by her nieces, nephews and many extended family members. Shirley was a dedicated lifetime member of her sorority Beta Sigma Phi. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Shirley’s Life will be held at a later date. In memory of Shirley, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario, 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414 Toronto, ON M4P 1E4 and would be greatly appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McLEOD, Neil…

Neil William McLeod passed away peacefully in London, Ontario, the evening of January 14th, 2024 in his 70th year. Neil will be deeply missed by his adoring daughters Alysha and Katie. Beloved brother to Hugh, proud uncle of Alexander and Ian, and cherished friend to many. He is predeceased by his parents Betty and Sam McLeod.

Neil’s stubbornness and wit were as much a part of his character as his kindness and gentleness. He leaves behind a legacy of love and support that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Neil’s memory will continue to inspire us to be more caring, and to be a peaceful respite for others.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Neil may be made to The Salvation Army or Canadian Tire Jumpstart. Family and guests are invited to visitation on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024, from 2-3pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service will follow in the funeral home chapel. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MOORE, Paula…

Peacefully at Meadow Park Nursing Home, Paula Jean Moore, born August 16th 1960, of London, Ontario passed away on January 19th, 2024.

Paula was predeceased by her parents Bill and Grace Moore, her sister Marla Dykstra (2010) and brother-in-law Dick Green (2021). Dear sister of Janet Green of Tillsonburg, Roy Moore of London, and Bob Moore (Sharon) of Ottawa. Sister-in-law of Harry Dykstra, Debbie Moore and Barb Moore. Also loved by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephew and great great nieces.

Paula was energetic, witty and the center of activity during social occasions. She had many interests and was not afraid to try anything. She enjoyed horseback riding, bowling, swimming, singing, sign language and enjoyed all crafts. Paula volunteered at Arbour Glen Daycare for over 20 years. Paula was a well-known face for many years as a sign language interpreter at 53rd weekend, a retreat coordinated by the Anglican Diocese of Huron. She was a long term active and dedicated member of St. George’s Anglican Church.

Thank you to Community Living London and Alice Saddy Association for their support to Paula. The family also wishes to thank Meadow Park Nursing Home for their attention and compassion while she was a resident in their care.

Forever young at heart.

Cremation has taken place. A private family interment will take place in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London and a public Celebration of Paula’s Life will be held at St. George’s Anglican Church in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Paula Moore can be made to Community Living London, Alice Saddy Association or St. George’s Anglican Church. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com