Obituaries & Condolences

Margot Sauer | (1927-2024)

Margot Sauer of London, Ontario passed away surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the age of 97. Beloved wife of the late Roland Sauer (2018) and dearly loved mother of the late Roswitha Sauer, Virginia Clark (the late Bill), Roland Sauer (Marilyn), Frank Sauer, the late Rikada Sauer, the late Angelica Sauer, Anita Sauer (Wendy), Sonja Dibsdale (Dan), Harold Sauer (Jackie) and Rob Sauer (Tiffany). Cherished Oma to 16 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren (and growing).

Born Margot Bethke, her journey began on December 8, 1927 in Recklinghausen, Germany. At the age of 2 she spent her formative years growing up in an orphanage. Her days were spent amongst other children, sparking her famed motherly nature at an early age. She met the love of her life, Rolf Sauer in West Germany and they were married on New Year’s Eve, in 1948.

In 1953 (with three children in tow), they immigrated to Canada, landing in Quebec with only a few of their possessions, ready to start a new chapter. They first settled in Strathroy, then Melbourne before finally finding their forever home in London, Ontario. Life was not easy. They felt the joy of welcoming seven more children, and profound loss with the passing of Rose, Ricky and Angela.

In her later years, Margot could be found tending to their award-winning garden or knitting Christmas stockings, mittens and slippers for everyone in the family. She loved baking cookies and cakes – Oma’s famous apple cake was the family’s favorite.

Throughout her 97 years, Margot truly lived every moment – experiencing all the ups and downs of life. Her resilience and grit was rivalled only by her sweet and caring nature; an admirable combination that made Margot uniquely special. To know her was to be inspired by her.

The list of things she passed on to her family is endless, whether it be their competitive love of soccer, memories of time spent in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, that Jägermeister is for celebrating and to help settle your stomach, a love of gardening, or how to make sausage and sauerkraut just like Oma’s. But above all else, what she will be remembered for is the love and care she had for her family.

This Christmas, like every year, the Sauer family’s mantles will don personalized stockings for everyone in the family, each knitted with love by Margot.

An incredible life, well-lived. An incredible Wife, Mother, Oma and Great-Oma, well-loved and remembered.

Auf Wiedersehen, ich liebe dich.

BREAULT, Elke…

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elke I. Breault, beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister, and friend, who left us peacefully on December 12th, 2024, at the age of 75.

Born in February of 1949, in Recklinghausen, Germany. Elke lived a life marked by kindness, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her family and friends. She was a nurturing mother and grandmother, always there with a listening ear, a warm embrace, a homemade meal, and freshly baked treats. As a wife, she shared a deep and enduring love with her spouse, Peter, building a life together filled with laughter, adventures, and cherished memories.

Elke was also a beloved sister and friend, known for her generosity, loyalty, and support. She liked nothing more than sharing laughs, good music, a pot of coffee, and having those she loved most all together. Elke is well known for her chocolate cake, cheesecake and potato salad. She made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us.

Elke is survived by her husband Peter, her children, Michelle Moore (Breault) and Patrick Breault of London. Loving grandmother of Amanda Robinson-Kenner (Nickalas), Emily Moore, Kaitlyn Breault, Jordan Breault, and Morgan Breault. Devoted sister to Dieter Buerger (Mary).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1.

We find comfort in knowing that her love and memories will live on in all of us and that she is now at peace.

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

LUCE, Eric…

It is with great sadness that we announce that Eric Warren Luce, age 86, has passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024 surrounded by his family. Beloved husband and best friend of 61 years to the late Anna Luce (2023). His memory will be cherished by his daughter Kiersten (Matt Weichel), his son Jamie (Elizabeth Coleman), his grandchildren Sean and Nicole Aye, and Nico Luce. Eric is also survived by his brother David Luce (Belle-Anne). He is predeceased by his loving parents Wilber and Barbara Luce (née Warren), and his brothers Barry and Garry. Eric graduated from Beal Secondary School in commercial art. He worked in the advertising department at London Life in his early career. He then attended University of Western Ontario receiving a B.A. in 1963 and became an art teacher. Eric was a gifted watercolour artist. His paintings reflect the love he had of light, colour and nature. Eric’s other love was cars. He and Anna could often be seen buzzing around their summer home in Southampton in a sports car. The family would like to thank everyone who has given their love and support to Eric over the years including the wonderful staff and residents at Chelsey Park Nursing Home. As an expression of sympathy, donations could be made to the Southampton Arts Centre. A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2025. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

LIVINGSTONE, Graham..

Graham Livingstone of London, passed away peacefully at home in his 79th year. Loving husband of the late Heather Livingstone (October 2024) for 52 years. Graham will be dearly missed by his children Loranne (Jonathan), Erin (Phillip) and Darren (Beckie). Beloved grandfather of Brandon (Cristal), Matthew (Yanelli), Brett (Brandy), Ethan, Madelyne, Jake, Cole, and Will. He will also be missed by his great grandchildren Brady, Eladia, Vincent and Jacob. Survived by his brother Jim (Jane). Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

McDOWELL, KEVIN…

Kevin McDowell passed away peacefully in London, Ontario on Saturday, November 30th, 2024 at 51 years old. Beloved partner of Paula Samuels. Loving father of Timothy McDowell. Dear son of Audrey McDowell. Loved brother of Felicia, Dunstan Junior, Ewan, Othneil and Maurice. Also missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. A cherished friend to Kirk and Kevin from childhood. Valued friendship to neighbor, former coworkers from Cable and Wireless, classmates from Kingston College High School and the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. Sincere friendship to other friends from Jamaica who reside in Canada, US and Jamaica. Also a dedicated team player to current colleagues in Canada.

Kevin, a dedicated Technical Consultant who worked for several years at Asigra, was known for his technical expertise and passion for life. He loved basketball, likes playing chess, enjoyed playing cricket, and cherished his time playing soccer in Jamaica. An avid traveler, Kevin’s outspoken and friendly nature endeared him to many. Always willing to lend a hand, he will be remembered for his generosity and warm spirit.

The family would like to thank the staff at Victoria Hospital and their staff for their care and compassion of Kevin, especially Dr. Winquist and Dr. Malik. Also thanks to Dr. Goldie for all of his support of Kevin over the years.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at The Power of Faith Ministries International, 6337 SW. 27th St., Miramar FL 33023, USA on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 1PM. Repass follows at the Church Hall.

BRYCE, David “Dusty”…

David “Dusty” Bryce passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice, London, Ontario on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 in his 88th year. Loving husband of the late Donna Marie Bryce for 60 years. Loving father of Dean Bryce and Dawn Bryce-Smith (Mike). Predeceased by his son Dale Bryce (Joanna), and his siblings Bernice and Wes. Dear grandfather to Ryli, Kodi, David and Jeremy. Survived by his sister Elverta.

Dusty was a beloved member of the community who cherished the outdoors, especially camping with his family. He had a passion for puzzles and was deeply committed to his faith, actively participating at Wesley-Knox United Church. For over 30 years, he dedicated his time to supporting the MS Society through bike rides and walks. Dusty’s kindness and dedication touched many lives, and he will be dearly missed.

Cremation has taken place. There will be visitation at 10am at Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London on December 11, 2024, followed by the service at 11am in the sanctuary. Donations in memory of Dusty may be made to Wesley-Knox United Church or St. Joseph’s Hospice. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

BYATT, Gail…

Gail Byatt passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at University Hospital, London, on Monday, November 18, 2024 in her 71st year. Beloved mother of Cheryl Ann Beak and her husband Charles and Laurie Beth Byatt. Cherished grandmother of Brandon Richard Beak. Dear sister of the late Jean Charron (2019) (the late Paul), Timothy Glover and Kathy Smith (the late Keith). Adored aunt of Rachel, Michael, Gary, Paul and Brittany and many great-nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents Ben and June Glover.

Gail dedicated over 35 years of her life to McCormick Canada, steadily working her way up through various roles and leaving a legacy of hard work and commitment after retiring as a lead hand. A true homebody at heart, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially watching her beloved Toronto Blue Jays on TV and cheering them on with unwavering enthusiasm. Gail’s generous spirit was unmatched; she was always supportive, ready to lend a helping hand, and would give you the shirt off her back without hesitation. Her warmth and kindness touched everyone around her, making her a cherished friend and confidante. In her later years, she enjoyed her time working at Goodwill and treasured her many friendships she gained there.

In memory of Gail, sympathy donations may be made to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, 2110-439 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 1Y8. Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre (located on the southeast corner of the parking lot), 60 Ridout Street South, London, on Friday, November 29, 2024 from 5-7 pm. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

JACKSON, Pauline Janet…

It is with heavy hearts that we share the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Pauline Janet Jackson on Friday, November 15, 2024 at the tender age of 77 years, at the Parkwood Institute, London, ON. She was born on November 20, 1946 in Shelburne, Nova Scotia to Lena Agatha Jackson (nee Guy) and Archibald “Buzz” Farmer. She was the beloved and devoted mother of Cher Jackson; cherished grandmother of Chalon Jackson. Survived by her brothers Joseph Jackson, Laurie (Sandra) Jackson, Peter (Linda) Jackson, and Allen (Johanne) Jackson, predeceased by her sister Audrey Stewart and brother Paul Jackson. She was also a gracious aunt to all of her nieces and nephews from British Columbia to Nova Scotia and to everyone else that embraced her life.

Pauline was the kind of person who touched everyone with whom she came into contact with. She always lit up the room with her laughter and her beautiful smile. She always was there to listen and to offer her support wherever and how ever she could. Pauline was a shining star in our lives because she was strong, compassionate and resilient in good times and in bad. Her passing has left an emptiness that words cannot express.

Cremation has taken place. We ask for your prayers, love, and support during this incredibly difficult time as we will be holding a Celebration of Life for Pauline in the coming months. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

ALLEN, Nancy…

Nancy Allen passed away peacefully in London, Ontario, on Sunday, November 17^th, 2024 in her 61^st year.

To my dear courageous daughter from your mom:

You will be missed by all who loved you; your sons Bill and Lew who always made sure you had what you needed, who cared and gave you the love you needed. I know your boy’s dad Lewis will be thinking of you as well.

Your brother Paul and his wife Lesley both knew that the pain you suffered at times could be awful. Your sister, Ria, was able to help you at home with whatever needs she could. Ria was thankfully with you when you left us for your next journey.

Then there is Odin, your delightful grandson who will never know how funny you were, with the humor that always made us all laugh.

I won’t forget nor will I stop thanking your friends Ruth and John. They are really good people who both cared about you and made sure you got to appointments and made sure I was able to go with you. Thank you for caring for both of us.

Then comes the family on both sides. Aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews; all so caring and so many that we’ve stopped counting.

Finally, your dad Paul; he certainly enjoyed who you were. Like you, he left us 2 years ago. Like you, his body just couldn’t work anymore. Like you, he was very brave. You were so much alike.

All the people I have mentioned cared and loved you.

Nancy, I am writing this letter to you and looking at the painting you did for me of flowers which appear to be floating in the breeze. It’s so calming and beautiful. Another wonderful memory you have left me to feel in my heart. For now, I leave you with our usual goodbye- “Love you”.

Thank you for being you,

-Mom.

The family would like to thank the home care nurse, Nancy, along with the PSW’s and palliative care doctor for their compassionate care of Nancy. They always made sure her needs were looked after. To all those at Victoria Hospital, who did everything they could to help Nancy, you have the family’s greatest admiration for your work. Thanks to all of you.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will follow at a later date. Donations in memory of Nancy may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

POWNER, Harold “Chas”…
Harold “Chas” Powner died peacefully at home on Monday, November 18th, 2024 in his 75th year. Proud father of Luke (Alicia-Ann). Beloved companion of Susan. Dear friend of Marlene (Jerome). Chas will also be missed by all of his other mates and relatives both here and in England.
Chas was a passionate Premier League soccer fan. He enjoyed spending time playing darts, camping in the great outdoors, gardening, travelling, and savoring a good box of Quality Street chocolates. Chas will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family would like to thank the St. Elizabeth care team, Esa and Trevor, for taking such wonderful care of Chas.
Cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of life held at a later date. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com