Services & Obituaries

DUTKA, Erika…..

Erika Dutka Juadzim, Born August 13, 1928 and here is her dash

Erika was a daughter of Alma Powileit Jaudzim and George Jaudzim, wife of John Iwan Dutka who passed 20 years ago, a cousin, mother, grandmother and great grandmother as well as an amazing person who loved life, to dance, to get doodled up as she called it, and shopping.  She provided a good life for her two children George (Georgie) and Kathy (Katty).  Erika was an excellent seamstress, made all her clothes, Kathy’s clothes and I think that cute little suit George has on.  She was truly a designer, she also knit many sweaters, mitts, hats and scarfs, worked in manufacturing, sewing, making chocolates and for John’s Radio and TV, Erika was the voice on the phone booking appointments, ordering parts, responsible for accounting and wow she was good at managing money.  If you needed a financial planner she was the one to see. 

Erika grew up in Lithuania, helping her Grandmother making sausages to take to sell at market, swimming in the Baltic Sea till WW2 came and she had to leave her home and moved to Germany to go to school. Erika, Omi and Tanta Lilly were on foot to cut across Europe borrowing bikes, stowing away on boats, till she arrived in Genoa, Italy to hop on a ship to come to Canada, the other ship went to Australia which would be a very different story. Once in London Erika met John and a love story began, two children, first TV on the block, neighbourhood kids would stand out on the front yard and watch TV through the window.  Three channels at that time was lots to choose from. Erika traveled to the West to meet second grandson Jesse, and they fell in love with the West and continued to journey there.  Erika got her drivers licence to help with the driving. Erika had 8 grandchildren, that they took to the beach!  16 Great Grandchildren which she got to meet all but little Nella in person. Our last adventure was George, Jaime and I took mom to the German Club in Koffee Klutch in February 2020 it was lots of fun.

There are so many more stories we can all share about Erika, Wife, Mom, Grandma, Great Granma she had a truly amazing life an amazing family who loved her dearly, may she rest in peace and be with dad again.  – February 9, 2021

Love

Family George and Susanne Dutka

Jessica and Ryan Fairful…Declan and Rowan

Danielle and Kyle Procter…Grace and Owen

Jamie and Christy Dutka…Kingston and Sawyer

Michelle and Devin de Lange…William and Jack

Nicole and Nathan Ivanovich…Neven and Nela

Kathryn Tull Dutka and Jaime Francisco

Benny and Allison Tull….Charlie and Johnny

Margaret Tull….Wolfgang

Jesse and Becky Tull….Skylar, Raegan and Harper

Jim Tull

ROMYN, Terry….

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Terry. Fiercely proud father of Sam (Natalie) and Jesse (Emma).  Survived by siblings Dirk, Doug and Marsha.  Predeceased by parents Lex and Marguerite and brother Rick.  At Terry’s request, cremation has taken place and a celebration to raise a glass in his honour will be arranged at a later date. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PARKER, Joseph A….

A resolute father, smitten husband, fastidious typesetter, and a dedicated Mason, defines the legacy of Joe and his 87 years on this earth. On February 1, 2021, Joe left us to reunite with his wife Alice of 55 years. He had a giving, loyal heart, bigger than the frame that held it, and a firm resolve that grew from humble beginnings in Caledonia with his two younger sisters Beverly (Simpson) and Irene (Nidenoff). His devotion to his wife Alice and his family would be the source of his focus for the rest of his life. Joe had dreamed of three children, and while Alice was expecting for the second time following their first son Tom, she expressed no enthusiasm for a third time around.  Surprise twins satisfied and elated Joe with the arrival of Andrew and Robert.

As a means to provide for his family, Joe started Parker Typesetting and sacrificed many late nights and weekends for 25 years before his eventual retirement. He continued serving others by helping to create designs for friends and his Masonic family. A member of Temple Lodge No. 597 A.F. & A.M., before it closed, he served as Master in 1966. He was a Past Master of Moffat Lodge No. 399 A.F. & A.M., and a member of Daylight Lodge No. 735 A.F. & A.M. He valued his contributions as a member of the London Valley Scottish Rite, and the Mocha Shrine.

As the years passed, first son Tom would marry Theresa, Andrew would marry Brent, and Robert would marry Lee. The family would grow to many nieces, nephews, and cousins, a modern family he took pride in, as a step-grandfather to 3 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He will surely miss watching them all learn, laugh, and grow. Joe squeezed every last ounce from a body that was less gracious in its latter years. Grateful for the care he received with his regular dialysis treatments for over 10 years at LHSC, and also his last few days at the McCormick Home in London. Joe supported many causes, and donations to Diabetes Canada was a preference.

Cremation has taken place.  Family and friends are welcomed for visiting on Thursday, September 9, 2021 from 6-8 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. Please call the funeral home between 9am-5pm (519-433-5184) to reserve your spot for the visitation. 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. A Private funeral service will be held on Friday September 10, 2021 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. In memory of Joseph donations may be made Diabetes Canada, 1300-522 University Avenue, Toronto ON, M5G 2R5. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

London Free Press Publication Date
Saturday, February 6, 2021

BEAL, Irene….

Surrounded by her family at Parkwood Hospital, London, on Saturday, January 30, 2021, Irene I. (Gray) Beal in her 98th year. Predeceased by her loving husband of 67 years Ralph Beal (2010). Loving mother of Doug Beal (Cindy) of Port Dover, Don Beal (Tammy) of Ipperwash and Debbie Chief (Dennis) of London. Cherished gramma of Jennifer, Sarah, Jeremy, Derek, Ryan, Paul, Amber, Ashley, Darrian and great-gramma of Dahlia, Everett, Addison, Aria, Luca and Brian. Dear sister-in-law of Eileen Beal and Jan Gray. Predeceased by her sister Ilene and her brothers Tom, Ernie, Gord, Doug, Ken, Don and Ed. The family would like to thank the staff at Parkwood and Grandwood Park for their kindness and care of Irene. A private visitation and graveside service was held. Interment in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to The War Amps, 2827 Riverside Drive, Ottawa ON K1V 0C4. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

ANDERSEN, Vicky (nee Bolton)….

Victoria died peacefully and with grace in her home in London, Ontario surrounded by love on 29 January 2021.

Mum/Vicky/Gam was deeply loved and loved beyond measure. She will be greatly missed by her husband of 49 years, Bjarne Andersen, and their children, Peter (Jennifer), Megan (Chris), Susan (Owen), and her grandchildren, of whom she was most proud, Kate, Amelia, Jack, Bridget, Thomas, Grace, Lily, and Beatrice. Also by her brother David Bolton and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brother Harold Bolton.

Victoria immigrated to Canada with her parents, Joan and Martin in 1967. She worked as a teacher with the TVDSB, as a mother, a gardener, a painter with The Lambeth Art Association, a volunteer at Ten Thousand Villages, Ronald McDonald House, and St. Aidan’s Anglican Church. But most of all she was a fierce and unabashed champion for people, vulnerable people most of all.

A private funeral will take place at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church with Reverend Canon Dr. Kevin George officiating. A public memorial service will be held when possible.

In lieu of flowers, we ask you to consider a donation to LUSO, 2-1193 Oxford Street East, London ON N5Y 3M2 or Doctors Without Borders (MSF), 551 Adelaide Street West, Toronto ON M5V 0N8.

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

NOSKO, Nadia (Nellie) Alekseevna (née Gorbasew)…

Passed away peacefully in her 87th year at Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario on Thursday, January 28, 2021. Devoted wife of 65 years to the late Leonard (2016); loving mother to Peter (Susan), Paul and Lora McKitterick (Wayne); beloved grandmother to Paul, Luke and Chloe; cherished great-grandmother to Austin; and dear sister to the late Alexander Gorbasew (2011), Valentina Golovchenko and Svetlana Isyumov. Born in May of 1934, in a small fishing/farming community in southwest Russia, Nadia and her family immigrated to Canada following WWII. She was married in 1950 in Raymond, Alberta, just before moving to London. A selfless and generous person, she devoted her life to her family, church, the care of others and homeless cats. Needlework was her passion and therapy and over many years, countless hours were spent skilfully embroidering vestments, robes and other items for her church. A private family funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at the Russian Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour, 140 Fairview Avenue, London, ON N6C 4T8 with the Very Reverend Vladimir Morin officiating. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London to follow. All those attending the funeral service are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the church. The family is grateful to Dr. S. Malik and the dedicated staff of the Palliative Care Unit at Victoria Hospital for their support and for taking such good care of our mother and grandmother. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

COX, Philip Edwin…    
In his 89th year passed away peacefully in London, on January 28, 2021.   He is survived by his loving wife Meryl (Watson) of 66 years and devoted sons David (Linda), Thomas (Carol-Ann) and daughter Diane Thatcher (Jeffrey).  He was truly a family man and was so proud of each of his seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.  He was the loving brother to Robert Cox (Nancy) and Marnie Hazle (Stanley) and brother-in-law to Reg Watson (Lynda) and Wayne Watson (Jill).  He is predeceased by sister Patricia & Bennett Purchase and in-laws Arlene & Don Simpson and Carl & Audrey Watson.  He was a special uncle to several nieces and nephews.

Technician for Bell Canada was Phil’s 35 year career and he was blessed to enjoy 30 years of retirement.  He was a life member of St. Paul’s Lodge, No. 107 and was a faithful member of St. Michael & All Angels Anglican Church for the past 60 years.  Family camping, exploring Canada from coast to coast, was a great part of Phil’s life.  He and Meryl built fond memories and lasting friendships through square and round dancing and lawn bowling.  In his spare time Phil enjoyed wood working projects, wood carving and he led the family hobby of rock hounding and lapidary.  
 
The family sincerely thanks Dr. S. Ernst and Dr. N. Hertzman and the compassionate and very special staff at St. Joseph’s Hospice for their professional guidance through Phil’s long journey with cancer.  A private family funeral service will be held at A. Millard George Funeral Home on Saturday, January 30, 2021 officiated by Archdeacon K. Sam Thomas. For those who cannot attend, a livestream will be available at www.amgfh.com beginning at 2pm.  Memorial donations may be made to St. Michael & All Angels Anglican Church, 397 Springbank Drive, London, Ontario, N6J 1G7 or to St. Joseph’s Hospice, PO Box 1449, Station B, London, Ontario, N6A 5M2. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PRITCHETT, Ted (Edward John)…

Passed away suddenly on January 19, 2021 at home after a short illness.  Fun-loving baby brother to Rick (Karen), Joanne and to sister-in-law Joyce. Predeceased by brother, Charlie and parents Fred and Ruth.  Proud Uncle to Mike (Lorna), Bill (Joanie), Lisa (Rod), Sheryl (Vince), Christine (Jason), Jennifer and Great Uncle to Chrystal, Billy, Rebecca, Zachary, Luke, Wendel, Max, Matthew, Kyra, Nicholas and Tori. Special cousin-brother to Kim, Don and Terry and survived by many Potter, Laidlow, Lauckner, McDonald, Swayzie and Walper cousins.

Ted was a retired employee of Labatt Brewery and had many fond memories of his working days, particularly when the company was a family owned business. His friendships continued with some of his fellow Labatt friends after retirement.

Many thanks to Ted’s friendly and caring neighbours. We know he appreciated your friendship and all that you did to support him.

Ted was a good and loyal son, brother, uncle, friend and neighbour, whose sense of humor will be missed by all.    

A celebration of Ted’s life will be held at a future date. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 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

GELDARD, Alfred “Red”….

Peacefully at Parkwood Institute Veteran’s Care, London, on Saturday, January 16, 2021, Alfred “Red” Geldard passed away in his 96th year. Red was 16 when he joined the Canadian Navy in World War II. He served as a coder on the HMCS Sackville and HMCS Stellarton on the North Atlantic. He enjoyed hunting and fishing for many years while at their cottage in Southampton. He loved to do woodworking and was a gifted cartoonist. He enjoyed entertaining others by playing the piano and accordion. After the war he worked construction and then started a Novelty Ornament business in the 50’s. He then had a long career with Canada Cement Lafarge and eventually became Health and Safety Director. After retiring, he and his wife Helen spent the winters in Florida where he continued his hobbies and played some golf.

Beloved husband of the late Helen Geldard (nee Fraser) (2004). Dear father of Tom Geldard and his wife Lyse of London and Patti Hannah and her husband Thom of Westbank, BC. Much loved Grandpa of Jo-elle (Mark), Erin (Dan), Aimee (Mike), Bill (Julie) and Leighanne (James). Great-Grandpa (Poppa Rouge) of Mackenzie (Greg), Matthew, Elyse, Liam, Hannah, Chloe, Victoria, Claire, Emerson and Walker.

Red was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for 60 years and saw firsthand the tremendous support the Legion provides to the veteran’s at Parkwood. The family wish to thank the wonderful staff at Parkwood Veteran’s Care. Special thanks to all the staff on 4 Elgin for their care, compassion and support.

At Red’s request, cremation will take place with a private family interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London to reunite him with his wife Helen. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to Parkwood Veteran’s Care – Wing 4 Elgin, c/o St. Joseph’s Health Foundation, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON N6A 4V2 or to your local Royal Canadian Legion Branch. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McColl, Ruth…

Peacefully at Chartwell Long Term Care Residence, Parkhill, Ontario, on Monday, January 11th, 2021, Ruth Isabel McColl (née Brown) of London, Ontario, in her 98th year.  Beloved wife of the late Donald Alexander “Alex” McColl.  Loving mother of David McColl and his wife, Jane Bowley, of Appin, Dr. Donald McColl and his wife, Ann, of London, Duncan McColl of Ilderton (with Debby Candler), Marion Wood and her husband, Alan Wood, of Ilderton, and Holly McColl of London.  Predeceased by her parents, James C. Brown and Grace E. Brown (née McLachlan), her infant brother, James “Douglas” Brown, Gordon and his spouse Helen Brown, Dr. Alan and his spouse Shirley Brown, her brothers-in-law, Samuel McColl and Stewart McColl, and also her grandson, Benjamin Alexander McColl.

Survived by her brother, Ross Brown, and sister, Barbara Brown, of Tupperville.  Also survived by her sisters-in-law, Gertrude McColl, of Glencoe, and Viola McColl, of Dutton.  Loved by her grandchildren Eliza (with Justin Meade) and Grace McColl, Charlotte McColl, Samuel, Jacob and Aidan McColl, Dr. Amy Janzwood and her husband, Scott and Rebecca Wood.  Also missed by her nieces and nephews and their families.

Gas station attendant, apprentice farmer, musician, school teacher (trained at London Normal School), voracious reader, gardener, tamer of crossword puzzles and luminous voice in church – in a world of vainglory, as humble as can be. The family is grateful for the exemplary care provided by Dr. A. Whynot and the staff of Chartwell Parkhill Long Term Care Residence.

The family also wishes to acknowledge the thoroughgoing care of Dr. V. Rajgopal and the staff of Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital.

All those attending the funeral home are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. The PRIVATE funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2021, at 11am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home. Friends are invited to watch the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpfL6_cm3hysYQm6qoamdgQ?app=desktop or our website (www.amgfh.com) and clicking on the YouTube logo. Interment in The Covenanted Baptist Cemetery, Melbourne, Ontario.

As an expression of sympathy, contributions may be made to Chartwell Parkhill Long Term Care Residence, 250 Tain Street, Parkhill, Ontario, N0M 2K0 or to Friends of Medway Creek, Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, 1424 Clarke Road, London, Ontario, N5V 5B9. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com