Services & Obituaries

MARKS, Carole…

Peacefully with family by her side at McCormick Home, London, Carole Marks passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023 in her 93rd year. Beloved wife of the late William Marks (2006). Loving mother of John Marks and his wife Carol Marks of Alberta, Janet Marks and her husband Gary Ormond, Lynn Gunn and her husband Kevin, Sandy Janssen and her husband Reinier all of London. Cherished grandmother of Kristin Gunn (Conrado Miranda), Jordan Gunn, Monique Janssen (Rob Jutting), Luke Janssen, Rebecca Ormond, Mike Ormond, Lisa Peppar (Dan), Jordan Fletcher and Sarah Diggens (Kenton). Great-grandmother of Audrey, Lilian, Benjamin, Oliver, Ben, Sam, Noah, Jayda, Abby and Jack. Predeceased by her brothers Roy, Walter and George Traas.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, April 28, 2023 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 12 pm in the funeral home chapel. Private family interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. In memory of Carole, donations may be made to Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, 435 Windermere Road, London, ON N5X 2T1 or the McCormick Care Foundation, 2022 Kains Road, London N6K 0A8. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

DOW, William “Bill”…

William Airthrey “Bill” Dow, aged 79, died peacefully at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital on April 18th, 2023, surrounded by the love of his life and their three children.

Cherished husband of Zina (Koval). Treasured Daddy to Anna (Eric), Michael (Megan) and Emily (Jurgen). Adored Grandpa/Papa of Zoe (Sadie), Noah, Isabelle, and Sophia. Bill will be missed by many nieces, nephews, and his siblings May and, especially, his wee sister Elizabeth. Predeceased by his parents Douglas and Betty and brothers Douglas and Colin.

William was born in Airthrey Castle in Scotland. His life was filled with many accomplishments. In his youth, he was a Queen’s Scout and a Sunday school teacher. His beliefs that one should lead by example and that life is filled with teachable moments led him to a career as an educator. He began by teaching at the elementary level and then taught children with special needs. His true calling was teaching young offenders, which he did for the majority of his career. While working at Craigwood Youth Services, Bill became a founding member of the Ontario Association for Students at Risk.

Bill was a community minded person who was a charter member of the Poplar Hill Lions Club, the treasurer for the Poplar Hill Picnic Committee for many years, and a participant with Trees Middlesex Centre.

Bill had a voracious appetite for knowledge and he was a predominantly informational reader. His eclectic interests included gardening, birds, videography, genealogy, Thomas Hardy novels, and the ancient Orthodox Church. For nearly fifty years he took great pride in maintaining the property and home he helped design and build. Bill loved people! He was a true gentleman who had the gift of being able to talk with anyone, anytime, anywhere, about anything. He demonstrated respect and non-judgment for everyone and had a knack for asking people insightful questions that would draw them out and leave them feeling valued, safe, and loved in his presence. The latter was especially true for his family. Bill’s eyes would always light up when his beautiful wife, his children, and his grandchildren were with him. He had such a positive outlook on life and a sense of adventure. Though he would have destinations, he always welcomed detours that he could explore along the way. Bill lived his life as a kind-hearted, compassionate human being and he will be greatly missed.

A brief service, followed by visitation, will be held on Sunday, April 23 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour, 140 Fairview Avenue, London, ON N6C 4T8. The funeral service will be held on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the church, with interment following at Woodland Cemetery, London. A remembrance meal will be shared at the parish hall after the interment.

In memory of Bill, please consider a donation to the Saint Elizabeth Foundation, 300-90 Allstate Parkway, Markham, ON L3R 6H3 or to The Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CARROLL, Barbara Jean Mackie ….

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara J.M. Carroll (nee Chalmers), peacefully at home on Tuesday April 18, 2023, in her 93rd year with loved ones by her side. Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband Alex (2021) as well as parents Gladys and William S. Chalmers. She was the sister of Nan, Jessie and Bill.                        

Loving mother to Scott (Carolyn), Iain (Terri), Gavin (Barry) and Victoria Smardon ( Rob).

Grandmother to Jessica, Jason, Jeremy, Jennifer, Andrew, John and Daniel.

Great Grandmother of Tasha, Murphy, Margot, Cameron, Conner, Blake and Georgia.

 Barbara was born in Chile, South America but was raised in Glasgow, Scotland where she met and married her husband Alex. Barbara and Alex immigrated to Canada in 1952, living in Toronto and Ottawa before moving to London where they put down roots and raised a family. In the early years in London, Barbara worked at Labatt’s then with the London Free Press before devoting herself to being a full time mother and homemaker. Barbara was an avid reader, enjoyed cross-stitching and knitting. In the couple’s retirement, Barbara and Alex spent a lot of time travelling the U.S. and Europe.

Many thanks and appreciation for Barbara’s care to Dr. Hamilton, Dr. “Jill ” and the rest of the Palliative Care Team including nurses, Athily and Ageesh, Southwest LHIN Care Coordinators Lisa and Pauline and the VON staff that looked after Barbara.

 Cremation has taken place. Interment at Woodland Cemetery , London. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CAVERS, Paul…

Paul Brethen Cavers, Professor Emeritus, Western University Department of Biology, died peacefully on April 18, 2023 at Manor Village in London, Ontario at the age of 85. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 62 years, Joan. He will be forever loved by his daughters Glenys, Brenda (Richard Campbell), Alison (Pierre Morin) and son Bruce (Nadira) and nine grandchildren, Matthew, Rachel, Aaron, Thomas, Sarah, Emilie, Benoit, Alina and Nora. Paul will be missed by his brother Pete and wife Cindy and sister-in-law Enid and husband Maurice Corbett as well as several nieces, nephews and their children.

Paul was born in Toronto, Ontario January 18, 1938 to Clarence & Rita Cavers, raised in Toronto and attended University of Toronto Schools. He studied at Ontario Agricultural College (University of Toronto) earning his BSA in Agronomy. Following his graduation in 1960 he received an Agricultural Institute of Canada award to continue his studies at the University College of North Wales in Bangor. He returned to Canada in 1961 to marry Joan Goudge, who had just graduated from Ontario Veterinary College. Joan and Paul were married on June 3rd 1961 and spent their first years of marriage in Bangor, where Paul completed his PhD.

In 1963, Paul and Joan moved to London, Ontario where Paul began his 40 year career of teaching and research in the Biology Department at the University of Western Ontario. During his time at Western, Paul supervised 45 graduate students, served on a multitude of committees and societies, and as an editor for several journals. Paul received numerous awards throughout his career, including Outstanding Contributor with Canadian Weed Society, Outstanding Teacher Award from the Weed Science Society of America, and the Mary Elliott Award for service as well as the Lawson Medal for lifetime contribution to the Canadian Botanical Association. He was especially proud of his contributions to the formation of the Canadian Botanical Association, Biology of Canadian Weeds and his time as chair and editor of the Monograph Publishing Program.

Paul’s career allowed him to travel, speak and conduct research around the world. During a sabbatical in England in 1971-72, Paul earned his Diploma of Imperial College (Master’s Degree). On sabbatical in 1987-88 he studied thistles at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization in Canberra, Australia.

Paul and Joan attended St. George’s Anglican Church together for over 50 years, where he served as church warden, president of the BAC, sidesman, and lay assistant. Paul was also past-president of the Diocesan Brotherhood of Anglican Churchmen.

Cremation has taken place. A funeral service to give thanks for the life of Paul will be held at St. George’s Anglican Church, 227 Wharncliffe Road North, London, at 11 am on Tuesday, May 2^nd, 2023. Visitation will be held at the church for one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation, in memory of Paul, to the St. George’s Century Building Fund, 227 Wharncliffe Road North, London, ON N6H2B6. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Family and Friends are welcome to the funeral service that will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Woodland Cemetery, London.

BARNETT, Robert “Bob”…

Bob Barnett, beloved husband of Doreen Barnett for 64 years died peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Father of Thom (Susan McGuinness) and the late William (2015) (Kelly Brouwer). Grandfather of Ryan Barnett (Bethany), Jessica Lyn Barnett and Jessica Alexandra Barnett. Bob will also be missed by his numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Brother of the late Bill Barnett and Mary Spindler.

Bob was a dedicated Mason. He held many titles such as Master of Centennial Lodge No. 684, District Deputy Grand Master of London East District and Former Deputy of Ontario. He was active on Supreme Counsel of Grand Lodge of Canada, was a National Chairman of HRAI, and Chairman of NHAW, and served as church warden at St. James Westminster Anglican Church. He remains a most splendid spirit. Sleep sweet Owl.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 from 7-9 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A Masonic Service under the Auspices of Centennial Lodge No. 684 A.F. & A.M. will be held at 6:30 pm. The Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 11 am St. James Westminster Anglican Church, 115 Askin Street, London. Private interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. In memory of Bob, donations may be made to the London Scottish Rite Learning Centre, 453 Dufferin Avenue, London, ON N6B 1Z7. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MAIDENS, Norma…

With great sorrow, we wish to announce that Norma Maidens in her 97th year, passed peacefully in London, Ontario on April 9th, 2023. Norma was predeceased by her loving husband Donald. Norma will be sorely missed by her sons Mark (Cathy) of Bayfield, and Pat (Ingrid) of Ilderton. Cherished grandmother of Kyle (Kassie), and Kerstin. She will be missed by her many nieces and nephews. Norma is predeceased by her beloved parents David and Clela. Also predeceased by her loving sister Francis, her younger brother Roger and her twin brother Bud.

Norma was a gifted lab technician. Having graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with honours at the age of 20, Norma took an adventure of a lifetime and decided to move to Ontario and work at the Chalk River Laboratories. From there she moved to London, and worked at what was formerly known as Westminster Hospital. It was there that she met her beloved husband, Donald. Norma enjoyed travelling, spending time with her family and cherished grandchildren. Norma also loved to tend to her gardens, and her family will dearly miss her delicious apple pies.

The family would like to thank all the nurses and PSW’s at Henley Place for their kind and compassionate care for Norma over the years.

Cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Norma can be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Rd, London, ON, or a charity of your choice. A private family interment to take place at a later date. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com.

BURDETT, Maudie…

Maudie Burdett passed away peacefully on Friday, March 31, 2023 at the age of 108 at Highview Residences, London. Beloved wife of the late Thomas Burdett (2011). She is survived by daughters Carolynn (Mike) Mazuryk and Sandra (John) Herring, grandchildren Catherine, Jennifer and John (Amy), and great grandsons Lincoln and Malcolm. Predeceased by her brother Ralph. Maudie lived a full and happy life. She was a true homemaker. Over the years she had many interests and hobbies; baking, bird watching, gardening, crafts, oil painting and bridge playing. She appreciated the little things in life, and she treasured and maintained her friendships. Many thanks to the staff at Highview Residences for their attentive care for many years. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, April 6, 2023 from 12-1 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will begin at 1 pm in the funeral home chapel. Private interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In memory of Maudie, donations may be made to Ark Aid Street Mission, 696 Dundas Street, London, ON N5W 2Z4, Mission Services of London, 4-797 York Street, London, ON N5W 6A8 or Teen Challenge Canada, Lambeth Box 777, London, ON N6P 1R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

HENDERSON, William “Bill”…

It is with great sadness that the family of William “Bill” Roy Clarence Henderson “Cheesie” announce his passing, peacefully at home, on Friday, March 31st, 2023 following a valiant fight against cancer, in his 83rd year. Bill is survived by his loving wife Margaret (nee Smith), of 58 years and daughters Melanie McKellar (Scott), Nicole Murphy (Jason) and Janine Chown (Michael Long) and his pride, grandchildren Kendra (Matt) and Connor McKellar, Analiese Murphy, and Cody, Benjamin and Tatum Long. Bill was predeceased by grandparents Sarah and James Henderson, his mother, Frances Soilleux (William), Bessie Cornish (Ernie), and Roy. Extended family includes Shirley (Adam), Susan Power (Barry), Karen Wadsworth (Ross) and their families. Also missed by Marg’s many siblings and their families.

Bill graduated from Chesley Ave. P.S. and attended Beck Collegiate and graduated from Wheable High School where he met the love of his life, Marg.

He attended Ryerson Polytechnical, along with graduating from the General Business Program and the Human Resources Program at Fanshawe College.

Bill enjoyed a full life. He was an active member at Knox United Church where he was an executive member of the Men’s club, with Marg served as presidents of the Couple’s club, was the Clerk of Session, was Scouter Bill, Venturer Advisor and Rover Skip to the 62nd group. He was very involved in the merger with Wesley Church where he served as Chairs of Communication and the Christian Education committees and as Sacrament Secretary as well as again together with Marg, as Presidents of the Friendship Club.

In the Boy Scouts he served as a member of the South Division Service team, and as a member of the Headquarters Outdoor Adventure Committee where he moved the motion of cabooses to Camp Sylvan.

Bill spent 29 years in the Research Department of Labatt Breweries. During that period, he spent time in the Pilot Brewery, wet chemistry, operated the Masspectrometer, and served for almost 10 years as Department Administrator. While with the company, Bill was President of the Recreation Association and as either Vice-President or President of the Labatt London Employees Credit Union. He played industrial fastball and hockey and later coached both the Ladies and Mens fastball teams.

As a second career, he formed a home-based business, Henderson Video Enterprises, producing video productions for several years.

With family, he enjoyed traveling and for 49 years were active members of NCHA (National Campers and Hikers Assoc.) later becoming FCRV (Family Campers and RVers). Bill and Marg held various positions in the chapters to which they belonged. Within this association, they served for 11 years as Ontario Teen Directors, along as Field Directors and then Retiree Field Directors. They were involved in chairing or assisting in numerous chapter or provincial campouts. Together, Marg and Bill participated on the organizing committees for Ontario 1979, 1986, 1999, and 2006 Campventions and the 1996 Hamburg, New York Campvention. Bill & Marg were honoured to receive the National Plaque and the Merit Award and Carling Trophy from the Ontario Provincial Association.

Bill and Marg have RV’d coast to coast in Canada including the Yukon, and covered all U.S. states including Alaska except Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.

Bill enjoyed sports and participated in most levels from peewee up to adult recreational and industrial leagues. During high school he played football, basketball, and hockey. Up to the time of his illness, he continued to use his recumbent bike and treadmill.

Bill’s family wishes to thank the Staff, Nurses (C7 100-113), medical teams and specialists of LHSC for their compassion, care, and support. Thank you to friends and family, who were part of Bill’s life and the journey through his illness. Your kind words, actions and love so often sustained us.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Friday, April 21, 2023 from 2-4 and 6:30-8:30 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 11:30 am at Wesley-Knox United Church, 91 Askin Street, London. Family and friends are invited to watch the memorial service live from the comfort of their homes via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89396448681?pwd=YjZIR2d2MjF6c0U3K3FWdXc5RGU2Zz09. In lieu of flowers and to honour Bill, donations to the London Regional Cancer Program, c/o London Health Sciences Foundation, 747 Base Line Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6, or a charity of your choice, would be appreciated. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

KERN, Maria……

Passed quietly on Sunday, March 26th, 2023 at Victoria Hospital, London in her 90th year. Dear mother of Regina Burlock and Andrew (Kathleen) Kern. Cherished Oma of Rebecca Burlock and Christopher (Jory) Burlock. Great-grandmother of Jakob, Aleia and Hunter. Friends are welcome to the Memorial service honouring Maria on April 1, 2023 at 3:30pm at Faith Lutheran Church, 310 Southdale Rd E. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.  Maria spent her last weeks surrounded by her family and friends. Spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She loved her family and always put them before everything else. She was extremely loved and will really be missed. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com