Obituaries & Condolences

CORMIER, Scott…

It is with heavy hearts the family of Ralph “Scott” Cormier announces he peacefully passed away on July 21, 2026, at the age of 61.

He will be affectionately remembered and cherished by those who knew him well. Loving husband and lifelong friend of Mary Cormier. Loving and proud father of Andrea Cormier. Beloved son of Jean Cormier and the late Ralph Cormier, and brother of Judy Woodward (Dan) and John Cormier (Cheryl). Scott will also be dearly missed by his nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Scott was an easygoing, laid-back, kindhearted guy, willing to help.

The love for the open roads, and long-haul trucking on the highways throughout North America was his passion. He traveled everywhere from east to west and everything in between, from the prairies, the mountains, to the big cities. Always chatting with other truckers, whether about the daily news or sports, he always managed to have a say. When it came to the Toronto Maple Leafs, he was a diehard fan to the end, reciting games, stats, trades, and playoffs. He also gave his support to the Blue Jays and Raptors.

The world of Wrestling was also a passion of his, and he even managed to get his daughter to enjoy a few good events, watching wrestling matches together. Although he never wanted to fly on a plane, Andrea managed to get him on a helicopter one summer.

A favorite pastime of his was enjoying a good ride, whether it was in a vintage car or on his Harley.

Scott’s family wishes a heartfelt thank you to all the physicians, nurses, PSWs, and dietary staff (nightly turkey on white sandwiches) on the Palliative Care team at Parkwood Hospital in London. The support, and compassion everyone showed every day for the last 4 months really meant a lot.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Scott’s Life will be held on Saturday, August 1st, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 936 Jalna Boulevard in London.

Donations in Scott’s memory may be made to the Canadian Lung Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

O’GRADY, Dr. Caroline…

It is with profound sadness and immense love that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved sister, Dr. Caroline Patricia O’Grady, who passed away on July 22, 2026 at the age of 65.

Caroline was born in Woodstock, Ontario, on February 24, 1961, the middle daughter of Alan and Denise O’Grady. A lifelong learner with an insatiable curiosity and passion for knowledge, she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Toronto before achieving the pinnacle of her academic journey with a Doctorate in Nursing from the University of Toronto in 2004.

Throughout her distinguished career, Caroline dedicated herself to advancing nursing practice, research, and education. She worked as an Advanced Practice Nurse Researcher at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), where she was privileged to work alongside her mentor and dear friend, Wayne Skinner. She later served as a Professor in the School of Nursing at York University in Toronto. Caroline was widely respected for her contributions to the field of Concurrent Disorders and for her published research, which helped improve understanding and care for individuals facing complex mental health and addiction challenges. Her commitment to evidence-based practice, education, and compassionate care left a lasting impact on colleagues, students, and countless individuals whose lives were touched by her work.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Caroline embraced life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid reader of mystery novels, loved a spirited game of Euchre, and never missed an opportunity to enjoy a good scary movie. Above all, Caroline adored her dogs, who brought her immeasurable joy and companionship.

Caroline will be lovingly remembered by her sisters, Catherine of Woodstock, Ontario, and Colleen (Aldon) of Port Stanley, Ontario. She is also survived by friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, compassion, empathy, and unwavering goodness.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Caroline’s friends at Meadow Park Nursing Home in London, especially Julie N, for the joy and laughter they brought to Caroline’s life; to her devoted friends, Betty and Barc Clifford, for their enduring friendship and support; and to the nurses and physicians at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario, for their compassionate care.

A drop in Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 510 Norwich Avenue, Woodstock.

Though she is no longer with us, Caroline’s intelligence, generosity, humour, and loving spirit will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

SIESWERDA, William “Bill”…

It is with profound sadness that the family of William “Bill” Sieswerda announces his peaceful passing on July 16, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. Bill passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of service, kindness, and connection that will continue for generations.

Bill was born on March 13, 1949 in Geleen, Limburg, the Netherlands. He later made Canada his home, where he built a life devoted to serving others, raising a family, and forming lasting friendships. Those who knew him best remember a man of quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and genuine contentment. He possessed a gentle sense of humour that never came at another person’s expense and had a remarkable ability to make those around him feel welcome, respected, and valued.

Bill dedicated more than four decades of his working life to public service. He proudly served as a Police Officer with the Edmonton Police Service from March 1970 to June 1985 (Badge #585). He later worked as a Police Dispatcher with the University of Western Ontario Campus Police, a Fares and By-law Enforcement Agent with Edmonton Transit Service, and concluded his career as a Customer Service and Security Officer with Cadillac Fairview at Masonville Place in London, Ontario, where he became a familiar and trusted presence before retiring in 2014.

Retirement allowed Bill to devote himself to what became one of the defining passions of his life: genealogy. For more than twenty years, he dedicated countless hours to researching and preserving the history of the Sieswerda, Sijswerda, and Syswerda families. What began as a modest family website grew into an extensive worldwide genealogical record that reconnected relatives across continents and generations.

To Bill, genealogy was never simply about tracing names and dates. It was about people. He believed that understanding where we came from strengthened the bonds we share today. Through his curiosity, patience, and generosity, he introduced distant cousins who otherwise may never have known one another and inspired many to discover their own family histories. To countless relatives around the world, he became the keeper of the family’s story, ensuring that its history would be preserved for generations yet to come.

Above all else, Bill was a devoted father and Opa. His family was his greatest source of happiness, and nothing brought a bigger smile to his face than seeing them together. He found contentment in life’s simple pleasures: camping, spending time outdoors, listening to his favourite Beatles song, Let It Be, and sharing time with the people he loved. His kindness was genuine and freely given, and he left every person he met feeling a little more welcome than before.

Bill is lovingly remembered by his sons James, Justin (Sara-Lynn), and Jesse, together with Michael and their families; his cherished grandchildren Alexis, Jillian, Vincent, Emma, Claire, Charlotte, Josh, and Jayce; his extended family throughout Canada, the Netherlands, and around the world; and the many friends and relatives whose lives were enriched by his friendship and his dedication to preserving their shared history.

The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, caregivers, family members, and friends whose compassion, kindness, and exceptional care brought comfort to Bill throughout his illness.

In honour of Bill’s lifelong commitment to preserving family history, the family warmly invites those whose lives he touched to share their memories, stories, and photographs. By sharing those memories, we can continue the work that meant so much to him: preserving the stories of those we love so they will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society through Bill’s Memorial Fundraising Page with the Canadian Cancer Society.

Forever loved. Forever remembered.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

STROMME, Paul…

With heavy hearts the family of Paul Stromme announce his passing on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at the age of 65. Predeceased by his parents Allan (1991) and Caroline (2016) Stromme. Loving brother “Duda” of Doug Stromme (Kelly) and Caroline Giura (Mike). Proud uncle of Michael, Tyler (Joanna), Ryan (Olivia) and Chris. Dear friend of Mary Ann Thorsen. Paul will also be greatly missed by many lifelong friends. Paul will always be remembered as a fun-loving, light-hearted man who brought laughter and smiles wherever he went. A true sports enthusiast, he loved both playing and watching the games he was passionate about, especially hockey and baseball. While he faithfully cheered for the Toronto Blue Jays, his heart truly belonged to the Chicago Blackhawks. He was also a lifelong admirer of legendary Blackhawks goaltender Tony Esposito, whose remarkable career left a lasting impression on him. To everyone who knew and loved Paul, may we raise a glass in his honour, and another to the Chicago Blackhawks, as we cheer them on through the next season, knowing Paul will be with us in spirit. Paul’s family wishes to extend a warm thank you to his final care team, Dr. Hamilton, Dr. Stack, Nurse Cordelia and the many PSW’s. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held in the fall. In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul’s memory may be made to Saint Elizabeth Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

JACOBI, Bryce…

Peacefully in London on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Bryce Jacobi passed away in his 82nd year. Beloved husband of Barb (Nagle) Jacobi for 52 years. Loving and cherished father of Lisa Pratico and her husband Patrick and Chris Jacobi and his wife Mirian. Dear grandfather of Yaiza (Colin), Katelyn (Mitch), Kerra (Walter), Alicia (Josh) and Hailey. Survived by his sister-in-law Shirley and brothers-in-law Barry Browning, Mike Nagle (Delrae) and Dennis Shepperd. Predeceased by his brothers Harry Jacobi and John Jacobi (June), sisters-in-law Joan Browning and Janet Shepperd, and brother-in-law Jim Nagle. Missed by his nieces and nephews from the Jacobi Clan. He was an avid sports enthusiast who loved watching all kinds of sports. Cremation has taken place. The Celebration of Bryce’s life will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 2:00-5:00 pm at the Moose Lodge, 35 Charterhouse Crescent, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Heart & Stroke Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Thompson, Sharla Heather…

With breaking hearts we share that our beloved Sharla passed away unexpectedly on 10 July 2026, aged 51. She is profoundly missed by her devoted husband Michael and her talented children Sid and Oliver; her parents Peter and Marlene Lee; her sister Sherry Lee and her brother-in-law Gregory Lee Newsome; so many family members and more treasured friends than we can count.

Her gorgeous smile always at the ready, Sharla was one of the most beautiful, loving, thoughtful, wise and caring people anyone could wish to know. A graduate of Western University (B.A. English literature) and the University of Guelph (RVT), her career comprised 24 years of work in animal care, culminating in her role as Supervisor of Biology Animal Facilities at Western University. In her personal life she enjoyed fireside evenings, game nights, swimming and cottage vacations with her cherished family. An avid reader with a gift for words, an accomplished musician, and a maker and giver of endless gifts, Sharla was known for her warmth, wit, and imagination, but especially for her seemingly boundless kindness. Her capacity for sympathy and understanding was unmatched, as were her steadfast love and tender support for her husband and children; yet her generosity also reached far into her community. Modest, gracious, and without presumption, Sharla gave her love, time, energy, resources and compassionate insight without stinting. All these words fail to capture even a glimpse of the lovely person we have lost. We are shattered; even so, we are unfathomably richer as a family for having shared in her extraordinary life. She will always live, unforgotten, in our hearts.

Family members and friends extend their heartfelt thanks to the caring staff in the ICU at University Hospital, London.

In Sharla’s memory, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Centre, or a charity of your choice.

A gathering to celebrate Sharla’s life will take place on the afternoon of Wednesday, 29 July 2026 at Quiet Earth Farm, 1681 Hunt Rd, Dorchester, ON N0L 1G6. Friends, relatives, and well-wishers are warmly invited to stop by between 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

WRIGHT, Nicholas…

Peacefully with his family by his side at Victoria Hospital, London, Nicholas Wright passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at the age of 23.

Beloved son of Rachel (nee Denis) and William Wright. Cherished brother of Emilie Wright. Loving grandson of Veronique Denis. Adored nephew of Joelle, Stephen and Ken (Karmen). Dear cousin of Cassandra, Jessica and Amy. Predeceased by his grandparents Benoit Denis and Yvonne and Brian Wright. Nick will also be missed by his extended family members, many friends and members of the community and his best four-legged friend Charlie.

Nicholas touched the lives of many people throughout his life. He was cared for by many dedicated nurses and support workers who became an important part of his journey, especially his teachers throughout his education. With the support of his community, Nicholas enjoyed many activities that brought him great happiness, including sailing, swimming, bowling, baseball and painting. He embraced each experience with enthusiasm and joy. Nicholas will be remembered for his positive spirit, warm smile, and the happiness he shared with everyone around him. He had a remarkable way of putting a smile on the faces of others. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved and knew him.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Nicholas’ Life will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 1:00-4:00 pm at The Spare Room (separate entrance to the left of Fleetway), 720 Proudfoot Lane, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the PHSS Foundation, 101-620 Colborne Street, London, ON N6B 3R9. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Macdonald, Alex…

Peacefully passed away at Elgin Manor, St. Thomas, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the age of 80. Dear husband of Cathy (Neil) Macdonald for 61 years. Loving dad of Trevor (Nancy) Macdonald and Michelle Macdonald. Cherished Grandpa “Poppy” of Tyler, Jillian, Chelsea, Joe and by his six great-grandchildren. Also missed by his siblings Faith, Dale, Heather, Ruth Ann, Glen, predeceased by his sister Glenna, by his parents Ruth and Alex and his grandson Christian. Alex proudly served as a member of the St. Thomas Firefighters in the 1960s. A respected local businessman, he owned and operated three Tempo Variety convenience stores in St. Thomas. Alex had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and cherished time spent hunting and fishing. Young at heart, he was known for his playful spirit, warm smile, and love of singing with the church choir. The family sincerely thanks the staff for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Alex throughout his journey. Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy donations may be made to Compassion Canada and Muskoka Woods. Online condolences accepted at www.cremationlondon.com

In Loving Memory of Richard “Rick” Wayne Hewitt

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard “Rick” Wayne Hewitt, who passed away peacefully at the age of 74 on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital.

One of the things that brought Rick the greatest joy was being on the water. A lifelong boating enthusiast, he found peace and happiness cruising across the lakes, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether spending a day on the boat or simply enjoying the outdoors, the water was where he felt most at home.

Rick will be remembered in many different ways by the family and friends who knew and loved him. To Rick, his friends were family, and he treasured every laugh, conversation, and adventure they shared. The memories they created together will remain a lasting source of comfort for those who knew him.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Josh (Kelley) and Chelsey (Brock); his cherished grandchildren, Scarlett, Pheonix, Parker, Zeppelin, Makayla, and Banx; his sister Judy and brother William; as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

As we remember Rick, we celebrate the life he lived, the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures, and the memories he leaves behind. May he rest in peace, and may those who knew and loved him find comfort in the moments they shared with him.

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 1:00-3:00 pm at the Kanagio Yacht Club, 285 Carlow Road, Port Stanley.

For those wishing to make a donation in memory of Rick, please consider the Canadian Liver Foundation.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

The family of Kerrie Ann Hudson is deeply saddened to announce her sudden passing on June 28, 2026 at the age of 52.

Predeceased by her parents, Wallace and Gayle, and her brother in law Dennis Menean.  Greatly loved by her sisters Kimberley Knee, Cynthia (Paul) Grigg and Christine Menean.  Proud Aunt to Nicholas, Emily “Elijah”, Ella, Claiya, Elyse and Lily.  Dear companion to Paul Noel.  Former partner to Ted Graham.  She will also be missed by her extended family in Ontario and the East Coast and a large circle of friends.

Kerrie was happiest outside, whether it be working on her yard or hiking along local trails.  She could gladly spend the day lounging on the beach, canoeing down a river or digging up clams with her cousin in Nova Scotia.

Kerrie loved animals and she leaves behind two fur babies that were dear to her heart, Chloe and Charlie.

As per Kerrie’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held at a later date.

Donations in memory of Kerrie may be made to the London Humane Society.