Obituaries & Condolences

ROWLAND, Mike “Rollie”….

Mike Rowland passed away at Victoria Hospital, London, on Thursday, July 8, 2021 in his 64^th year. Predeceased by parents Eileen and Ray, grandchild Jacob, and brother Rick. Survived by daughters Charlene and Colleen, grandchildren Lex, Mike, Jak, Dalton, and Noah and his siblings Pat, Al, Debbie, and Tom. 

Mike was a great lover of all sports and actively played volleyball with best friend Bob and softball with all of his friends at the Huff n Puff League. Mike will be sincerely missed by all of his co-workers at the Bag Lickers Union. 

Mike was a great father, grandparent and friend. He had a kind soul and a soft heart and behind a gruff straight forward exterior loved many and would do anything for his friends and family. A celebration of his life will held on Saturday, July 31, 2021 from 2-6 pm at 450 Ronald Street, London. 

In lieu of flowers his daughters respectfully request that donations be made in his honour to the East London Optimist Club. Cremation has taken place and arrangements have been entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

JURY, Sandra “Sandy”….

Peacefully at her residence on Sunday, July 4, 2021 Sandra “Sandy” Jury passed away in her 77th year. Predeceased by her beloved friend and companion of 62 years James Dart (May 20, 2021). Beloved Mother “Mema” to Michele Winslade (Randy) and Karen Haughey (Darren Gibson). Proud and loving grandmother to Brittany Winslade (Ryan Helwig), Miranda Winslade (Angie Turbill), Candace Haughey and James Haughey. Loving great-grama to Bryan Helwig. Beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by sisters Joanne Gormley, Donna Doughty and Sharron Mitchell, brother Bob Jury and parents George Jury and Evelynne Hodgins (Harold). Cremation has taken place and at Sandy’s wishes no funeral service will be held. In Sandy’s memory, donations may be made to the London Regional Cancer Clinic, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Baseline Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

GUNN, Donald “Don”….

On Wednesday, July 7, 2021, Donald Edward Gunn, in his 73rd year, passed away at Victoria Hospital in London, after a brief battle with cancer. Loving spouse to Susan Lee. Fondly missed by sons Devon (Pia) and Colin and step children Josh Broderick (Christine), Christine Fordyce (Shayne), and Jeff Lee (Andreanne). Devoted grandpa to Audrey, Spencer, Myla, Emily, Katelyn and Kendall. Predeceased by parents Ted and Alice Gunn. Big brother to Blair Gunn (Alyson) and Lee Hamilton. Brother-in-law to Donna Lovie (Larry), Ann Russell (Doug), and the late Mary Tavener (Ernie). Son-in-law to Helen Desjardine (Emerson). Will be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

Don was born and grew up in London, Ontario. He worked as a lithographer in London for Specialized Packaging Group for 44 years. He enjoyed travelling, boating, fishing, wood working and peanut butter. He was always up for a project or lending a helpful hand and spent most of his time with family and spoiling his grandchildren. He can be fondly remembered heavily accesssorized with rings, watches and various pocketknives.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to Canadian Blood Services, 1800 Alta Vista Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1G 4J5 would be very much appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

SMYTH, William “Bill”….

Peacefully at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, London, William “Bill” Smyth passed away peacefully in his 93rd year. Bill was the beloved husband of the late Sheila (nee Gray) (1999), and the cherished father of Allyson (Bob), Gordon (Joanne), Ian (Kaaren) and Scott (Kirstin). He was the beloved and proud grandpa of Adam, Michael (Laurie), Shannon (Patrick), Lauryn, Alex, Darby and Tessa and loving great-grandfather of Noah. Also loved uncle of many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his father, Gordon (1935), his mother Margaret (1977) and his brothers Robert, Patrick and Darcy, and his sisters Grace, Mary and Sally.

Dad was a proud, independent man known for his kindness, charm and wit. He brought a smile to everyone lucky enough to come in contact with him. He took great pride in his children and their families and always enjoyed his time with them, but his happiest times were spent with his beloved Sheila. They spent many years together traveling both near and far and sharing memories of those journeys would always put a sparkle in dad’s eye.

A man who curled and played golf for recreation, his true passion was to play bridge, although perhaps a little too competitively for those at the table with him. He was a voracious reader who also enjoyed his extensive collection of DVDs including numerous action thrillers and classics. Dad grew up in Oshawa, Ontario where he decided that a career with GM was definitely not for him, and spent his career at the Ontario Department of Highways/Ministry of Transportation, where (according to dad) he had a hand in building just about every highway in the province of Ontario.

Dad lived a full life, but some of his spark left him with the passing of mom 23 years ago. With his last two years limited by his health and Covid restrictions, he is now at peace, and he’s with Mom. Rest in peace, Dad.

Cremation has taken place and at Bill’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. In Bill’s memory, donations may be made to the 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

A Life with Purpose 

It is with profound sadness that the family of Kara Veronica Wickens announces her untimely passing. Although her time with us ended sooner than expected, Kara lived a full and adventurous life filled with love from her family, dear friendships, and her passion for education.  

Kara earned her Masters of Education through Western University, during which she volunteered her time to international students. This helped shape her conviction that people everywhere have fascinating stories that deserve to be shared with those who appreciate them. In her own words, “I believe that passionate, committed, and clever people must realize their natural gifts in order to make positive changes in the world.” This was Kara’s philosophy of living life with intent.  

A natural born teacher, Kara was an advocate for equality in education amongst Indigenous students. Learning the traditional Indigenous path was important to Kara. She had a meaningful Impact on anyone’s life she touched. She had an inherent desire to help people achieve their goals, which became evident during her time at Canadian Mental Health Association-Hastings & Prince Edward.  

Kara has published numerous research publications including;  

Homeless Late in Life: A Study of Homeless Seniors. Canadian Mental Health Association. Hastings-Prince Edward County. 2016 and made impactful change having served on dozens of committees including; The City of Belleville Accessibility Committee, and Anti-poverty roundtable committees.  Kara was awarded the Ontario Volunteer Service Award of the year for her work in community development with the Community Development Council of Quinte and the Picton Business Improvement Association.  

Predeceased by her mother Veronica (Roni) Summers Wickens, to whom Kara looked to as a mentor for kindness, generosity and humanitarianism. She was a champion for anyone who had ever been judged unfairly, or treated unjustly solely as a result of misperception, stigma, and fear. Having faced such challenges in her own life, Kara felt compelled to share with the world her story of unheard, determined, passionate people coming together to change, heal and grow.   

Kara is survived by her very proud and loving father, Wayne Wickens. The two shared a special bond which led them on countless adventures together across the globe, with Wayne at the wheel and Kara with a plan. A team for which there is no comparison. Kara and Wayne shared several interests and in many ways were each other’s heroes.  

Kara is the beloved ‘little’ big sister to Kayne Wickens (Brittany) and Makenzie Wickens-Viola (Ryan). She was considered a compass of good for her family, to whom they would turn to for guidance, wisdom and for her sense of humour. Immensely proud of her many accomplishments, Kara’s smile, laughter, and kindness will fill our hearts forever.  She will be greatly missed. 

In lieu of flowers, the family of Kara Wickens ask that you consider making a donation in Kara’s name to the following charities that support indigenous children and their pursuit of furthering their education.  We have recommended Truenorthaid.ca and ilovefirstpeoples.ca

HAWARD, David Michael….

Unexpectedly, on Monday, June 21, 2021 at University Hospital, London, David Michael Haward passed away at age 68. David was a beloved father to Emily (Andrew) and Mary, a loving grandfather to Rebecca, and a dear friend to Bob and Judy, and Ian and Suzanne. He is also survived by his siblings, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his mother, Jean. David was a talented musician and a long time member of Orchestra London, as well as several chamber groups, including the Aeolian Winds and Triofus. David was also an avid reader and chess player, and a lover of fine Scotch. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Cremation has taken place. In memory of David, donations may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

ARIANO, Louis….

Chief Warrant Officer Louis Ariano, MMM, CD (Ret’d)

Louis Ariano, died peacefully on Saturday, June 19, 2021 in London, Ontario. Louis was born in Sherbrooke, Québec in 1934 and was raised and educated in Montréal, Québec. The son of Annina Logrippo and Sylvio Ariano, hardworking immigrants who came to Canada from Italy in the 1920’s to make a better life for their families. Louis joined the RCAF on April 22, 1952 and trained as a radar technician. Louis held a wide variety of jobs in his 38-year military career, achieving the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. In 1976, Louis was appointed to Canada’s Order of Military Merit in recognition of outstanding merit and devotion to duty in the Canadian Forces. His award was presented by the Governor General at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.

Louis was a frugal man but generous with his time and resources. He was an active member of the United Church of Canada, and a parishioner at many United Churches across Canada. For 32 years he made Riverside United and its precursor Hyde Park United in London, Ontario his home church. He served as Treasurer of the Trustees of Riverside United Church for five years. Louis met his beloved wife of 63 years Elizabeth Orr McKell at an evening service at St. James United Church in Montréal on January 4, 1958. Their relationship grew stronger as the years passed and they moved across Canada from posting to posting with their children Gino and Wanda. Louis was a strong believer in higher education, he worked diligently, part-time to obtain a BA from the University of Manitoba which he achieved in 1990. He often said to his children and grandchildren, “education is something they can’t take away from you”. Louis and Elizabeth retired to London, Ontario in 1989.

Louis was a proponent of physical fitness and worked to stay in shape throughout his life. In 1951, at William Dawson High School’s 13th Annual Track and Field meet at Molson Stadium in Montréal, Louis ran the mile in 5.31.01 shattering the existing record by 2.6 seconds. Louis was also an avid swimmer, faithfully doing an hour a week of front crawl at London’s Canada Games Aquatic Centre. Louis kept swimming well into his 80’s. Louis was an avid gardener, a pastime he shared with his wife Elizabeth. Louis was most proud of his wonderful tomato crops and beautiful pear tree. He shared his tomatoes and pears widely. Louis suffered a recurring problem with squirrels raiding his tomato crop. One year, he removed 19 squirrels from his back garden, transplanting them humanely to a better home.

Louis leaves his wife Elizabeth, daughter Wanda Sadowski and her husband Mark of Bunbury, Australia. Louis’ son Gino Ariano and his wife Heidi Ariano (née Rankin) of Toronto and his precious grandchildren Sarah and Paige. Louis also leaves his beloved sister Gemma Bradshaw and her husband Gordon along with their daughter Melanie. His brother Eugene predeceased him in 2008.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Louis’ Family Physician Dr. Eric Nicholls for his dedicated care. The family also appreciated the exceptional care provided by Dr. Ryan Davey and the rest of the Heart Failure Service at University Hospital, London.

Donations in Louis’s memory can be sent to Children Believe, 1200 Denison Street, Markham, ON L3R 8G6 or the London Health Sciences Foundation in support of the Cardiology Program at LHSC, 747 Baseline Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. A funeral and celebration of Louis Ariano’s life will be held at Riverside United Church in London, Ontario once Covid-19 restrictions ease. Go peacefully into the night my friend.

POIRIER, Joseph C….

Joseph C. Poirier passed away Saturday, June 5, 2021 at 10:20 am after a long struggle with dementia. He passed away peacefully at Parkwood Hospital, London surround by his family. Joe is survived by his wife Jeannette (Buske) Poirier and their four children Joseph L. Poirier (Louise Venne), James Poirier (Debbie) and his children Michelle and Andrew Poirier, Julie Poirier, and Jennifer Molloy (James) and their children Seamus and Keira Molloy. He leaves behind his two sisters Agnes Poirier and Fran Read. He will be missed by all his nieces and nephews.

Joe was a very supportive father and he was always there in times of need. He was very present in all of his grandkids lives by encouraging and supporting them. Joe was loved by all who met him. He had a kind heart and accepted everyone for who they were. He will be missed by the staff at Parkwood 4 Bruce, where he was well taken care of in his final years.

Joe often said that one of the best decisions he made was to join the Canadian Armed Forces. He spent time during his service with the Armed Forces doing many different things. He was overseas peace keeping in Egypt and Cyprus. He spent 6 years in Alberta as a Paratrooper. He was in London, Ontario 4RCR with the mortar platoon. He worked with the cadets doing various activities; what he enjoyed most was being the Repel Sargent during the summer months at Ipperwash. He ended his careers as Master Warrant Officer Joseph Poirier.

Joe Poirier will be greatly missed by his wife and all four of their children, Joey, Jimmy, Julie and Jenny. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Veterans Care and Comfort Fund (Veterans Arts) at Parkwood Hospital, c/o St. Joseph’s Health Foundation, 268 Grosvenor Street, London, ON N6A 4V2 would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

RUPERT, Ronald Everett……

Ronald Everett Rupert died peacefully on May 30, 2021 after a brief illness. Ron was born in Niagara Falls on February 2, 1929 to parents Everett and Elsie Rupert, and big sister Verna (1927 – 2020). Younger brother Gary (Judi) joined the family several years later. Elsie told of how “little Ronnie” was an active child who could be found up in trees, on roofs or climbing what could be climbed. The family moved to Fort Erie when Ron was a teen. He worked at a local grocery store, and while there, was invited to join the Ontario Provincial Police. He worked as a police officer from the early 1950’s until his retirement in the mid-1980’s. He enjoyed his work as a police officer in the Forensic Identification Unit and went to work for Woodstock City Police for ten years following his retirement from the OPP. He continued to work after he left the Woodstock Police doing local courier deliveries until he was into his 80’s.

Ron met his wife Nadine (1932-1998) while recovering from a broken ankle, an injury he received in a motorcycle crash. Ron and Nadine are survived by Kathryn Baverstock (Stephen), Melanie Fugard (Ross) and Craig Rupert (Tina) and two grandsons Jeff Rupert and Patrick Rupert. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Ron was an active man who enjoyed being involved in his community over the years in Scouts, Ham Radio, Masonic Lodge, Shriners to name a few. He had a sometimes twisted sense of humour and enjoyed shocking people with his stories. He was shot shortly after Kathryn was born so had a scar from that. He enjoyed showing his long scar that “started” on his shin and “ended” on his belly. Of course it wasn’t one long scar. He spent every summer weekend in his RV at a campground in Bayfield and then Port Huron Michigan for many years. These weekends were spent with old friends and fellow “cop buddies”, relationships he valued and enjoyed.

Ron gained a new freedom when he moved from his house to an apartment in December 2018. He travelled to BC on his own that Christmas to visit Kathryn, Melanie and his brother Gary. Shortly after that, he travelled to Nova Scotia to visit Craig. He published a book, True Crime Cases, at the age of 90. He finished writing a second book this year (to be published) and had started on a third. That was pretty impressive for a guy who wasn’t the best student in his younger years.

Ron was active until the last few days of his life. A broken hip only slowed him briefly and he grudgingly learned to use his walker. Being the stubborn independent man he was,  this was a challenge, as was using other supports he needed.  The pandemic meant he couldn’t be as active socially as he’d have liked. He did enjoy the support and companionship of Millie McLaughlin. The family is thankful to Millie for being a good friend to Ron. No service is planned for Ron at this time. Friends are encouraged to remember him by raising a mug of beer or a glass of red wine. As an expression of sympathy donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 110-1525 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1Z 8R9 or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London and Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

CLARKE, Mara….

Passed away peacefully with the love of her family around her at Victoria Hospital, London on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 in her 70th year. Beloved wife of Robert W. “Bob” Clarke; proud, devoted Mother of Rob (Deanna) and Chris (Dominika). Mara loved being a Grandma more than anything, she treasured her four grandchildren, Matthew, Cara, C.J. and Caden.

Loving daughter of the late Karolina Lusins Dawidowski and Janis Lusins. Mara was born in Nottingham, England and came to Canada as a child. She grew up in Parkdale and had fond memories of Sunnyside, Pickin’ Chicken and The Ex. She met Bob in Parkdale and they were married for just over 48 years. Mara and Bob raised their family in the GTA and always kept family close.

Dear sister of Wanda (the late Robert) Miller and the late John (Teresa) Lusins. Loved and deeply missed by her nieces and nephews; Bobby (Joan), Krysten (Mike), Michael, and Jennifer (Ryan), Roban (Greg), Elizabeth (Wayne) and Lianne (Carlos). She loved to love all her great nieces and nephews near and far away and hug & hug the ones nearest including Teagan, Juliana, Joshua, Jacob and Greyson.

She will be remembered for so many things; her love of any sport that her kids or grandkids were playing, her love of reading, even her Yahtzee game. Most of all, the way she cared for everyone and her ability to give the very best hugs was endless!

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Mara’s life will be held post COVID restrictions in Toronto. Interment at Park Lawn Cemetery, Toronto at a later date. In Mara’s memory, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, PO Box 640 STN K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9 would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com