Services & Obituaries

PIETERMAN, Jack…..

“That I am not my own,
but belong with body and soul, both in life and in death,
to my faithful Saviour Jesus Christ.” Lord’s Day 1, Heidelberg Catechism

In the early morning of May 20, 2021, our Lord God and Heavenly Father gave Jack Pieterman an early birthday present and called him home to be with Him. Three days before his 74th birthday, God gathered Jack in His arms and carried His faithful servant home to heaven. After spending over a month in University Hospital due to COVID-19, Jack passed away peacefully with his wife Rennie and sons Art and Chad at his side. He loved and was loved by his wife Rennie Pieterman (Boersema) for over 53 years and was a beloved father to Art and Lisa Pieterman, Shane and Becky Pieterman, Tammi and Henry Buist and Chad and Erin Pieterman. He was a loved and cherished Grandpa or Poppa to his 18 grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents Art and Grace (Wildeboer) Pieterman, his parents-in-law Marten and Elly (Bos) Boersema, his Uncles and Aunts whom he loved dearly, Oom Fred and Tante Anna Wildeboer and Oom Henk and Tante Janny Wildeboer. He will be very much missed by his siblings Ena and Joe Boersema, Nell and Dale Thomas, Alice and Dale Ewing, Marian and Sam Okkema and Derk and Annette Pieterman and by his siblings-in-law, Julie Lindhout, John and Jenny Boersema, Doug Boersema, Ralph and Lucille Boersema, Attie and Henry Sandink, Jack Boersema, Janice and Hank VanDam, Bob and Nancy Boersema, Theresa and Talbot Bergsma, Marcia and Ron Vandenbos, Nick Boersema, and sister-in-law Susan Koomans, and a special cousin in Holland, Lammieke Wildeboer, as well as countless nephews and nieces. He will be missed by his church family at Pilgrim Canadian Reformed Church of London where he and his wife were members for 49 years, and by many others due to his strong passion for reformed education. This passion had a positive and powerful impact on the local reformed school communities, (Covenant Christian School and Providence Reformed Collegiate) as well as the Covenant Canadian Reformed Teacher’s College in Hamilton.

Jack was a plumber by trade, although he was really a Jack-of-all-trades. Together with his Wildeboer uncles, he founded the Practical Plumbing Company in 1981.  After retiring several years ago, Jack had to find a new hobby to fill his days, and he found it at the Mission Thrift Store. He was on the steering committee when the store began, and also spent many hours over the next few years at the store, picking up donations and generally being the fix-it guy as the property manager.  He will be dearly missed by the staff and volunteers at the store.

Family and friends will be received at the Pilgrim Canadian Reformed Church, 266 High Street, London on Monday, May 24, 2021, from 1-4 and from 7-9 pm. Due to capacity restrictions please schedule your time through the sign-up link below, or by calling Art at 519-639-1976.  

https://signup.com/go/yxePXGn

A private family Graveside Service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 p.m., which will be held at Pilgrim Canadian Reformed Church with Reverend A. Witten officiating. The Memorial Service will be livestreamed, and you can find the link on the funeral home website under events.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BsBbOtJte5w

If desired, as expressions of sympathy, a donation in memory of Jack to the Covenant Canadian Reformed Teachers College, 410 Crerar Drive, Hamilton, ON L9A 5K3 (www.covenantteacherscollege.com) would be sincerely appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

To view a slideshow of Jack’s life, please follow this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbN-BnuOZkk

HOBBINS, Remedois “Remy”….

Passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, May 18, 2021. Beloved soulmate of the late Arthur Hobbins. Loving aunt and mother figure of Noel Rodriguez and Carla Rama Ramirez. Sister to Frank, Roger, Linda, Cora, Amelia, Josie, Ben, Ramon, and Tessie. She will be missed by many extended family members and friends. Remy was loving to all family and friends, and with her late husband Arthur Hobbins was a generous supporter of the Filipino Canadian Association of London and District. Always behind the scene in numerous functions and events especially those involving children (Santacruzan). In 1967 she worked in London, England as a Midwife and Nurse where she met her late husband Arthur. In 1968 she moved to London, Ontario and worked at Parkwood Hospital as a Housekeeping Supervisor. Her generosity extended beyond her family, entertaining friends and family at their residence. She shared her talent of gardening, baking and always willing to teach others. Her grace, generosity and beauty will be surely missed by all, most especially the community she has served. A PRIVATE funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at 10:30 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home. 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpfL6_cm3hysYQm6qoamdgQ?app=desktop. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending the funeral home are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. Inurnment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LONSDALE, Winnifred Norma……

Peacefully at home, in her 96^th year on Tuesday, May 18, 2021. She was the guiding light to a young family and a ‘rock’ for her husband when the family relocated from Ottawa to the London area in 1965 in pursuit of a better life. Predeceased by and loving wife to Willis (2018). Dear mother to Wayne (Liza), Susan Hodgins (Ralph), Barry (Isobel), Joan Cresswell (Mike) and Linda. Much loved grandmother of Sean (Melany), Kevin (Tanya), Brett (Lesley), Andrea, Jaclyn, Graeme (Jessica), Evan (Ashley) and Russell. Loving great-grandmother of Madison, Maddux, Selena, Caleb, Barrett, Oliver, Lena and Scarlett. Predeceased by her siblings Tom (Cass), Percy and Russell. She will be missed by her family and friends for her strength and open armed embrace of all who entered her life. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, 110-1525 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1Z 8R9 or Alzheimer’s Society of London & Middlesex,  435 Windemere Road ,London, ON N5X 2T1. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

OAKES, Carl….

Passed away peacefully at Parkwood Veteran’s Care, London, on Sunday, May 16, 2021 in his 95th year. Beloved husband of the late Joyce (Smith) Oakes. Loving father of Wanda (Paul) Nutting, Carla and David. Predeceased by his son Peter and his 7 brothers and sisters. Cherished grandpa of Alex (Monika), Drew (Brittney), Michael (Rachel) and Christie. Great-grandfather to 5. Dearly missed by his nieces and nephews and many extended family members and friends.
Thank you to the wonderful staff and volunteers for the great care he received at Parkwood. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held 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

HOOPER, Art…

With a broken heart, Rosemary has said goodbye to her beloved husband Art. He entered the presence of his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on Sunday, May 16th, 2021 at the Dearness Home, London at the age of 75. Arthur “Art” or “Hoop” Hooper was born in Toronto, Ontario on March 21st, 1946. The 43 years Art and Rosemary spent together were filled with moments of laughter and sorrow but despite all they endured their love for one another never wavered. Art is survived by his devoted wife Rosemary (nee Bell), his children Ryan (Ivana) and Shannon (Gary). He was Grandpa to Cullen, Devin, Autumn, Stone and Meadow. He was the loved brother of David (Roberta) Shaw, Scott (Debbie) Shaw and Margaret Shaw.

We would like to thank the staff at Dale Brain Injury Services and the Dearness Home for the wonderful care and relationships they provided Art over the last 32 years. A PRIVATE funeral service will be held on Friday, May 21st, 2021 at 2 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home. 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: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpfL6_cm3hysYQm6qoamdgQ?app=desktop. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending the funeral home are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. Interment in Pond Mills Cemetery, London. In lieu of flowers, sympathy donations may be made to Compass Community Church, 345 Pond Mills Road, London, ON N5Z 3X7 or Dale Brain Injury Services, 345 Saskatoon Street, London, ON N5W 4R4. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SNELL, Greg….

Peacefully with his family by his side, Gregory “Greg” Snell passed away at Parkwood Institute, London, on Friday, May 7, 2021 in his 65th year. Beloved husband of Heather (nee Booth) Snell. Loving father of Graham Snell (Jo-Dee) and Devon Snell. Cherished Grandpa of Aria Anne and Dominic. Predeceased by his parents Ray and Bette Snell. Dear brother of Jeff Snell (Dawn) and brother-in-law of Bud (Moe), Scott (Kim), David, and Paul (Michael). Greg with be missed by Marcia (Richard) and his nieces and nephews.

Greg was a quiet man with many talents. He was hard working and loved his family dearly. He had a strong passion for photography – collecting antique cameras and winning an abundance of photography contests through his work at 3M. His love for music was like no other. He listened to a wide variety of genres, from classical to rock, and made sure to introduce his kids to everything along the way. An original Baltimore Oriole’s fan (and a Blue Jay’s fan in his later years), Greg always enjoyed a baseball game.

A PRIVATE funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 12, 2021 at 1 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home. 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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHksrgdmUck. As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending the funeral home are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols. Interment in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Greg may be made to The McCormick Care Foundation (directed to the Art Program), 2022 Kains Road, London, ON N6K 0A8. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MARTIN, Florence “Lil”….

Peacefully at her home on Saturday, May 1, 2021, Lil (Naylor) Martin in her 103rd year. Beloved wife of the late Clifford L. Martin (1998). Loving mother of Clayton Martin, David Martin (Shirley), predeceased by her son Robert Martin (Lois). Cherished grandmother of Matthew, Michael (Fani “Alex”), Laura, Kerry (Steve), Kevin (Lynn) and great-grandmother of Lorne and James. Dear sister of Ruth Martyn (the late Al). Missed by nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her sisters May Tripp, Bea White and brother Albert “Jack” Naylor. Private graveside service at Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Hillside Church, 138 Thompson Road, London ON N5Z 2Y6 or the charity of your choice. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

SAMPSON, Tom….

On July 7th, 1953 when colour TV’s and Corvettes were introduced to the world, so was the vivid and swift life of Thomas Robert Sampson. He was born in London, Ontario to his parents Lawrence Copp Sampson and Helen (nee Ferguson). His “Big” Brother Howard awaited the arrival a new baby brother, while still to be expected Tom’s hockey playmate Tim and dear sister and friend Lauren came after to complete their loving family. Sadly, on the evening of Friday, April 30th, 2021 at the age of 67, their HERO and doting Dad was too young to be taken from his admiring children Marisa Anne Stafford (the late Brent) and Robert William Sampson and his partner Martina. “Papa” lived for playdates with his adoring grandchildren Macy Anne & Marlowe Olivia Stafford, and Zander & Luka Podolinsky-Sampson. The world has lost an incredibly kind, loving, loyal and caring person. Tom loved life and exceled at it. Even after life’s inevitable setbacks, Tom’s strength of character propelled him forward despite the odds. Losing his dear wife and travel companion Cathy (nee MacGougan) last November was a sad and difficult time. Tom knew he had much to live for with his children and grandchildren and his love of travel near and far to Niagara-on-the-Lake to take in his passion for wine, great meals or a hockey game, New Orleans for his love of Jazz Music or a warm beach to sit back, relax and read a novel from one of the Great’s. Tom worked hard to live life to the fullest, he put everything he had into his endeavors. His customers at California Spa & Fitness who he treated like family would come by the store just to say hello.

He was a rock to many family, friends & colleagues who unwaveringly attest to the most wonderful, kind, trusting warrior they ever had the privilege to meet. Friends where he grew up in Listowel have all kept in touch, always reminiscing of the good old days, will miss their dear friend of many years. His buddy Denis fondly remembers his pal where they spent influential years in The Laurentians & Val D’Or, Quebec where Tom studied Saxophone at the Conservatory of Music. His intelligence and fearlessness were the basis for so many adventures in Tom’s life. He was always positive regardless of the challenges he faced. He believed in himself so much that he could overcome anything.

To his family as a brother, father, grandfather, and uncle to many nieces and nephews – there are no equals. He gave all he could to those he loved. With warm memories and so much love, we will miss his laughter, his knowledge, his advice, his support and his kindness. His light will never fade from our hearts.

A Celebration of Life and service at Woodland Cemetery, London will be held in the near future when everyone can come together to reminisce and take salute to their soldier, Mr. Tom Sampson. Donations to the Canadian Liver Foundation, P.O. Box 23, Chatham, ON N7M 5K1 are appreciated in dedication to the Doctors who believed in his strength and gave him his wonderful life. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

QUAYLE, John “Denis”….

We say goodbye to a wonderful man, who passed peacefully at Terrace Lodge Long Term Care, Aylmer on Thursday, April 29, 2021. Cherished husband of the late Jean Quayle (2018) for 65 years. Beloved father of Paul (Nancy) and Susan (Jamie). Caring Grandpa of Jason (Erica), Brendan (Rhonda), Jamie, Ashley (Ryan), Ryan and Matthew. Treasured great grandpa of 8. Much loved brother of Jean (Wilf), Pauline (Maurice) and the late Lilian (Eric). Predeceased by his parents Jack and Lily Quayle. Denis will also be missed by many nieces, nephews and friends. Thank you to the staff at Terrace Lodge Long Term Care who cared for Denis with affection and dignity. A small family service will be conducted with a Celebration of Life at a later date. Donations can be made to Parkinson Canada, 316-4211 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M2P 2A9. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McLACHLAN, Robert James “Jim”….

January 6, 1953 – April 28, 2021
 
Robert James “Jim” McLachlan, 68, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at Victoria Hospital, London. Jim was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and his mother Ruth. He is survived by his 2 brothers, David (Jane), Stephen (Kareen), 2 children, Peter (Mary Anne) and Brian (Kristin) and 3 grandchildren, Reese, Emmett, and Sawyer.
 
Jim always had a project (or two) on the go and had a constant desire for “doing it right”. Jim formed great friendships wherever he worked or lived and would always lend a helping hand whenever asked. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Jim’s life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, sympathy donations may be made to the Humane Society of London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com