Services & Obituaries

FORRET, Charles “Charlie”…

Charles Forret, born in February of 1946 to Charles and Joan Forret, passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 28, 2025. Charles, known to friends and family as Charlie, had a full 79-year life with countless memories shared with many people.

He was the beloved husband of Penny Forret for 54 wonderful years, a devout father of two, Drew (Shauna) Forret and Mary (Angela) Forret and a proud Papa to Ewan, Brooke and Holden.

Charlie was an only child and kept busy playing with his friends and cousin Jo-Ann Dickson, who was more like a big sister than cousin. He was a caring, smart, and driven man that lead him to Western University, graduating with a Bachelor of Chemistry. From there he began work at London Biochemistry Reference Laboratories (now known as Dynacare) in 1969. When he left Dynacare in 1992 he was the President of the organization, something we were all proud of him for. The last part of his career he was the general manager at Highland Country Club where he was able to enjoy the balance between the sports he loved and an interesting end to his career before retiring in 2000. Charlie loved golf, curling and spending time outdoors with his family and dogs. Most will remember him for his caring and generous nature.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 3:00-5:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Byron United Church, 420 Boler Road, London. In memory of Charlie, donations may be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation, 350 Michael Cowpland Drive, Kanata, ON K2M 2W1 or March of Dimes Canada, Fundraising Department, 202-885 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3C 1V9. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HENERY, Norman…

Norman Henery of London, ON, passed away peacefully in his own home on Thursday, February 27, 2025 in his 95th year.

He attended Medway H.S., graduated from Western University with a BA and gained a teaching certificate from OCE. He married in 1957 and returned from his first teaching job in Waterford to London where he taught at multiple high schools including Clarke Road, Westminster and A.B. Lucas where he was the director of the business department. He was extremely active in many sports and the outdoors. His time spent each summer at his cottage on Manitoulin Island with his family was pleasurable. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Rita Henery, his sons Hance (Angela) and Neil (Lucy), and his three grandchildren Savanah, Nolan and Devon. Predeceased by his brother Thomas Henery (2006).

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Monday, March 3, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, where the funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 1 pm in the funeral home chapel. Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London.

In memory of Norman, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 1200-2300 Yonge Street, Box 2414 Toronto, ON M4P 1E4 or the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formally London Regional Cancer Program), c/o London Health Sciences Centre, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LYNCH, Desmond “Desi” “Des”…

Desmond Lynch passed away in London, ON, on Sunday, February 23, 2025 in his 87th year. Beloved husband of Marie for 60 years. Proud father of Damian (Tammy) Lynch, Nicola Lynch, and Tara Roccatagliata (late Mark). Loving grandfather of Adam (Caileigh) Lynch, Taylor Lynch (Nick Laforge), Aaron (Joe) Stevens, Mian Lynch, and Pharyn Lynch. Great grandfather of Clara Lynch. Des will also be missed by Dan Stevens, Justin, Cameron, Kielyn, Meghan, Camilla, Luca, Aiden, Christopher and all of his fur babies Archie, Morty, Grover, Lucy, Buddy, Sunshine and Molly.

The family could not have got through this difficult time without the support and prayers of Pat and Betty McLaughlin. The family would also like to thank their neighbors John and Marg Van Dalen and family, as well as all the staff at Victoria Hospital for their wonderful and compassionate care of Des. To all of his friends at the YMCA, Scott’s Corner, and the Knights of Columbus at St. Peter’s Cathedral, the family thanks you for your companionship over the years.

Cremation has taken place. Family and guests are welcome to a funeral mass in honor of Des on Saturday, March 8th, 2025 at 11am at St. Justin’s Parish, 855 Jalna Blvd, London, ON. Donations in memory of Desi may be made to The Kidney Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

OKE, Gary…

We are saddened to announce the passing of Gary Oke, surrounded by his family, on Monday, February 24, 2025 in his 69th year. Gary was the beloved husband of Cathy Oke for 47 years. Loving father of Jen Smelser (Rae) and the late Steven Oke (2024). Gary is survived by his father Bill Oke (Vickey), his sister Caron Wiedrick (Jim), his brother Brian Couvier and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 4:00-6:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Cremation to follow. In memory of Gary, donations may be made to the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formally London Regional Cancer Program), c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CAREY, William (Bill) James…

July 1934-February 2025

Peacefully at home in London, ON, with the love of his family, Bill went to be with Jesus on February 21^st, 2025, in his 91^st year. Beloved husband of Helen Carey. Predeceased by his dear wife of 51 years Gladys Carey. Cherished father of Alicia (Rob) Phelps, David (Alison) Carey, and Grace (Scott) Bull. Dear stepfather of Lorraine (Jim) Drennan and Brian (Christine) Dancy. Also survived by his grandchildren Courtney, Nicole (Conor), Noelle, Ryan and Matthew who adored their “Bup.” He is re-united with his grandson Zachary Bull. Loving brother of Carol (the late Gerry) and stepsister Nancy Brock.

Bill was born in Philadelphia and moved to London at age 14. He had a rewarding career as a dedicated elementary school teacher, VP and Principal. Many of his students kept in touch reminding Bill of his positive influence as a mentor and friend. Faith and Family always came first. In retirement he enjoyed travel, sports, acting, music and church activities.

A family burial has taken place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be held at West Park Church, 955 Gainsborough Road, London, ON, N6G 5C9, on Tuesday, March 11^th, 2025, from 12-1pm. The Celebration of Life will follow at 1pm. Donations can be made to Tyndale University or Heritage College and Seminary. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SCAFE, David…

David Scafe passed accidentally at his residence in London, ON, on Saturday, February 22, 2025, in his 34th year. Beloved son of Terry and Anna Scafe. Loving boyfriend of Michaela Petz. Cherished brother of Michael and Andrew. Grandson of Shirley Vaile. Will also be missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Family and guests are invited to visitation on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, ON, N6C 3X1. Funeral service to be held privately with family only. Interment to take place at Woodland Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of David may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com.

WEERDENBURG, Mary “Riet”…

Mary “Riet” Weerdenburg passed away peacefully in London, ON, on Thursday, February 21, 2025 in her 97th year. Beloved wife of the late Peter J. Weerdenburg. Loving mother of Tony Weerdenburg and his wife Chris, Paul Weerdenburg and his wife Genny, George Weerdenburg, Ed Weerdenburg and his wife Dottie, Marlene Weedenburg and her late partner Fiona Tavendale and Rose Marie Weerdenburg. Dear Oma of Jason (Sherrie), Anthony, Jeff (Amanda), Kirstin, Nicole (Ben) and Adam (Rebecca). Groot Oma of Skye, Christina, Derek, Daynica, Tayden, Genevieve, Arthur, Penny, and Leah. Predeceased by her siblings Clasien de Graaf (Wil), Lenie Nan (Gert), Pauline Smeenk (Ted), Corrie Weerdenburg (Theodore), Wim Bontje (Survived by Ria), Joke van Treerum (Henk), Aadrian Bontje (survived by Pearl). Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Mary’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. A celebration of life will be held at later date. Donations in memory of Mary may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society Southwest Partners. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MATYCHUK, Maureen
October 1952 – February 2025
It is with great sadness that the family of Maureen Matychuk announce her passing on February 13, 2025.
Maureen was born in Thunder Bay in October 1952, the second of five children of Anne & Fred Matychuk. Maureen has made London her home for 50 years. She was a long-time employee of McCormick Canada (formerly Club House Foods). In her younger years she enjoyed golf, wood working and travelling, including Europe twice, Jamaica and many other destinations.
Predeceased by her parents and 2 siblings Allan & Joanne and great niece Lily.
Left to mourn her are her sisters Laurie & Lynn. Nieces Jordan (Ken), Jamie, Shelley (John), Nicole (Jeff), and Michelle (Matteo) and many great nieces & nephews.
Cremation has taken place with a family interment in Thunder Bay, Ontario later this year.
Raise a glass of wine for Maureen and please hug your family.
A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McCABE, Douglas “Doug”…

Douglas Charles McCabe born June 19, 1935 in Picton, Ontario, passed away peacefully in London, ON, on Friday, February 14, 2025 in his 90th year. Beloved husband of the late Joan G. (Kuskoff) McCabe. Dear father of Jason (Mary) McCabe of London and Darin (Nicole Liversage) of London. Proud grandfather of Curtis. Predeceased by his sister Lois and her husband Gwilym. Doug will also be missed by his friends and extended family.

Doug had a love for sports, with a special passion for golf. He was a proud member of Sunningdale Golf Club, where he spent many enjoyable days on the course. For 60 years, he was a dedicated member of Wesley-Knox United Church, London, cherishing the friendships and community he found there. Doug enjoyed keeping in touch with his graduating class from Kitchener KCI.

The family would like to thank the staff at University Hospital and Richmond Woods Retirement Home for their compassionate care of Doug.

Cremation has taken place. Per Doug’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service held. Donations in memory of Doug may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or The Hemophilia Society. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences shared at www.amgfh.com

McKNIGHT, Harold Richard “Rick”…

Harold Richard “Rick” McKnight, 73, of London, Ontario, Canada, passed away on February 12, 2025. He was born in 1951 in eastern Ontario. Rick graduated from Lord Beaverbrook High School in Calgary, Alberta, in 1969 and furthered his education at Western University in London, Ontario and the University of Calgary, where he earned a Bachelor of Education degree. Rick had an unwavering passion for home improvement, personally building one of his family homes and a lakeside cottage. Even in his 70s, he continued to swing a hammer, run a deck and fencing business, flip homes and take on various renovation projects. Additionally, Rick worked as a career coach, trainer and educator at various points in his life. A man full of spiritual depth, Rick was an avid practitioner of Reiki, meditation and authored 8 Weeks to Enlightenment: Igniting Your Passion.

Rick was predeceased by his parents Hal and Mary McKnight and brother, Steve McKnight. He is survived by the woman he partnered with through three decades of his life, Michele Gervais, children Shad McKnight (Serena), Rishanna Denman (Stephen), Tristan McKnight (Rebecca), Shelley Houston (Robert), Paden McKnight and Hayley McKnight and eight grandchildren, Zachary and Graysen Denman, Sophia and Michael McKnight, Cale and Vada McKnight and Canon and Piper Houston. He is also survived by his sisters, Sandra Crumb (Dave) and Kathleen Tiede (John) and sister-in-law Sue McKnight and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rick lived his life in the moment and had an infectious love for laughter. He was an avid fan of crossword puzzles and classic comedy, particularly The Three Stooges. He was known for his playful antics, often embarrassing his children by “making friends for them” or calling for them over department store intercoms with the most obscure, made-up names. Rick also had a talent for striking up long conversations with random strangers on the street, and when asked who they were, he’d simply say, “I don’t know.” We laughed a lot in his presence, and may have been slightly embarrassed by his dance moves. His energy and passion will be missed by all who knew him.

Rick’s wishes to be cremated have been honoured, and a Celebration of Rick’s Life will be held this summer in London, Ontario, where family and friends will come together to honour his memory.

In lieu of flowers or donations, please do a random act of kindness for a stranger. Rick would love to know that we are all spreading the good.

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