Services & Obituaries

MELDRUM, Barbara “Barb”…

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister and friend, Barbara Meldrum, who left us peacefully on April 30th, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her most. Beloved wife of the late David Meldrum (2008). Cherished mother of Rae-Anne (Richard) Veerman and Brad (Kristen) Meldrum. Adored Grams of Izaak, Oliver, David and Natalie. Much Loved sister of Bonnie Dragstra.

Barb cherished spending time with her family, creating countless memories filled with laughter, love, and the smell of freshly baked cookies, especially for her grandchildren, who adored her with all their hearts. Her compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering support defined her life and inspired all who knew her. Even in her final moments, she put others first and offered comfort, grace, and love. She will be missed tremendously and never forgotten.

A private service will be held with close family and friends to honour her life and legacy, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband.

In Barbara’s memory, donations may be made to the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formerly London Regional Cancer Program), or the Humane Society of London & Middlesex.

Barb will be dearly missed, but her love will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

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

STAPLEFORD, David…

Peacefully at King Nursing Home, Bolton, David Stapleford passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at the age of 75. David was predeceased by his parents Fred Stapleford of Vancouver and Sara Stapleford of London, as well as his brother D’Arcy Stapleford of England. David will be dearly missed by his nephews Matthew and Christopher Stapleford and their families, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family. David was a long-term member of the Teamsters Union, and was a proud tradesman working as a Heavy-Duty Diesel Mechanic with Husband Transport for many years. He was an active scuba diver with Groundhog Divers and enjoyed teaching diving. His favourite destination to dive was Cozumel, Mexico. Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 12:00-12:45 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm. Future interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London, with his mother Sara. In memory of David, memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choosing. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LEHNER, Anton “Tony”…

May 6, 1934 – April 22, 2025

It is with “Greatest Heartfelt Sadness” to announce the passing of Anton “Tony” Lehner on April 22, 2025, at the age of 90 in Hamilton, Ontario.

Born May 6, 1934, in Vienna, Austria. Came to Canada in 1956 where he met his wife Hannelore, married in 1958 in Toronto, Ontario. Primarily lived in Toronto and London, Ontario, briefly in Georgetown and Hamilton, Ontario.

Predeceased wife Hannelore and siblings John, Annie, Ernest, Kurt (twin) and Gertrude “Trudy”.

Tony was a devoted Husband, Uncle and Great Uncle. He was a very hard working man with a great sense of humour, friendly and kind. He leaves behind his Niece Sylvia, Nephew-in-Law Tony, Great Nieces Martina and Cindy, Great Nephew Kristian and Family.

His love for Life enjoyed cars, travelling with his loving Wife Hannelore for 63 years to many beautiful and exciting places in the World. Tony was very proud of working for the Toronto Transit Commission in Toronto. In his career, he drove buses, subways and streetcars for 30 years. He was awarded with honours and certificates for excellence.

Tony will truly be missed by All with Love, and by all that knew him.

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

“If there comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart. I’ll stay there forever” –A.A. Milne

ROBINSON, Esther Mildred (née Barratt)

Passed away peacefully on Monday, April 28, 2025 at the age of 92. Beloved wife of the late John Robinson. Dearly loved mother of Sandra Stepan (Ernest) and Peter Robinson (the late Linnette). Sadly missed by her grandchildren Sarah Birch (Evan), Paige Kleinhans (Matthew) and James Stepan and her great-grandchildren Ira Kleinhans, Finn Kleinhans and Baby Birch on the way. Also remembered by brother Elwyn, sister Beverley, cousin Grant Blackmore (Sandra) and family as well as many nieces and nephews across Canada. Esther was predeceased by her parents Samuel and Helen Barratt, siblings Emily, George and Donald and sisters-in-law Pearl and Susan.

Cremation has taken place. A private family service with interment of ashes in St. James Westminster Memorial Garden to take place at a later date.

The family would like to thank Dr. Joanne Hammond for all of her care and guidance through our journey with Alzheimer’s and the staff at Extendicare London for their compassion and care of Esther for the last 5 years.

Remembrances may be made to St. James Westminster Anglican Church, 115 Askin Street, London, ON N6C 1E7. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LANGNER, Brenda Jean (nee Chapman)…

Brenda Jean (Chapman) Langner passed away with her husband by her side, on April 23rd, 2025 at Victoria Hospital, London in her 70th year. Beloved wife of Alf Langner for 48 years. Cherished mother of Sara Langner. Brenda enjoyed trips with her husband and daughter to warmer climates and spending time in her garden with a good cup of coffee. Brenda is predeceased by her sister Barbara Harrison (Wayne). She is the dear sister of George Chapman (Laurie). She is predeceased by her parents Muriel and Eldred Chapman. Brenda will be greatly missed and always loved by her nieces, nephews, and their families. A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Calvary United Church, 290 Ridout Street South, London. The family asks that donations be made to the Canadian Lung Association in lieu of flowers. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GOUGH, Eugene “Gene”…

Eugene “Gene” Gough, Formerly of Putnam, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at Westmount Gardens Long Term Care, London, in his 91st year. He is survived by his beloved wife of 69 years Marion (nee Aiken) Gough. Loving father of Norma (Fran) Lagrou, Nancy (Steve) Hammond, Lynn (John) McHugh and Lois (John) Corkum. Grandpa of Sherri (Mike), Lisa (James), Brad (Becky), Rob (Angie), Shawn (Dana), Mark (Ashley), Tyson (Maddy), Rick (Jane), Nicole (Jamie) and Brett. Great-grandfather to 12 great-grandchildren. Loving brother of Phyllis (Bruce) Grass, brother-in-law of Ed Axford and Bernice Gough. He is predeceased by his brother Ron Gough and his sister Janet Axford. He will also be missed by his nieces and nephews.

Gene was a devoted farmer who spent his life doing what he loved most-working. He took great pride in his labor and rarely slowed down, finding fulfillment in a life centered around the farm. When he did take time for himself, it was to spend time with his grandkids or enjoy over 40 years of square dancing, especially alongside his cherished wife, Marion.

The family would like to thank Westmount Gardens for their love and care of Gene.

Cremation has taken place. Friends and guests are invited to a Celebration of Life in Gene’s honour on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 1:30 to 4:00 pm in the Grand Ballroom at the Elmhurst Inn, 415 Harris Street, Ingersoll. Words of Remembrance will be shared at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Gene may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society Southwest Partners or The Ronald McDonald House. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

TIBENSKY, Michael Anthony…

September 13, 1946-April 15, 2025

Mike was born in Dresden, ON., the last son of Joseph and Brigitta Tibensky. He moved with his parents and 5 siblings to Alvinston, ON. He attended Watford District High School and continued his education obtaining degrees at Western University and Althouse College to become a history teacher and eventually department head for 31 years. He was a tennis coach and yearbook advisor at Parkside as well as a life-long tennis player and most recently, a pickleball player.

Mike leaves behind his wife Lin (nee Mennie); their children, son Michael and daughter Laura Hansen; grandchildren, Jack, Hailey and Emily; sister, Anne Mills; brother-in-law, Peter Mennie; and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. Friends and family will gather at a later date to celebrate his life. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HOPKINS, Norman “Lloyd”…

Lloyd Hopkins passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025 at The Village of Glendale Crossing, London, in his 91st year. Loving husband of the late Helen Hopkins (1999). Father of Laurie Young (Ian) and Shelley Hopkins-Kranjac (Paul). Grandfather of Victoria, Andrew, Kevin and Christopher. Predeceased by his siblings Mervin and Laverne Hopkins. Survived by his sister Norma Hobson (Douglas) and his sister-in-law Jacqueline Hopkins.

Lloyd was an active and dedicated Freemason member of St. Paul’s No. 107. He served as Worshipful Master in 1987 and District Deputy Grand Master of the London West District in 1996-97. Lloyd was also a proud member of the Mocha Shriners Directors Staff and served as President in 1995.

Cremation has taken place. A Masonic service under the auspices of The Tuscan Lodge No. 195, will be conducted at A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. Donations in memory of Lloyd may be made to The Masonic Foundation of Ontario or the Shriners’ Hospitals for Children. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

In Loving Memory of Kerstin Maria Bygden

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Kerstin Bygden, who left this world peacefully on April 15 2025, two months short of the age of 99.

Born in Sweden in 1926, Kerstin grew up in Umeå, surrounded by the coastal beauty of her homeland, developing a lifelong love of travel, tradition, and family. In her early years, she studied Office Administration in Stockholm where she met and married Joel in 1946. Her sense of quiet strength, resilience, and grace became hallmarks of her long and meaningful life in Canada starting in 1952.

Together with Joel and young children Lena, Lars and Christer, Kerstin made the brave journey to a new country, embracing change and opportunity with her optimism and determination. She built a loving home in London, Ontario where Anders was born and where she raised her family with patience and wisdom, and never lost sight of the values she held dear-kindness, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Her hands were rarely still-whether in the kitchen preparing traditional Swedish dishes, in the garden tending to her flowers, or making hand-crafted gifts for her grandchildren. She excelled at sewing and handed down that gift to Lena and others. She passed down stories, recipes, and life lessons with the quiet confidence of someone who had truly lived. Her laughter, gentle smile, and calming presence will remain in our hearts always.

Kerstin was the cornerstone of our family-a source of love, patience, and quiet guidance. Her 98 years were filled with moments both simple and profound, and she met life’s challenges with unshakable grace and when the care for her aging parents was needed, she brought Joel and 6-year-old Anders back to Sweden for 12 years, knowing that Lars, Chris and Lena had been equipped to stay in Canada independently.

She is survived by Chris (Jane predeceased) & children Jennifer (husband Jonathan) and Laura (husband Kurt), Lars (predeceased) and son Eric and recently passed daughter Ingrid (husband Pat), Lena & Jack with children Christopher (wife Janis), Ryan (wife Pam), and Jamie, Anders & Karen & children Stefan (wife Allie) and Niklas, all who will forever cherish her memory.
Though we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind in the great-grandchildren’s lives she touched so deeply; Sarah, Lucas, Leah, Evie, Beau, Sam, Jack, Poppy, Kerstin. Kerstin & Joel developed deep connections with friends that were like family to us. Tant Nina was her closest and most trusted friend.

Kerstin was lovingly cared for by Ingrid and her mother Louise for so many years. The last two years were at Elmwood Place Long-Term Care Home and the staff was outstanding. Val and Joe Platek opened their house without reservation to Lena as she often travelled from her home in BC to spend time with Kerstin for over five years. They are a source of comfort and strength from their own personal experience that meant so much to us.

A funeral service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, London, on Sunday, June 15th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m to honor her wishes. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in her name to Alzheimer’s Society, or that you simply take a moment to do something kind in her memory.

Tack för allt, Mamma. Vi älskar dig alltid.

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

GOTH, Frederick J. Goth “Fred”

At Parkwood Institute on April 16, 2025, Frederick “Fred” J. Goth of London passed away in his 80th year. Beloved son of the late Reverend Dr. George W. Goth and the late Marjorie Goth (Blackburn).  Predeceased by his brother Bill Goth and nephew Peter.  Brother of Lynn Goth (Pat) of West Bolton, Quebec. Fred will be dearly missed by his nieces and nephews Jan (Santiago), Mark, Allen, Susan (Karel), Christopher, and Anna Goth. Cousins Jennifer (Stephen) and Judy (Sam) Donnelly. Dearly loved by Joyce and Stewart Kaboye who brought such joy to Fred. Fred loved basketball and the Kentucky Derby.  Please toast Fred on May 3, 2025.  Thank you to Parkwood Institute Palliative Care and LHSC for the care Fred received.  Family and friends are welcome to visitation at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 10:00 – 10:45 am. A funeral service will follow in the chapel at 11:00 am. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, please consider planting a tree in memory of Fred; more information can be found through the City of London commemorative tree program. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com