Services & Obituaries

NELSON, Barbara Anne…..

We are saddened to announce the passing of our mother Barbara Anne Nelson (nee Murray) on February 10, 2023 at the age of 81 at Westmount Gardens LTC.  She was born in Saint John, New Brunswick in 1941. In 1960, she married our Dad, Percy Nelson (2012) in Petawawa, Ontario. There they had two daughters, Wendy Tunks and Laurine Nelson. In 1972, we moved to London where Mom worked at the London Free Press as a proofreader. For many years, she worked as a proofreader/editor for many printing and publication companies. After retiring Mom and Dad enjoyed travelling. She was proudest of her grandchildren and their families: Bradley Tunks, his wife Eun Og Kim and children Hannah and Matthew; Paul Tunks and his wife Karen and children Andrew and Alice; Carolyn Tunks and her husband Ryan Battista and baby Oliver. Also left to mourn are brothers, Peter (Diane), Bill (Ruth). Also survived by sisters-in-law Clara Sabean and Marjorie Murray. Predeceasing her are her parents Bernice (nee Scott) and George Murray of Saint John, New Brunswick, her brother Douglas Murray of Rothesay, New Brunswick and her brother Harold Murray (Brenda) of Angus, Ontario. We would like to thank the wonderful staff at Westmount Gardens Long Term Care for the compassionate care of our Mom. Cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be held. If you wish to make a contribution in our Mom’s memory, please consider the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation because every day we pray for a cure. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GLADWISH, Margaret …

Peacefully with her family by her side, at Earl’s Court Village, London on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, Margaret “Margie” Gladwish passed away in her 88th year. Margie leaves behind her one true love, soul mate, husband James “Jim” Gladwish. Devoted and loving mother of Alice Wiseman and her husband Michael and Heather Smith and her husband Gary. Cherished Grannie of her precious treasures, Matthew, Lucas, Mason, and Brooke. Margie is survived by her sister and best friend Dorothy Smith (Doug) and was adored by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are welcomed for visitation, one hour prior, 11am-12pm to the funeral service, on Monday, February 13, 2023, at St. Anne’s Anglican Church, Byron, 1344 Commissioners Road West, London. The funeral service will be conducted at 12 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Margie’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer Society – Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1 or the St. Anne’s Anglican Church Memorial Fund, 1344 Commissioners Road West, London, ON N6K 1E1. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CARERE, Shirley…

Shirley Ellen Carere passed away peacefully at home in London, Ontario, in the afternoon of Tuesday, February 7th, 2023 in her 93rd  year. Shirley was the beloved wife of the late Dominic Carere. Loving mother of Joseph Carere (Lori), and Ellen Carere all of London. Missed by her grandchildren Jason (Erica), Matthew (Alaina) and Ashley (Connor). Shirley will be dearly missed by her 4 great-grandchildren and her brother-in-law Joseph Carere. She is predeceased by her brother Jack Milner, her several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and some nieces and nephews.

Shirley was truly one of a kind. She deeply loved her departed best-friend Gloria. Having met each other at age 3, they grew up together, married and had children of their own. Their late husbands, Dominic and Frank became the best additions, and all 4 shared an irreplaceable bond that lasted a lifetime. They are all now together in love and light.

Gardening, reading, doing crosswords, and most importantly her grandchildren were her passion.

The family would like to thank all those who have been there for Shirley and family these past few years, and most recently the St. Elizabeth Healthcare staff. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Shirley may be made to Alzheimer Society of London Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Rd, London, ON N5X 2T1.

Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Tuesday, February 14th, 2023 at 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm in the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London ON.  A private family interment has taken place. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

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