Services & Obituaries

FOWLER, Katherine Olive, (nee Turner)……….

On Thursday, December 9th, 2021 died peacefully in her 100th year at Victoria Hospital, London. Kate was born in Clinton, Ontario. Beloved wife of the late Drew Fowler (1996). Loving mother of Linda (John Noubarian) of London, Edwin “Ned” of Lambton Shores, and John (Janet) of Port Franks. Dear grandmother of Rachel (Aaron) Stezenko, and Morgan (Vanessa). Great- grandmother to four great grandchildren. Kate was predeceased by her 4 brothers and 4 sisters.

Family and friends are welcomed for visiting on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 from 2:00-4:00pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 4:00pm. Please call the funeral home between 9:00am-5:00pm (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation and/or service. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. At the family’s request those who are attending the visitation and service are required to be double vaccinated. Proof of vaccination and photo identification will be required. Private family interment will take place at Hensall Union Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission Services of London , 4-797 York Street, London, ON N5W 6A8 or a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

STARLING, Julie (nee From)…

Peacefully at home with her loving family at her side, Julie Starling gently passed away on Thursday, December 9, 2021 in her 65th year. Loving and cherished mother of Derek Starling and his fiancé Laura Ryall and Darby Starling and her partner Blake Stone (and their little dog Rory). Treasured daughter of Bunny and the late Norman From. Adored sister of Larry From, Jeff From and his wife Joan, Rick From and his wife Karen, Steve From and his wife Gaelle and Kate From. Dear sister-in-law of Brenda Lausanne and her husband Dave. Much loved aunt of Cheryl, Theresa, Christopher, Jeremy, Alex and Madi and their families. Julie will also be missed by her childhood friend Rita Krizmonics, who became her angel in her final weeks, and her dear friends Pat Eton-Neufeld and Vikki Marotta who also supported Julie during her 10 year journey. Julie’s extended family and many friends will miss her immensely. Predeceased by Dave Starling.

Julie grew up in Guelph with her 5 siblings before she moved to London to attend Western University. She became a Respiratory Therapist and worked at University Hospital until she retired. She was a natural athlete and had a passion for sports; loved crafting, antiquing, anything chocolate and the colour red. Julie was a loving Mother to her children, Derek and Darby and was very proud of the adults they have become. She was an incredible, strong woman who survived Ovarian Cancer for 10 years, against all odds. We are grateful for the many years we shared with her.

Julie and her family would like to thank all health care personnel that helped her through, with a special thank you to Dr. McGee, Dr. Singh, both Dr. Hertzman’s, Dr. Friesen, nurses Megan and Deshi, and PSW Mark.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcomed for visiting on Monday, December 13, 2021 from 6:00-8:00pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at 11:00am in the funeral home chapel. Please call the funeral home between 9:00am-5:00pm (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation and/or service. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. At the family’s request those who are attending the visitation and/or service are required to be double vaccinated. Proof of vaccination and photo identification will be required. In Julie’s memory, donations may be made to the Translational Ovarian Cancer Research Group, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6 (cheques to be made out London Health Sciences Foundation and in memo of cheque put for Translational Ovarian Cancer Research Group). Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

RUDLAND, Peter George…..

Passed away peacefully at his residence with his family by his side, on Tuesday, December 7, 2021 in his 83rd year. Beloved husband of Joni (Joan) for 63 years. Predeceased by his parents George and Mildred Rudland of Toronto. Loving father of Michelle, Mike, and Tom (Jean). Grandfather of Mike (Rhia) and Brad (Haley) Boyce, Ben (Katherine), Paige and Dane (Lesley) Rudland, Matt Rudland and Ally Course (Will). Great grandfather of Cole, Brodie, and Bretton Boyce. Caring brother of Margot Chinnery (Bill). Peter will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and close friends.

Peter was a devoted husband and father and cherished his family. He enjoyed many sports including curling as a skip winning many awards. His love for curling came through when he organized and started a junior curling league where he taught his sons and daughter the sport. Peter also umpired some summers and coached a pee wee hockey team at one point. Later in life he switched to bowling and went to the provincial championship after winning his league. He enjoyed coffee time and golfing with his buddies Art, Colin and Terry. Peter took pleasure in traveling and having adventures with Joni including scuba diving lessons and going on a hot air balloon ride. When relaxing Peter could be seen enjoying a cigar on his backyard deck. He adored his dog Hudson who was a great comfort to him in his last days. Support from family and neighbours was greatly appreciated during this difficult time. Special thanks to Dr. Kirk Hamilton and his palliative care team.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcomed for visiting on Thursday, December 16, 2021 from 1:00-3:00pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 3:00pm. Please call the funeral home between 9:00am-5:00pm (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation and/or service. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. At the family’s request those who are attending the visitation and service are required to be double vaccinated. Proof of vaccination and photo identification will be required.

In Peter’s memory donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, PO Box 640, STN K Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9, The Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5 or to the Mission Services of London, 4-797 York Street, London, ONN5W 6A8. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
 

GILLSON, Lexie…

Unexpectedly at her residence on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, Alexis “Lexie” Gillson passed away in her 28th year. Loving mother of Tyler, Nikki and Joseph. Cherished daughter of Melissa and Steve. Younger sister of Mark. Adored niece of Marcie (Steve), Sandy (Roger) and Christine. Lexie will also be missed by her cousins, extended family and many friends. Private family services to take place with cremation to follow. Future interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. For those who wish to make a donation in Lexie’s memory, please consider the Kidney Foundation of Canada, P.O. Box 27056 Masonville P.O., 60 North Centre Road, London, ON N5X 3X6. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BERGERON, Shirley……
 
It is with great sadness the Boys of Shirley Bergeron born on September 18,1943 of London Ontario announce her passing.

Peacefully at Victoria Hospital, in London on Saturday, December 4, 2021 in her 79th year. Predeceased by her partner Glen Webb. Survived by her best friend “Rocky”. Sister to John (Chris) Webb. Lovingly remembered by her children Kevin (Lea), Brent (Toni), Christopher (Amanda). Forever missed by grandchildren Emily (Jeed), Matthew (Ashley), Mason, James (Jasmin), Cameron, Samantha (David). Great Grandmother to Bryton, Cameron Jr, Liam and Sofia. Aunt to Kelly (Bill), Adam (Stacey).

The many peoples lives that Shirley touched will recall she had a presence and zest for life. Shirley loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren spending many years at the family cottage in Port Franks with all who came for a visit. Shirley always had room for visitors and enjoyed the company. She had a passion for travel and would winter in Florida at her favorite trailer park with her favorite people but would count down the days she would return home to all who loved her.

Cremation has taken place. Friends will be received by the family from 2-4pm on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Please call the funeral home between 9a.m.-5p.m. (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation. Per the directive of the BAO, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols.  As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society, PO Box 640, STN K Toronto ON, M4P 9Z9. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WILLSEY, Harvey…

Harvey Edwin Willsey passed away on Saturday, December 4, 2021 in his 98th year, peacefully reunited with his love, the former Freda June Abbott, who left this world in 2006.

He is also reunited with his dear son Paul, who died in 1971, and with his seven brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his son Ralph and Ralph’s wife Judith of Perth; grandsons Dawson and wife Karla of Westport, Fraser and wife Kristi of Kemptville, granddaughter Anna and husband Frank Kotsovolos of Perth; and 10 great-grandchildren.

After growing up on a farm at Crossley Hunter, south of London, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1944. He was posted to HMCS Prevost in London, then HMCS Cornwallis, and Protector in Nova Scotia, where he was one of many who helped guard the vital Sydney Harbour during the Battle of the Atlantic. He was discharged June 18, 1945, and on June 20 wore his Navy blues to his wedding.

A man of uncommon versatility and ingenuity, he could build almost anything. He built his mother a crystal radio when he was still a teenager. He could grade a road, pour concrete, lay bricks, overhaul engines, troubleshoot electronic devices and much more. He built his own computer in the early 1970s when home computers were unheard of.

In the latter decades of his working life, he was proud to be a radio communications technician for the RCMP in London, and proud that he wore a jacket and tie at work, not the greasy coveralls of his youth.

His family is especially grateful to his home helper, Judy Emeny, whose unfailing support allowed him to continue living independently in the little house he loved so well. When age at last forced him to move to the Parkwood Institute she continued to support him there, and so did her sister, Tammy Donkervoort. They and his other occasional helpers enriched his life greatly.

Special thanks go also to Dr. Michael Borrie and the staff of 2Perth at Parkwood for their unsurpassed care and devotion.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, July 21, 2022 from 9-10 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The memorial service will follow at 10 am in the funeral home chapel.

In memory of Harvey, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CHICHKAN, Benjamin Julian…

November 16th – December 3rd, 2021

With broken hearts, Michael and Jillian Chichkan announce the sudden passing of their son, Benjamin Chichkan, in their loving arms on Friday, December 3, 2021 at The Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre.

Benjamin was born at Windsor Regional Hospital – Met Campus in Windsor, Ontario at 23 weeks and 3 days along with his twin brother Anakin. Shortly after birth he was transported by ambulance “lights and sirens” to The Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre.

We fell in love with Benjamin right away. Despite being so small we could tell he had his own personality separate from his twin brother. He had a calm demeanor and a wise look on his face. His middle name Julian (named after his mother Jillian), means “young at heart” just as he will forever be.

He was the strongest, tiniest boy we’ve ever met and we’re so happy and proud of how hard he fought to give us the chance to meet, get to know, and love him for two full weeks before his passing.

Benjamin is survived by his big sister Nina and twin brother Anakin. Grandparents Tina and Ken Williams, Lee Anne and Brian Peeters, and Ken Hyra and Sheila Somerville. He is also survived by his Great Grandmothers, Mary Paleczka and Lorna Jamieson.

He will also be greatly missed and forever cherished by his numerous Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins.

He was welcomed to heaven by his Great Grandparents Dorothy (Namma) and Edward Kennedy, Andrew Danyluk, Anthony Paleczka (Deedo), Bas Jamieson, Anne Peeters, and Barbara Somerville as well as his Cousin Jeff Howes and Great Uncle Larry Kennedy who are all going to take the best care of him.

Cremation has taken place. For those wishing to make a donation in memory of Benjamin, the family asks you to consider Ronald McDonald House Charities Southwestern Ontario (where Mom and Dad have been staying and will remain while Anakin continues his care at The Children’s Hospital), 741 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

STEWART, Larry…

Larry James Stewart of London, Ontario passed away at Victoria Hospital on Wednesday, December 1st, 2021 at the age of 75. Beloved husband of Angela for more than 52 years. Loving father of two and grandfather of three.

A gentle, kind man, Larry was loved and held in high regard by all who knew him. He will be sadly missed by his large extended family and his many friends and colleagues all over the world.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, the family welcomes donations to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, P.O. Box 27056 Masonville P.O., 60 North Centre Road, London, ON N5X 3X6, Diabetes Canada, 442 Adelaide Street North, London, ON N6B 3H8 or the Parkinson’s Society Southwestern Ontario, 117- 4500 Blakie Road, London, ON N6L 1G5. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences shared at www.amgfh.com

FINDLAY, Elizabeth “Betty”…..

Peacefully passed away Saturday, November 27th in her 86th year. Predeceased by her husband Leslie, brother Bill Alcock, and parents William and Jessie.

Betty is survived by daughters Ann-Marie (Brian), and Susan (Jim), along with her grandchildren; Haleigh (Ian), Caitlin, Alyssa (Tyler), Jessica, their father Dwayne, Fraser, Fiona, Elizabeth, Mckayla, Kyle, and her great-grandchildren Huxson and Sophia. Lovingly remembered by her brother Pete (Lil), nieces, nephews, and many friends and extended family. Her generosity, thoughtfulness, and spirit touched the lives of many. She will always be remembered and missed.

Friends will be received by the family from 1-4p.m. and 5-9p.m. on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Please call the funeral home between 9a.m.-5p.m. (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation. Per the directive of the BAO, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. Donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1 and/or London Humane Society, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WAKFER, Phyllis Helen…

Passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 25, 2021, at Elmwood Place, London in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of the late Thomas J. S. Wakfer (2002). Loving mother of Lynne (Terry) McKay of London, Ontario and Tim (Sabrina) of Fall River, Nova Scotia. Dear grandmother of Kimberly (Fred), Stephanie (Peter), Kristina (Brandon) and Christopher (Keira). Much loved great-grandmother of Morgan, Westley, Dimitri, Dominic, Eva and Mila. Phyllis will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends. Cremation has taken place. Interment will occur in the summer in St. Anne’s Anglican Church Cemetery, London. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com