Services & Obituaries

Detlev “Mike” Claus Ernst Kussner

It is with deep sorrow we announce the passing of Detlev “Mike” Claus Ernst Kussner at his home in Clarksburg ON on Saturday, October 25, 2025 in his 81^st year.

Beloved husband and partner- in-life of Kristina Wichman for over 58 years; brother of the late Dietrich ( the late Christine), Erhard (Irene), and Hartmut (Shirley) Kussner; brother-in-law of Monika (Tony), Rolf (Elizabeth), and Bert (Trudy) Wichman. His nieces and nephews Debbie (Wayne) Hotham, Denise (Agrim) Jajal, Bryan (Rebecca) Kussner, Amanda (Blair) Sorenson, Anna (Emmanuel) Minten and Rachel (Jon) Wichman, Christian (Nataly) Wichman, and Eric (Caitlin) Wichman. In addition, there are the great nieces and nephews – Jordan, Avery, Clara, Odin, Ellie, Stellan, William, Derrick, Leslie, Hannah, Jacob and great great-nephew Jones.

Mike’s love of teaching carried on beyond his 31 years of teaching at Toronto’s Monarch Park and Danforth Collegiate and Technical Institute high schools. He started his Physics, Science, and Mathematics teaching career at Monarch Park Collegiate in September 1969. He ended his teaching career at Danforth Collegiate where he enjoyed teaching of gifted math students immensely.  He was an admired teacher from the beginning loved by the staff and students and led to some students becoming teachers themselves (Tom Evagelou). In the 1970’s he coached many successful basketball teams. Mike was an avid athlete himself. He played hockey, basketball, and soccer at a high level. His years at the Balmy Beach Club squash courts included many legendary games against Tom Otis, Alec Parley, Todd Reynolds, and Bobbie Dann. His teaching days lead to a number of enduring friendships.

Mike was an avid cyclist and spent the summer of 1974 cycling in Europe with Todd Reynolds. He loved cross country skiing for many years, often with his dog Baggins running between his legs. Later he changed to downhill skiing every week day morning and became known as the “green machine” which was the colour of his ski outfit.

He enjoyed his live music nights in Toronto usually with Dave Ross. No one enjoyed the performances of Wayne Cochrane and the CC Riders like Mike. Dave Hodge and the Hockey Night in Canada crew who were in the audience told him that “you made this night wonderful…” and he did. His enthusiasm was contagious.

Mike was a great student of science, astronomy, building skills, and anything requiring analysis. He shared his passion for puzzles with his nephews, nieces and other family friends’ children who were blessed with his constant challenges.

Retirement revolved around the hobby farm and he and Kristina were great hosts for the many family and friends’ gatherings there.  His many nieces and nephews also vacationed there and were treated to activities such as mushroom hunts, gator or Datsun bush rides, scavenger hunts, detective theatre, croquet, horseshoes, long walks, playing cards and board games following house rules and interacting with many farm animals.  He enjoyed German and Swedish traditions at home, his and Kris’ heritages. New practices such as taking the children shopping for candy and dipping in his coin bucket made great memories. His enthusiasm for board games is fondly remembered. He loved to cook for his family creating many memorable meals. He always had the time to share what he knew and truly cared about his family. He loved living at the farm and made fast friends with many of his country neighbours (Ernie Bristow, Dennis Ouellette, Ron Cundy, Bob Prywata).

His enthusiasm for life, sharing fun activities such as treating guests to rides down the country roads in his flashy, red sports car, teaching math skills, his life-long romance with Kristina, his devotion to family and friends made great memories for us. He will be missed by all of us.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Nature Conservancy of Canada or Georgian Bay Humane Society.

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

FULLER, Keith…

Keith Fuller, age 68, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at home after a long and difficult battle with autoimmune disorders and cancer. Predeceased by his two beloved puppies, Esca and Mr. Darcy. Also predeceased by his parents, two brothers, and all his aunts and uncles. Survived by his brother Terry, several nieces and nephews, several grand-nieces and grand-nephews, several cousins as well as many good friends and neighbours, especially Mike and Ellen. Cremation has taken place. In memory of Keith, donations may be made to 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

Vanroon Placide, Myriam…

Suddenly and unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at her residence, Myriam passed away in her 48th year.

Loving and supportive mother of Jessica Lynn Vanroon and Nickaela Vanroon. Adored and proud sister of Shadrack Abel, Jean David, Junior Abel, Maxime Ketant. Loving aunt of Jeremy, Luca, Juila and Jasmine. Myriam was loved by cousins, close friends, colleagues and extended family.

Myriam’s interests include shopping, spending quality time with family, actively participating in the adventatist church, and listening to gospel music.

Throughout Myriam’s life she has been a humour individual, a fashionista and a loving daughter and mother. Myriam had wanted to make a difference in every individual’s life that she came into contact with.

A private family celebration of life will be held.

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

Woolley, Dorothy Agnes (née Cole)

June 7, 1937 – October 28, 2025

Of London, Ontario, passed away peacefully after a short illness in her 88th year. Beloved wife of Victor Woolley (2023) for 59 wonderful years. Loving mother of David (Amparo), Valerie (Brian) Silvester, and John (Natasha), and dear mother-in-law of Iona. Cherished grandmother of Kerissa, Crystina, Tyson, Aaliah, Isaiah, Shane, Will, and Cam, and proud great-grandmother to Lochlin.

Dorothy is survived by her sister Helen (David) MacDonald, and sisters-in-law Bev Lindsay and Doreen Bozzer-Cole, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father Charles William Cole (1960), mother Marjorie (Askey) Cole (1992), and brothers Harold (2007) and Gerald (2017).

Dorothy lived her life with warmth, grace, and a deep faith that guided her in all she did. Her strong belief in God brought her comfort and strength throughout her life and in her final days.

She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, teaching, playing bridge, and practicing yoga. Dorothy loved to travel and treasured her many winters spent on Jekyll Island and in Florida. An active spirit, she enjoyed tennis and pickleball, which she played joyfully on her 88th birthday! Dorothy was also a proud and engaged alumni of South Collegiate Institute and a member of Elmwood Presbyterian Church.

A memorial service (reception to follow) to celebrate Dorothy’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 11:00 am at Elmwood Avenue Presbyterian Church, 111 Elmwood Avenue East, London. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184, entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

JENNINGS, Despina “Diana”…

March 5, 1931 – October 29, 2025

Survived by her sons Chris, Ron and her daughter-in-law Megan.

Despina was born in Thessaloniki Greece and was raised by her single parent mother after her father abandoned the family. She was an only child, with no siblings. The family lived through years of Nazi occupation of Greece and then the Greek civil war, but managed to survive together through those perilous times.

In the early 1950’s she met her future husband Ken Jennings, who was travelling on his way back to England from the Middle East after being discharged from the English Army. The two must have hit it off quite well because Despina later followed Ken back to England, where they were married, twice. Once in the Orthodox Church and once in an Anglican ceremony.

Despina worked for a while as a nurse but eventually stopped working to raise her family, as Chris was born in November 1955. Shortly after that, the family decided to emigrate to Canada, and after initially visiting relatives in New York City, they eventually settled in London,
Ontario. Ron was born in January 1959 in London. A few years later, the family generously agreed to provide a home for Despina’s mother Euthymia, who came to live with them until her passing in 1974.

Despina was always a caring mother and devoted wife through all the years of their marriage. After Ken’s passing, she even moved out to Vancouver to be closer to Chris, who had moved to Vancouver back in the mid 1990s. Unfortunately she missed the contact with her Greek
friends back in London, and moved back again after only about 9 months in Vancouver. Despina loved animals, and especially after Ken’s passing, she always had a dog companion with her. Her faith in the Orthodox Church was always strong right up to the end, and almost all her friends in her last years were members of the Church. RIP Mom, you will be missed.

The Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 11:00am, at the Holy Transfiguration Antiochian Orthodox Church, 465 Horton Street East, London.

Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Humane Society London & Middlesex would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DWYER, Maurice “Moe”…

Maurice Dwyer passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025 in his 77th year. He is survived by his two estranged daughters Jami and Jesi Dwyer, and his granddaughter, all of Windsor, ON. He always loved his daughters. He was fortunate to have Sam MacDonald and the MacDonalds in his life. Also good friends, Jack Feddema, Ron Milton and many others. Maurice had many friends in the Real Estate Industry as well. Maurice played football at Missouri Southern and University of Windsor. He was predeceased by his mother Evelyn Forde and his dad Lewis Forde. Maurice was blessed with many great friends who he will miss dearly. He thanks them for being in his life. Cremation has taken place and future interment in St. Peter’s Cemetery, London. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SMEDLEY, Elizabeth “Betty”…

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth “Betty” Armstrong Smedley (née McGregor), 86, on October 21, 2025.

Betty is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Susan Smedley (Juan Manuel Cordeiro Rodriguez) and Karen van Hunnik (Michael); her cherished grandchildren, Jordan and Kaia van Hunnik; and nieces and nephews in Canada, USA, and UK. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dennis Smedley; her parents, Winnifred and John McGregor; her brothers, Andrew and John; and sisters-in-law, Jane and Pamela.

Betty will be remembered for her enormous heart, her unshakeable determination, and her unwavering will to overcome any obstacle placed in her path. She faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her generosity and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Chalmers Presbyterian Church, 342 Pond Mills Road, London, ON N5Z 5E1.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chalmers Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, the McCormick Care Foundation or the London Health Sciences Foundation.

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

KUSSNER, Dietrich…

Dietrich Kussner passed away unexpectedly but peacefully with family at his side at Collingwood General & Marine Hospital, Collingwood on Saturday, October 18, 2025 in his 88th year. Dietrich “Dick” is now reunited with his wife of 64 years, Christine, who died August 24th of this year. Loving father of Deborah “Debbie” Hotham and her husband Wayne, Denise Jajal and her husband Agrim, and Bryan Kussner and his wife Rebecca “Becky”. Cherished Opa of Derrick Eus-Hotham (Janelle), Leslie Hotham, Hannah Kussner and Jacob Kussner and Great-Opa of Jones. Dick will also be missed by his brothers Erhard “Chris” Kussner and his wife Irene, Hartmut “Art” Kussner and his wife Shirley, Detlev “Mike” Kussner and his wife Kristina, brother-in-law Peter Ede and his wife Lorna, sister-in-law Monica Ede, and his many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends. Predeceased by his brother-in-law David Ede. Dietrich immigrated to Canada in 1954, sponsored by Calvary United Church through the World Council of Churches, where he later met his beloved wife. Together they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage, raising their children with love, guidance, faith and strong family values. He was a proud supporter of his children in everything they pursued and found great joy in watching them grow and succeed. His love extended deeply to his grandchildren and especially to his great-grandson, who brought him endless delight. Deeply proud of his heritage, Dietrich even wrote his own memoirs and loved sharing his life story with others, passing down wisdom and memories that reflected his journey. A faithful and dedicated member of Calvary United Church, he served in many roles over the years – as an elder, Sunday school teacher, and active committee member – and there wasn’t a corner of the church he didn’t know. Known for his “fix-it” mentality, he was always looking to figure out how to repair or improve something, constantly problem-solving and trying new ideas. He also cherished time spent at the family cottage on Lake Huron, where he enjoyed peaceful days surrounded by nature. A gifted artist with a keen eye, Dietrich appreciated beauty in the world around him and expressed it through his creativity. As the owner of a well-established painting and decorating business for over 60 years, he was highly regarded in his community for his skill, dedication, and craftsmanship. He loved the outdoors and was happiest when puttering around, always keeping busy with projects large and small. As a New Year’s Eve baby, he loved celebrating his birthday and hosting a party to mark both occasions. The family wishes to extend a warm thank you to the staff of Collingwood General for their compassion and support. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London on Friday, November 21, 2025 from 7:00-9:00 pm. A memorial service will be held at Calvary United Church, 290 Ridout Street South, London on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital Foundation, 459 Hume Street, Collingwood, ON L9Y 1W9 (Please make cheques payable to ‘CGMHF’), or Calvary United Church Memorial Fund. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Jennings, Cheryl Lynn

On Monday October 20, 2025, Cheryl faced the end of her suffering on her own terms. Cheryl was born in Hamilton, Ontario on March 20, 1950, the only child of Harold and Arleen Jennings (née Hodd). She is survived by her husband Robert Donaghy and her stepson James and stepdaughter Lisa Pala (Umberto) and by her sister Linda Maskell Pereira (Christopher). She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Matthew, Gabriela and Ciara Pala and her nephews -and Godsons- Daniel (Andrea) and Geoffrey (Deanna) Pereira. The memory of Cheryl will be dearly treasured by her several cousins, many in-laws, and a troop of beloved and devoted friends.

After post-secondary education at McMaster University and Althouse College U.W.O., Cheryl taught visual arts for the Thames Valley District School Board for thirty years, inspiring many young students at several secondary schools. She was a gifted teacher and a talented artist, a dancer and a gardener, an actress and a sculptor, an excellent cook and an avid reader, a devoted wife and a solid friend. For many years, she was involved in countless productions at the London Community Players both onstage and off as a director, actor, and set designer. Following her retirement from teaching, she painted with energy and commitment and taught adult art classes at several places, continuing to inspire enthusiasm for her greatest love.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Doctors Blanchette and Lock at the Verspeeten Cancer Centre, Doctors Hamilton and Stack from Ontario Healthcare at Home, and to the wonderful medical support staff at the London Cancer Centre, Victoria Hospital and Parkwood Institute. Donations in Memory of Cheryl can be made to the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre or to a charity of your choice. A Celebration of Cheryl’s Life will be held at the A. Millard George Reception Centre (60 Ridout Street South, London) on Sunday October 26, 2025 from 12:30 until 2:30p.m. Everyone is welcome.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

“Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb. And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.” (Khalil Gibran)

LEE SIMMS, Irma…

It is with great love and sadness that we share the passing of Irma Lee Simms on October 4th, 2025 at the age of 99.

Irma was an artist who embraced life with creativity, flair, and dignity. She will be remembered for her spunky spirit, quick wit, and fun-loving nature. She brought laughter and light wherever she went.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert Simms.

Irma is survived by Barry (Karen) and Dean (Fiona). She was a proud grandmother to Natalie (Jason), Taylor (Kyle), and Jamie (Jonathan), and a cherished great-grandmother to Carter, Jace, Cohen, and Hudson. Her family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and caregivers at Glendale Crossing for their compassion, kindness, and exceptional care. Your support and warmth brought great comfort to Irma and her family.

A private family service will be held in her honour.

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