Services & Obituaries

NOVLAN, Kenneth George…

Ken passed calmly on Monday, February 6, 2023 at Parkwood Palliative Care in his 81st year. Devoted and loving husband of Sheila Novlan for 41 wonderful years. Cherished big brother of the late James Novlan and William (Margaret) Novlan of BC. Ken will be lovingly remembered by his nieces and their families, Mia and Joene and their mother Dianne of B.C.

Ken retired from Ford Motor Company after a 40 year long career. He was a long-time past member of both London Curling Club and Greenhill’s Golf Club, where he spent many enjoyable years of friendship on and off the rink and course. Ken thrived in the kitchen and loved nothing more then preparing and enjoying a meal for his friends. He was a kind and generous person.

A heartfelt thanks go out to all our family and friends (too many to mention) who provided support, visits and phone calls, and to the health care workers who cared for Ken during his illness. A special thank you to Carlyle Baker, Ken’s special brother-in-law.

Friends and family are welcomed to Celebrate Ken’s Life on Saturday, February 11, 2023, from 1-4pm at the A. Millard George Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the London Regional Cancer Program or the Parkwood Institute-Palliative Care. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com  

Bennett, George “Handy Andy” …….

Peacefully at his residence on Monday, February 6, 2023, George passed away in his 86th year.  Cherished father of Carlton (Rose) Bennett, Christina (Cyril) Kendrick, Christopher (Julijana) Bennett, and Angella Bennett. Dear step-father of Wayne (Kim) and Simone. Loving grandfather to Carlton, Samantha, Christopher, Jazman, Christian, Adoria, Ethaniel, Jalani, Jasiah, Donella, Joseph, Amari and Abigail. Predeceased by his parents and his siblings.  He will be greatly missed by many extended family members and friends.

George was always willing to lend help as  ‘handy Andy’ and was reliable to assist with his community.

Family and friends are welcomed for visitation on Sunday, February 12, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service will be conducted in the chapel on Monday, February 13, at 11:00 am. Interment to follow in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Salvation Army. 2023 Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McMANUS, Joan…

Peacefully with her family by her side at Parkwood Institute, London, Joan (nee Smith) McManus passed away in the early hours of Sunday, February 5, 2023 just 10 days short of her 87th birthday.

Beloved wife of the late James “Jim” McManus (1998). Loving mother of James and his wife Susan, and Raymond and his wife Linda. Cherished Gran of Jordan (Meagan), Kyle (Melissa), Sydney, Duncan (Rachel) and Laura (Jadon) and great-grandmother of Callighan. Dear sister of Syd, James and Raymond (Margaret), and sister-in-law of Isa (Jim), and Rena. Predeceased by her siblings, Hugh, Margaret, John and their spouses. Joan will also be missed by her nieces, nephews and extended family members and friends.

Family and friends are welcome to join together for a Celebration of Life Service for Joan on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 1 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London.

The family wishes to extend a warm thank you to all of the healthcare organizations that helped look after mom in the last few weeks while she remained at home, as well as a huge thank you to the staff of the Palliative Care Unit at Parkwood for their care, compassion and empathy during mom’s short stay. In memory of Joan, those wishing to make a donation are asked to consider the Palliative Care Unit at Parkwood, c/o St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON N6A 4V2. Online condolences shared at www.amgfh.com

MCINTOSH, Robert Carl  “Bud” …..

After a weekend surrounded by loving sons, Rob, and Jeff, and their spouses, Helene and Alison,

Bud passed away peacefully in his 95th year on Monday, January 30, 2023, at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance, in Chatham, Ontario.

Born on December 14, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan, Bud and his parents shortly returned to the Elk Lake community of Kennebec to join the rest of their extended pioneering family.

Bud was very active in sports from a young age, becoming the youngest pitcher in the Northern League at age 16.  In 1957, Bud married his hometown sweetheart, Verna Jean (nee Schlotzhauer), and moved to work and start a family in London, Ontario.

In 1962, the young couple moved to their first home in North London. They loved the people and simply living in the neighbourhood and this beloved residence would remain the family home for Bud’s entire life. Bud particularly enjoyed gardening with family members and the beautiful backyard became an oasis for many important events.

Bud worked with pride at International Paper Company in London his entire career as a member of the Administrative Management Team.  He was active in the Corporate social clubs and contributed to making that organization an enjoyable and productive place to work.

Bud continued to maintain an active lifestyle of competitive softball, racquet sports including badminton (Bud won the city men’s and mixed double badminton championships), curling, and cross country camping.  Later, in his 40s, Bud took up golf and played thousands of rounds with his close knit group of life long friends. His goal to shoot his age was achieved in his 70s and 80s.

After many rewarding, fun filled and blessed years together, Verna passed away from cancer at the tender age of 58 .

Bud eventually met his second partner in life, Doris Lawson, while taking a clogging class with the Huff and Puff senior dance troupe.  They enjoyed golf, dancing, gardening and travel for 29 years until her passing at 92 years of age.

Bud’s calm, strong yet kind  demeanor, laid back personality, devotion to family and friends, and enjoyment of social events will be missed and fondly remembered.

Bud will be greatly missed by all who knew him , and particularly by his sister Patricia Fiset (nee McIntosh), his cousin Ford Depueto (Irene), his granddaughters, Chloe, Shelby, and Devon, as well as many extended family and friends.

A family interment ceremony will take place in April. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at the St. Thomas Golf and Country Club, 42325 Sparta Line, Union, ON, where family and friends can celebrate Bud’s life.

As an expression of sympathy, please consider a donation in memory of Bud with The Canadian Cancer Society or The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

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

BLACK, John Ross Albert “Jack”…

After a lengthy illness, Jack Black of London, found his peace on Monday, January 30, 2023 in his 88th year. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Doris (nee Whittington) Black. Loving father of Kim (Scott), Ross (Tammy), Robert (Karen) and Pam (John). Proud grandfather to 9 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Ruth Ann MacFarlane of Hamilton, Bob Black and his wife Gloria of Quebec and brother-in-law of Beverly Black of London. Predeceased by his brothers William, James and Thomas.

Born in Kapuskasing, Ontario to Goldie and Bert Black. He was a proud veteran of the Royal Canadian Regiment serving 28 years at home and abroad. In his retirement he enjoyed time fishing on the great lakes. He was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge, and devoted participant.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, February 3, 2023 from 1-1:45 pm, followed by a Masonic Service under the auspices of Middlesex Lodge No. 379 A.F. & A.M. at 1:45 pm, and the memorial service at 2 pm, all held at Church of the Epiphany, 11 Briscoe Street West, London. PLEASE NOTE: As a request by the family, masks are required to attend the church. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Jack are asked to support the London Regional Cancer Program, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HOLODY, Edward…

June 21, 1925 – January 29, 2023

Peacefully at Parkwood Institute Veteran’s Care, London on January 29, 2023, Edward Holody passed away in his 98th year. He was predeceased by his wife Matilda and daughter Sharon. Loving father of (Wendall) Jim Holody and father-in-law of Ken Grover and Sydney Holody. Lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Teresa Grover Kelley (Michael), Martin Grover (Barbara) and Robert Holody (Samantha). Great-grandpa of Lauren, Emily and Alessio. Dear brother of Mildred Fugina and predeceased by his brother Elgin and sisters Sabina, Jenny, Helen, Julia and Marie. Fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and friends.

Edward was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 75 years and saw firsthand the dedication and support the Legion provides to the veterans at Parkwood. The family wish to thank the wonderful staff at Parkwood Veteran’s Care for their compassion and care.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Monday, February 6th, 2023 from 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, with the Legion service at 1:45 pm, service at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel. Interment at Woodland Cemetery to follow. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Edward can be made to Alzheimer Society of London, 435 Windermere Rd. London, ON N5X 2T1 519-680-2404. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

REX, Betty …

On Sunday, January 29th, 2023, at Victoria Hospital, London, without pain and surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Betty Rex passed away in her 97th year. Betty was the beloved wife of the late Christopher Rex. Cherished mother of Palmer (the late Wendy), Evelyn Chambers (the late Gerry), Chuck (Rita), Gary (Leanne) and Don (Darlene). Betty will be lovingly remembered by her 14 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 3 great great-grandchildren. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Victoria Hospital, D5 Cardiac Care,  and Meadow Park Nursing Home for their kind care and compassion through this difficult time. Friends are welcomed for visitation 1 hour prior (9:30-10:30 am) to the funeral service on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, at 10:30 am. Interment at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. For those wishing to honour Betty and her legacy, please consider a donation to the Humane Society of London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON, N5V3K5. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com 

POWERS, Roberta…

Peacefully at home surrounded by family, on Thursday, January 26, 2023, Roberta Powers of London passed away quietly in her 94th year. Beloved wife of the late James “Jim” A. Powers (2009). Loving mother of Steven Staniforth (the late Sharon, 2021) of Sarnia, Michael Staniforth and his wife Sharon of Lucan, Kevin Staniforth and his wife Florabel of London, Tammy Huey and her husband Jon of Sarnia, and Daniel Staniforth and his wife Carol of Wallaceburg. Dear step-mother of Judy Sayles and her husband Kirk and Scott Powers. Much loved Grandma of Becky, Paul, Jason, Amanda, the late Keith, Alexandra, Aaron, Addam, Andrew, Anthony, Krista, Danielle, Melissa, Graham, Emily, Chad, Kyle, Kevin and Charia. Great-grandma of 34, and great-great-grandma of one. Also loved by her sister Grace Gander and her late husband Jim. Roberta was a lady of all trades. She was a devoted mother to her five children, all while enjoying her own hobbies such as gardening, crocheting and other crafts. She was an extremely talented seamstress and singer, and cherished her ’65 Mustang. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 from 12-1 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 615 Base Line Road East, London, where the funeral service will be held at 1 pm. Cremation to follow with future interment in Lakeview Cemetery, Sarnia. In memory of Roberta, donations may be made to the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of London, 184 Horton Street East, London, ON N6B 1K8. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Quebec

DRENNAN, Scott …

Scott passed away peacefully at home after a long battle with alcohol on Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at the age of 64.

He was funny and smart with a quick sense of humour. Scott spent 40 years in radio and television with the engineering department in London. In 2021 he retired gleefully from Bell Media. He spent his holidays with his brother Matt and family at the lake and enjoyed his good friends immensely.

Son of the late Dr. William and Nancy Drennan, brother of Jim Drennan (Lorraine) of Cornwall; Matthew (Patricia) of Carleton Place, uncle of Caitlin, Sarah, Hannah, Meara and Bill. A son of Suzanne Fraser and brother of Barb Furac of London.

If you or a family member or friend are struggling with addiction, please seek help and don’t be embarrassed. We all need help with something.

Cremation has taken place; no funeral service will take place at this time. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com