Obituaries & Condolences

PISARSKI, Michelinne…..

Suddenly at Victoria Hospital, London on Sunday, May 15, 2022, Michelinne passed away at the age of 63. Loving mother of Susan Carroll, Scott Carroll and the late Tammy Carroll (2017). Cherished grandmother of Jamie Carroll, Emily Carroll, Hailey Carroll, Damien Carroll and Sebastian Carroll. Great Grandmother of Feenyx Carroll, Desmond Carroll. She will be missed by her furbaby Gator. Michelinne was a loving and caring mother, grandma and great grandma who enjoyed spending all of her holidays with all of us, her favourite holiday was Christmas. She always enjoyed watching all the kids opening their gifts but also liked all the good food and family time. Michelinne had a love for shopping whether it was in a store or at one of the local festivals were you would often find her buying one of her band t-shirts that she loved to wear. She was well known for her great sense of humour, always making others laugh and having a good time. She loved to dance and listen to good music. When her kids were younger, she often enjoyed sharing her love for painting ceramics and making crafts with them which she was very good at. Michelinne was an amazing lady with a big heart and will be deeply missed by all her family and friends. Cremation has taken place and at this point no service will be held. In memory of Michelinne, donations may be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association, 534 Queens Avenue, London, ON N6B1Y6. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Norton, Dr. Peter…

1942-2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Dr. Peter Robert Norton on May 10th 2022 in Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Gillian, his son Michael and daughter Kathy, his granddaughters Erica, Naomi, and Emma, and by his sister, Juliet.

Peter was born in a small village in war-time England to parents Robert and Ruth Norton. He attended the University of Nottingham and obtained a B.Sc. in 1963 and a PhD in Chemistry in 1966. He and Gillian travelled to Ottawa in 1967 intending to spend just two years there to further his research career. They both fell in love with life in Canada and lived in Ontario for the next 55 years. His research career took him from the National Research Council, Ottawa, to McMaster University, Hamilton, to Chalk River Nuclear Laboratories and finally to Western University in London where he was a professor and research scientist from 1986 until his retirement in 2011. His scientific career was important to him, and he took rightful pride in recognition bestowed on him by the likes of the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Institute of Chemistry. His real passion, however, was mentoring students and young professionals and he drew great pleasure from watching their success.

In 1991 he and his wife bought an old wooden cottage at Bruce Beach near Kincardine on the waterfront of Lake Huron. In 2000 they built a house on the site and he and Gillian retired there. The Bruce Beach house was truly his happy place and he loved walking the beach and the wonderful views of the lake and sunsets from the deck, preferably with a drink in hand and surrounded by the company of family and friends.

Peter embraced Canadian winters and loved skiing and snowshoeing on the Niagara Escarpment in the Collingwood area.  When home he was a lover of classical music, especially chamber music. His music collection evolved from vinyl, to CDs, to streaming, and he attended live concerts whenever possible. He had a passion for sports, particularly soccer and F1 Racing, and he still followed the FA cup and UEFA Champions league from England.

He was intensely proud of his two children and their accomplishments and delighted in his 3 granddaughters who live in Edmonton and Vancouver. He made the most out of every visit and followed their exploits.

Peter was cultured, intelligent, curious, and kind. He was a great story-teller and raconteur and could entertain friends and strangers alike with humorous anecdotes and explanations of scientific phenomena. He loved good food, good drink, and good conversation. Astronomy was another passion of Peter’s, and sometimes an evening’s entertainment ended with stargazing over the lake through his telescope. Peter was a big personality who made an impression on every room he entered.

He will be greatly missed.

No service is planned at this time. A celebration of his life may be arranged in future. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

PLEASENCE, John Beverly…

John passed away in his home in London, with family by his side, on Thursday, May 5th, 2022, in his 80th year. Predeceased by his wife, the love of his life, Charlene (nee Dent) Pleasence and by his parents Joe and Clarice Pleasence of Chatham. Loving father of Alicia Pleasence (Ben Cekuta) of Toronto and Lara Pleasence (Chris Jones) of Montreal. Proud and supportive Grandfather to Pasha and Toren of Montreal. Beloved brother-in-law of Michael and Edna Dent of Chatham. Adored uncle of Sean, Shellee and Shannon. A close and devoted companion to Sheila Rideout.

Born in Chatham in 1942, John grew up in the hospitality industry working in his family’s hotels – The Rankin and The William Pitt. He attended Michigan State University then continued his career with Commonwealth Holiday Inns moving up the ranks to Senior Vice President.

He loved spending time at the family cottage in Rondeau Park, where he enjoyed boating and fishing. Even when he left the hospitality industry, it never left him. Being invited to eat at John and Charlene’s was like dining at a Five Star restaurant serving up multiple courses with accompanying wines, on beautifully set tables – which was always a trademark of John’s. He was also known for his plaid shirts and his love of ironing “everything” including his jeans, to ensure a perfect crease. He and Charlene loved their years traveling North America by motorhome and cruising various parts of the world.

After the loss of his wife, his daughters are so thankful for the love and support that he found with Sheila Rideout, who helped renew his zest for life and travel.

John was a gentleman and a “gentle man” whose kindness and consideration for others made a huge impact on everyone he met. He will be greatly missed and in keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will be held at “Shelly’s Tap & Grill” located inside the Best Western Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Road, London, Ontario on Monday, June 6th, 2022, from 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of John can be made to The Breast Cancer Society of Canada, 420 East Street North, Sarnia, ON N7T 6Y5. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

McINTOSH, Betty Ann…..

Peacefully at Parkwood Hospital on Monday, May 9, 2022, Betty Ann McIntosh of London passed away at the age of 81. Beloved wife of the late Al McIntosh (2019). Loving mother of Sean (Sherri) and Shane (Nicole). Proud Gram of Kayla, Kyle, Payton, Kendra, Parker, Malorie, and Shaylee. Predeceased by her best friend Pat, who she cherished all the lifelong memories she shared with her. For 60 years Betty Ann was a wonderful wife and caregiver to her husband Al. Betty Ann was a wonderful mother, grandmother, she enjoyed taking her sons to their sporting events and devoted her life to her family. She enjoyed her time working at University Hospital in Housekeeping. The family would like to thank all the staff at Parkwood Hospital for kindness and care provided. She will be greatly missed. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Cremation London & Middlesex 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

SHEWCHUK, SILVETIA “ALICE”…

(January 4, 1930 – May 1, 2022)

Alice was born in the Ukraine and moved with her parents, Victor and Anna Shewchuk (deceased) and siblings, Mary, Olga, Margaret, Jean, Andy, Nick, Bill and Mac (all deceased) to Saskatchewan, Canada when she was very young. Her life eventually brought her to Southwestern Ontario, finally settling in London. In her younger days, Alice enjoyed embroidery, gardening, and travel. Alice is survived by her daughter Gail from Las Vegas, along with grandchildren, Ryan, Michael, Mykayla and great grandchildren, Baylee and Ace.

Alice will be greatly missed by her caregiver and friend, Pegg Saunders. They first met when Pegg moved in down the hall from Alice. They quickly became friends, going on drives, and seat dancing to tunes on the radio. Alice and Pegg loved to take day trips down to the water, often stopping for ice cream on the way back. Alice came to rely on Pegg, who eventually became her advocate.

Alice gave joy to all she came in contact with, always greeting them with a smile and kind words. She loved her scratch tickets and going to the casino when the opportunity arose. She was a spunky woman with attitude and grit!

Donations in Alice’s name can be made to Extendicare, 860 Waterloo St, London, ON N6A 3W6. A small gathering of close friends will take place at a later date. Cremation has taken place, arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

SCHNITTKER, Nancy…

Nancy passed away peacefully at home, on Thursday, April 28, 2022 surrounded by her family after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Beloved wife of Larry for 54 years. Loving mom of Darrin (Krista). Cherished Grammie of Chase and Cole. Cremation has taken place and at Nancy’s request, no visitation or service will be held. Donations in memory of Nancy may be made to Pancreatic Cancer Canada, 316-4211 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M2P 2A9 or Diabetes Canada 1300-522 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2R5. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

JORDAN, Allan…

September 24, 1942 – April 8, 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Allan Jordan. Allan passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 8, 2022 in London, Ontario at the age of 79.

Allan was born in Toronto to parents Velma and Charles Jordan and was the oldest of four siblings. Being outgoing and very social he had many passions in life. When younger he enjoyed dancing at his De Havilland work dances, roller skating and archery. He had a talent for creating beautiful leatherwork which ignited a lifelong hobby, spent countless hours fishing and while living in Napanee even entering Derby’s. He dreamed of owning a motorcycle, loved country music, western movies, playing pool, NASCAR and shopping, especially at thrift stores and flea markets or lawn sales… a good deal always made his day. Al had a strong affinity for native traditions and lore and found peace and spirituality in it, especially in his final journey. Eagles were a big symbol to him and he believed it was his animal. At family functions he told jokes and stories that will be dearly missed by many. He was energetic, eclectic and even a bit eccentric, all of which made him unforgettable to all he met.

Allan is survived by his wife Rose, his son Richard and daughter Robin (Mike) from his first marriage to wife Sandy who will all miss him dearly, as well as his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Family was important to him and he will be greatly missed by siblings Danny, Brenda (Andy) and Kathy (Verdun), all whom he adored and remained close to his whole life, as well as his many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews whom he shared unique and special relationships with each.

At this time there will be no funeral services but there will be a celebration of life memorial at a later date.

Donations to The Lung Association, 401-18 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON M3C 0K8 or a charity of choice will be gratefully acknowledged. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

CAIRNS, John…

Suddenly, at his residence in London, ON, on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 in his 70th year. Beloved husband of Linda Cairns. Father of James, Jennifer and John David Cairns and Alyson Clarke. Cherished brother of Eileen Cairns, Pam Upton, and Jane Wheaton. Dear brother-in-law to Douglas (Jane) Haldane, Iain (Mel) Haldane and Rosemary (Alan) Rennie. Predeceased by his brothers Cairn Joyce and Ian Joyce and mother Laura Blandford. John will be sadly missed by all of his nephews, nieces and extended family in Canada and the UK. John was passionate about golf and soccer and will be missed by all of the friends he made over the years. He also loved his dogs and camping. Cremation has taken place and no service will be held. In John’s memory, donations may be made to Canadian Cancer Society, PO Box 640, STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

MCCALLUM, Sandra…

Aug. 24, 1947 – Mar. 29, 2022

Sandra Ann McCallum passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at the age of 74. She passed away at LHSC after a short battle with cancer. Sandy was a loving wife, mother, sister and aunt. She is survived by her husband Gerald (JED) McCallum, her son Robbie Wiskin, sisters Audrey Myke, Yvonne Miller, Cheryl McLean and brothers Ed Fox and Jim Fox. Sandy was a dear friend to many others and strived to be a friend to all. In lieu of flowers, her family is asking that donations be made to THE CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY. A private service will be held at a later date. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

POPOVIC, Bojan…

Peacefully at McGarrell Place, London, on Friday, March 18, 2022, Bojan Popovic passed away at the age of 65.

Proud and loved father of Ino and Suncica Popovic and his daughter-in-law Leslie, beloved and cherished grandfather of Bodi, Savana, and Ainsley Popovic, and cherished previous spouse of Selma Popovic. He will be missed by his extended family, friends, and neighbours both in Canada and in Europe.

Bojan loved 80s rock, strategy video games, architecture, and chocolate-covered almonds. He was very humorous and generous with everyone close to him, he loved making friends everywhere he went, and he held a great deal of sympathy in his heart for people in need.

Bojan fought in the civil war of former Yugoslavia and he was a large advocate for defending others and their homeland. In Bojan’s memory, donations may be made to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, 200-620 Spadina Avenue, Toronto, ON M5S 2H4 in support of the families in Ukraine https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/70605

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