Obituaries & Condolences

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

KENNEY, Patrick Sr…

Patrick Kenney Sr. passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario, the morning of December 4, 2023, in his 73^rd year surrounded by family and friends. Cherished husband to Deborah Kenney for 45 years. Dear father of Patrick Jr. (Erin), Devin (Yolanda), Erinn, Caylin (Brad) and Babe (cat companion). Cherished “grumps” to Isla, Tamsin and Maeve. Beloved brother to Janice (Don), Cathy (Norm), and Paul (predeceased). Brother-in-law to Colleen (Denny) and Rhonda (Tony).  Loving son of Clement and Grace (predeceased).  His many nieces and nephews will continue to share his stories.

Pat surrounded himself with friends, knowledge, kindness and nature. He was passionate about teaching, both in and out of the classroom. Pat’s humour and wit made a difference in everyone’s life. His love of a good time could brighten anyone’s day (or night). The family is taking solace in knowing that his spirit lives on in the lessons he imparted, the laughter he shared, and the love he showered upon everyone. 

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Patrick Sr. can be made to World Vision, Food Banks, Ukranian Crisis Relief Fund or Salvation Army. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held in the summer.  

We celebrate the gift of a life well lived.  As one door closes, another one opens.  Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

It is with great sadness and deep love we announce the passing of Donna Seyler (née Mayo) at the age of 71 years old. Donna died peacefully on November 30, 2023 at Victoria Hospital in London.

Wife of 43 years and best friend to Keith Seyler. Cherished mother of Chris (Carolyn) Culver, Don Culver, Jason (Miranda) Culver, James (Christine) Seyler. Beloved Grandmother of Don Christopher (Erika), Victoria, Jarrod (Danielle), Russell (Rebecca), Blake (Lindsay), Amanda (Clayton), Scott, Brooke (Tanner), Cooper, William, Katherine, great grandmother of Boden. Survived by sister Rosemary Hudson. She will also be missed by extended family, friends and neighbours.

She was predeceased by her Mother Rosalie Lewis, Father Joseph Mayo, Step Father Lorne Lewis, granddaughter Rachel and by her first husband, Ken Culver.

Donna’s love story with Keith began after the tragic death of her first husband. She was suddenly and unexpectedly left a widow with 3 young boys. Keith became a devoted and loving father to her three boys. After Keith and Donna married, they expanded their family and welcomed another baby boy. Donna was always the matriarch of the family and so proud of each of her boys and her grandchildren.  She loved to bake and knowing how much her family enjoyed it, she made sure to provide everyone’s favourites on special occasions.

Donna’s life will be celebrated privately by family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Donna’s granddaughter Rachel, to The Hospital for Sick Children through RBI’s for Rachel.

Thank you to the staff of Victoria Hospital for their care and attention in Donna’s final days.

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

CEASER, John

1960-2023

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce our beloved John passed away in his sleep at home in Strathroy on November 30th, 2023. John will be deeply missed by his wife and soulmate Kathy, his son Kyle (Kiel), brothers Gary (Deana), Rick (Fredreicka) Al (Kim), his sister Cindy (Jim) and father Donald. John will be missed by Kathy’s children, Michael, Amanda (Wade), and Cody. He will be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends, along with his colleagues at Autotube. John was predeceased by his mother Alice. He was a beacon of laughter and positivity, living every day to its fullest, never taking a single moment for granted. John often remarked that he was “living the dream,” and his radiant joy was a testament to this sentiment.  Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations in John’s name can be made to the Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Foundation. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

“Loving you forever”

CUSTUS, Marshall…

Marshall Custus passed away on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, in his 61st year, after a short battle with Cancer.

Beloved son of Sandra and Calvin (Sid); daughter Isabelle; brother of Robert (Dana), Carolee (Dan), Bev (Bob), and Uncle to Chad (Ami), Taylor (Devin), Devon (Adam) & Rachel.

Marshall was born in Hamilton, spending part of his youth in Alberta, New Brunswick and overseas, before settling down in London for the remainder of his days. He worked at various food establishments, and then the manufacturing sector, later in his career. He was passionate about art, and donated his time and energy towards many of the London community events & programs.

Cremation has taken place.

In memory of Marshall, donations may be made to Ark Aid Street Mission, a non-profit organization he was passionate about, 696 Dundas Street, London, ON N5W 2Z4.

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

BRADLEY, Kenneth ‘Ken’ Frederick

Peacefully on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Parkwood Institute, London, Ken passed away in his 95th year. Beloved husband of the late Shirley (2006). Loving father of Kim ‘Maggie’. Ken served in the military from January 1948 to April 1974. In his semi retirement he worked in Toronto as an operations and property manager of significant commercial developments. The family bought a cottage in the Goderich area and worked to renovate it for their retirement. Ken appreciated nature and enjoyed his visits to northern Canada. He was a passionate Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Canadians fan. Ken was a supporter of continuous learning and a mentor when called upon. Ken always had a twinkle in his eye. His spark remained despite all his battles. He will be missed by all who knew him. Thank you to Parkwood Veterans Care Program and staff for all they do to enhance the lives of those living in Parkwood. Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Ken may be made to The War Amps, The Kidney Foundation of Canada, Veterans Care Program via St. Joseph’s Health Foundation, or your local Legion. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

DEVINE, Michael…

Michael (Mike) James Devine, 86, passed away on November 10, 2023, peacefully at Victoria Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Michael was predeceased by his best friend and wife Eleanor and his parents James and Lily. He is survived by his sister, Marie, his brother, Christopher, sister-in-law, Margaret (Maggie) and his two children, Stephen (Martha) and Karen. He was a loving grandfather to Michael (Emma), Scott (Sydney) and Emily (Marcus).

Born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England, Michael moved to Canada after World War 2 with his family. He served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve for 31 years, as a Medical Assistant, achieving the rank of Warrant Officer. He was a Serving Brother in the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem. Michael was employed as an X-Ray Technician Assistant at Victoria Hospital, South Street, for 40 years. Michael’s professional life was motivated by his desire to help the sick and injured. He passed this way of life on to his children and grandchildren.

In retirement, Michael spent his days traveling and researching his family genealogy with his wife Eleanor until her passing in 2000. Michael was a lover of all thing’s history; he was an avid reader and could be found most days with his nose buried in a history book. In 2011, Michael achieved a lifelong goal of traveling to see Juno Beach and Vimy Ridge. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Cremation has taken place and Michael will be interred at a private family ceremony. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity of your choice would be much appreciated. A Celebration of Life Event will be held on Saturday, November 25th, 2023 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in the Officer’s Mess at HMCS Prevost, 19 Beecher Street, London. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

CARR, Agnes “Pat”…

In loving memory of Agnes “Pat” Carr.

Peacefully at the Village of Glendale Crossing, London, with her family by her side, Agnes “Pat” Carr (nee Hilton) passed away on Friday, November 10, 2023 in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of the late Kenneth Carr. Loving mother of Alan, Chris (Maureen), Michael (Sharon) and Sally (Juan). Cherished Grandma of Adam (Rebecca), Katie, Matt and Danika. Adored Nana of Grace, Eden, Connor, and McKenna. Dear sister of Ivy and Jack. Predeceased by her parents Walter and Ivy, her siblings Harry (Jim) and Billy, and her dear companion Terry.

Pat was born in Brighton, England. She and her family immigrated to Canada in 1951, finding their new home in London. Once settled, the Hilton family resided on Regina Street where they had many a spirited party with friends & family full of music with her brother Billy jamming on the drums and her mother Ivy playing her spoons. The singing and laughter could be heard down the street.

Before having her own family, Pat had jobs at Reitmans and was a switchboard operator at Bell and Victoria Hospital making many friends. She would save her money to buy beautiful clothes at Kingsmills and to buy a car. Pat loved bombing around and having adventures in her red Hillman Minx. She especially loved going to the beach at Port Stanley or Grand Bend with Billy and Ivy, sunbathing and having ice cream.

It was through her friend at Bell that Pat met her husband to be. Pat was picking her friend up at a coffee shop known as “Ted’s” and was cajoled into coming in to meet a fellow Brit that was Ken. Ted’s was a popular hang out that was frequented by Air force pilots and officers from around the world. Ken was a Pilot Officer with the RAF and in London to teach navigation techniques at the NATO Induction and Training Centre. He told her on their second date that he would marry her one day and that he did.

Pat contracted polio as a small child but never let it hold her back from doing everything that she wanted to throughout her life. She was a stoic person with remarkable courage, bravery and determination. Her selflessness and caring nature defined her, putting others before herself. She volunteered at IODE Canada, Meals on Wheels, and was an active member in her Post Polio Group through the March of Dimes.

Pat will be remembered as having a fun-loving spirit, generosity, and wicked sense of humour. Many good times were had with friends and neighbours on Cheapside Street. A fabulous hostess and was known for her legendary roast beef and Yorkshire pudding dinners.

Pat was a kind and caring mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and mother in-law. The absolute best mother to her brood. She guided with patience and understanding always there but by no means hovering. She shared her advice and wisdom but never interfered. She was open-minded and non-judgemental with an attitude of do whatever makes you happy. She adored her grandchildren and loved playing with them, using her many voices to bring life to their stuffed animals. Pat would often have her family in stiches laughing till their bellies ached on family game nights playing charades and Pictionary.

Pat was beautiful inside and out with a heart of gold. She will be deeply missed by those that knew and loved her. She will always live in our hearts.

Many thanks and much gratitude to those that cared for Pat at The Village of Glendale Crossing.

As per Pat’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Donations in Pat’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1 or The March of Dimes Canada, 202-885 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3C 1V9.

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