Obituaries & Condolences

Anna Elizabeth Woodson
Anna (Muffett) Woodson passed away at home surrounded by her family on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, after living gracefully with cancer for three years. She was 71. She will be dearly missed by her husband Peter Barnett; her daughter Merritt Crews (Dave Miller) and grandson Charles; Peter’s children Mackenzie and Clayton; sister Sarah James, brother James Woodson, and nephew Michael James.
A woman of uncommon physical and inner beauty, deep spirituality, and natural warmth, Anna was born in Selma, Alabama. She graduated from Auburn University and subsequently received a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama. After immigrating to Canada in her mid-20’s, Anna married David Crews, who she met in Muskoka. She worked for and led numerous professional organizations over the years, including Oolagen Community Services, the Metropolitan Toronto Special Committee on Child Abuse, and the Creche Child and Family Centre. Anna married her second husband Peter in 2000 and moved to London, ON, where she became the Clinical Director of Madame Vanier Children’s Services. The final 20 years of her career were spent working as a private practice psychotherapist.
For over 20 years, Anna graced the choir at St. James with her beautiful voice. Her radiant spirit and uplifting presence touched everyone she encountered, earning her the love and admiration of all who knew her. Anna’s kindness and infectious high spirits will forever be remembered and sorely missed.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at St. James Westminster Church, 115 Askin Street, London, ON, on Saturday, January 4th, 2025 at 2 pm. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Anna may be made to The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund and the St. James Westminster Church Music Fund. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationlondon.com

TROOP, Kevin “Scott”…
Kevin “Scott” Troop passed away in London, Ontario, on December 12, 2024 at the age of 65. Loving husband of Katherine Troop. Dear father of Zackary and his wife Sarah, Mitchell, Tyler, and Alexandra Troop. Loving “Grandpa Scott” of Addison and Charlie Mae. Brother of Terry.
Cremation has taken place. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in memory of Scott may be made to the Humane Society of Durham Region. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name and took me by the hand.
The angel said my place is ready, in Heaven far above.
And that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But when I walked through Heaven’s Gates, I felt so much at home,
For God looked down and smiled at me, and told me “Welcome Home”.
So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart,
For every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.

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