Obituaries & Condolences

HARRIS, Richard William…

Richard “Rick” Harris passed away peacefully Monday, November 9, 2026 in London, Ontario.

Rick will be remembered for his strong work ethic and “Hollywood Harris” style. He poured himself into work that he loved, spending over 20 years at Labatt in London, then Hershey’s in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, and later retiring from Molson Brewing in Toronto.

A sports car enthusiast, he spent time racing and was an active member of the London Corvette Club. He also loved spending time on the water, fishing and boating on Rice Lake with his family and taking fishing trips with his nephews and work friends. Mexican vacations, sunny days by a pool or lake with a cocktail, and spoiling his granddaughters were also among his favourite ways to enjoy life. He loved hockey and rarely missed a game, especially when the Oilers, Leafs, or Penguins were playing.

Proud father of Rhea (Harris) Johnson and her husband Scott, (Buck) and Lindsay (Harris) Meldrum and her husband Jeff. Proud Grampa of Alice, Whitney, Evie, Lola, and Noelle. Brother of Judy Bossuyt (Mike Bossuyt), and predeceased by his parents, William and Betty (Bishop) Harris, and his brothers, Mike and Bill Harris.

The family would like to extend thanks to the staff of the Forest Glen Wing, third floor, at Dearness Home for the compassion, kindness, and care they provided to Rick during his time there.

Rick lived his life unapologetically, with a strong work ethic, a spontaneous spirit, and always generous with treats for his granddaughters. He had a “give it a shot” attitude and a true jack-of-all-trades mentality. There seemed to be little he wouldn’t attempt to fix, build, or figure out. Grampa Ricky will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him. In keeping with Rick’s wishes, the family will honour his life privately.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex. Online condolences can be made at www.cremationlondon.com.

DeLEARY, Karen Joy…

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Karen Joy DeLeary, who passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2026, surrounded by her children.

Karen was a loving mother, cherished grandmother, daughter, sister and aunt who meant so much to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Donny DeLeary; her five children, Deanna (Dave) Davies, Danielle “Nellie” Van Acker (Mike Webb), Dawn “Nikki” Timmermans, Donald “Duck” DeLeary, Dana DeLeary; and her twelve treasured grandchildren.

She is also lovingly remembered by her siblings, Donald McGahan, Debbie Brookes, Mike McGahan, Shawn McGahan and Tim McGahan, and their spouses, along with many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Karen was predeceased by her parents, Donald “Red” and Mary McGahan, and her beloved sister, Jane Hutchison.

Karen had a special gift for making ordinary moments extraordinary, especially when it came to family celebrations and the holidays. She loved decorating and took great pride in making every occasion feel warm, welcoming and memorable. Her children will forever treasure the moments spent together playing cards, singing, dancing and celebrating as a family. These traditions, and the love woven into each of them, will be carried on for generations.

Karen was also a wonderfully talented and creative woman with a true passion for art. She loved drawing and painting and had an artistic spirit that was uniquely her own. She found happiness in music, dancing, horror movies and a good game of bingo. She enjoyed being part of bowling and dart leagues and playing baseball. Whether through her creativity, her interests or her unmistakable personality, Karen had a way of leaving her own special mark on the people around her.

Above all else, Karen’s greatest love was her family. She will be remembered for the love she gave, the laughter she shared, her creativity, her unique spirit and the countless memories she created with those closest to her.

Her absence leaves an immeasurable space in the hearts of those who loved her, but her memory will forever be a part of the lives she touched.

Those wishing to make a donation in honour of Karen may do so to The Salvation Army at centreofhope.ca

Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

KELLAM, David Carman…

Died peacefully on November 6, 2026 in London, Ontario.

David will be deeply missed by Sharon, his beloved wife of 58 years; his cherished children, Guinevere and Michelle (Julien); and his loving grandchildren, Morgana and Lorelei.

He will be fondly remembered by his sisters, Anne (Roger), Carol (Luigi), Joan (Keith), and Rilla (Malcolm), and his brother, James.

Predeceased by his loving parents, Rankin and Elizabeth.

David will be forever loved and remembered by his family and his many friends.

Cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be held at Innerkip Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations in David’s memory can be made to Parkwood Palliative Care Program or to the Thames Valley Trail Association.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex. Online condolences can be made at www.cremationlondon.com.

MULCASTER, Jennifer Lynn…
Jennifer Lynn Mulcaster passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026 in her 48th year. Mother of Autumn, Alethia, Johnny and Terra. Jennifer will also be missed by her parents Debbie and Carl. Predeceased by her brother Adam (2013).
Cremation has taken place. A private family celebration of life to take place at a later date. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

 LEE, Maria (Mary) Theresia (nee Deck)…

LEE, Maria (Mary) Theresia (nee Deck) passed away peacefully at London University Hospital on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the age of 87. She was the beloved wife of the late Paul Lee. She was predeceased by her parents Sebastian Deck and Luise (Kastner), and dear sisters of Hildegard Ball (Otto), Irmgard Rimmelspacher (Richard), and Rose D’Addazio (Ottavio), nephew Andrew (Andy) Monig (Carolyn) of Peterborough, and niece Sharla Thompson (Michael) of London, and Tanya Wisnowski, Sarnia.

She was a loving mother to her daughter Mary Muller (Michael), cherished grandmother to Brandon Dube (Josephine), Kyle Dube (Danielle), and Shayah Reed (Dan), and a beloved great-grandmother to Sawyer, Carmelo, Jackson, and Ryder.

Mary will be sadly missed by her brother-in-law Peter Lee (Marlene), and sister-in-law Sharon Wisnowski (Leo), any many nieces and nephews in both her native country Germany and Canada, including Peter (Butch) Monig of Peterborough, Greg Wisnowski of London, and Michael Wisnowski of Nelson BC,, and niece Sherry Lee (Greg Newsome) of Toronto.

Mary and Paul were loved and respected by friends too numerous to mention in the Weslemkoon Lake/Gilmour/Coe Hill, Ontario area where they lived for over 40 years. The warm and loving times of fun, fishing, and laughter, shared with family and friends, will endure in our memories.

Special thanks to her brother-in-law Peter for caring for her, honouring his promise to his brother Paul.

 Special thanks and gratitude is also extended to:

The marvellous professional, yet deeply personal care of Dr C Anaedu of Whitehills Medical Clinic. She is the very best General Practitioner one could ever hope for.

The wonderful, caring, and loving staff of Fox Hollow Retirement Residence, where Mary spent her last few years.

The doctors and staff on the 9th Floor at London University Hospital for their tender and compassionate care during her recent illness.

Father Dan Vere who faithfully visited Mary and ministered to her spiritual needs in her last days.

In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice in Mary’s memory would be deeply appreciated.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends will take place at a future date.

MANLEY, Gary…

After a tenacious battle with a devastating illness and an exhausting journey through the healthcare system, Gary passed away on October 18, 2026 with his heartbroken family at his side. Gary was the loving husband of Cathy, the cherished father of Chris (Gillian) and Jennifer, and the dear grandfather of Hannah and Liam. He will be deeply missed by his sisters Marlene Hale (Kevin) and Michelle Wherrett (Chris), his brother-in-law Peter Collins (Bonnie), as well as his nephews and extended family. Gary was predeceased by his parents Stephen (2008) and Olive (2021), and by his canine companions Sasha (2002) and Schatzie (2017).

Gary discovered a love of work at an early age. From his first job collecting worms with his best friends for a neighbourhood tackle shop while in elementary school to his roles as a parking lot attendant in downtown London and a night shift operator at a CNR station that he held during high school, Gary always enjoyed keeping busy. He later settled into a fulfilling career as a supervisor at the Ford St. Thomas Assembly Plant where he made many lifelong friends.

A natural organizer and a skilled inventor, there was no process that couldn’t be streamlined for the better, no problem that was without a solution and no part that couldn’t be fabricated with the materials at hand, no matter how challenging the task. Helping others was a special joy for Gary. He always gave generously of his time and abilities.

Many who knew Gary would be surprised to learn that he was very shy in his youth. In adulthood, he blossomed into an outgoing and incredibly sociable person who genuinely enjoyed the company of others. Whether leading his favourite current affairs discussion group, attending the regular gatherings he organized for the Ford Retirees’ Breakfast Club, or striking up a conversation with anyone he encountered, Gary always enjoyed a spirited discussion of the topics of the day.

Gary’s resourcefulness, generosity and love of conversation will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A private family service will be held.

If you would like to make a donation in Gary’s memory, please consider the Terry Fox Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, the London Humane Society or a charity of your choice.

Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences accepted at www.cremationlondon.com

HIGGINS, Peter David…

With great sadness, we announce the sudden passing of our beloved brother, Peter David Higgins, on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at the age of 73.

Peter was born in Sarnia, Ontario, in 1953 to William and June Higgins. He lived his teen and adult years in London, Ontario.

Peter had a lifelong love of music and came of age during the era of rock and roll. A true hippie to the end. Known in his neighborhood as “Stereo Pete” and “Hippie Pete”, he carried that free spirit with him throughout his life. He was also an avid sports fan, especially devoted to cheering on the London Knights.

Peter will always be remembered as a kind, caring, and loving brother, uncle, and friend.

Peter was predeceased by his father, William Higgins; his mother, June Higgins; and his older brother, Bill Higgins.

He is lovingly remembered by his brother, sisters, and dear friends: Judy (Joe), Laurie (Paul), Stephen (Tracy), Susan (Kurt), Rosaleen (late Bill), Kevin (Nadine), and Jack and Sandra Lunney, as well as by his 19 nieces and nephews.

Though gone too soon, we like to think Peter is now in heaven, rocking on with Ozzy and Jim, enjoying the greatest concert of all time.

Peter’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences accepted at www.cremationlondon.com

MASON… Elizabeth

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Elizabeth (Betty) Mason on  Saturday, October 10^th 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in 1937 in Kilwinning, Scotland to Robert and Elizabeth Thomson, she dedicated her life to her family, always offering a listening ear, a warm embrace and unconditional love. Betty wasn’t just a devoted mother but a protector, who’s bond will only grow stronger as the family remembers, reminisce and tell stories of her generous heart and unwavering love.

She is survived by her children Dawn, Randy and  Darryl, sister Ina and brother Robert and many loved grandchildren and great grandchildren. Betty was predeceased by her beloved husband Darryl, in 2014, a heartbreaking loss that she carried heavily in her heart throughout the years. She was also predeceased by her loving parents Lizzy and Robert, her brother Alex, and her sisters Annie and Jean. Though their absence was deeply felt, the love and memories they shared remained forever in her heart. We find comfort in knowing that Betty is now reunited with her beloved Darryl and her loved ones who went before her.

The family has decided to have a celebration of life for both their parents at a later date and in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Windsor Essex Humane Society in her memory.

Her legacy of kindness and devotion to her family will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences accepted at www.cremationlondon.com

WOTTON, Vivian Winnifred…

Vivian Winnifred Wotton passed away peacefully at the age of 103, Monday, October 12, 2026 at her home in London.

Loving mother of Rexanne Barrett of London. Dear grandmother of Christopher Barrett of London Great grandmother to Michael Barrett.
Predeceased by her grandson Terry and by her brothers and sisters.

Donations in Vivian’s memory may be made to Unity of London & Victory Legion Branch 317 London.

Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences accepted at www.cremationlondon.com

MOORE, Betty….

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Bronwyn Moore, née Lumb, in her 95th year on August 20, 2026 in London, Ontario, surrounded by her family.

Born in West Yorkshire, England, in 1931, Betty lived a life defined by a love of learning and a deep commitment to caring for others. She dedicated her career to nursing, beginning as a community health nurse before moving on to various roles at London Health Sciences Centre. While raising her family, she also nurtured her many talents and interests, cultivating beautiful gardens, knitting and crocheting garments with meticulous attention to detail, and travelling the world. Never one to stop learning, Betty earned an additional degree in anthropology after retiring, reflecting her enduring curiosity about the world.

Above all, Betty will be remembered for her zest for life and her love of fun and adventure. Even in her 70s, she embraced adventure wholeheartedly, plunging into the Arctic waters off Nunavut.

Betty, aka Grandi, is survived by her 3 children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was the last of her generation.

Her memory will live on in those whose lives she touched.