Obituaries & Condolences

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

Stoyanowski, 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

In Loving Memory of Julie Ann Poirier

August 5, 1966 – November 3, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Julie Ann Poirier at her home on November 3, 2025. Julie, a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, quietly and quickly left this world, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, compassion, and kindness. Although her passing was a surprise to her family, Julie had known her time was coming and chose to keep this part of her life private, as she did with many things.

Julie was predeceased by her parents, Joe and Jeannette Poirier. She is survived by her two brothers, Joe Poirier and Jim Poirier, and her sister, Jennifer Molloy. She was a proud aunt to Jim’s children, Michelle and Andrew, as well as Jennifer’s children, Seamus and Keira. Julie also leaves behind her great-niece, Elowyn, the daughter of Andrew. Julie will be dearly missed by her long-time friend Zarina and Zarina’s family.

Julie was a talented cake decorator whose creations brought joy to countless celebrations. She had the ability to transform icing into works of art, and her cakes became the centerpiece of many occasions. Julie had a deep love for animals of all kinds and found beauty in flowers and nature. She also had a special place in her heart for the underdog, supporting causes such as World Vision, where she made a lasting impact by adopting children in need.

Julie will be remembered by those who had the privilege of working with her, including the PSWs and RNs who cared for her. She was especially close to her PSW, Jamie.

Julie will also be remembered for her generosity, especially during the holidays, and for family outings to the Western Fair, Rib Fest, and Balloon Fest. Her family will always cherish memories of her “money cake” creations that celebrated special occasions.

Although Julie’s time in this world was far too short, her impact on all who knew her will endure. We take comfort knowing she is now at peace, surrounded by the beauty she loved so much.

Julie was a private person and requested no services. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to World Vision, the Humane Society London & Middlesex, or London Health Sciences Foundation in her name, continuing her legacy of caring for the underdog.

Julie, you will be missed but never forgotten. May you rest in peace.

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