Services & Obituaries

POOLEY, Tracy…

Tracy passed away quietly at home with her family by her side, on Monday, June 5, 2023 in her 58th year. Loving mom of Kaitlyn Pooley. Cherished daughter of Patricia Pooley and the late Michael Pooley (2003). Also survived by her uncle Jon (Lynn), uncle Dan (the late Deb), cousin Mark (Clare) and cousin Matt (Cheryl). Tracy suffered a long health battle but was resilient through it all. She was caring, giving, and full of love. She also had a special place in her heart for dogs. Cremation has taken place and at Tracy’s request there will be no service. Her ashes will be laid to rest in Woodland Cemetery, London at a future date. In memory of Tracy, donations made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MARKOWSKI, Raisa …

Quietly with family by her side on Monday, June 5, 2023, Raisa Markowski passed away in her 103rd year. Beloved wife of the late Alexander Markowski (2005). A wonderful mother of Boris (Debbie) Markowski and Rita (Steve Hodgins) Craig. Cherished Babusa of A J. (Samantha Hamilton) Markowski and David (Rebecca) Craig and Great-Babusa of baby Alexander Craig and baby boy Markowski (July 2023). Raisa will be remembered by her nieces and nephews in Belgium , Bob and Jacky VanderElst-Turnbull and Juri and Kathy VanderElst-Suys. Predeceased by her mother Anna Soin (1992) and her sister Jean VanderElst-Soin.

Raisa was born in the Ukraine, leaving for Belgium, Germany and eventually settling in Canada following the second World War. She met her husband Alexander in London, Ontario.  They became a long-term resident of Chiddington Avenue where they raised their family for 50 years. Raisa retired from Weldon B. Library where she worked as a Cataloguer.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff of Southbridge and Chelsea Park who cared for Raisa over the last few years.

Raisa will be interred alongside her husband and her mother at Woodland Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in her 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

FRYER, John Lewis….

John Lewis Fryer, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and valued community member, passed away on June 3, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and service. Born September 15, 1939, he was the son of Thomas and Connie Fryer.

John shared an incredible journey of love and companionship with his beloved wife, Carolynn, for a remarkable 61 years. Their union was a testament to commitment and unwavering support, setting an inspiring example for all who knew them.

As a father, John was a pillar of strength and guidance to his children Kathryn (Dale), John (Susan), Geoff (Annie), and Colleen (Tony). His love and wisdom enriched their lives and helped shape them into the individuals they are today.

John was blessed with the joy of being grandpa to Aidan, Maia, Alyssa, Regan, Luke, and Carson. He cherished every moment spent with them, creating lasting memories and imparting his values and life lessons. His love for his grandchildren was immeasurable, and his impact on their lives will forever be treasured.

John graduated top of his class from Appleby College, where he excelled in academics, athletics, and leadership. His love for the school was evident in his many stories and attendance at many reunions. He obtained his BSc from University of Toronto and MBA from Ivey School of Business at Western University.   

John was an avid sportsman, proficient at many sports in his youth and continuing to play hockey and baseball well into his 70s. He enjoyed coaching his sons and watching just about any televised sport, especially hockey and soccer. He was also an avid bridge player, noted for his prodigious memory and ability to produce a joke for any occasion. He enjoyed traveling the world with Carolynn and their many close friends and spending time at the family cottage.

John loved music, theatre, and the arts. He sang in many choirs throughout his life, including at St. James Westminster Church, where he was an active member for over 50 years. He was honoured with the Order of Huron for his dedication and exceptional contributions to his faith community.

John’s commitment to service extended beyond the church. He served on the boards of many organizations including Huron Church Camp, the VON, Leads, Huff N’ Puff (hockey and baseball), and others where his leadership and vision brought about positive change and touched the lives of countless individuals. He was a Life member of St. John’s Lodge 209a for 57 years, a strong ritualist fondly remembered for his portrayal of “sea captain” in the third degree, which he always performed with a smile.

John will be remembered for his warm smile, compassionate heart, and ability to make everyone feel valued and loved. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit continues to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Please join us in remembering and honouring John’s life on Friday June 16 at 2 pm at St. James Westminster Church, 115 Askin St, London. Visitation at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout St South, on Thursday June 15 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm; Masonic Service at 6:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in John’s name to the Bursary Fund of Huron Church Camp or the Music Program at St. James Westminster Church. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WALSH, David “Dave”…

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of David Walsh on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario. Beloved husband of Cathy for 49 years, amazing father of Nicole (Jon), Angela (Nic), Darren (1982) and Dustin (Alexis). Grandfather of Eli, Violet, Avery, Cali, Cameron, Lennox, Miller and Rowe. Brother to Jim (Arla), Mary Beth (Paul), Margaret (Stan 2018), Diane (Rob), Kenneth (Margaret) and Lois (Kirt).

David was a master of all things and shared his many talents with family, friends and neighbours. No project too big or too small – he gave his time without hesitation. He enjoyed a quiet retirement at home focused on his family. From household improvements wherever he was called, to summer days around the pool teaching all of his grandkids to swim at what became fondly known as “Camp Thunderbird”.

Dave had a love of the water and walking miles of sand at Ipperwash Beach, his ultimate happy place. Since childhood, modest vacations along the Lake Huron shoreline brought out the best in him. A man of few words, and lovingly nicknamed by his family, “Holidave”, Dave cherished every moment spent with family at the beach.

Cremation has taken place. All are welcome for the visitation and memorial service, which will both take place at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The visitation will take place on Sunday, June 11, 2023 from 4-7 pm. The memorial service will follow on Monday, June 12, 2023 at 1 pm. For those who cannot attend in person, the memorial service will also be live streamed by visiting the A. Millard George YouTube channel, or by visiting this link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpfL6_cm3hysYQm6qoamdgQ?app=desktop

In lieu of flowers, please consider a random act of kindness in celebration of Dave.

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

HELWIG, Deborah Ann…

Debbie Helwig passed away peacefully at home in London, Ontario with her loving dog Peanut, by her side in her 60th year. Debbie will be missed by her children Holly (Joshua) and Ryan (Brittany), Her sisters Bobbi-Jo, Kathy, and Tammy, sister Karen, her loving mom Alice and her beloved grandchildren Aria and Bryan. She is predeceased by her husband Bryan and mother Beverely. 

Debbie was feisty, funny, and had the biggest heart. She would say her family was her biggest achievement. She gave us strength and unconditional love and always opened her arms and her home to anyone who needed it. She will be missed beyond words.

Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Debbie’s memory can be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5. Family and friends are invited to visitation on Saturday, June 10^th from 11am – 12pm followed by a memorial service at 12pm in the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com.

Ross C. (Charles) Keeler  April 13, 1933- June 1, 2023

Ross Keeler loved life and he embraced every experience with love, laughter and a genuine regard for all who were a part of his ninety years of living. Ross was born in Hamilton, Ontario,  and moved to London Ontario where he grew up with his parents, younger sister, two brothers, and for a time, his three cousins left orphaned by the Moose Hall Fire of ‘44. Early in his family life Ross learned the value of work and leadership, both of which laid the foundation of a long successful work life. He initially apprenticed as a licenced auto mechanic, later becoming the service manager of the family business “Corral Motors” before entering the teaching profession. He obtained his teaching certificate and in 1973 was employed by the London Board of Education until his retirement in 1994. Ross taught at Saunders, H.B. Beal, Montcalm and Clarke Road and in addition to teaching, he organized regular professional development in the most current auto trends for his colleagues and countless apprenticeships for his students. During his teaching career, he was nominated twice for the Bishop Townshend Award for Excellence in Teaching (1983 and 1994) and received the Roger Macauley Student Centred Learning Award in 1988. He is a lifetime member of the National College of Automotive Teachers.

Ross loved family life and when he knew his time may be cut short, his greetings in visits began with “I have been blessed with the love of three wives who have loved me deeply, the love of all my children, and I have the best family that anyone could ask for.” In 1955 he married Marlene Holmes and together they raised their three children, Nancy, Terri and Brian. In 1977 he lost his wife, Marlene, daughter Nancy and mother-in-law in an automobile accident. In 1978 he married Elsie Lampkin and viewed their marriage as a second chance to enjoy marital bliss. Ross embraced Elsie’s two daughters, Ruth and Jeannie and together, Ross and Elsie extended their love to all partners and seven grandchildren. Elsie passed away in 2004 and again Ross found a third chance at marital happiness with his marriage to Wilma Crowe in 2005. Ross embraced Wilma’s four children Cheri, Lori, Mitch and Todd, their spouses, ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Ross loved community, specifically his membership in the Masonic Order. Ross joined St John’s Lodge #20 in 1954 and served as W.M. in 1965, Secretary 1969-72 and Past Grand Senior Warden (Hon.) in 1987. He joined the London Lodge of Perfection in 1980, London Sovereign Chapter Rose Croix in 1981 and was Coroneted an Honorary Inspector-General 33 in 2001. Throughout his Masonic life of service to community he served as Worthy Patron with Marlene as Worthy Matron in Bethlehem Chapter #136, Ontario Eastern Star in 1975 and Associate Bethel Guardian of Bethel #3 International Order of Job’s Daughters 1974-78. In 1977 he started the G. Fred Kingsmill Chapter, Order of DeMolay, serving as first Chairman Advisor until his death and an active Member of Canadian Supreme Council and holder of the Zerubbabel Key, Cross of Honour and Honorary Legion of Honour. He worked with the London Consistory Club to create a community resource by repairing, refurbishing and distributing hospital equipment available to anyone in need. He developed strong partnerships across London hospital OT and PT departments.

After a short battle with cancer, on June 1, surrounded by his loving wife and many children, Ross passed into the next life. He is the beloved husband of Wilma Keeler, dear father of Terri-Lynne  Sparling and her husband Bob of Stratford, Brian Ross Keeler of London, and loving father to Ruth Lampkin and her partner Jim Anderson of Port Dover, Jeannie Kennedy of Hamilton, Lori  MacDonald of St. Thomas, Cheri Nadeau and her husband Richard of St. Thomas, Todd (“T.J.”) Crowe and his wife Tammy of London and Mitchel Crowe and his wife Mary Mitches of London. He is a beloved grandfather to Emily and Ellen Sparling, Matt, Ryan and Kyle Keeler, Adam Smith, Farrah De la Fosse, Rochelle and Brittany MacDonald, Carly, Lindsay and Nicole Nadeau, Logan, Owen and Megan Crowe and Hilary and Noah Crowe and great grandfather to Ruby and Max Dagg and Lyra De la Fosse. He is also missed by sister-in-law Lois Keeler, Donald (Don) MacMillan of Wiarton, Eileen Ebin of Florida, Richard MacMillan and his wife Bev of Ottawa and Robert MacMillan of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia and many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law and their families. Also survived by cousin Ken Cleland and wife Irene of Stoney Creek, their family, and many nieces and nephews.

The family is grateful for the tender care provided to Ross from Dr. Michael Mitchell of LHSC, Dr Oscar Karouzas Theodosios (“Dr. Theo”) and Nurse Natalie Wellmann of St. Elizabeth Health, and Dr. Shiraz Malik, Dr. Gil Schreier and Nurse Francyelle Fernandez of the Palliative Care Unit, LHSC Victoria Campus.

Predeceased by his parents late Gertrude (Lisa) Keeler and Charles P. (Perc.) Keeler, his wife, the late Elsie E. (Passmore) (Lampkin) Keeler, his wife, the late Marlene F. (Holmes) Keeler; his daughter Nancy Ann Keeler, his brothers William Eric (Bill) Keeler and David E. Keeler, his sister Marion Thomas and brother-in-law Louis Quenelle.

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Ross can be made to the Masonic Foundation of Ontario or to  Scottish Rite Charitable Foundation London.  Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 8 2-4pm and 7-9pm with a Masonic Service at 6:30pm at A. Millard George Funeral Home. The funeral for Ross will be held on Friday, June 9 at 11 am at A. Millard George Funeral Home and a live-streaming option will be shared via the AMG Funeral Home Youtube page. Inurnment at 2:30 pm at Woodland Cemetery, London. The Reverend Michael DeKay of St. Paul’s Cathedral presiding. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WEIR, Doreen Ann …

Suddenly at Victoria Hospital, London on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, Doreen Ann Weir (nee Whittingham) passed away in her 83rd year. Beloved wife and best friend for 41 years to the late James “Jim” Weir (2003). Dear mother of Deborah Cairns and her husband John, and Scott Weir.  Adored grandmother of Britnee Weir (Peter), Kymberlyn Linkiewicz (Syd), and Olivia Cairns (Matt). Sister of Gerald Whittingham (Wendy), Pat Charters (Don) and sister-in-law of Linda Whittingham and Penni Steele (Wayne). Predeceased by her parents Frances and Dick Whittingham, and brother Dick Whittingham. Doreen will be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Doreen enjoyed spending time surrounded by her friends at Harmony Woods Trailer Park in Parkhill. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses in Oncology at Victoria Hospital, for their care and compassion. Family and friends are welcomed to visitation one hour prior(12-1pm) to the funeral service being conducted on Monday, June 5, 2023, at 1pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, ON. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, London. For those wishing to honour Doreen, please consider a donation to the London Regional Cancer Program, 747 Baseline Road East London, ON N6C 2R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

TWAMLEY, Dave…

Peacefully, at University Hospital in London with his loved ones by his side, on Monday, May 22, 2023 in his 61st year. Loving father to David & Kelsey, Mathew & Tori, Jeff, Katy and Nerissa. Beloved companion to Cathie & Blaze. Caring son of the late Murray & Marilyn. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Dave’s life will be held on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 5 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 317, 311 Oakland Avenue, London. In memory of Dave, donations towards Prostate Cancer Research through the Canadian Cancer Society, 500-55 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4V 2Y7 would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GAUTHIER, Robert…

Robert Gauthier at the young age of 56, passed away on Monday, May 22nd, 2023. His family is deeply saddened by his sudden and short battle with cancer.

Robert leaves behind his wife and best friend Dorinda of 22 years. They lived in London with their two dogs, Layla and Radisson and their 5 cats.

He will be forever missed by his siblings in Montreal, Clement (Lise), Diane (Gilles), Martine (Francois), his twin brother Richard (Nathalie) and several nieces and nephews. As well as his mother-in law Sue Roy and brother-in law Jeff (Krissi).

He was predeceased by his parents Guy and Germaine, brother Jean and father-in-law Glen Roy.

Robert was born and raised in Montreal, where he studied Civil Engineering and then later went on to working in research. Dorinda moved to Montreal for work where she met Robert. They married in 2003 and in 2004 they moved to London where they both worked at London Health Sciences Centre. For 19 years Robert worked as a Viviarium Animal Technician for Lawson Health Research Institute.

Robert was so kind and passionate. He enjoyed travelling and one of his favourite places was Germany. You could often find Robert watching Star Trek, science or history shows. He loved learning new languages and his favourite band was Judas Priest. Robert’s jokes, storytelling and his love will leave a huge place in our hearts. The belly rubs, cuddles and walks will never be the same for Layla and Radisson.

Cremation has taken place. Robert’s wishes were to be buried in the future alongside his wife in his family plot in Montreal. In memory of Robert, please join us on September 17th, 2023, for the Terry Fox run/walk under the team name “Team Gauthier” or if you prefer to donate to the event or 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

Until we meet again. Je t’aime, mon cheri.

Pozsonyi, Elly…

Elly passed away on May 21, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Elly was a beloved wife to Dave Jankowski for 20 years; stepmother to Heather Jankowski and Emma Jankowski (Alberto) both of Toronto; and step grandmother to Eva and Rio. She will be greatly missed by extended family and friends.

Elly is predeceased by her sister, her mother, and her father, Mary and Peter Klarlund of Copenhagen, Denmark. She is also predeceased by her previous husband Richard Pozsonyi. Elly will also be missed by her dear friend Terri Deevey. Terri has been a best friend, business partner, confidant, and daughter to Elly.

Elly loved to travel and moved to South Africa from Denmark at the age of 20 where she lived for ten years. She traveled extensively and moved to Canada in her 30s.  Her interests included stained glass work and painting. She enjoyed listening to the Blues and gardening. But it was her love for animals that presided over all else.

Cremation has taken place. A Gathering of Remembrance will take place at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Monday, May 29, 2023 from 12-2:30 pm. A reception will follow.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Elly may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Rd, London, ON N5V 3K5, or the Canadian Cancer Society 55 St Clair Avenue West, Suite 500 Toronto, Ontario M4V 2Y7. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com