Services & Obituaries

COLE, John…..

Passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 26, 2022 in his 70th year. Predeceased by his parents Jack and Lenore and brother Richard. Dear brother of Deborah McTaggart. Loving uncle of Michelle, Nicky, Sean and Melissa. Great uncle of William, Seairah and Ella.  

Cremation has taken place. Friends and family are welcome for a service to celebrate John’s life on Friday, July 8, 2022 at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London Family and friends are invited to watch the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel or our website and clicking on the YouTube logo. Interment in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London.  As an expression of sympathy,  donations in memory of  John may be made to Diabetes Canada or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

JACKSON, Ernest…

On June 25, 2022 Ernest “Googie” Jackson, age 63 went home to God and his Mommy Nancy. He was at home surrounded by his family and the love of his life Zorica.

He will truly be missed by Zorica, his loving wife of 26 years. Daughter Lorine Clayton, LaSalle, QC. Also, by his Sisters: Marie Jackson, London, ON; Vera (Sheldon), Toronto, ON; Mary Rose (Gary), Caunice (Antonio), Denise (Girvin), Janice, Wanda, Diane, North Preston, NS; Laverne (Donald), Anita, Franki, Blanche (Artine), Dartmouth, NS; Dela (Lenny), Halifax, NS.

Brothers: Jeff (Nadine), Montreal, QC; Simon (Lucy), Kingston, ON; Craig (Elaine), Bedford, NS; Edward (Janet), Halifax, NS; Wayne, Windsor, ON; Brian, Ottawa, ON; Alex (Nora), Patterson (Adelle), Dartmouth, NS; Rocky (Sharon), Toronto, ON; Wade, North Preston, NS.

He will be missed by his many nieces, nephews and the many other people who had the pleasure of talking and laughing with him.

Googie, as he was so fondly called by family and friends, loved his bass guitar. He was an excellent player and when you heard him play, you couldn’t stop your feet from moving. He played the bass in a small band him and some of his friends formed when they were teenagers called “Future Funk”. He never lost his passion for playing and played his bass often at home. His bass was his baby.

He obtained his Chef’s credentials after many hours working in 5-star restaurants and going to St. Clair College in Windsor, ON and how he loved cooking. His dream was to open his own restaurant, which he had the pleasure of doing. “Uncle Googie’s Pizzeria” was his pride and joy. He made each pizza with love.

He is predeceased by his Grandmother Nancy Jackson  and Ernest Simmons who brought him up from a boy; Mother Picola Last ; father Vaughan Beals; brothers Derrick and Parker.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Googie’s life will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Thursday, July 7, 2022 at 3pm.  Family and friends are invited to watch the celebration live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel or our website and clicking on the YouTube logo. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

RYAN, Nancy Margaret (nee Grainger) ………

Peacefully passing on Saturday, June 25^th, 2022 in her 86^th year  at the McCall Centre of Continuing Care, Toronto. Predeceased by her husband of 47 years, John “Jack” Ryan. Dear mother of Susan Ryan of Waterloo, ON and Jeff (Brenda) Ryan of Cochrane, AB.  Loving grandmother to Breann (Andrew) and Hayley (Robert) of Alberta and “Gigi” to Remington and Roman Alexander.  Cherished sister to Barbara of California and Robert (Susan) of Ottawa.  She will be greatly missed by many nieces and nephews in Ottawa and California and many cousins across Canada.

Nancy was born in Alvinston, Ontario to Ardell and Margaret Grainger, but lived most of her life in the London area, after graduating from St. Joseph’s Hospital as a Registered Nurse.  After a 25 year career in nursing, Nancy ‘retired’ to a Sales and Management position with Tupperware Canada, where she enjoyed the ‘social’ selling scene and was very good at it.  A special thank you to Credit River Retirement Residence, Mississauga for the wonderful, thoughtful and respectful care given to our Mother during the last 4 years.  She really enjoyed her time there.

Friends and family are welcome for visitation on Saturday, July 2, 2022 from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 1:00 pm. Those who are unable to attend are invited to watch the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel or our website and clicking on the YouTube logo. A private interment in Alvinston Cemetery, Alvinston, Ontario. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Diabetes Canada. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

FISHER, Clair…

Peacefully at University Hospital in London on Monday, June 20, 2022, in his 102nd year. Beloved husband of Elizabeth “Betty” Fisher (nee Mollard) for over 74 years. Loving father of Blake Fisher (Nancy) and Barbara Arnold (Ted). Cherished grandfather of William Fisher (Evette) and Heather Arnold (Alex Smyth). Predeceased by his siblings, Raymond, Calvert (Hannah), Marion and Marguerite. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews and family friends.

Born in Windsor on October 11, 1920, Clair attended Walkerville Collegiate Institute where he excelled at track and basketball. He was honoured by the school on his 100th birthday. Clair and Betty married in October 1947 and relocated to London in 1951. Clair had a lifelong career in sales, and also a 50 year partnership with his brother Cal in the Christmas tree business. An accomplished golfer and curler, Clair was a member of Highland Country Club for 70 years. He was also an avid bridge player. In retirement, Clair and Betty wintered in Florida and enjoyed many wonderful summer holidays with family in Muskoka.

Clair will be forever remembered for his genuine love of life, his engaging sense of humour, unflagging optimism, kind spirit and encouraging attitude.

Special thanks to the McKeough family for their love and support through the years, and to the attentive staff and care givers at Fox Hollow and Homecare by Angels. Appreciation also extended to Dr. Brittany Miles and Dr. Steven Macaluso.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service has been held. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. A celebration of Clair’s life will be held at a later date.

In memory of Clair, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or 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

ACHAM, Cortwright…..

Passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 18, 2022 in his 85th year. Beloved husband of Genevieve for 49 years. Loving father of  Jackie (Abraham) Turay, Cheddi (Diana) Acham and Abby-Gail Acham. Dear granddad of Amala Turay, Sebie Turay , Maddox Acham and Laylah Acham. Great granddad of Isaiah Williams.  Dear brother of Pamela Barnes and Ercil Benjamin.  Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Cortwright will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends.

Friends and family are welcome for visitation on Wednesday, June 22, 2022 from 10:00-10:45 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service  will follow at 11:00 am. Family and friends are invited to watch the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel or our website and clicking on the YouTube logo. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Cortwright may be made to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners.

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

ALGER, Thomas

It is with deep sadness that the family of Tom Alger announces his passing at Victoria Hospital on Saturday, June 11, 2022, at the age of 75. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of nearly 53 years, Mary Lou (McTaggart), and daughters Heather (David) and Pauline. Proud grandpa of Kate, Chloe and Dawson Moses, and Hailey and Rachel Mogan. Survived by his sister Doreen Sparks, sister-in-law Marilyn and nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his brothers John and Robert, and his parents Margaret and Clifford Alger.

Those who knew Tom know that he had a lifelong love for antique automobiles and restoring them. He proudly brought home his first antique vehicle – a 1928 Ford Model A pickup – when he was just a teenager and he owned it up until this past year. His vehicles were a source of pride for him and he was known for his meticulous work. He always looked forward to attending antique car meets in the United States – where he made many wonderful friends, talking to others that shared his passion, and heading out on the road for a drive with his family – always preferring the “scenic route” even if it took longer or got him lost. He also loved woodworking, visiting the beach, and spending as much time as he could with his grandchildren and granddogs.

Our family wishes to express gratitude to the staff of London Health Sciences Centre at both University Hospital and Victoria Hospital for the care and compassion that they provided over the past 22 years.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 20, 2022, from 6-8 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The Memorial Service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at 11 am. Private interment in Mayfair Cemetery, Melbourne.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the London Regional Cancer Program. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

STEWART, Isabella….

Passed away peacefully in her 91st year at University Hospital, London on Friday June 10, 2022.

Beloved wife of the late James Stewart.  Dear sister of Edward Hughson of Edinburgh, Scotland. Loving Aunt Sheila  of Ross Mulhearon and his partner Steve Tait of Oshawa and  Sean Mulhearon and his wife Monica of London.  Loving great-aunt of Paityn, Ethan and Ewan Mulhearon. Predeceased by her sister Moira Mulhearon. Isabella will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends.

A film buff to the end, Isabella’s love of films started when she worked, along with her sister Moira, as an usher in film theatres in Edinburgh. Hearing stories of Isabella always watching the movies rather than working at the theatre always made us laugh. That was our Aunt Sheila. One of her favourite lines in films came from one of her favorite actresses, Bette Davis

“Don’t ask for the moon. We have the stars.” – Now, Voyager,  1942.

Isabella, with her kind and gentle heart, always gave to those in need. In memory of Isabella donations may be made to Unity Project in London, to help those with emergency shelter and stable housing or to Child Can in London to help families whose child has cancer.  Cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BENTO, Americo…

Unexpectedly at home, on Thursday, June 9, 2022, Americo Bento passed away in his 81st year. Beloved husband of the late Dores (nee De Jesus) (1993). Loving father of Peter Bento (Chhanthi), Luis Bento (Nikki), and Debbie Longo (Jason). Cherished grandpa/vovo of Chris, Austin, Aliyah and Olivia. Dear brother of Natalia Bento (James DeMello). Predeceased by his siblings Briolanja Alves and Osvaldo Bento. Americo will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, extended family, many friends and neighbours and especially the Francisco family. Family and friends are welcomed for visitation on Wednesday, June 15, 2022 from 12-1 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held at 1 pm in the funeral home chapel. Entombment in St. Peter’s Mausoleum, London. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, PO Box 640, STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

KNOWLES, Donna…

Peacefully, on Monday, June 6, 2022, Donna May Knowles (nee Oliver) of London passed away with her loved ones by her side. Born in November 1946, in Quebec to Don and May Oliver; Donna was the gold standard wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

In August of 1968, she married her high school sweetheart and best friend Brian Michael Knowles. Together they would show the world the meaning of unconditional love both for each other and for their family. Donna’s greatest accomplishment was her three children; Lori Knowles, Kim (Stu) Shelton and Chris (Erin) Knowles whom she taught to be strong, independent, and full of love and compassion for others. Undeniably, she’s been the best Gramma to Hanna, Peyton, Evan, Spencer, Jocelyn, and Eden. There was no one she would not brag to about her children and grandchildren.

In addition to her husband Brian, her children, and grandchildren, she will be dearly missed by her brother Ralph (Lynn) Oliver, her brother-in-law Steve (predeceased by his wife Barb), her niece, nephews, and their families. She will also be missed by her extended family and her incredible circle of friends. Donna is predeceased by her parents Don and May Oliver, her in-laws Jack and Margaret Knowles as well as her dear friend and sister-in-law Barbara Benford.

Cremation has taken place. Friends and family are welcome for visitation on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 from 10:00-10:45 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The Celebration of Donna’s life will follow at 11:00 am. Family and friends are invited to watch the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel or our website and clicking on the YouTube logo. Future inurnment in Woodland Cemetery, London.

Memorial donations can be made to the London Regional Cancer Program, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6 or The Brain Tumour Foundation, 203-205 Horton Street East, London, ON N6B 1K7. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ERAMIAN, Dr. Gregory…

Gregory (Greg) Michael Eramian passed away peacefully after many years of several serious health problems on Friday, June 3, 2022 in London, Ontario in his 81st year.  Loving and devoted husband of the late Linda Grace Haskell Eramian for 42 years, without whom he always said that he could never have imagined his life and whose untimely death at age 64 in 2012 from an extremely rare cancer deeply affected him for the rest of his life.  Beloved son of the late Aram and Nuvart “Nellie” (nee Ogassian) Eramian.  Predeceased by his beloved sister Jeanette Eramian in 2014.  Loving father of Dr. Mark Eramian and his wife, Nicole of Saskatoon and Dr. Laura Eramian and her husband, Dr. Peter Mallory of Halifax.  Loving “Grandpa E” of Julia and Hannah Eramian of Saskatoon and Natalia Eramian-Mallory of Halifax.

Greg was born in 1942.  From early childhood, when his parents introduced him to the joys of the public library, Greg was a lifelong bibliophile and voracious reader.  Because of his Armenian heritage, he early on developed a strong interest in languages, linguistics, and other cultures. In 1969, while completing his Ph.D in Slavic Languages at Brown University, Greg began his career teaching Russian language, literature, and linguistics, and later Comparative Literature and Culture, at the University of Western Ontario.  He served as Chair of the former Department of Russian Studies (1977-84) and as Undergraduate Chair of the former Department of Modern Languages and Literatures (2000-05).  In June of 2004, Greg was granted Western’s highest teaching award, the Edward G. Pleva Award for Excellence in Teaching.  In 2006 Greg took early retirement from UWO after 37 years of service because of poor health and was granted the title of Professor Emeritus.

Family, friends, and colleagues will remember Greg’s lively sense of self-deprecating and ironic humor which often surprised people who first met him because of his otherwise serious demeanor.  Greg had a very wide range of interests and hobbies.  He was an avid philatelist and map aficionado.  He loved all kinds of music, from baroque and classical and Armenian sacred and folk music to 50’s and 60’s rock and roll, Hawaiian music, and Preservation Hall New Orleans jazz; a special favourite of his was the music of Scott Joplin.  He was a lifelong gardener, who in more recent years took special pride in his “pesto patch” (sweet basil and parsley garden).  Every fall he made and froze dozens of containers of pesto, to which he treated family and friends.  For over 45 years he was a prolific bread and muffin baker; he specialized in sourdough bread and took great delight in proselytizing among his friends by providing them with samples of sourdough starter.  His other specialties were lavash (Armenian “cracker bread”) and choreg (Armenian sweet egg buns), with which Mark and Laura enthusiastically assisted him when they were children growing up at home.  Family and friends will probably best remember Greg for his signature sourdough chocolate cake.  Greg loved the outdoors and travel; among his happiest times were long summer family car trips when the four Eramians would visit national parks and recreation areas in Canada and the U.S. and hike on trails amidst stunning natural beauty.

During his retirement Greg continued not only with his hobbies, but also with his academic pursuits, turning his attention to Armenian linguistics.  At the time of his death, Greg had just completed the compilation of a comprehensive, 80,000 entry (1,400 pp.) English-Western Armenian dictionary, a project he had dreamed of doing since his teen years.  This dictionary is intended as a pedagogical aid to students of Western Armenian.  The Eramian family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to the many superb doctors, nurses, and other health professionals for their many years of dedicated, generous, and humane care of Greg from 2006 until his death.  Cremation has already taken place.  Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Memorial donations may be made to the I.V. Therapy Clinic of the London Health Sciences Centre (Victoria Campus) through the London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 6A7 or to the charity of one’s choice.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com