Obituaries & Condolences

GURMIN, Jim…

Peacefully in London, on Friday, June 5, 2026, Jim Gurmin passed away at the age of 74. Cherished husband of Peggy Martin. Loving Papa of Nishena. Beloved brother of Debbie Folkard, Jayne Gurmin, Angie Herron and by his many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Dear uncle of Josh, Jaclyn, Shane, Leslie, Stuart and Adrian. Predeceased by his sister Vicki.

Jim had a love for the outdoors, enjoying fishing, hunting, hiking, and golf. He also enjoyed baseball and cherished time with family and friends. He found special joy in the seasons. Jim was a talented artist whose creativity was reflected in his artwork and wood carvings.

Jim was a committed member of AA and enjoyed the program as written and tried to stay within the steps, principles and guidelines. He donated his time to help the people in the program.

The family would like to thank the staff at Elmwood Long Term Care Facility for their care, kindness and compassion.

Cremation has taken place.

GRAY, Robert……

It is with profound sadness, the family of Robert Ronald Gray announces his death. Bob died on May 29th 2026 due to complications from a prolonged hospital stay. Bob was in his 84th year and was preceded in death by his parents, Marty (1986) and Helen (2008), and brother, Glen (2004). He is survived by his beloved wife Donna, and loving children Robert, Lisa, and Brooks, son and daughters-in-law Jon, Vanessa, and Paula, sister-in-law Kathie, and grandchildren, Paige, Owen, Spencer and Marcus. Bob is also mourned by Richard (Rick) Smith who has been a cherished friend since elementary school. Bob was born August 26, 1942 in London, Ontario and spent his formative years in Byron. He attended Byron Northview and Beal Secondary School. He met his love Donna in 1959, and they later wed in 1964 and started out married life in Komoka, later settling in London. They had three children, Robert (‘65), Lisa (‘66) and Brooks (‘75). In his earliest working days, Bob worked for Supertest, the Toronto Star, and Simpsons Contracting followed by a number of years as a sales rep for Crossley-Karastan. He eventually landed in car sales where he enjoyed a very successful career working for Airport Nissan, Westgate Honda, Toyotatown and Competition Toyota, retiring from there in 2007. Bob had many loyal devoted customers over the years. In fact, some bought many cars from him, changing car brands when Bob changed dealerships. Like his mother Helen, Bob was a faithful crossword puzzler enjoying the London Free Press daily puzzle or puzzle books provided by thoughtful friend Cindy. He continued to enjoy a puzzle or two with his daughter Lisa in his last days at the hospital. Bob loved to ski and enjoyed regular excursions to Chicopee and Caledon ski clubs among many others. There were many ski trips further afield with friends and family to Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, NY, various resorts in BC, as well as the ski trips Bob and Donna took to visit dear friends Rob and Del in Lake Tahoe. In summer, Bob enjoyed golfing, but perhaps his favourite pastime was going for a “little spin” on his Honda Shadow motorcycle or his BMW convertible. He’d often head out to watch the deer in the countryside at dusk, to Port Stanley (“to get the cheap gas”) or through his hometown of Byron, passing a few key spots along the way in hopes of waving to some of his friends, old and new. Lunch with “the boys” on Friday had been a long-held ritual with weekly rotations between the Runt Club, Tasting Room and Tiger Jacks, where Dorothy was a favourite server. Bob had been a long term member of the London City Press club until its closing in 2013, making many friends and acquaintances. In recent years, he regularly enjoyed a hotdog at the Delaware Legion and of course, loved chatting with pals over his 1/2 pint of beer and “chewies” at his favourite neighbourhood haunt, “The Wort” aka The Wortley Roadhouse. Bob spent many summers with his wife Donna visiting Rob and Paula in Calgary and Crows Nest Pass, Alberta. Lots of time was also spent over the years with family at Port Franks, Ipperwash, Kettle Point (at Uncle Glennie’s beloved trailer) and more recently, cottaging in Port Stanley with Brooks, Vanessa, Spencer and Marcus. Bob and Donna covered a lot of ground with numerous vacations over the years to Florida, Chicago, Bar Harbor, Finger Lakes, Cuba, Hawaii, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Portugal and New Zealand. Bob always had a friendly smile for everyone. He didn’t care what you did, where you were from, or how you dressed – only that you were a decent person. He would always refer to the people he cared about by saying, “He’s a good guy (or gal)”. He never talked about himself, instead always asking others about themselves and how they were doing. When meeting someone new, he was eager to break the ice with a joke or play on words. This continued until his last days, putting a smile on the face of nurses and hospital staff with one-liners and puns. Thanks to all the hard-working nurses, PSWs and physiotherapists who provided excellent care to Bob. A private family memorial has taken place. A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held in August. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Dying with Dignity Canada. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.cremationlondon.com

FISHER, John…

With deep sadness and loving memories, the family of John William Fisher announces his passing on Monday, May 25, 2026 at 82 years old.

Linda, his partner of 26 years, was by his side as he left the world a better place to join the angels.

He is predeceased by his parents John (1978) and Margaret (2004) his brothers-in-law Rollie (2017) and Donald (2022) and his nephew Dirck (2023).

He leaves behind Linda and her children Gary and Sommer (Louis) and grandchildren Nicholas, Joseph and Samantha; his son Cameron (Bev) and grandchildren Jaymee (Jordan) and Brent (Alyssa); his daughter Pam (Dave) and his daughter Dawn and granddaughters Juliana (John) and Lucinda.

Known as their hero, he will be greatly missed by his sisters Debbie and Kerrie, nephew Michael (Heather) and their children Owen and Lucas; niece Leann (Richard) and their children Kayla and Kyle,

John had a very big heart. He would help anyone including the cashiers at the grocery store. He always let them know that he was the best bagger because he had done it for 60 years. He loved spending time with his friends and neighbors. Every Tuesday morning he joined the guys from Ray Cullen’s for their Breakfast Club meeting where they tried to solve all of the world’s problems and to discuss where to get the best deals. He enjoyed volunteering with Meals on Wheels driving clients to their various appointments.

He listened to all types of music. He loved going to concerts and would spend many hours making CDs and playlists for special people in his life and for the many long road trips he would often take throughout North America. There were weekly golf games and annual ski trips with a small group of close friends. He attended many PGA Golf Tournaments including the British Open. He played hockey all of his life. Until recently, he looked forward to suiting up for the weekly games organized by London Senior Hockey.

For nearly 40 years, he worked for Shur-Fast Fasteners until he retired as Regional Sales Manager in 2004.

Family and friends are invited to attend his Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 28th from 12-2pm at the Earl Nichols Arena – 799 Homeview Road, London, Ontario.

Donations can be made to Meals on Wheels London.

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

MCNAUGHT: Randy William…

Passed away in the hospital on Friday, May 29, 2026, with his wife by his side, after a long, hard fought journey with cancer. Randy leaves behind his wife, Linda, son Dave and daughter Katie. His grandchildren and family will remember him fondly.

A proud retired member of the Ontario Provincial Police and the Golden Helmets Precision Motorcycle Riding Team, an even more proud family man. Randy was an avid rule follower, Tim Horton’s coffee fan, motorcycle rider, and long story teller.

As per Randy’s request cremation has taken place.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the London Health Sciences Foundation.

BATTERSBY, Patricia Ann…

January 8, 1944 – May 21, 2026

Passed away May 21, 2026 peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London. She was 82 years of age. Patricia retired from Co-operators Insurance.

Predeceased by parents, Alphonsus and Ena Hanlon; her sisters, Ruby, Peggy, and Mary; brothers, David and Blaise; and daughter, Kimberly Ann.

Left to mourn her passing is her husband of nearly 60 years, Thomas “Buddy”; 3 grandchildren, Olivia, Katelyn (Jalen) and Johnathon (Quinn); and 4 great-grandchildren, Heather, Eleanor, Silas and Loreali. She will also be deeply missed by a large circle of other relatives and friends.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be planned for a future date for family and close friends at her family home.

In Pat’s memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

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

COOPER-BARNES, Dianne…

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dianne Lynn Cooper-Barnes in her 60th year, Dianne passed away peacefully at University Hospital in London May 12, 2026, with her loving husband by her side.

Born in 1965, in Dr.McMillian’s residence in Tweed Ontario , the only daughter of the late Thomas and Margaret Mastervick. Dianne was the beloved wife of Stu Barnes and a devoted mother to Patricia Cooper-Barkley, Tyler and Sarah Cooper (Matthew Kneller). She was also a “second mother” to Sarah , Ashley and Morgan Barnes (Josh Whittier) As a proud Nana, she will be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Tristan, Faith, Isabella and her beloved hound dog Wiley Girl.

Dianne was a woman of incredible strength and intellect. Whether she was caring for patients in nursing, navigating the world of real estate, or thriving in her final career as a paralegal, she approached everything with kindness, compassion, incredible drive and her wicked sense of humor.

She leaves behind a legacy of love strongly felt by her family and dearest friends. We invite you to join us in remembering a remarkable woman at a Celebration of her Life to be announced at a later date.

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

JACOBS, Dion…

Gone too soon on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Victoria Hospital in London, Dion passed away at 45 years of age.

He will be missed by his beloved partner and caregiver Michelle Alvarez. Loving Father to Lucian, Conrad and Tanika, along with their Mother Nicole Davies. Also Bonus Father to Isabella and Amilya.

He was cherished by his family and friends from South Africa and in Canada.

Dion is now reunited in Heaven with his parents, Andre and Rene, who have passed years ago and have gone to be with our Lord.

Dion became a Master Scuba Diver Instructor at the age of 19 and was able to tour the islands in the Caribbean and also places like Cyprus. Shortly after Dion became a certified Plumber. In 2012 he immigrated with his family from South Africa to Canada. Dion enjoyed listening to house music and would stay up late watching paranormal videos and podcasts about conspiracy theories. He was fascinated with the unknown. He was the life of the party and could literally strike up a conversation with anyone. He had a big heart and would take the shirt off his back and give it to someone in need. He enjoyed cooking but would take almost 3 hours to make a meal so he only did it on rare occasions. Dion enjoyed fishing and poker too.

Dion recently returned to his faith and decided to be baptized in March 2025. Dion was also passionate about organ donation as his own daughter Tanika has been the recipient of organs twice.

In his honour, please sign your donor cards.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at a later date in June 2026. Any questions, please contact Michelle Alvarez.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Dion may be made to Sick Kids, Toronto.

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

Lindsay, Gail

May 13, 1941 – April 28, 2026

Gail Lindsay, 84, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, at University Hospital, London, Ontario surrounded by loved ones. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Bud Cino who had passed away in February of this year. Gail is survived by her children, Kim Lindsay, Kathryn Dobson (nee Lindsay), Michael Cino (Chemine O’Hara) and Debra Curtis (nee Cino). She will be missed by her grandchildren August Timmins, Dylan Timmins, Jazmin Fleming (nee Cino), Josh Cino, Devin Curtis and Austin Curtis as well as her dear friends Carol Thompson and Lorrie and Wayne Brown.

Gail ran a successful property management business for many years and sat as President on the London Property Management Association’s Board of Directors.  She was passionate about art and loved to paint and sketch.  Every Christmas, her husband Bud would faithfully hang her large holiday paintings outside to spread Christmas cheer with family, friends and neighbours. Gail will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Gail may be made to the Parkinson’s Society. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

LAURAINE MERLE SNELL

July 6, 1938 – April 10, 2026

Lauraine was born in Harrietsville, Ontario, the sixth of seven children to Ross (1900–1968) and Ada (Adelaide, 1908–1995) Dafoe. She grew up surrounded by siblings—Don, Hazel, Les, Ila, and Maxine—and spent seven cherished years as the baby of the family before her younger sister Janice arrived. Her father affectionately called his youngest children “little toads,” and for Lauraine, the nickname “Toady” stayed with her throughout her life—a small reminder of the love and laughter that shaped her earliest years.

Lauraine dedicated her entire 38-year career to London Life, where she worked as an administrator. Her commitment and warmth earned her many lasting friendships, despite long commutes—and even the occasional snowmobile ride just to meet her carpool. Those who knew her from those years remember not just her work ethic, but her spirit and sense of fun.

On May 23, 1958, Lauraine met the love of her life, Lloyd Snell. They were married in Dorchester, Ontario, and built a life together rooted in love, partnership, and simple joys. They settled first in London, and later in Port Franks, where Lauraine embraced acreage living. Lloyd would cut the grass while Lauraine took care of the trimming—a partnership that reflected the rhythm of their life together. Their home was always open, often filled with friends dropping by on weekends. When they needed a moment to themselves, Lauraine would pack a picnic, and the two would escape by boat for a quiet day on the lake—her clever way of finding peace amid a full and happy life. “Laze Daze” was framed and hung on the wall, bringing a smile to her face every time she saw it.

Family was at the heart of everything Lauraine cherished. The bond she shared with her sisters was especially meaningful.  Connections formed over a lifetime that no one else could truly replicate. She spoke often and fondly of time spent with Maxine and the Redman clan, and with Hazel and her family. Her love of travel took her west to visit loved ones, to warm winters in Florida, to Christmas in Puerto Vallarta, to road trips in a converted bus, and even on an Alaskan cruise. Wherever she went, there was laughter, dancing, playing games and even a beverage or two.

That same love of life brought Lauraine to ANAF Legion 393 in London, where she found another circle of close friends—including Christine, Adam, Mary, and Tim—working together behind the bar and creating memories that would be retold for years. It was also where Lauraine and her partner Bill “Buster” Bryan spent many enjoyable evenings with friends.  This special relationship later in life rekindled an earlier family friendship which Kelli remembers fondly.  Lauraine and Kelli still had pictures of their great fishing adventures, especially the day that Lauraine caught every fish in the lake except the last one that Bill was finally able to catch.  This relationship brought joy, companionship, and adventure—from winters in the south to summers at the cottage. Together, they created a chapter filled with warmth, laughter, and shared experiences that meant so much to both.

A devastating diagnosis came in 2023 and for Lauriane it brought about significant changes, none of which she was looking forward to.  When the inevitable “bucket list” conversation happened, without hesitation this 86-year-old lady said that she had always wanted to go gliding.  So, we did.  We spent an amazing day with Lauraine gliding over the countryside of her home community.  Her sister, Ila was able to see her as she went over her house.  The adventures never stopped.

When the time came, we chose Glendale Crossing as her final home.  Lauraine came—reluctantly, as she would say “kicking and screaming”—to Glendale Crossing. It was not the path she had envisioned, but in true Lauraine fashion, she chose to make the best of it. With her card shuffler in hand, she found joy in bingo, cards, and especially Euchre, and built meaningful friendships. Her world became her tablemates, the Westminster community, and the many staff who cared for her. In them, she found companionship, comfort, and belonging. They shared conversations, laughter, quiet moments and understanding looks that needed no words at all.

The highlight of her time at Glendale Crossing was a visit from her very special great granddaughter Johanna and her dad, Shawn.  Johanna was such a bright light in her life.  Watching her grow, seeing her smile and knowing she was the best part of our family brought Lauraine so much joy and happiness.  It was a beautiful time for Lauraine to share her treasures with Johanna and the stories behind each one.  Johanna brought homemade blueberry muffins to share with Nana which started a wonder tradition of blueberry muffins and coffee for breakfast. When Johanna’s blueberry muffins ran out, Tim’s became the second choice for Paul and Lauraine to share each morning, until her last.

In her final days, Lauraine reflected with deep gratitude on the care she received. In moments when she needed help, she was met with patience and dignity. In moments of vulnerability, she was given comfort, warmth, and laughter. The compassion and respect shown to her made a profound difference in her life. As she expressed so simply and beautifully: “Because of them, I have felt safe, seen and cared for.”

Lauraine leaves behind a circle of family and friends who will miss her deeply—those nearby and those far away, all of whom she appreciated and cherished. She is survived by her sisters Hazel Perrier and Ila Stevenson; Tammy and Rick Bade; her grandsons Jamie Bade and Shawn Robinson (Jennifer); and her beloved great-granddaughter Johanna Robinson, along with many nieces and nephews.

Lauraine’s life was one of resilience, humour, connection, and love. She found joy in the people around her, in shared moments both big and small, and in creating a sense of home wherever she was. She will be remembered for her warmth, her wit, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life.  When she closed her eyes, the last words she heard was that she was loved and her favourite nephew playing “Someone to Watch Over Me.”

There will be a Celebration of Lauraine’s life Monday, May 4^th,2026 at 1:30 pm. at Glendale Crossing, 3030 Singleton Ave., London, Ontario, N6L 0B6.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex. Online condolences shared at www.amgfh.com

Douglas Robert Cebryk, known to family and friends as Doug, passed away on April 26, 2026, in London,Ontario, following a stroke.  He was born on November 4,1949, in Myrnam, Alberta, and lived a life marked by intelligence, devotion, and later as a steadfast caregiver to his wife.

Doug was a beloved husband to Marg, and their life together was one of enduring companionship and deep affection.  He was predeceased by his parents, Stanley and Anita, whose love and guidance helped shape the man he became.  He was also cherished by his family, who will remember him with great love.

Doug is lovingly remembered by his younger brother, Gord Cebryk and Gord’s wife, Donna, along with their three children; Lucas, Josh (Tash), and Jacob. He also has an older brother, Ronald (Gail) Cebryk. A special niece of Doug and Marg, Rhonda White, along with her husband, Dan, and their children; Cohen and Reagan, were a constant source of support and joy over the years.

Doug earned an engineering degree from the University of Alberta, a milestone that reflected both his determination and his natural aptitude. He went on to build a distinguished career as an engineer, a profession that took him to many locations around the world.  His work allowed him to see much of the world and to contribute his knowledge and skill in many different settings.  He approached his career with professionalism and dedication, earning the respect of colleagues and the admiration of those who worked alongside him.

Those who knew Doug will remember him as an intelligent and strong-willed man.  His intelligence was matched by a warm heart, and he brought steadiness and kindness to the relationships that mattered most to him.  He was a man who later in life learned to enjoy the simple and important things, especially the company of his wife, his family, and the many people who were fortunate enough to know him.

His family and friends will hold close the many memories they shared with him, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched. Doug’s passing leaves a deep sadness, but also a profound sense of gratitude for the years they were given to know him.  He will be dearly missed and forever remembered with love.

Cremation has taken place.  If you would like to honour Doug, consider a donation to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or Parkinson’s Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com