Announcements

Featured image for BROOKS,  Melvin George

BROOKS, Melvin George

April 21, 2025

Peacefully with his loving family by his side on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the Stedman Community Hospice, Brantford in his 88th year. Loving husband to Carol (Fuller) Brooks for 67 years. Dear dad to Melanie Morris (Ray Smith) and Mona (Bill) Harju. Cherished grandpa to Brenda (Mike) Stone, Brian (Maryanne) Morris and Mike (Laura) Harju and great-grandchildren Emily, Sarah, Mischa and Matteo. Survived by his brother Lorne (Mary) Brooks as well as sister-in-law Pat (Doug) Miskelly and brother-in-law Bill Fuller. Predeceased by his sister-in-law Sandy Fuller. Cremation has taken place. SERENITY BURIAL & CREMATION SERVICES INC., 361 Main Street, Port Dover (226) 290-9093 have been entrusted with the arrangements. A private family service will take place. For those wishing to make a memorial donation in memory of Melvin they are asked to consider SickKids Foundation, 525 University Ave, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2L3, or the Stedman Community Hospice, 445 Grey St, Brantford, Ontario N3S 6X1. A huge Thank You to the Stedman Community Hospice Staff for their care and compassion of Mel and the support to his family. Online condolences can be left at www.serenityburialandcremation.com
Featured image for JOHNSTON, Doreen J.

JOHNSTON, Doreen J.

April 21, 2025

1935 – 2025 Entered peacefully into rest at Willowgrove Long Term Care on April 18, 2025, Doreen Johnston (nee Shannon) in her 90th year. Daughter of Edward and Dorothy Shannon (deceased). Beloved wife of Bill Johnston (d.2022), her partner and best friend, and they’ll be dancing together celebrating 70 years of marriage this summer. Dear and caring mother of Susan Bontaine (Jim, d.2020) and Lori Shields (Gord). Adored grandma of Adam Bontaine (Trisha), Tyler Dren (Michaela), Andrea Lawrence (Ryan) and Kyle Dren (Adrienne). Grammie/Great-Grandmother of her special great-grandchildren Hannah and Ben Lawrence, Carter Dren and Arie, Riley and Luke Bontaine. Predeceased (2022) by her only sister Dianne Martin (Bob). Left to mourn her passing are sisters-in-law Janet Johnston (Glen) and Mary-Lou Johnston (Eric). A private family funeral was held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (905-765-2712).  Interment Riverside Cemetery, Cayuga, Ontario. If desired, a donation to Parkinson Canada or charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. The tulip is the official symbol of Parkinson’s, and as per Doreen’s request, please remember her by planting a tulip, giving one to a friend or enjoying a bouquet on your table.  Friends are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca
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BERNHARDT, Robert

April 14, 2025

Peacefully passed away from Hospice Welling, Guelph on Thursday, April 10, 2025 in his 79th year. Dearly loved by Margaret Bernhardt. Beloved brother of †Betty (†Francis) Kempen, Frank (†Mary) and Allen (Betty). He will be greatly missed by many nieces and nephews. Bob was an avid pitcher for the Caledonia Clippers and Simcoe Giants and an avid hunter and fisher. He was a long time member of the Royal Canadian Legion Caledonia Branch 154 and the Palmerston Legion. The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice Wellington for the amazing care Bob received during his stay. Family and friends are welcome to attend a small graveside service at Caledonia Cemetery on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 11 a.m. Reception to follow at Royal Canadian Legion Caledonia Branch 154 for refreshments and memories. Donations to the Royal Canadian Legion Caledonia Branch 154 would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, 28 Caithness Street East, Caledonia, 905-765-7212. Friends are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca.
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CULP, Douglas Warren

April 14, 2025

It is with infinite sadness and the heaviest of hearts that the family of Douglas Warren Culp announce his sudden passing at home on Monday, April 7, 2025 in his 60th year. Doug was loved by many, a man of infinite kindness, humor and love. He was the proud father of Andie Culp and Dani Reid (John), Papa of Jocelyn, Emily and Hannah and beloved fiancé of Karen McCabe. Doug is also survived by his parents Ross and Sharon, siblings Dwayne (Tammi) Sandra and Shelley (Dan) as well as many nephews. A strong, capable and loving man, after a lengthy career in construction, he made the decision to become a nurse late in life at the encouragement of his mother. A man of boundless empathy and compassion he was loved by many and will be missed by all whose lives he touched. Doug was a natural healer, whether he touched people through laughter or his technical skills. Doug was devoted to supporting the wellness of those in his life. Doug loved life, laughter, movies, nature, water … his interests were endless.  However, he loved nothing in life more than all his girls. Even Charlie. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. I love you more.  Following a private inurnment of cremated remains, a celebration of life will be held at Grace United Church, 174 Caithness Street East, Caledonia on Monday, April 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 pm.  Those who knew Doug will be aware that he hated dressing up and in recognition of this fact, the family ask you to attend comfortably.  Arrangements entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (905-765-2712). If desired, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.  Friends are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca
Featured image for IMRIE, Norman

IMRIE, Norman

April 13, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Norman Imrie on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 in his 77th year. Beloved husband of Ilene and the late Janet Imrie (2014). Loving father of Christopher Imrie, Sarah (Tony) Imrie, Mallory (Sara) Imrie, Emily (Rehm) Imrie, Jimmy (Leslie) Davis, Josh (Emma) Davis, Tia (Dave) Champaigne. Cherished grandfather of Anthony, Jacob, Myla, Desi, Raih, Lilly, Elijah, Nolan, Annie and Morgan. Dear brother of Dorothy. He will be missed by many family and friends. Friends are invited to call at MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, 28 Caithness Street East, Caledonia on Sunday, April 13, 2025 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A service for Norm will be held at Miller Funeral Chapel on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 1 p.m. Donations can be made to the Prince of Wales Elementary School (Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board). Friends are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca
Featured image for ECKER, Donald Leslie

ECKER, Donald Leslie

April 8, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Leslie Ecker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, who peacefully left us on April 6, 2025, at the age of 70, surrounded by his wife and three daughters. Born on March 25, 1955, in Hamilton, Ontario. Donald’s life was filled with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to his family and community. He is predeceased by his father Leslie and survived by his mother Edna, brothers Norm and Wayne and sister Debbie. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, brother and sister-in-laws and cousins. Donald was a devoted husband to his wife, Mary, with whom he shared 50 years of love, partnership, and cherished memories. Together they gave their children foundational roots and the wings to lead their own lives. Donald was the proud and loving dad to three wonderful daughters, Ashley (Neil), Alisha (Dan) and Bethany (Colin) who were the centre of his world. He was also a proud Pappy to six grandchildren, Rory, Eilidh, Jacob, James, Callum and Brynlee who brought him immeasurable joy. Donald spent his formative years in Caledonia, Ontario where he spent most of his time in hockey arenas, baseball diamonds and doing many other sporting activities. In his later years he played Junior hockey and won numerous championships. His daughters followed in his footsteps with their love of playing baseball and he enjoyed coaching them for many years. He was a passionate fan of the Montreal Canadiens and passed that devotion on to his children and grandchildren, with many fun-filled family trips to the Bell Centre. In his later years, Donald moved to Dunnville, Ontario where he built a successful career in finance. He enjoyed connecting with and serving members of the community and made many lasting friendships. Donald’s generosity, humor, and spirit of camaraderie made him a cherished friend to many. He enjoyed travelling, golfing, and witty banter with many life long friends. Friends are welcome to join the family in honouring Donald’s life with visitation at JW Hart Funeral Home , Dunnville on Thursday April 10, 2025 from 4:00 to 7:00pm. A private family burial will follow.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation ( dhhf.ca ) or Juravinski Cancer Centre ( jhccf.pllenty.com ) in Donald’s memory. Our sincerest thanks and gratitude goes out to all of the doctors and nurses at the Juravinski Cancer Centre, home care nurses and PSWs and staff at the Dunnville Memorial Hospital. We would also like to thank the countless friends and family members who brought meals, flowers, gifts and provided other means of support. Donald has chosen to spend his eternal life in the small town of Port Maitland where he will be laid to rest. Online condolences jwhartfuneralhome.com. Rest in peace. Your legacy will live on through us all.
Featured image for WALKER, Murray

WALKER, Murray

April 7, 2025

From Gardenview Long-term Care, Townsend, Murray left on his final fishing trip on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 in his 95th year. Murray was a long-time resident of Jarvis, then later in life Corbeil. Dear Dad of Jerry (Dale) Walker of Haliburton, Ralph (Kris) Walker of Simcoe, Patsy (Jack) Esselment of Hagersville, Debbie (Pat) Martin of Caledonia and Sandra (Tim) Neilson of Caledonia. Cherished Papa of Kathy (Cart), Bryan (Pauline), Adam (Kimi), Cody, Paul (Jennie), Jim (Cara), Julie, Tom (Chris), Scott (Laura) and Bob (Lauren) and a great-grandpa of 19. Pre-deceased by brother Orvil Walker and dear friend Barb Walker. Cremation has taken place and private service and burial will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements entrusted to COOPER FUNERAL HOME, Jarvis (519-587-4414).  If desired, non-charitable contributions to the Jarvis Lions Club would be appreciated by the family.  Friends are invited to send condolences to the family and sign the Book of Memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.ca
Featured image for GRAY, Charles Miller

GRAY, Charles Miller

April 7, 2025

August 18, 1938 – March 30, 2025 Passed away on Sunday, March  30, 2025 at the age of 86. Charlie Gray beloved husband of Linda (nee: Havens). Loving father of Duane (Nancy) Gray, and Jennifer (Grant) McDonnell. Son of the late Walter and Gladys Gray. Charlie was a proud grandpa to Bobbi (Cheech), Braeden, Alysa, Alexa, and Owen; and great-grandpa to Logan and Blake. Charlie is survived by his brothers Bob (Mary), David (Edith) and their families. The family will have a private gathering honouring Charlie at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation ( dhhf.ca ) would be appreciated by the family. Photos and online condolences at  jwhartfuneralhome.com

HARE, Helen Mae – Thank you

April 7, 2025

March 11, 1929 -March 7, 2025 We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation and thanks to our family, friends and neighbours for their kindness and support during this difficult time. Thank you to all who remembered us in prayer, visited or called, sent cards or flowers, prepared food and made memorial contributions.  We are forever grateful. Special thanks to Reverend Dawn Ballantyne for the beautiful service, Silken Ricker for the piano tribute and the staff of Ballard Minor Funeral Home for their support, guidance and compassion.  Our extended thanks to the staff of Grandview Lodge- Long Term Care Home. It is comforting to know that Helen touched the lives of so many.  Your friendship, kindness and love means more than words could ever express. The Family of Helen Hare