Obituaries & Condolences

ELDRIDGE, Donna…

Donna Eldridge passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London on Saturday, October 5, 2024 in her 66th year. Daughter of Lillian Eldridge. Survived by her siblings Arthur Eldridge (Laura), David Eldridge (Beth) and Sandra Ford (Joe). Fondly remembered by her nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her father Karl Eldridge, her brother Edward Eldridge and her long-time partner Ron Rawson. Cremation has taken place and a private inurnment will take place at a later date at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London. In Donna’s memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 500-55 ST. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON M4V 2Y7. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

The Fallen Limb – Author Unknown
A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says,
“Grieve not for me.
Remember the best times,
the laughter, the song.
The good life I lived
while I was strong.
Continue my heritage,
I’m counting on you.
Keep smiling and surely
the sun will shine through.
My mind is at ease,
my soul is at rest.
Remembering all,
how I truly was blessed.
Continue traditions,
no matter how small.
Go on with your life,
don’t worry about falls.
I miss you all dearly,
so keep up your chin.
Until the day comes
we’re together again.”

Gurney, Gwendolyn “Gwen”…

Peacefully at home, surrounded by family, Gwendolyn Gurney passed away on Friday, October 4, 2024 in her 86th year. Beloved wife of the late Charles Gurney (1984) and long-time companion of the late Walter Beijer (2017). Loving mother of Dave Gurney and his partner Lisa Barr and Steve Gurney. Dear sister of Mervin Elgie and his wife Jan. Dearly missed by her nephews Matt Elgie and his wife Irene and Rob Elgie. Gwen was a devoted and cherished mother who loved unconditionally. She was a long-time employee of Cummins Optical, and enjoyed tending to her gardens when she retired. Gwen was happiest at her family cottage in Port Franks, making many trips with the kids and later with Walter joining them. Cremation has taken place, and a private family interment will take place in Woodland Cemetery, London. In memory of Gwen, donations may be made to Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre (formerly London Regional Cancer Program), c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

WESTON, James “Jim”…

James “Jim” Weston passed away peacefully at the Parkwood Hospital Veterans Care Unit in London, Ontario, on Saturday, September 28th, 2024, in his 80th year. Jim will be dearly missed by his wife Bea of 53 years. Loving father of Glenda and Andrew Weston. Cherished grandfather of Saraann. Jim will also be missed by his family out West and down in The Maritimes.

Jim served proudly in the Royal Canadian Navy for 25 years, with part of his career being a UN Peacekeeper. He was posted in a number of cities and countries around the world. One of his postings was in Germany, where Jim, Bea and their children, lived for 3 years. He was passionate about collecting stamps and loved spending time with his Labradoodle, Coco, often treating her to Timbits. Jim will be remembered for his service, hobbies, and the love he had for those around him.

The family would like to thank all the nurses and staff on the 3rd floor Kent-Essex unit at Parkwood Hospital for always going above and beyond in their exceptional care and compassion towards Jim.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to visitation on Saturday, October 5th, 2024 from 10am-11am at Parish of Holy Trinity St. Stephens Memorial, 727 Southdale Road East, London, ON. Service to follow at 11am in the chapel. Private family interment to take place at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Jim may be made to the Parkwood’s Veterans Care Program, https://www.sjhc.london.on.ca/ways-to-give/donate-now (please ensure you select the veterans care program when donating online). Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

MAJERNIK, Jill (nee Peuvergne)

December 20, 1974 – September 26, 2024

It’s Impossible to describe all the ways Jill affected the lives of those around her. Her husband Scott describes her as having a shining light around her. She really did light up a room. She was as beautiful as she was loud, as she was kind, as she was bossy, as she was intelligent and as she was understanding. But her most admirable quality was her ability to make you feel special. She always had a kind word and a smidgen of advice whether you wanted it or not. She made you really think.

She could have excelled in any occupation from physician, to lawyer, to social worker to teacher. But she settled on ultrasound as a second career after first practicing as a registered massage therapist. She touched the lives of thousands of patients by being the best at her job and going above and beyond by always asking hard questions and never taking no for an answer. She had an almost unquenchable thirst for knowledge and researched endlessly for treatments for her cancer. She was a tireless advocate for herself and likely pissed off more than one doctor.

Her tenacity extended into her home life and the best word to describe her as a mother was fierce. She was a never ending champion for her daughters, at school and within the healthcare system. Her love and encouragement for them knew no bounds.

As a wife she was patient and passionate

As a sister she was generous to a fault

As an aunt she was doting and encouraging

As a daughter she was caring and supportive

As a friend she was endlessly kind

She leaves us all heartbroken and selfishly wanting just one more day to hear her signature laugh and see that huge smile and feel her arms around us for one last hug.  Left to mourn are her parents Helen Timmerman(née Johnson) and Jean-Michel Peuvergne, step mother Jean Preston and stepfather John Timmerman, her husband Scott, their daughter’s Ava(19) and Jocee(17) and their dog Gamma, her sister Renée and her husband Todd, their children Jack, Tristan and Jillian. Jill will also be sadly missed by her in-laws Ed and Marlene Majernik and her brothers-in-law Christopher, Craig and his wife Erin, their children Emma, Madie and Sophie.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a celebration of life at a later date to be announced.  Donations to the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides in Jill’s memory would be appreciated: https://www.dogguides.com/donate/online-donations/. Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

GEORGE, Susan Edith…

Passed peacefully surrounded by her family and close friends on September 12, 2024, at her residence in London in her 80th year. Predeceased by her parents Ernie & Lou. Reunited with the love of her life her late husband Ron George (Nov 1, 2021). Cherished mother of Jenny (Justin) Rensby and Sean (Cher) Hickey. Dear grandma to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Loving sister of Mary-Jo (the late Stan) Hamelin, Beverly (the late Fred) Merritt, Geraldine (the late Clare) Richardson, the late John (Shultzie)Lonnee. Dear sister-in-law of Sandy (Rick) Heinbuck. Survived by many nieces and nephews. She will be missed by many extended family members and friends. Susan joyfully dances once again with her beloved husband; Ronner, reunited and whole with his legs restored, as they embrace the eternal rhythm of their love. Her boundless zest for life and her infectious smile, which could brighten even the darkest days, will be cherished in our hearts forever. Her loss is immense but so is the love left behind. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the hospital, nurses, and care team for their compassionate care. A special thank you goes to Sarah Pero, a dear and close friend, whose unwavering support was deeply appreciated during this time. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Please contact the family for details. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

WALCH (STEWART), Karla Elizabeth

Peacefully on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Victoria Hospital, London, Karla passed away in her 54th year. Beloved daughter of Michael. Loving sister of Heather Stanley. Dear aunt of Sarah, Josh (Bethany) and Leah Stanley. Karla will be missed by the Bogart-Wallace, Hyde, and Winter families. She will be dearly remembered by her lifelong friend Becky Strong. Karla will be dearly missed by her feline companion Ollie. Predeceased by her mother Jean, stepmother Betty and brother-in-law Steve.
With a heart as vibrant as the melodies she cherished and a spirit as lively as the gaming worlds she explored, Karla brought joy and camaraderie to both the online gaming community and those who shared her love for music.
Cremation has taken place. A private family interment will take place at a later date. Karla’s family would like to express their appreciation and gratefulness to the staff at LHSC University Hospital (ER and 2nd floor) and Victoria Hospital (Cancer Clinic and Acute Medicine) for their care of Karla over the last several weeks.
Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467 entrusted with
As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Karla may be made to The Friends of Algonquin Park.
arrangements. Online condolences left at www.cremationlondon.com

Sears, Dr. Gerald Murray

June 17, 1942 – August 16, 2024

Dr. Gerry Sears, DDS, passed away peacefully on August 16^, 2024, at his home in Elmwood Place, London, Ontario.  Born in Arvida Quebec, Gerry studied dentistry at Dalhousie University before relocating to London, Ontario where he dedicated over 40 years to his dentistry practice while raising his loving family.  Father to Leigh, Brad (Heather), Jordan (Chelsea) and Jess (John); grandfather to Lennon, Hayden, Ella and Sonny, husband to Jocelyn, and brother to Diane and Bobby. He is predeceased by his parents Joan and Horace Sears.

Gerry is remembered by many friends and family as an avid golfer, photographer, a lover of music, and a master of engaging storytelling, heartfelt toasts and witty quips.

The family gives special thanks to the wonderful, caring staff at Extendicare Elmwood Place in London, who took exemplary care of Gerry during his years there.

No funeral service is planned; internment will take place at a later date.  An informal celebration of life will take place at The Wortley Roadhouse, 190 Wortley Rd, London, on Thursday, August 22^nd from 12pm – 3pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy consider a donation in Gerry’s name to one of his favourite charities:  Cystic Fibrosis Canada, or Boys and Girls Club of London. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com.

MORRISON, Jerry…

Jerry Morrison, 81, of London, Ontario died August 18, 2024 at University Hospital. Jerry was born on April 5, 1943 to Joseph and Rosalind (née Boudreau) Morrison of Fletcher, Ontario.

Jerry will be missed by his partner Gail Adams. He was the proud father of Bradley (Sarah) Morrison of Strathroy, Patrick (Alison) Morrison of Sarnia, and Michelle (Todd) Brady of Merlin. Loving Pépé to Lexi, Wesley, Monica (Patrick); Anna, Lauren; Evan (Lisa), and Bailey (Sean).

Jerry worked at Siemans, owned a bicycle shop in Chatham, and then built and managed a bed and breakfast at Rondeau before retiring to winters in Florida and summers on the golf course.

Jerry and his family celebrated his 48 years of sobriety with Alcoholics Anonymous. His family is grateful to his AA community, Earls Court Village, and the staff at University Hospital for their support and care.

Cremation has taken place. A funeral service will be held at Trinity United Church, 76 Doulton St (at Hale), London, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at 5:00 pm. Reception and visitation to follow. A private interment will be held at a later date. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Jacklin, Carol…

Carol Marie Jacklin passed away peacefully in London, Ontario, on August 14th, 2024 in her 76th year. Carol will be dearly missed by her children Barry (Laura) Jacklin of Wroxeter, Tammy (Dale) Williamson of Walkerton and Trevor (Carry) Jacklin of Deseronto. Loving grandmother of Jordan, Deston, Daunte, Brody (Brittany), Taylor, Shaelee (Tyson), and Abby (Will). Proud great grandmother of Tinley, Braxson, Tavin, and Braelynne. Dearly missed by her friend ED Doherty. She will also be missed by her siblings, nieces, nephews and other extended family. She is predeceased by her beloved son Wayne.

Carol was a warm and spirited soul whose life was filled with simple joys and creative passions. An avid sewer, she found great pleasure in making quilts alongside her beloved sister, Bonnie, crafting beautiful pieces that told the story of their close bond. Carol’s love for her dog, Hayley, was unmatched, and they shared countless cherished moments together. She treasured her time at her trailer, where she could unwind with a cold beer and tomato juice by the campfire, enjoying the serenity of her surroundings. Her vibrant spirit and the love she spread will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Cremation has taken place. Per Carol’s wishes, no formal service will take place. A graveside service will be held at Listowel Cemetery,875 Davidson Ave N, Listowel, on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 11:00 am. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Carol may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

MERRIFIELD, Paul

It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Paul George Heenan Merrifield on July 29, 2024. Devoted husband and soulmate of Sophie and amazing father to Natalie and her husband Kyle Mayer. Incredible Grandpa to Hailey, who was the light of his life.

Paul was a graduate of The Niagara School of Horticulture where many friendships provided wonderful memories.

He worked for the London Parks Dept. for over 30 years, most of which he was Lead Hand at Springbank Park. He loved his work and those he worked with.

In retirement, Paul became involved with Community Theatre both on stage and off stage. We are so proud of his many awards won during those days. His crazy sense of humor led him to standup comedy, but his real passion was writing. Paul was a playwright and author.

He was predeceased by his parents Doreen and George Merrifield. Survived by his brothers Scott (Pat) and Brock (Heather) and several nieces and a nephew.

If you had the good fortune to have met Paul, then you were enriched by deep conversations or you laughed till it hurt! Just know that he loved all of you! Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements, 519-858-2467. Online shared at www.cremationlondon.com