Obituaries & Condolences

MITCHELL, Brian…

The Mitchell family of London, ON is heartbroken to announce that Brian Paul, 35, lost his life to suicide on Sunday, October 31, 2021. He will be missed everyday by his parents Debra and Scott Mitchell, cherished by his proud big sister Erin Mitchell, and adored by his beautiful daughters Ava [6] and Olivia [3]. Words cannot express the love we have for him or the devastation we feel. He loved his family and friends with an expansive capacity to bring happiness to others without asking for anything in return. Forever we will remember how his smile lightened our hearts, how nice it felt to be around him, and how easy it was to love him.

Stories like Brian’s should not be ignored. We ask that you educate yourself and others about Mental Health and Addiction.

Funeral Services will be held at Wildflowers Farms, 42338 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S9 on Sunday, November 7th from 1-4pm. Formal remarks will be made from 1:30-2:30 with refreshments to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the GoFundMe account for Brian’s daughters https://www.gofundme.com/f/care-and-support-for-ava-and-olivia-mitchell?qid=dee3637669ae3a17af90538f0dff4527

We will see Brian in the faces and mannerisms of his beautiful children as they grow, and feel him around us in the wind through the trees. Sometimes love has done all that love can do… and this is one of those times.

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

SCANLAN, Denis…

Peacefully at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, London, on Monday, November 1, 2021, Denis “Paddy” Scanlan passed away in his 97th year. Beloved husband of Patricia (nee Evans) Scanlan for 65 years. Loving father of Thomas (Rosemary) Scanlan, Cathy Scanlan-Baker, Chris Scanlan, and the late Mark (2019). Cherished grandfather of Matthew, Erin, Denice, Ryan and Sean. Adored great-grandfather of eleven, and great-great-grandfather of one. Dear brother of Phyllis Armstrong. Predeceased by his six other siblings. A special thank you to the staff at Mount Hope Centre (St. Mary’s 1st Floor) for the compassionate and loving care provided to Denis over the last 4 years. Cremation has taken place and at Denis’ wishes, there will be no visitation or service held. In Denis’ memory, anyone wishing to making a donation can consider the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

GEORGE, Ron Lyle…

Passed peacefully on November 1, 2021 at University Hospital, London in his 72nd year. Predeceased by his parents Lyle and Marion George. Loving husband of Susan. Cherished father of Jenny (Justin) Rensby and Sean (Cher) Hickey. Dear grandfather to 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Brother of Sandy (Rick) Heinbuck. Ron is survived by his cousin Alan (Sandy) Richardson and family. He will be missed by many extended family members and friends. Ron suffered the loss of his legs 17 years ago and focused on the things he could do, not what he couldn’t do, and always maintained a positive attitude. His loss is immense but so is the love left behind. He was a true gentleman and one of a kind. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

ANDERSON, Stuart William…

It is with great sadness that we announce Stuart’s passing on Monday, October 25th, 2021. He was surrounded by his family at University Hospital, London, Ont. Adored husband of Marylou and cherished father of Emilie (Anthony Romita) and Kelly (Andrew Klein). Loving grandfather (papa) to Madeline and Elizabeth. Proud brother of Louise (Ian Hayes), Keith (Ruth Rayman), Kate (Kelvin Wood) and Jeannie (Marc Bergeron). Brother-in-law to Mike Miles (Silawan), Nancy Unwin (Tom) and Paul Miles (Karen).

Rockwood, Ontario, the latest place this ever-travelling man called home, offered the landscape for his wonderful motorcycle adventures. Growing up in beautiful B.C. set the foundation for his lifelong love of sailing and skiing. His minimalistic approach to life was admirable, never over complicating, always present, genuine and content. We will deeply miss our dynamic conversations with this remarkably intelligent man.

We would like to thank the London University Hospital Staff and Doctors for their unending patience and care during Stu’s stay with them.

As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada, 203-205 Horton Street East, London, ON N6B 1K7. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

KING, Denise Janet…

Passed away at home at the age of 60, on October 23, 2021 surrounded by family. Born in Vancouver, she grew up in Kamloops and Kelowna. She graduated from the Vancouver General Hospital School of Nursing in 1983. She worked as an RN in surgery, intensive care, labour and delivery, and vaccine preventable disease. She leaves behind her husband Graham; three children, Stephanie (Geoff), Leanna and Ian (Tila); parents, Don and Lana Stewart; and brother Bob (Bernice). In addition to her many friends, she leaves behind her loyal and sometimes loud beagle Leonard. Never one to sit still she enjoyed golf, hiking, skiing, paddling, working out and walking. She volunteered with Maycourt as well as at the St. Joseph’s Hospitality Centre in London, Ontario; her home for almost 30 years. Decorating and gardening were her hobbies with flowers and wreaths surrounding her cottage and home throughout the seasons. Donations in her memory can be made to the Humane Society of London or the Sisters of St. Joseph. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

RHIND, Marvin Roy…

London, ON / Dartmouth, NS

Marvin has sung his last tune!

It is with sadness that our family announce Marvin’s passing at the age of 67 in London, Ontario’s University Hospital on October 15th, 2021 following a brief illness.

Raised in Elderbank, Nova Scotia, he was the son of Roy Douglas Rhind and Ella Victoria (Dillman) Rhind.

A cherished son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend to many.

Marvin was a talented musician, playing and singing in several bands from the time he was a teenager. His powerful baritone voice filled the bars and stages he played over the years as well as the church in Elderbank during his younger years where he sang in the choir making his mother so very proud. He was an entertainer, musically and as a storyteller laughing at his own jokes, a laugh that would shake windows. Marvin is especially remembered as a guy who would talk, and talk and talk some more.

In addition to the love he had for his son and grandsons, he loved guitars, country music, history, trivia, the Montreal Canadians, his beloved Cadillac, Gravenstein Apple Pie, coffee, cigarettes and red wine.

In 2019, Marvin retired from GM’s CAMI Automotive Assembly Plant in Ingersoll, Ontario.

Predeceased by his parents, Marvin is survived by son, Matthew (Melissa) and grandsons, Maddox and Langdon all of Cole Harbour, NS; brother Leonard of Elderbank, NS; sisters Freda (Peter) Higgins of Ottawa, ON and Mary Lou (John) Croft of Blockhouse, NS. He is also fondly remembered by nephews, Brenden Higgins, David Rhind and Greg Higgins and by Matthew’s mother, Cyndy Barclay-Hill.

To honour Marvin’s life and his wishes, please consider organ donation so that others may live on through your gift.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in NS. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

In his words, “I’ve got no regrets” and the familiar words he always left us with, “Bye for Now”.

DELANEY, William “Bill”…

On October 13, 2021 in his daughters’ arms, after a long illness we said goodbye to our Dad, Grampa and GGPa, William Henry Delaney in his 80th year. Predeceased by his loving wife of 52 years Anne Delaney (nee Swan) (2016). Left behind to carry on his sense of humour and fierce love are daughters Denise (Lee) Homer, Missy (Judd) Delaney and Katy Delaney, and his precious grandchildren Tyler, Christie (Vaughn), Carrie (Jesse), Mitchell, Spencer, Randy and William. His great grandchildren Annie, Adriana, Kane, Jaida and Jack will be told many stories about GGPa and how he made everyone laugh and feel so special. He held a special place in his heart for the Winter family (Sue, Kris, Erik, Emilee, Morgan and Shea). He was the cherished brother of June (George) Keeping, Ethel (Gord) Walters, Katy Shebib, Lois Tremblett, Donna (Norm) Purchase, Joe (Marilyn) Hollingsworth, Bob Hollingsworth, Deborah (Weldon) Morrison, Patty (Cecil) Powers and John (Rodica) Hollingsworth. Predeceased by his mother Bessie Hollingsworth (nee Delaney) and his brother Sandy Hollingsworth. He will also be deeply missed by his lifelong friends, Brian King and Dave Stewart who were there until the end.

Bill had a long career of 28 years at Ford Motor Company in quality control. He was a people person who always had a charming twinkle in his eye. Though he preferred to stay at home watching the news, he always enjoyed his time with his children and grandchildren, playing, helping with homework, or just spending quiet quality time. The family would like to give a special thanks to all of the staff at Parkwood Palliative Care Unit who provided him with such immense compassion and supported us during his journey. Due to Dad’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will not be a service. In memory of Bill, donations to a favourite charity of yours would be gratefully appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

BALANGO, George….

Peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, October 8, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Hospice in London Ontario Canada, George Frank Balango passed away in his 71st year.

While starting a new life in North America after fleeing war in Europe, George was born in Kansas City, Missouri USA to Joe and Gizella Balango. The family would eventually migrate to Canada, settle in, and call Southwestern Ontario, Chatham Kent home. George excelled in school and his intellect earned him numerous awards for his academic performance in numerous areas of study. 

He played competitive hockey and baseball in Chatham and also enjoyed hunting and fishing in the area with his brother, Joe, and his brother-in-laws. He studied at University of Waterloo and graduated to become a member of the Ontario Professional Planners Institute. 

George was passionate about history, sports, and his Catholic faith. His legacy lives on within the City of London and other areas of Ontario where his career remained as a Land Use Planner for 45 years. Many buildings and developments will remind us of him, his hard work, and his pride. 

George was loved by many, especially his children Renee (Paul), Jonathan (Lauren), Jana (Brendan), his sister Kathy (Henry), and his brother Joe (Darlene). Cherished by many cousins, nieces and nephews across Canada and Grampa to Anna, Marcus, Kate, Ella and Blaire. He was also a close friend of Katelyn and Richard. He will be dearly missed by all. 

Husband of the late Anita Balango and son of the late Joseph and Gizella Balango. He will be remembered as someone with a gentle heart and who always enjoyed spending time with his family. 

In George’s own words he has now “Gone Home”. Rest in sweet peace. We love you now and forever. 

Thank you to the Staff on C7 at Victoria Hospital and everyone who cared for George during his treatment, as well as the Community of St Joseph’s Hospice for your kind and compassionate care. 

A memorial mass will be held at St. Michael’s Parish, 511 Cheapside Street, London, on Friday October 15, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.  As per the directive of the Bereavement Authority of Ontario, a limited number of people can attend. All those attending are required to wear masks and follow COVID-19 protocols.

If you wish to attend the service please register by clicking here. Family and friends are invited to watch the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the church website here. A private interment and celebration will be held at a later date.

In his memory, sympathy donations may be made to MS Society – Southwestern Ontario Chapter, 20-1100 Dearness Drive, London, ON N6E 1N9, London Regional Cancer Program, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6 or St Joseph’s Hospice, 485 Windermere Road London ON N5X 2T1

MILLER, Dale…

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Dale John Miller, QC, on September 29, 2021, in his 91st year. Predeceased by his wife of 56 years, Freda (Lamb) and his sister, Shirley. Survived by his son Ron and daughter-in-law Denise, son Harvey, daughters Nancy and Shelley, granddaughters Megan, Laura, and Julie, sister Gail and sister and brother-in-law Verla and Bobby.

Dale was born in Nakina, Ontario, to Herma and Harvey Miller. Originally from the Baldwin/Sunderland area, Dale’s father worked for the railroad in Northern Ontario and Orillia, eventually settling in Beaverton where they opened Miller’s Flowers, a large flower business that supplied Toronto stores and northern Ontario in the 1950’s.

Growing up in Beaverton with his sisters, Dale enjoyed playing hockey, fishing and hunting. He met his wife, Freda, at high school and once married they moved to Toronto where Dale attended law school at Osgoode Hall.

Along with his partner, Wesley Brandon, Dale worked at Brandon & Miller law firm in Cannington where they lived and raised their family. Both Dale and Freda were active in their community spending winters at the rink for the kids’ hockey and figure skating, snowmobiling, and curling and summers at the ballpark, golfing, or hosting pool parties in their backyard.

Dale was instrumental in organizing the annual hockey exchange between Cannington and Pittsburgh – a huge success that provided many memories and long lasting friendships. An avid hunter and fisherman, Dale loved to take his friends and family to his hunt camp north of Sudbury… initially by boat but later by plane once he got his pilot’s license so he could get there faster! Unfortunately, one of these flights ended with a forced landing in a small lake where they were rescued by a Hercules helicopter sent from the Air Show in Toronto. No one was injured luckily, but this was one of the many stories that came out of Dale’s adventures.

After being appointed as Queen’s Counsel and meeting the Queen and Prince Phillip, Dale took an early retirement and he and Freda built their dream home in Bayshore Village where they enjoyed many years on the water entertaining family and friends and watching their grandchildren grow up. Dale always loved the water! From the cottage on Thorah Island to the homes in Florida, fishing and boating were a daily event. He loved Lake Simcoe – a lake he knew like the back of his hand and fondly reminisced about until his passing.

As season ticket holders since opening day of the Blue Jays, Dale and Freda enjoyed going to games… especially witnessing the World Series Championship – twice! Dale was also one of the people who submitted the name “Skydome” when the stadium was built.

When the children were young, the family camped across Canada and travelled to Europe to visit Dale’s sister. Dale and Freda loved to travel logging long hours driving across Canada and the U.S. Dale’s favourite trip was the drive to Alaska where they slept in the van and watched bears catching salmon in a river. They also enjoyed adventures in Russia and the British Isles.

A brief move to Orillia was brought on by the illness of his beloved wife, Freda, and after her passing, Dale eventually settled in Lagoon City with his fishing boat, spending his days on the lake until his move to a retirement home in London, where he lived a few years before his passing.

The family thanks the many friends and neighbours who have provided support to Dale during his time in Orillia, Lagoon City and London. Many thanks to the staff at Grand Wood Park and Mount Hope in London for the care provided during his stay. Thanks to Dr. Soch, Dale’s long time physician in Orillia, Dr. Noakes, North York General, and Dr. Vesprini, Sunnybrook Hospital. In accordance with Dale’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no service. There will be a private interment at Necropolis Cemetery, Cannington. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

GARDINER, Alison…

Unexpectedly at Victoria Hospital, London, on Tuesday, August 31, 2021, Alison (nee Nicolson) Gardiner passed away in her 53rd year. Beloved mum of Jenna Gardiner. Dear daughter of John and Irene Nicolson. Alison will also be missed by her extended family and friends. Alison was always known as a strong, hard worker and worked at Kellogg’s for a number of years. She was also an avid animal lover, so anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of her is asked to consider an animal based charity such as the Humane Society of London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5 or Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation & Education Centre, P.O. Box 601, Mount Brydges, ON N0L 1W0. Cremation has taken place and at this time no service will be held. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com