Obituaries & Condolences

WHALEN, Jean…

Jean Catherine Whalen (nee. Wilcocks) passed away peacefully in London, Ontario, on January 14th, 2023, in her 92nd year. Beloved wife of the late Rodrigue Whalen (2004) for 53 years. Jean will be missed by her children Michael (Dorothy) of St. Thomas and Mary-Anne (Luci) of London. Dear sister to Ron (Eunice) of Parkhill. Proud grandmother of Chris, Jessica, and Joel. Loving great-grandmother to Jacob. She is predeceased by her daughter Catherine (2009). She will also be missed by her nieces and nephews.

Jean brought joy to countless friends and family members with her joy of darts and her remarkable talent for crafting beautiful wooden creations. She proudly worked at Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario as an RNA for 20 years. Jean’s passion for these pursuits left an indelible mark on those who knew her, and she will be fondly remembered for her skill, creativity, and the warmth she shared with everyone she met.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Jean may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

NOLAN, Laurence “Laurie”…

After a life well lived, the Lord took home Laurence “Laurie” Marie Viola Nolan, on January 14, 2024, at the age of 69. Laurie peacefully passed away surrounded by her children and is now reunited with her beloved late husband Lloyd Sr.

She will be missed by her children, Helene, Della-Rose, Richard, Emily, Lloyd Jr and step daughters Angie, Jen and Karen. Her surviving brother Leonard,  grandchildren, and friends will miss her warm love and spirit.

Laurie was full of life, loved bingo and lived for her kids. Still having a laugh right till the end.

A celebration of life will take place in the spring. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

HELBIG, Hardy…

August 5, 1961 – January 14, 2024

Our dear, kind, funny and gentle Hardy passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 14, 2024 in Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, London, after a brief battle with liver cancer. He will be tremendously missed by his siblings, Horst “Richard” and Susan; his brother-in-law, David; niece, Hali and her fiancé Taylor; as well as the many friends he met along his journey.

Hardy was born in Estevan, Saskatchewan to his proud parents Heinrich and Wilhelmine but lived most of his life in Kettleby and Aurora, Ontario and spent his later years in Toronto. He was delighted to live in an apartment in his niece Hali’s home during his last years.

Hardy loved his sports – his beloved teams included the Toronto Maple Leafs, Buffalo Bills, Toronto Argonauts, Toronto Blue Jays and Toronto Raptors. He greatly treasured his sports memorabilia, collecting the team’s caps and proudly displaying them at home. He was thrilled when his niece, Hali took him to his first and only Toronto Maple Leafs game in 2021. He turned out to be a good luck charm, as they won 3 – 0!  Another of his favourite excursions included the Toronto Car Show, which his brother Richard took him to numerous times, where he enjoyed sitting in the driver’s seat of one or two exotic cars!

Even during some troubled times during Hardy’s life, he always bravely adapted to his circumstances and accepted change with grace. He handled his diabetes, kidney disease and cancer valiantly.

Hardy taught us to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life: getting excited for the next big game, guessing when the first snowfall would be, looking forward to a great meal.

He also took time to show his deep appreciation for all kindnesses given to him this during his life.

Hardy had numerous jobs over the years, including over 20 years working as a wood turner in Aurora. In his later years, he did volunteer work at furniture and food banks, something he kept up even when his health was waning.

In the last few months of his life, the staff at Toronto General Hospital and Mount Hope care facility in London were tremendously kind, understanding and supportive – our family would like to thank them from the bottom of our hearts.

Hardy will always be remembered as a special guy who could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them laugh. As so perfectly put by Hali’s fiancé, Taylor, Hardy was “a man who saw only the good in every situation and left a positive mark on every person he came into contact with (a minor celebrity on our street). He had much love to give and was greatly loved in return. May you finally rest comfortably, Hardy.”

Hardy will have a simple cremation and no service, but will be interred in the spring at beautiful Kettleby Cemetery beside his beloved mom.

We will miss him tremendously and remember him and his infectious smile forever. We love you Hardy!

Hardy was a former committed volunteer at the Oasis Dufferin Community Centre, and so enjoyed the community, kindness and the friendships he experienced there over the years. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honour Hardy, a donation to Oasis Dufferin Community Centre, 1219 Dufferin Street, Toronto, ON M6H 4C2 would be greatly appreciated by the family.

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

Hardy – “You were better than all of us.” 

ROBLES COLLANTE, Fausto Julian…

Our beloved father, husband, grandfather, and dear friend Fausto Julian Robles Collante has suddenly departed from this life and into the arms of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, on January 8, 2024, surrounded by friends and family. His love, compassion, humility, and guidance will be sorely missed.

Fausto Julian was a beacon in his community and recognized for his generosity, kindness, and perseverance. He was always ready to render aid with a calm smile. The quintessential gentleman.

Cremation has taken place. A Mass will be held in his honour at St. George Parish, 1164 Commissioners Road West, London, on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 11 am.

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

BUCHANAN, Anne

Suddenly yet peacefully on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at University Hospital, London, Anne passed away in her 84th year. Beloved wife of the late John Buchanan (2009). Dear mother of Brad (Charity) Buchanan and Brent Buchanan (Tracy Bossence). Loving grandmother of Josh, Chris, Lucas and Katy. Dear sister of David (Gladys) Nesbit, Alice (Robert) Moore, Mary (Ronald) Buchanan, John (Ann) Nesbit and Robert (Kim) Nesbit. Survived by her brother-in-law James Buchanan. Predeceased by her sister-in-law Lorna and brothers-in-law Roy and William. Anne will be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Anne was a dedicated member of Holy Trinity/St. Stephen’s Memorial Church. Cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to a visitation at Holy Trinity/St. Stephen’s Memorial Church, 727 Southdale Road East, London on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm. A memorial service will follow at 2:00 pm. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Anne may be made to London Regional Cancer Program or Holy Trinity/St. Stephen’s Memorial Church. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

 

LOGAN, George…

George Wesley Logan passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones in London, Ontario, the evening of January 10th, 2023, in his 86th year. Loving husband to Evelyn for 67 years. George was a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents and siblings.

George loved gardening, fishing, and woodworking. His skilled hands crafted beautiful woodworking pieces that showcased his craftsmanship. George’s love for these pursuits enriched his life and left a legacy of joy and creativity for all who knew him.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of George may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, 1599 Hurontario Street, Suite 201, Mississauga, ON L5G 4S1. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

“I once had something special that money couldn’t buy, I had a special person but I had to say goodbye. If I were asked one question, why I thought the world of you, I could give a million answers and they all would be true. The heart ache and the sadness may not show. People say it lessens but little do they know. Meet me in my dreams and talk to me once more and ease this everlasting pain that makes my heart so sore. The road without you is so long, a tear for every mile, but I know one day when I reach the end, you will be waiting for me with a smile.” -Unknown

CHEVERIE, Faye

Faye passed away peacefully on Sunday January 7^th, 2024, at Victoria Hospital, London. Faye passed away at the age of 79 years.

Beloved wife, now and forever to Peter Noble Cheverie. Cherished and loving mother to her daughter Kristy Cheverie, her son Peter C Cheverie and his wife Kim Cheverie. Proud and loving Grandma to Rochelle Cheverie, Peter Ryan Cheverie, Logan Cheverie, Jordan McLean, Jessica McLean and Jake McLean. Great Grandmother to Isla McConnell. Loving sister to Nelseda, Garfield, Paul, Fred, Tom, Joe Predeceased by her brother David and sister Lois.

Faye and husband Peter were married in 1965 and throughout their marriage they lived in many homes due to Peters Air Force career. During a 3-year posting to England a highlight was attending a garden party at Buckingham Palace hosted by Queen Elizabeth II. After this Faye and Peter finally put down roots in London Ont. Faye was an avid reader, loved being outside, loved her dog and was happiest around her family.

Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Faye may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

Ian “Scotty” Gilmour Bremner Murray

May 30, 1932 – December 3, 2023

With profound sadness, we announce Ian “Scotty” Murray passed away peacefully with family

by his side in London, Ontario on Sunday, December 3, 2023 at the age of 91 years young.

Loving, loyal and proud father to daughters Colleen and Heather. Adored by his cherished

grandson Spencer Cradduck. Devoted and caring husband to the late Emily Jane (died July 28,

1995). Predeceased by four brothers, one sister and parents. Brother-in-law and Uncle Ian to

many relatives in Scotland and Ireland who remember his kindness and thoughtfulness. Scotty

is missed by London friends and neighbours who fondly recall driveway chats and visits, as well

as life time old town friends in Niagara-on-the-Lake who would meet to catch up at the local

coffee shop.

Our dad was born at Rosehall Cottage, in Drumoak, Scotland. He grew up in the seaside town

of Buckie. He often spoke of his adolescent life experiences growing up during the war years

and recounted listening to Churchill over the radio. At the age of fourteen, he began a six year

apprenticeship building wooden fishing boats at Jones Shipyard in Ianstown. His mother sent

him to Canada when he was twenty years old with $54 in his pocket. He stayed with a brother in

Toronto for three months. One weekend they drove to Niagara Falls to take in the attractions

and returned home along the Niagara Parkway. By chance, they stopped in at Shepherd Boats

and my dad got hired that very day in 1953 and began work the following week. One afternoon,

while driving down the dock hill, he met our mother outside her nursing residence and they were

married in 1961. In 1966, he erected a small garage at Gillingham Yacht Basin where he

established Murray’s Boat Repair. Over the years, he moved to a larger shop at the marina,

where he continued to work on wooden boats and became an expert craftsman in the repair,

painting and maintenance of fibreglass boats. After running a successful company, where

business was done by a handshake as a true gentleman, Scotty retired in 2009 at the age of 77.

During retirement, our dad enjoyed memorable family summer vacations to his hometown in

Scotland. When relatives visited him in Niagara, he delighted in touring them around sharing the

local sights. While in London, Grandpa Scotty could be found cheering for Spencer at whatever

sport he was playing each season. We often went out for a coffee and a drive to the park to see

the geese. He enjoyed feeding and watching wildlife in the backyard garden.

Dad had a strong will, determination and resilience. Anytime he was challenged by medical

issues, he always rallied back. We used to joke that our dad was like a cat with 15 lives! He

always had a smile on his face and a story to tell. Dad was a great teacher of life and a genuine

friend. We miss him terribly but we carry loving memories that will remain forever in our hearts

and minds. Thank you dad for those valuable life lessons and always being present for us.

Cheers to you, dear dad, for a life well lived. Till we meet again. Love always.

We would like to extend our gratitude to friends, family and the endless list of exceptional health

care providers who have loved, supported, cared and advocated for our dad and family

throughout the years.

Cremation has taken place and upon our father’s wishes, there will be no funeral or Celebration

of Life. A private family interment will take place at St. Mark’s Church in Niagara-on-the-Lake in

the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the charity of your choice would be

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

LANG, Terrence “Terry”…

Surrounded by his loving family on December 22, 2023, in his 70th year, Terry passed away after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. Devoted husband of Marie (nee Polisak) for 35 years. Cherished son of Jack and Rose (2019) Lang. Father of April McLaren (Steve) and Christina Lang. Dearly loved by his children Stephanie Whitty (Jesse), Melanie O’Neill (Peter) and Justin Bergeron. Adored Grandpa/Papa of Kylie (Ben), Chloe, Tyson (2014), Noah, Peyton, Jack, Liam, Katlyn, Jade, Kaylan, Isabella and Zoe. Loved by his brother Todd Lang (Kim) and his brothers and sisters-in-law Mike Polisak (Kathy), Steve Polisak (Judy), Pat Polisak (2014) (Kim), Janice Robson (Tom) and Cathy Harkes (Doug). Terry will be missed by his loving nieces and nephews, extended family and his closest friends Mike P and Mike T. Terry leaves behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love. His kind heart and sense of humour touched the lives of all who knew him, and his guidance will be deeply missed.   

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to his home care team for helping us keep him at home as long as possible. Thank you to paramedics Jeff and Aaron for providing dignity to Terry, and for the compassion they showed to his family. We also wish to thank all the staff at Victoria Hospital and the London Regional Cancer Program who were involved in Terry’s care.  

In keeping with Terry’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family invites you to a  “Remembering Terry Celebration” on Saturday January 6, 2024 from 1:00-5:00 p.m. in the community room at the Gartshore Apartments, located at 80/82 Ridout St South, London. In Terry’s memory, donations may be made to the Ronald McDonald House Charities Southwestern Ontario, 741 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com  

WYLIE, William Martin “Bill”      

Bill passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at University Hospital, London, just a few days shy of his 81^st birthday, following a stroke.

Bill is survived by his sons Shawn and Collin and their mother Linda.  Dear grandfather to Brenden and Nicholas, and his great-grandsons Bentley and Gavyn. Loving brother to Valerie (Brian) Webster. He will be remembered by his niece Christine and nephew Jason, James (Jane) and Darryl (Angela). He will be held dear in the hearts of his extended family and friends.

Bill was predeceased by his parents Mary and Samuel Wylie, his sister Linda (Stan) Latawiec and nephew Jeffrey (Eva) Webster.

Bill spent time serving in the Canadian Forces. He enjoyed reading and his annual deer hunting trip with his long time friends.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or funeral. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Bill may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Cremation London & Middlesex,519-858-2467, entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.cremationlondon.com