Obituaries & Condolences

SMITH, Luella …

Peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Meadow Park Long Term Care, London, Luella passed into the presence of the Lord in her 91st year. Beloved wife of the late Rev. Roland Smith (1995). Loving mother of David (Cathy) Smith, Faith (Mark) Cuthbert, and Daryl (Kristen) Smith. Adored grandmother of 12 and great-grandma of 22. Dear sister of Ruth Wolfe and predeceased by her sister Loraine Brown. She will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends. Luella was a dedicated missionary in Jamaica and Australia. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Summerside Community Church, London on Friday, June 13, 2025. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Luella may be made to ABWE Canada or Summerside Community Church, London. The family wishes to extend a thank you to the exceptional staff at Meadow Park Long Term Care for their loving support. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com
Isaiah 40:31

SIMARD, Monique…

Monique Simard (nee Martin), 74, of Strathroy, ON passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025. She was so dearly loved by everyone that was fortunate to meet her. Monique was predeceased by her husband Marc Simard Sr. (2021). She will be deeply missed by her only son Marc (Karen), her 2 grandsons Brandon and Steven and many sisters and brothers plus all of the Simard family. Cremation has taken place and a private family celebration will take place. In memory of Monique, 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

LANE, Steven “Steve”…

Peacefully at University Hospital, London, on Friday, March 28, 2025, Steven Lane passed away in his 68th year. Predeceased by his parents Howden and Victoria Lane. Survived by his sister Martha Lane and brothers Ian Lane (Johanna) and Peter (Janice). Also survived by his nephews Kurtis Lane and Konnor Lane. Cremation has taken place and no service will be held. Those who wish to make a donation in Steve’s memory may do so to a charity of their choosing. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

BAXTER, Jo-Anne

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jo-Anne Baxter, who passed away peacefully on March 31st, 2025, the day after her 77th birthday. Jo-Anne will be sadly missed by her sister, brother, brother-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place. A private memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467, entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

STONEBURG, Dorothy “Dot”…

It is with great sadness that we announce that Dorothy Jean Stoneburg (nee. Crosby), also know as Dot, age 96, passed away peacefully at OakCrossing Long Term Care Home, London.

Originally from Nova Scotia, Dorothy moved to Ontario as a young adult where she met her late husband Edsel. Dorothy had a love of many things including Bingo, animals, tea, hosting international students, and her family and friends. She also had a flare for cooking international cuisine and canning. Dorothy had a great sense of humour. She was an extremely kind, selfless, and welcoming woman.
Dorothy was predeceased by all of her siblings (Alfred, Charlie, Ross, Ralph, Mae, and Isabell), and will be missed by her daughters Cathy McMurchy and Judy Beck, and grandchildren Theresa Ferguson (Paul Ferguson), Amber Jeffries (Tyler Jeffries), Kinsey Olsen (Shane Olsen), and Ryan Beck (MacKenzie Beck) and great-grandchildren (Soleil, Sorren, Sadie, Daphne, and Edsel). She will be missed by many family, friends, and students that she welcomed in to her home.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Springbank Gardens Community Centre, 205 Wonderland Road South, London, Ontario on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 pm. Please RSVP to either Cathy McMurchy or Judy Beck. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SALT Animal Rescue (by etransfer to saltrescuelondon@gmail.com) or the Alzheimers Society Southwest Partners. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

WRIGHT, Nancy…

Nancy Wright (nee McLean) passed away suddenly on March 21, 2025 at London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Hospital, leaving behind her husband Ron. Loving sister of Gary McLean (Lucy), Paul McLean (Freda), Brenda Shiell (Ken), Jeanette Starr (Doug), and Charlene Hakkers (Charlie). Sister-in-law to Bill Wright of Hespeler. Predeceased by her parents Al and Jean McLean. Caring Stepmother to Andrew, Nicole and Lindsay. Step Grandmother (Granny Tinny) to many children. Nancy will be missed by many nieces and nephews.

Nancy was born in Fergus, ON, on January 26, 1957. She lived a life of Caring and Sharing to the people she loved. Nancy’s decision to donate her organs upon passing saved the lives of 4 people and bettered the conditions of 6 others. Nancy’s love and caring showed up countless times in her life. Always helpful and kind to people. Giving advice to others and never wanting anything in return. Many thanks to the doctors and nurses at the CCTC unit in building D of the London Health Sciences Centre-Victoria Hospital. They provided Nancy with the utmost care in making sure she was comfortable. They guided Ron in his time of need. Nancy has been cremated. In respect to Nancy’s wishes there will be no funeral. Nancy will be missed by many. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

HEALY, Patricia Anne “Patty” …

Patricia Anne Healy passed away suddenly in London, Ontario on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in her 71st year. Beloved mother of Mike (Michelle) of London. Cherished Granny of Jayden Ethier, Kaitlyn Healy, Ethan Healy, and Echo Healy. Dear sister of Arthur (Faith) Pigeon and Mary-Lee (Gus) Bennett. Predeceased by her brother Larry Pigeon. She will also be missed by her nieces and nephew.

Patricia, “Patty,” wore many hats throughout her 70 years. Born in Stratford, Ontario where she remained for the first 23 years. She left to pursue a Medical Lab technician’s residency in both London, and Chatham, then employed at Sunnybrook Hospital, Trauma unit in Toronto, Ontario.

Patty found love, bought a home, and was married in 1979, moving to the Lake Huron area, near the town of Forest, Ontario.  She was employed by Sarnia/Blue Water Health, until giving birth to her beloved son. Upon her return to work, she was hired at Lambton College as a Lecturer in the medical health field program until its discontinuance. Patti then found gainful employment within the town of Forest’s educational environment, as a practicing educational assistant at St. John Fisher. Her presence was mostly noted through the town of Forest’s Canada Post. She became the friendly postmaster, making memorable relationships, and connections within the town until retirement in 2017.

After retirement, Patty found joy and happiness through travels, spending time with her family and grandchildren, reminiscing with close friends, and in volunteering and engaging with the local community. She gave her time, love, and effort to the Forest Circles program, at the local Community Health Centre. Throughout her well lived life she created lasting memories, loving family moments, and amazing friendships. She was a pillar of light in both our family and her local community.

The family would like to thank her best friend Becky Johnson for the lasting unforgettable friendship, time, effort, and comfort given. The family is also thankful to the dedicated staff at both University Hospital (London), and Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital for their compassionate care of Patty.

Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Patricia’s wishes, there will be no funeral services, or celebrations of life. Donations in memory of Patty may be made to Forest “Circles” Program located at North Lambton Community Health Centre (Forest, Ontario) www.nlchc.com Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

ORGAN, Harold…

Harold Organ passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London on Sunday, March 23, 2025 in his 89th year. Beloved husband for over 52 years to the late Gloria Organ (nee Cameron) (2016). Loving father of Timothy Organ (Michelene Sutherland), and Matthew Organ. Proud grandfather of Sarah Graham (Kurtis) and Liam Organ (Brooke Northey). Adored great-grandfather of Eleanor and Ophelia Graham. Cremation has taken place and the family has celebrated Harold’s life privately. Interment to take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Harold’s memory 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

Van Lieshout, Barry

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barry Eugene Van Lieshout in his sleep at his home on March 7, 2025 in his 58th year.

Lovingly remembered by his two brothers Leo (Noni) and John (Michelle). Son of the late Rozina (Rose) and the late Michael Van Lieshout.

Predeceased by brothers Paul (May 2009) and Michael (November 2009). Also survived by many family members and close friends.

Barry loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman. He was at home and in tune with nature when he was outside. Barry was a proud permanent resident of London, Ontario. He was hardworking, very personable and enjoyed socializing with his buddies. Barry’s remains were cremated on March 14, 2025. A celebration of life will be held later this year. A tree will be planted as a living memorial to Barry Van Lieshout.  Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

ALWASITI, Qais…

Dr. Qais Alwasiti passed away peacefully in London, Ontario with his son by his side on Friday, March 14th, 2025 in his 74th year. Beloved father of Ali (Kaylie MacIntosh) Alwasiti. Dear brother of Nidhal (Rick) and Ali.

Qais was a man who appreciated the finer things in life and shared them generously with those around him. He had a deep love for photography, a keen interest in business improvement, and a habit of staying informed through the news. In his younger years, he was passionate about cars, and later in life, he enjoyed traveling, fine food, watches, and his time at the hunting club. He was known for always having a box of chocolates to share, especially with his nurses, who adored him for his kindness. Above all, Qais was a devoted family man who cherished his time with Ali, Kaylie and their dog Abee. He never hesitated to support and spoil those he cared for. He will be dearly missed.

The family would like to thank the staff at Glendale Crossing and Victoria Hospital for their compassionate care of Qais.
Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or funeral services. Donations in memory of Qais may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, Diabetes Canada or the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com