Announcements

Kornelius Neudorf, 74, of Lowbanks Ontario, passed away of a stroke on February 16, 2026. Kornelius was an enthusiastic organic farmer and beekeeper, and had a deep sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world around him. Known for his delightfully quirky personality, his vast knowledge of plants and farming, and his dreamer’s heart, he was deeply loved within his community. He was a perennial optimist who approached life with positivity and a sense of humour, even when faced with challenges and setbacks. A warm-hearted and gentle soul, he had a kind word for everyone who came across his path and always took the time to share words of encouragement and praise, even with complete strangers. He was truly one of a kind, marching to the beat of his own drum, and living a full and happy life, without regret. He embraced life to the fullest, whether that entailed catching a swarm of bees, stand-up tobogganing, a spontaneous road trip or becoming friends with a complete stranger. Born in Essex County to Heinz and Frieda Neudorf, Kornelius grew up on a small family farm where his passion for both agriculture and machinery were born. Despite the long hours and hard work that the farm required, his childhood was full of happy memories with his parents and siblings, Kate and Karl, including trips to the beach in the summer and skating on frozen creeks in the winter. His upbringing was deeply rooted in the Harrow Mennonite Church and the small community of German immigrants living nearby. From that foundation grew a faith lived out in compassion for others, stewardship of the land, and a deep hope for generations yet to come. The deep gratitude that he showed every day was one of the clearest manifestations of his faith. His decision to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Windsor was an opportunity to explore the world of machinery on an entirely new level.  After completing his degree, he moved to Lowbanks, Ontario in the mid-1970s to pursue a career in mechanical engineering at John Deere in Welland, where he was able to apply his brilliant scientific mind to developing machines to advance agricultural techniques and support farmers in the important work they do. He purchased his beloved farm in Lowbanks during this time, and eventually left John Deere to pursue farming more fully. Over the years, he had a variety of other jobs in the community. One of the most meaningful chapters of his farming career was his time at Shared Harvest Community Farm, where he worked alongside kindred spirits who shared his passion for organic farming and love of the land. Kornelius had two children, Kristin and Jason. Teaching came instinctively to him, and he instilled in his children a deep appreciation for the natural world and for a life guided by curiosity and a lifelong devotion to learning. Through his gentle, unwavering faith in his children, he encouraged them to grow into their truest selves

December 25, 1952 – February 24, 2026 Debbie would want you to know first and foremost that she married her one true love, Peter. They argued cheerfully for decades about who pursued whom but eventually agreed that she was won over by baskets of fresh vegetables and a man who was always ready for an adventure. For more than 50 years they built a life that was full, lively, and beautifully shared. They suited each other perfectly — Peter would grow and chop the onions, and Debbie would cook them up. It was a marriage of friendship, laughter, travel, and very good food. Together they saw the world — from Alaska to the Swiss Alps and countless road trips and bus trips in between. Debbie was so curious to see and experience so much of it and thrilled to do it all with Peter by her side.  She would insist she never bragged about her children — and then proceed to tell you, in great detail, how proud she was of her girls, Nicole and Kristine, her sons-in-law Nick and Paolo, and her treasured grandchildren: Galen, Harper, Hadrian, Celeste, and Benji. Nothing delighted her more than watching her family grow and gathering them around a table she had happily filled. Born on December 25, 1952, Debbie was the 999th baby born at Beckliffe Hospital, Hagersville. She was born and raised in Hagersville and, in truth, never really left — even when she spent her final months in Guelph, her heart remained firmly planted in the community that raised her and that she loved so fiercely. Debbie believed in showing up. From the PTA when her girls were young to the Food Bank in more recent years, there was no board she wouldn’t join, no fundraiser she wouldn’t support, no event she wouldn’t attend. She was happiest when she was involved. As recently as this past December, she was serving hot chocolate at the Hagersville Santa Claus Parade, because that’s who she was. If something needed doing, Debbie was there. She carried a quiet but steady faith as a member of Springvale United Church, along with a slightly off-colour sense of humour that the community there can surely attest to. Her many friendships spanned decades, and she was deeply thankful for each one. Debbie was predeceased by her parents Benjamin and Eleanor Auger, her sister Sharon and her in-laws William and Frances Kozicki. She leaves behind her beloved husband Peter; her daughters Nicole and Kristine; sons-in-law Nick and Paolo; her cherished grandchildren; her brother Gary (Donna) and sister Judy (Pat); and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were lucky enough to be nourished by her — in every sense of the word. Our family extends our deep and most sincere gratitude to the staff and volunteers at Hospice Wellington and Guelph General Hospital for their extraordinary care and compassion — not only for Debbie, but for all of us as we navigated, having to say goodbye to our most beloved wife,

Rolland Paul Cassidy passed away peacefully at West Haldimand General Hospital on February 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He will be dearly missed by his son, Wayne (Kathryn), and grandsons Justin, Kyle, Hudson, and Nathan. Rolly will be sadly missed by his wife, Gayle Hare; stepchildren and step-grandchildren, including Kylie, Brooke, Joel, Jaden, and Abby; and foster children LoriLynn, Chelsey, Alex, and Sierra. He was a loving and nurturing Papa to so many in his family over the years. He leaves behind his younger siblings: Therese (†Normand) Gagnon, Maria (Marcel) Leger, Bernard (Rina) Cassidy, and Aurele Cassidy (Joanne Boudreau), who all still reside in Rolly’s hometown of Shediac, NB. He was predeceased by his parents, Leonce and Rita, and his wives, Ruth (1989) and Patricia (2014). Since retiring from the Waterloo Regional Police Force, he spent his time wintering in Okeechobee, Florida, and travelling to many national parks across North America, which often included his grand and foster children. He loved all sorts of music, playing his drums, and singing. He loved all sports and was an avid fan of the Montreal Canadiens. Sincere thanks to the staff at Leisure Living, West Haldimand General Hospital, and Dr. Nick Cloete for their exceptional care. Rolly had a strong Christian faith and is now in the presence of his Lord. The Funeral Service will take place at Calvary Kitchener, 9 Conway Dr., Kitchener, Ontario, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with a reception to follow. Donations to Safe Families Canada would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to COOPER FUNERAL HOME, Jarvis (519-587-4414). Friends are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.cooperfuneralhome.ca.

With much sadness, we share the news of the sudden death of Chris Young on February 5, 2026. Chris was a kind and caring soul with a laugh and a smile for anyone he met. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and a dose of humour. Chris will be deeply missed. Forever loved by his wife of almost 55 years, Jo Anne, his children Selina (Sheldon) and Alex (Karissa), and his grand dogs Sloan, Stevie, and Louie who he adored and loved to feed, even when he wasn’t supposed to. Family meant the world to Chris. Chris was born on February 16, 1949 — first born of the late George and Mary (Rayner) Young. He is predeceased by his sister Susan. Chris worked at Stelco (Lake Erie Works) for 30 years and made lifelong friends while he was there. Chris enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and auto repair, especially when it came to Jeeps. He was a voracious reader of newspapers, magazines, and books. Chris had a big sweet tooth and had strong views on ice cream. A celebration of life is planned for May 23, 2026, in Caledonia, Ontario where Chris lived for 51 years until recently moving into long-term care. We are so grateful to the kind and supportive staff at Wentworth Lodge in Dundas, Ontario, who have taken such good care of Chris for the past 7 months. In lieu of flowers — please consider a donation to Parkinson Canada or Diabetes Canada and treat yourself to an ice cream in Chris’ memory. Funeral arrangements entrusted to MILLER FUNERAL CHAPEL, Caledonia (905-765-2712). Friends and family are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca

To all of our wonderful family, friends and neighbors – a very heartfelt thank you for all the cards, flowers, food, and especially meaningful words of comfort on the tragic loss of our beloved son Mark. We live in a very caring and loving community indeed. ♥ Gil & Linda Wooloff

With love and gratitude for a life well lived, we honour the memory of a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Elaine Campbell, who has gone to be with the Lord. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Eugene Earl Campbell, whom she cherished deeply. She leaves behind her loving children, René (Brad), Charlie (Melanie), and Dennis (Sheri). She was a proud grandmother to Prestynn, Macie, Cole, Ella, Lizzie, Savanna, Grace, and Landon, and a delighted great-grandmother to Anastasia and Eden. Her family was her greatest treasure and the centre of her heart. For many years, she faithfully worked at Hewitt’s Dairy Bar, where she truly loved what she did and the people she served. Her strength, determination, and unwavering resolve to remain independent inspired everyone who knew her. Her children unanimously agree that she was the world’s best mother. A celebration of life will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, 2 p.m. at Springvale United Church.

With great sadness, we announce Maurice’s passing, peacefully, with Jean by his side, at Edgewater Gardens in Dunnville. He was almost 87 when he passed on February 8, 2026. At age 15, Maurice started out as a commercial fisherman, where he worked for 11 years out of Port Maitland. Around the age of 26, Moe moved to Scarborough, where he was responsible for operating multimillion-dollar machines for 25 years at Atlantic Packaging Products Limited. After moving back to Dunnville, he became a volunteer firefighter based out of Lowbanks, where he was proud to serve for a number of years, which included attending the Hagersville tire fire in February 1990. His move back to his hometown also included performing other miscellaneous jobs until his retirement. He was always an extremely hard worker — with his hands, never in his pockets. He leaves behind his sons, Jason (Lausanne) and Bronson (Jennifer); his grandchildren, Talon and Larissa Vanslack; his special girl, Jean Garbas; his sisters, Patricia Crumb and Jeannie Coles; and his brother, Doug (Brenda) McIntee, along with many nieces and nephews. Moe was predeceased by his parents, Clara and Jack Elijah Vanslack; his sisters, Betty and Janet; and his brothers, Alfred, Arville, David, and Bill. A special thank you to all the staff at Edgewater for the great care shown to Maurice and his family. If you choose to honour Moe, please make a donation to the Salvation Army food bank, as he loved helping people. A special thanks to Linda, Dave, and Connie for their support and loving hearts, along with J.W. Hart Funeral Home for their expertise and care for Maurice and his family — very much appreciated. As per Moe’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family interment will take place on Saturday, March 28, followed by a celebration of life, with details to follow. Online condolences may be shared at www.jwhartfuneralhome.com.

Passed away peacefully at the Stedman Community Hospice on Wednesday January 21, 2026. Beloved wife of 34 years to Joseph Marschall. Daughter of the late James and Gladys Elliott. Dear sister of the late Neil and James Elliott, and sister-in- law to Mary Dillon and Bonnie and Bob Cookson. Beloved aunt of nieces Shawna (George), Shyanne (Dale), and Jamie and nephew, David. She was thrilled to recently welcome a great-nephew Steele, and was looking forward to a second little one due in a few months. A graveside service was held at Hagersville Cemetery on Saturday January 24, 2026. Donations to Juravinski Cancer Centre or Norfolk-Haldimand Hospice.   A celebration of life will take place at a later date.   www.rhbanderson.com.

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jan Lezak on January 16, 2026 at the age of 82 in Edmonton, AB. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Marie, and his daughters, Eva and Dana. Jan was an honest and compassionate man who loved gardening and woodworking. We take comfort to know that he is in the arms of Our Saviour, rejoicing in His presence. In our hearts you will always stay loved and remembered every day. His Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Beach Corner Church, #4, 53117 Range Road 14, Parkland County, AB.

James Robert Irwin, born October 15, 1931, in East Wawanosh Township, Ontario, passed away on February 2, 2026, in Welland, Ontario. He was 94 years old at the time of his death. Jim was born into a farming family and was one of eight children born to Ella and Herson Irwin. Of Jim’s seven siblings, he is survived by Barbara Laviolette. Jim married Marilyn Moggach on September 3, 1955. They soon had two boys, Doug and Jim, and after a few brief stops moved to Dunnville, Ontario, where Jim stayed and resided for over sixty years. Jim obtained an accounting designation and worked as a corporate accountant for the vast majority of his career. Jim and Marilyn joined the United Church when they moved to Dunnville, and Jim remained a participant in the Church until his death. Outside of his family, Jim’s passions were golf, fishing, and cards—only one of which he was competent at. Jim was a member of the Dunnville Golf Club for over fifty years and was fortunate to play a few holes in the last year of his life. Jim greatly enjoyed travel. For a guy from East Wawanosh Township, travelling to Egypt, Australia, Europe, the Caribbean, and Alaska is quite a journey! Jim believed in giving back to the community. For many years, he was a member of the local Lions Club and worked on many community projects. He served on a number of local boards and organizations that were important to the Dunnville residents. In his later years, Jim contributed financially to the organizations he believed were important. Jim’s wife, Marilyn, died in 2014. He was remarkably lucky in reconnecting with a dear old friend of his and Marilyn’s, Irene Marr. Jim and Irene were married in January 2017 and remained very happily married until Jim’s passing. Jim is survived by his two sons, Doug (and his spouse Veronica) and Jim; and grandchildren Mackenzie (and spouse Tena) and Annabel (and spouse Matthew). There is a great-grandchild currently in process who is yet unnamed. Coming from a large family, there are many nieces and nephews who have been a large part of the fabric of Jim’s life. Two in particular, Brenda Musielus and Valerie Johnson (and Valerie’s husband Dale), were very close to Jim. Valerie and Brenda were the surrogate daughters he dearly wished for. Jim is also survived by his wife, Irene Marr, and her children Dan, Laurie (and her spouse Steve), and Carey, as well as Irene’s grandchildren Faith, Dryden, and Carson. A service commemorating Jim’s life will be held at the Dunnville Grace United Church, 301 Broad St. E., Dunnville, on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 1 p.m. A reception will follow. Arrangements entrusted to Ballard Minor Funeral Home, Dunnville (905-774-7277). Friends are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.ballardminorfh.ca.