Obituaries & Condolences

In Loving Memory of Deb Shanahan

Deb Shanahan (Grant), born December 20, 1957, in Brockville, Ontario, passed away peacefully at University Hospital in London, Ontario, at 7:30 a.m. on December 30, 2025.

Deb was predeceased by her father, James Grant, and her beloved grandmother, Wilma Blomsma. She leaves behind a family who loved her deeply and will carry her memory forward with pride and tenderness.  Deb is survived by her devoted husband, Mike Shanahan of London; her mother, Joyce Grant of Brockville; her children, Nicholas (Nick) Shanahan of London, and Daniel (Dan) Leonard and his wife, Meagan Leonard,
whom Deb lovingly insisted on calling her daughter, of Prescott, Ontario. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Anna, Lyliah, and Eve Leonard, who brought her endless joy.
Deb is also survived by her brothers, Bill Grant and Dave Grant; her sister-in-law, Margret Grant of Mallorytown, Ontario;  nieces Katie Grant of Mallorytown and Leanne of Kalso, BC; and nephew Alan of Elkford, British Columbia. She is further survived by her mother-in-law, Theresa Shanahan of Prescott, whom Deb affectionately referred to as her second mother;
her brothers-in-law, Joe Shanahan and Pat Shanahan (and Marg) of Prescott; her sister-in-law, Marie Scott (and Tom); and her niece, Shannon (and Ryan) MacDonald.

Deb was a gentle, loving soul whose warmth could be felt the moment she entered a room.
She had a natural gift for conversation and a deep love for creativity and crafting, always finding joy in making things beautiful and meaningful. Deb treasured her memories, holding them close and sharing her favorite stories again and again, not from repetition, but from love. Each memory was a thread in the fabric of who she was, and she delighted in reliving them with those she cared for.

Family and friends were the center of Deb’s world. She cherished time spent together, whether filled with laughter or quiet moments. She had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued, and her presence brought comfort and light to so many lives.

Deb held on to every memory with care. Now, as we say goodbye, it is our turn to hold on to her memory, to speak her name, to share her stories, and to keep her spirit alive through love.

Service details will be announced at a later date. A celebration of Deb’s life will take place at Roselawn Memorial Gardens and Irvine Memorial Chapel in June 2026.

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

Family and friends are invited to share their memories, photographs, and love
as we honor a life that was deeply lived and deeply loved.

Dave Bannister (John David Bannister)

Dave Bannister died suddenly on Friday December 26, 2025, at his residence in London, Ontario. Dave passed away at the age of 68. His death was unexpected and his family is deeply shocked and saddened. 

Beloved father of Kaytlin Bolos (Waseem Bolos). Beloved grandfather of Rome and Zen Bolos. Brother of Sally MacRae and Patti Cox. Predeceased by his father John William Bannister and his mother Betty Lasenby. 

Anyone who knew Dave knew that he was a kind and caring man who was a brilliant and talented craftsman. Dave’s family and friends will miss him immensely. 

Cremation has taken place. As per Dave’s wishes, there will not be a funeral. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

MCINTOSH, Sean…

Surrounded by his family and friends at University Hospital, London, on Sunday, December 28, 2025, Sean McIntosh at the age of 57 years old. Cherished husband of Sherri McDougall for 16 years. Beloved father of Kyle McIntosh and stepfather of Malorie O’Rourke (Adam) and Shaylee Riley. Loving brother of Shane McIntosh (Nicole). Dear uncle of Kayla, Payton, Kendra and Parker. Sean will be missed by his extended family and his work family at White Oaks Mall. Predeceased by his parents Betty Ann and Al McIntosh.

Sean found joy in following his favourite teams: the New England Patriots, Blue Jays, Maple Leafs, and Washington Capitals. He dearly loved his two dogs, Cooper and Pippa and had a lifelong love of 1980s music. Sean enjoyed his travels to Mexico with Sherri and family.

Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex (519-858-2467). Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Stoyanowsk, Brenda

Brenda Marie Alice Stoyanowski (née Tait), of London, Ontario, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at University Hospital in London, Ontario, at the age of 75.

Brenda was born on November 16, 1950, in Simcoe, Ontario, to John and Pauline Tait. She later made her home in London, Ontario, where she was a devoted member of St. Justin Parish.

Brenda will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Kerri-Ann Stoyanowski, Kenni Stoyanowski, and Kim Draper (Troy Draper). She was sister to Gary Tait (Charlene), and a proud and deeply loved grandmother to eight grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.

She was predeceased by her parents, John and Pauline Tait, and by her beloved daughter, Pauline Stoyanowski (Lance Campbell).

Brenda had a deep love for her family and treasured time spent camping and knitting, hobbies that reflected her warmth, patience, and caring spirit.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff of the Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital in London for their care and support during Brenda’s final days.

Brenda will be remembered for her humour, devotion to family, and the strength she showed throughout her life. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Forever in our hearts.

Cremation London & Middlesex (519-858-2467) entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Zahra Tondkar Balaei,

Peacefully passed away at the age of 78 years, on December 23, 2025.

Zahra was a devoted mother, grandmother, nurse, and friend whose life was defined by compassion, courage, and deep care for those around her. She dedicated her life to nurturing others both professionally and personally, and her kindness touched everyone who knew her.

She was the beloved mother of Mojgan, Mohammad (Saritha), and Mojdeh, and a proud grandmother to Darius (Fatima), Kian, Lyla, Maalik, Aydin, Elina, Amir, and Oriek. Nothing brought Zahra more joy than her grandchildren. She celebrated their milestones with immense pride, from school achievements to athletic accomplishments, and dreams pursued. Her encouragement and presence for her grandchildren were unwavering, never missing an opportunity for a short call, visit or warm smile.

As a nurse, Zahra was committed to doing her job with integrity, always advocating for patient-centered care. Her education and career were a central part of who she was. She approached life and death with grace, honesty, and meaningful conversation, leaving loved-ones with memories that will be cherished forever. She was a steady source of love, pride, and reassurance, and her absence will be deeply felt.

Zahra’s legacy lives on through the family she loved so fiercely. She will be remembered always for her warmth, her wisdom, and her boundless love.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to London Food Bank (https://www.londonfoodbank.ca/donate).

DODD, Marilyn

After a full life enjoyed with her husband Water Dodd for 57 years, family and friends, Marilyn passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, in her 94th year.

Marilyn was born in Stratford, Ontario where she spent her early years before moving to London, Ontario.

Marilyn is survived by her daughter Stephanie Carson and her husband Brian Stead, son Joel Dodd and wife Nancy. She was predeceased by her husband Walter (2011) and daughter Marilee (2003).

Bringing much happiness to her life were her 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Her nieces Anne Chamberlain and Susan Moore were especially close to her as well as her cousin Lois Seltzer (2023).

A private interment will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London at a later date. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex (519-858-2467). Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

WHITE, Thomas “Tom” Ross

In London, Ontario on Wednesday, November 26th, 2025, Thomas Ross White passed away peacefully with the comfort of family at the age of 81.

Lifelong and beloved eternal companion of Jennifer. Devoted father of Pamela Thomas (Randall Thomas), Ian White (Rebecca Griffin), Adam White (Danielle Cunningham), Graham White (Jackie Thierjung-White), and Vanessa White (Richard Knight). Treasured grandfather of Nathanael, Aaron, Noah, Ethan, Sariah, Oliver, Emma, Matthew, and Gracelyn. Cherished brother of Bill White (Barbara White) and pre-deceased by his adored siblings James White (Diane White) and Donna Brunskill (Richard Brunskill). He will be missed by his nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Raised in the town of Batawa, Ontario, Tom blessed the world with his love for his family and pets. His easy laugh and unwavering integrity provided solace and inspiration to all who met him.

The family requests that donations in his memory be sent to the Canadian Cancer Society. Cremation has taken place and he will later be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Elmwood Cemetery, Corbyville. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationlondon.com

LETHABY, Michael…

We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Michael Lethaby, of London, on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at the age of 75.

Michael was predeceased by his parents Gladys (nee Partridge) and Lawrence “Bert” Lethaby. Dear brother of Carol Lee (the late Larry), the late Kathryn Lee (Gary), Debbie Jackson (Paul) and the late Steven Lethaby. Michael will be deeply missed by his daughter Jessica Hanna, her two daughters Rylie and Fiona and his niece April.

Michael enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially reading a good book and listening to his favourite music. He devoted his career to teaching and later social work with at risk youth, taking immense pride in knowing he made a meaningful difference in the lives of the kids he supported. During his time at Western University, he loved wrestling and staying active. Michael was deeply involved in his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Larry’s lives, offering steady support as they navigated the challenges that come with aging.

Cremation has taken place and at Michael’s request, no service will be held. Donations in Michael’s memory may be made to Humana Community Services (formerly Anago and WAYS mental health support), 371 Princess Avenue, London, ON N6B 2A7 or Community Living London, 190 Adelaide Street South, London, ON N5Z 3L1. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Jeffery David Craig

It is with immense sadness the family of Jeffery David Craig wishes to announce his passing suddenly at his home on Thursday, November 13th at the young age of 57. He was the Beloved son of Hilda Craig and David Craig (wife Jan). Cherished step- brother of Elyse (Chris) and Sarah (Jake). Jeff leaves behind many broken-hearted aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. After graduating Fanshawe Jeff was excited to begin his media career at the CFPL and was still dedicated to that team now called Bell Media. His dedication spanned 30 years. Jeff was best known for his quick and entertaining wit as well as being a committed Maple Leafs fan. Cremation has taken place. As per Jeff’s wishes there will be no service to follow. Sympathy may be expressed to a charity of your choice or the Heart and Stroke foundation. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Sofia Renaud (née Scurk)

Passed away peacefully in the presence of her family on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at 85 years of age. Beloved wife of 60 years to Norm (deceased Feb 1, 2024). Proud mother to Tracey, Anne Marie and Marc Derikx, Kari and Paul Seguin. Loving Grandma to Alex (Jenna), Drew (Will) and Nik (Lauren) Derikx, Luca Sovran and Xavier Seguin. She leaves behind many adored nieces and nephews.

While in high school she met her soulmate Norm. They married in 1963 and raised their 3 daughters in Riverside. As a young woman Sofia found her calling and completed her nursing education and training at Hotel Dieu hospital in 1961. She went on to have a fulfilling career working as a surgical nurse at IODE and Met hospitals, retiring after 36 years. Her community of nurses became her lifelong friends and extended family.

She stayed active in retirement, travelling the world with Norm, painting, playing golf with her friends, gardening, participating in her book club, cooking and enjoying time with friends and family, at home and away. She loved music, and for special occasions would play the piano for her family.

If you desire, memorial donations to the Alzheimer Society or the Ontario Heart & Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family.

A service will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 11:00am in the Mausoleum at Heavenly Rest Cemetery, 5005 Howard Ave, LaSalle ON 519-969-4836, with interment to follow.

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