Services & Obituaries

HAMMOND, Ruth (nee Wilson)…

PROMOTED TO GLORY on Friday, October 6, 2023 from Grand Wood Park Retirement Home at 101 years of age. Loving wife for 72 years of the late C. Lyle Hammond (2015). Dear mother of Carolyn, London, and Donna Monkman, Ottawa. Cherished grandmother of Faye Strelioff (Jim), Grenfell, Saskatchewan, and Brenda (Tyler), Calabogie, Ontario. Great grandmother of Brayden, Calabogie, Ontario. Loved by her sister-in-law, Elaine Brown, Essex, and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Predeceased by her parents, her sister, Marg, and her brother, Hugh. Born at home in London, Ontario to Rumsey and Stella Wilson. Raised in London. Graduate of South Collegiate. Trekked with Lyle from London to Mt. Brydges and Seaforth, Ontario; to Cape Dorset, Resolute Bay and Iqaluit in Nunavut; then to Ottawa, and back to London to retire. Now she is Home forever. Ruth volunteered with Hospice of London for over 20 years. Her love of little children made her an unforgettable grandmother to Faye and Brenda. “She was always busy doing something”, Lyle used to say. A family graveside service will be held. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, photographs and memories shared at www.amgfh.com

LITKE, Sandra “Sandy” Patricia…

Sandy was born in Formosa Ontario on September 4, 1940 and lived with her mother, Eileen O’Neill, brother, David, and sister, Sheila in Chesley, Ontario. Her family moved to London in 1950 where Sandy settled, married, and raised a family. The love of her life was Nickolai “Nick” Litke whom she married in 1963. They spent 43 years together supporting each other in every way; in parenting their two boys, Jonathan and Michael, in travelling, in working abroad in Nigeria for CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency) and in day-to-day life and work.

Sandy worked as a homemaker when her boys were young and then did secretarial work in an appraisal firm for 26 years. After her retirement, she worked part-time for the Dream Home Lottery for 13 years.  Throughout her life she touched the hearts of many. She was a devoted mom, proud supporter and biggest fan of her sons, Jonathan and Michael. She took much joy in parenting and “being there”. Sandy also took great joy in being “Gma” to her granddaughter, Amanda Elwes, with whom she shared a special bond and deep love. Oh, the joys! Sandy lived to the fullest. Whether it was a trip abroad, her book club, a Knights or Canadiens game, or her time with the Dream Home Lottery, every moment was an enthusiastic embrace of life.

Sandy was a caretaker for many- from helping her mother, to caring for elderly aunts, her husband and any family members who were in need. The essence of Sandy was in her giving nature and selfless gifts of time, energy, and care.

Sandy died peacefully at home on October 2, 2023, with her family at her side. She was predeceased by her husband Nick, son Jonathan, brother David, and sister Sheila.

She has left those of us remaining with fond memories of her sense of fun, great laughs, and stories. She will be deeply missed by Michael and Sue, daughter-in-law, Wendy, granddaughter, Amanda, step-grandchildren, Leah and Andrew, step-great grandchild, Breanna, numerous nieces and nephews and dear friends and colleagues. We celebrate the joyful life she lived, the loves she shared, and the indelible mark she left behind.

A gathering with family and friends to honour Sandy’s life will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre, located at 60 Ridout Steet South, London, on Thursday October 5, 2023 from 12:00 to 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Covenant House Toronto, (a youth shelter) or the charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DAWSON, Gregory “Greg”

Greg Dawson passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario, the 30th day of September, 2023 in his 74th year. Greg will be missed by his children Ben Dawson (Claire), Lucas Dawson (Dorothy) and Laura Schlotzhauer (Mike). He will also be missed by his sisters  Deanne Harvey and Judy LaChance (MacFarlane, Dawson), his seven grandchildren Evan, Adam, Julianna, Kiersten, Ethan, Haley, Paige and his extended family. He was predeceased by his father James “Ben” Dawson, his mother Edith Fleming and his step-father Fred Fleming. 

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023, from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre, 60 Ridout street south, London. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Canadian Blood Services is encouraged. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GOODSON, John…

John Goodson passed away peacefully on the morning of September 30th, 2023 in his 94th year. John will be missed by his beloved wife Norma, daughters Janet and Brenda, his sister Ann and her husband Campbell Blair of Cambridge, ON, and his brother Bob and his wife Betty of Ottawa. He is predeceased by his parents Kathleen (1976) and Norman Goodson (1959) and his brother Bill Goodson (2004). John was a talented oil painter, he enjoyed gardening, skiing and traveling.

Friends and family are welcomed for visitation on Tuesday, October 10th, 2023 at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, from 10-11 am. The funeral service will be conducted in the chapel at 11am. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour John’s life are asked to consider a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 2300 Yonge Street, Suite 1200, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4 or the Kidney Foundation of Canada, 1599 Hurontario Street, Suite 201, Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DYER, Betty Ann…

Betty Ann Dyer (nee Vining) passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London on Thursday, September 28, 2023 in her 89th year. Beloved wife of the late John William Dyer (2010). Loving mother of Randa Huckle, Bradley Dyer and the late Dean Dyer. Cherished grandmother of Lisa Krijnen (Rob), Andrea Decloedt (Shane), Jordan Dyer and Branden Dyer and great-grandmother of numerous great-grandchildren. Dear sister of Barry Vining.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 from 2-4 pm and on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 from 12-1 pm. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 1 pm. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London.

Donations in memory of Betty Ann may be made to Shriners’ Hospitals for Children – Canada, Donor Development, 1003 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, QC H4A 0A9, Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MACDONALD, Samuel Alexander “Sandy”…
(1949 – 2023)

Sandy passed away peacefully at the Village of Glendale Crossing in London, Ontario on Saturday, September 23, 2023 in his 75th year. Sandy was born in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, the son of Mary Ann (nee MacMullen) and Samuel MacDonald.

Sandy spent most of his life in Ontario, and is survived by his children Samuel (Calgary, AB) and Andrew (London, ON) and his cherished grandchildren Christopher, Landon, Oakley and Sawyer. He is also survived by his brother Roland (MaryAnne), his sister Kyle and her husband John Franklin, his niece Samantha, and many cousins in Cape Breton, NS.

Sandy was predeceased by his beloved wife Jane Marie (nee Jackson), his brother Cam, and sadly, by his daughter Kaylei Marie and his niece Ashley.

Sandy enjoyed wonderful friendships with so many people, and was known for “lighting up the room” everywhere he went. He loved sports, was a gracious host, and a devoted friend.  Sandy loved spending time on Lake Huron and most recently at the family cottage in Grand Bend where he would entertain his Mother Mary, and offer a gregarious welcome to the endless stream of friends and family who visited.

Many will remember Sandy for his professional success selling HVAC equipment and HRV’s in southwestern Ontario. He spent his latest career years working with Nutech/Airia Brands selling Lifebreath branded equipment. He will be sadly missed by all of his friends and family.

Special thanks to all of Sandy’s doctors and caregivers at Glendale Crossing for their love, attention and care. An extra special thank you to Dr. Kevin Fung (LHSC), who saved Sandy’s life on his original cancer diagnosis, and guided him back to his positive view on life.

A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, October 2 at 1 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com. Notes of condolence for the family may also be sent directly to the Funeral Home.

Pathria, Anuradha “Anu”… 

Having suffered from a rare ailment and immense pain over a decade, Anu left us peacefully for her heavenly abode in her 56^th year on Wednesday, September 20,2023. Beloved wife of Harish Pathria. Loving mother of Ektaa Pathria and Aparajita Pathria. Dear sister of Randhir Majumdar. A true friend of many, Anu will be missed by one and all.

Anu did not let constant physical pain of a rare ailment deter her from spreading joy and love to everyone around her with her jovial nature and cheerful countenance.

Anu will live in our hearts forever. Her jokes and recipes will constantly remind us of her presence around us.

We, the immediate family, and a large family of her countless friends pray for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace. Anu, we know that you are finally free from the physical pain now.

Cremation has taken place, and per Anu’s wishes, the immediate family will celebrate her life privately.

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

WOOLLEY, Victor Barton…

Victor Woolley, of London, Ontario, passed away peacefully at Parkwood Institute, on Saturday, September 16, 2023, just 14 days shy of his 85th birthday. Beloved husband of Dorothy (nee Cole) Woolley for 59 years. Loving father of David Woolley (Amparo), Valerie Silvester (Brian) and John Woolley (Natasha); and father-in-law of Iona. Dear grandfather of Kerissa, Steven, Crystina, Tyson, Aaliah, Isaiah, Shane, Will and Cam. He is survived by sister Beverley Lindsay, sisters-in-law Helen MacDonald (David) and Doreen Bozzer-Cole, as well as his three nephews and six nieces. Predeceased by his father Arnold Clifford Woolley (1974) and mother Christina (nee Nicolson) Woolley (1986). Victor enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, playing bridge, reading and doing puzzles. Cremation has taken place and a private interment will take place at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London. Donations in Victor’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

EDWARDS, Derek…

With great sorrow, we wish to announce that Derek Cecil Edwards passed peacefully in London, Ontario on the morning of September 15th, 2023, in his 97th year. Derek will be dearly missed by his son Kevan, daughter-in-Law Christine, grandson Brendon and his wife Jaime, granddaughter Deanna as well as great grandson Benjamin.  
 
Derek was predeceased by his wife of 70 years Eileen (Poplett), and parents Cecil C Edwards and Lydia T Edwards (Clark).  Brother to numerous siblings including Daphne, Roy, Kathleen, Marcia, Mervin and Nadine.
 
Derek was a quiet man who loved to laugh, spin a good story, fish, and he loved to garden.  Growing veggies in the back yard and caring for his shrubs and flowers was a passion.  Born in England, and a veteran of the British army in post-WW2 Italy as well as the Middle East, Derek and Eileen came to Canada in the mid-1950s. Together they built a wonderful life including running a successful self-owned business. For 30+ years he delivered homemade food and beverages to construction work sites, factories, and businesses in an era when hot food and good coffee wasn’t just a text message away.  He developed a fondness for wood working and was a kind, soft spoken person that had the ability to make his grandkids laugh with his silly tricks and could make a friend out of a perfect stranger.
 
He will be thought of often by family and friends alike.
 
As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Derek can be made to the Heart & Stroke Association of Canada at https://www.heartandstroke.ca/. A celebration of life will be held on September 29, 2023 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Center, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Words of Remembrance will take place at 11:00 am.  Derek’s ashes will be laid to rest with Eileen, at Pond Mills Cemetery in London.

PAULSON, Dorothy Ann…

Dorothy Ann Paulson (nee Morton) passed away quietly and peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London, on Monday, September 11, 2023 in her 97th year. She was the beloved wife of the late James “Jim” Paulson (2007). Loving mother of Marilyn Wells (the late David) of Garland, Texas; Cheryl Pickens and her husband Bob of Mallorytown, Ontario; Jean Murray and her husband Jim of Lambton Shores, Ontario; Steven Paulson and his wife Margaret of Niverville, Manitoba and Roger Paulson and his wife Terrie of Petoskey, Michigan. Dorothy will be dearly missed by her 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her siblings Ronald Morton, William Morton and Mary Baker.

Dorothy was born and raised in Dodge Center, Minnesota, the third child in a sib line of 4. She attended school there, where she met the love of her life, Jim Paulson. They were married in 1945 and together raised 5 children. Dorothy worked in banking prior to her marriage, and then worked as payroll clerk at Kmart in London until her retirement. Jim and Dorothy and children immigrated to London Ontario in 1957 where they remained for the rest of their lives. For 66 years, Dorothy was a faithful member of Richard’s Memorial United Church, where she was very active in many committees. She had many talents, most notably as a rather accomplished quilter.  Her children and many grandchildren are grateful recipients of her work.

The family would like to thank the Emergency Department Palliative Care Team at Victoria Hospital and the staff of Southbridge London Long-Term Care for the care and compassion they shared with Dorothy in her final days.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Monday, September 18, 2023 from 10-11 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held at 11 am in the funeral home chapel. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Richards Memorial United Church, or a charity of your choice and would be greatly appreciated by the family. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com