Services & Obituaries

SIMPSON, Christopher John…

Chris passed peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice on Friday, March 24, 2023, at the age of 66. Cherished and beloved husband of Wendy (nee Linden). Dear son of the late Bill and Donna Simpson. Best brother to Mike and his wife Jill. Special uncle to Amy Caicco and her husband Lou (Leo, MacKenzie) and to Chad and Gladice Simpson. Chris will be remembered fondly by the Linden Family, his own extended family, cottage friends and golf buddies. Special love and thanks to dear friends Mike and Barb Lee for their care and compassion, especially these last 3 months.

Chris was a proud man – funny, thoughtful, kind and giving – a good soul. He will be dearly missed. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. For those wishing to honour Chris, a donation to a charity of your choice is greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BURCH, Deborah “Debbie”…

Suddenly on Thursday, March 23, 2023, Debbie Burch passed away in her 70th year. Beloved wife of the late Ron Burch (2018). Dear mother of Gary and Dan (Allison Shaw). Cherished Grandma of Aronica, Kayla, Gunnar, Braiden and Daniel. And great-grandmother of Dakota and Nova. Sister of Wayne Barker (Candace Stalen) and Brenda Newby. Beloved aunt of Errin and Ryan Barker and Mellissa and Amanda Newby. Debbie will be lovingly remembered as the greatest “hockey grandma” and the number one fan of her grandchildren. A special thank you is extended to the staff of the Emergency Department and the Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital, London for their care and kindness. Friends are welcome for visitation of Thursday, March 30th, 2023, from 7-9 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. In lieu of flowers, donations in Debbie’s memory can be made to the London Health Sciences Foundation – Intensive Care Unit, 747 Baseline Road East, London, ON N6C 2R6. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WRIGHT, Nicholas Patrick…..

Passed away peacefully in his sleep from complications from Crohn’s disease.  Nicholas Wright of London in his 43rd year.  Beloved son of Don and the late Lily (MacGregor) Wright (2008). Loving brother of Angela Cribar (Stephen), Jennifer Eriksen (David), Matt Wright (Carolyne Alsop), Michael Wright, and Katelyn Wright (Ryan Saunders). Predeceased by his brother Jonathan (2016). Proud uncle of Jackson, Stella, Alexandra, Charlotte, Samuel, Ben, Ally, Lily, and Rex.  Dearly missed by his aunts, uncles, cousins, and loyal friends. Cremation will take place.  Family and Friends are welcome to visitation on Friday, March 31, 2023 at 12:00 noon until 1:30 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South where the memorial service will take place in the funeral home chapel at 1:30 pm. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Nick may be made to the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MOORE, Margaret Olive (nee Brett)……

On March 23, Margaret Olive Moore (Brett) shook off her mortal coil and danced her way on to the next plane of existence.

Marg was born February 27, 1941 in a small farming community in Ontario. Her birthday is etched into the minds of her family because she loved to be celebrated. As the one girl with 4 brothers, she is having the last laugh as the last of 5 Brett children, having lasted the longest.

Margaret was well known for lack of patience, telling you exactly what was on her mind and telling you the truth even when she knew you didn’t want to hear it.

She was genuine to a fault, had a of heart of gold and an extensive vocabulary of swear words; not to mention she was quite proficient at giving the finger. Her hobbies were limited, she loved dancing, gardening, stealing slips of plants from stores and fighting with the landscaper. Marg’s one true love was Charlie Pride.

Though this is a difficult time for her family, they found comfort in going through Marg’s belongings in her room at her long term care home and not surprisingly, finding many items that weren’t hers. Apparently theft was fast becoming a new hobbie.

She leaves behind 3 children who are still trying to figure out if it’s Ron or Mike who was the golden child, Jackie as we well know, was not. Ron’s wife Julie and Mikes fiance Meaghan both question either of these 2 being considered golden. Jackie’s partner Chris agrees with Marg’s assessment of Jackie being the black sheep. Marg’s older grandchildren, Zach and Matt, had the pleasure(?) of hearing how she walked to school uphill both ways, amongst other fallacies. Her younger grandchildren Holden, MacKenzie, Hudson, Vanessa and Victoria along with her great grandchildren Peyton and Myles, did not get the pleasure of hearing about the 57 Chev and horse as Marg’s dementia set in. This is all to say, Marg left behind a dysfunctional family who will miss her dearly and she was known for being a story teller who would share unprompted and ad nauseum.

Her culinary skills were outstanding. She overcooked everything.

Marg was very clear about how to celebrate her life and mourn her passing. Don’t mourn, celebrate. As they often did her children are ignoring her and a visitation will take place then a funeral. No Irish celebration will take place. Marg wanted to be cremated and her ashes illegally spread in places we won’t mention. She always was a rule breaker.

Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Sunday, March 26, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London, where the funeral service will take place on Monday, March 27, 2023 at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel.

The family would like to thank staff at the McCormick home for taking such good care of Marg over the last 4 1/2 years. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the McCormick Home in Marg’s memory. She would have wanted flowers, but as she often said, we cant always get what we want. Her sass was well known and surprisingly well accepted at the McCormick home. The family will be having a small gathering after the funeral where black forest cake will not be served, who gets the last laugh now?

Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

CRUICKSHANK, Raymond “Ray”…

Peacefully surrounded by family at Middlesex Terrace, Delaware, Ray passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 in his 63rd year. Loving father of Taunua Fletcher, Raymond Cruickshank, Colton Cruickshank and Nathan Cruickshank. Cherished brother of Jane Kerr (Andy), George Cruickshank (Agnes) and William Cruickshank (the late Susan). Ray will also be missed by the mother of his three sons, Deb. Predeceased by his parents Raymond and Janet.

The family wishes to thank his friends for their unwavering support during the final few weeks of Ray’s life.

Ray was a fun loving guy and loved life itself. He adored his children unconditionally, and cherished his dogs. He was proud of his Scottish heritage, and was a loyal Canadiens and Steelers fan until the end.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Rays life will be held on Saturday, June 24, 2023 and details will be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ray may be made to Participation House, c/o PHSS Foundation, 101-620 Colborne Street, London, ON N6B 3R9.

Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PHAIR-SUTHERLAND, Lana…

In her usual quiet and elegant style, Lana ended her eight-year struggle with cancer on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at the age of 75. She leaves her loving husband, Jim, best friend and sister Georgia and cherished brother Michael (Margot). She will be missed by her niece Stephanie Phair (Fred), nephew Nicholas Phair (Sophie), her Godchildren Kari Johnston, Jessica Hotson, and Michael Hotson, as well as her great nieces and nephews and extended family. Predeceased by her father and mother, George Carlton and Mary Lucille Phair.

After receiving her MA in English from Western and MBA from Ivey, she embarked on her business career doing market research, then as a product manager with Nortel, where she was only the second woman in that position. She later founded her own management consulting firm and advised companies globally. She served as Executive in Residence at Ivey, and on the Board of the Huron University College Foundation. Lana was greatly admired by all and she truly left a mark in this world especially with the many women who looked to her as a role model and an inspiration.

Lana was a relentless researcher, a voracious reader, a gracious hostess, and a lover of travel, wine, food and margaritas on roof tops in Mexico. She was a steadfast friend to many and her furry friends Dougal, Ceilidh, and Hamish always held a special place in her heart.

The family wishes to thank all the wonderful health care providers who assisted her on her journey.

Cremation has taken place. A party celebrating this remarkable woman will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to the London Scottish Rite Learning Centre, Huron University College Foundation, or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Schwab, Eva Irma…

March 4, 1934-March 22, 2023

With deep sadness, we share that our beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Eva Schwab, passed away after a brief stay at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario at the age of 89. She had bravely battled health challenges for several years and is now at peace. Survived by her husband of 64 years Ulrich Schwab, daughter Monika and grandchildren Nathan, Alexander, Nicholas, Kirstin and Joshua. Predeceased by her son Baer Schwab. Eva was born and raised in Hamburg, Germany where she met her future husband at age 15 at dance class. She moved to Montreal in 1957 to join him and begin a new adventurous life, working briefly as a stenographer at the Bank of Montreal before her children were born. A devoted mother, she dedicated herself to home life where she enjoyed welcoming friends, when she was not travelling with her family on extensive road trips across North America. Active in the German-Canadian community in both Sarnia and London, she enjoyed her role as secretary/treasurer for several years for the German Language School in London. She was a model of cheerful resiliency and adaptability to any circumstance. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1 Frank Place in London on Monday, April 10, 2023 at 11 am. Private interment in Woodland Cemetery, London to follow. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Eva are asked to please consider a charity of their choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McLEAN, Morley….

January 21, 1933 – March 21, 2023

Morley McLean, 90, passed suddenly on March 21, 2023. Beloved father of Brian (Joan) of Dunnville, Brenda of Kingston, and Mike of Lowbanks. Proud grandfather of Eric and Mark McLean. Soulmate of Shirley (nee Bridges) until her passing in 2010. Cherished son of the late Ismay and Wilfred McLean. Special friend of Jean Cruickshank.

Survived by sisters Pat Sinnott and Gladys Coleman, brother Ted, and brother-in-law Art Semmler. Pre-deceased by Tom, Jean and Pat McLean, Bob and Edna McLean, Helen Semmler, Ted Sinnott, Don Coleman, Alma McLean, Dick and Beth McLean, and Lill and Don Kilburn. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Morley was the proud patriarch of Clan McLean.

Conscientious employee of A & P (now Metro) for 44 years. After starting in his treasured hometown of Goderich, Morley worked in Sarnia (Assistant Manager) and Dunnville (Manager). Dad loved equines and trained standardbred horses at training track. Talented softball pitcher in Sarnia area. Former Optimist Club Member in Dunnville. Avid and vocal fan of Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leafs.

Family wishes to express their appreciation for the staff expertise and compassion at University Hospital Cardiac Care Unit, London. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Morley’s memory to the Alexandra Marine & General Hospital, Goderich, ON. Cremation has taken place. A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com.

EGGETT, EDNA “Mickey” (nee Bryant) ………

Peacefully on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at her residence with family nearby. Beloved soulmate of the late Fred G. Eggett.  Proud supported sister of the late Ileen Rosso (the late Don) and the late Walter Bryant (the late Edith). Predeceased by cousin Betty Williams and nephew Alan Bryant. Cherished aunt of Angela (Jack), Stephen (Margaret), Linda, Virginia (the late Garry), Joanne (Alan) and Karen (Siebert). Loving great-aunt of Monica and Olivia. Dear cousin of Kim and Richard.
Edna will be lovingly remembered by many extended family members and friends.

Edna volunteered by for over 40 years with the Dearness Home Auxiliary. She was a member of the Lioness club. Edna was community oriented and enjoyed offering a helping hand to those who needed it. She will be remembered for her love for life and living each day to the fullest.

The family wishes to send a special thank you to Salu; who has been such a great advocate for her patients and shared a special friendship with Mickey. Without her and AYSFS assistance the family would not have been able to fulfill Edna’s wish to stay in her home. The family also wishes to thank Lynda from the paramedince program for her assistance. The family appreciates everyone who had a hand in Edna’s care over the years.

Family and Friends are welcome to join the memorial service that will be held at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 at 11:00 am.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Edna may be made to the Dearness Home, Ronald McDonald House Charities Southwestern Ontario and Lions Club International.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BOWMAN, Bonita “Bonnie”…

Bonnie Bowman passed away quietly at home on Sunday, March 19, 2023 in her 75th year. Loving mother of Sherri (John) and Shannon. Proud grandmother of Ainsley (Cameron), Brandon, Tyler and great-grandmother of Callum. Dear sister of Heather (the late Tom). Cherished aunt of Tom (Sarah) and Laurie (Michael) and their families. Bonnie wanted to acknowledge with a special thank you to her wonderful friends who were there through thick and thin. Bonnie also adored her four-legged friends, Peppi, Bear, Megan, Honey Bun, and Kitty Cat who loved her unconditionally, too! At her request, there will be no service, but cremation has taken place and an interment of ashes will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In memory of Bonnie, donations may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex, 624 Clarke Road, London, ON N5V 3K5. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com