Obituaries

Orly Friesen – teacher, traveller, businessman, storyteller, died peacefully in his 90th year on December 13, 2024, of colon cancer. Born in Manitoba on September 25, 1935, he was a restless soul and enjoyed travelling through European and African countries, China, Latin America and many Canadian provinces and US states. His one spoken disappointment was that he never made it to South America. His five years teaching in Ghana and numerous years as a businessman in BC were among his favourite. While in Ghana, he was well known for his two crocodiles, monkey and live snake collection (including a cobra,… Read complete obituary here.

Passed away peacefully on December 11, 2024 at the age of 88. She will be deeply missed by her daughter Angela (Meadows) Kelly and her “favorite” son in law Sean Kelly. She was a proud and loving grandmother of Shannon Kelly and Catherine Kelly who brought her much joy. She loved her visits with them and was very involved in their lives. Dear sister of Peter Lucyshyn and sister-in-law of Brenda Martin of Port Dover.  Predeceased by her parents Natalia and Michael Lucyshyn of Lachine, Quebec. Mother to Okcana and Danya Hrushy. Nadya moved from her birthplace of Lachine Quebec… Read complete obituary here.

Marsha died peacefully at home on Sunday, December 8, 2024, in Grand Bend Ontario. Marsha was in her 74th year. Marsha is survived by many cousins and dear friends. Marsha is predeceased by her parents Harvey and Irene DeFore of Thedford. Marsha was born in Sarnia, Ontario and grew up in Thedford. Marsha loved children and spent her career as a devoted schoolteacher. She took early retirement from teaching to spend more time with her beloved mom. Marsha and her mom were avid travelers and enjoyed many trips and adventures together. After her mom passed Marsha continued to travel and… Read complete obituary here.

Diane Maisie (Parker) MacGregor passed away peacefully at Westmount Gardens, London, Ontario December 6th, 2024 shortly after her 90th birthday. Diane joins her beloved husband George, who passed away over 20 years ago. Diane was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the daughter of Elgin (Peck) and Ollivette (Ollie) Parker. Diane is predeceased by her brother, Donald. In 1959 Diane met the love of her life, George, who had worked with her Dad. They were married in Winnipeg, then moved to Windsor, and lived most of their married years in Chatham. They have two sons; Kevin (and Marj) and Christopher (and Noel)…. Read complete obituary here.

Nick Jackson, just weeks shy of his 74th birthday, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. He had a heart full of joy and wit that never quit, Nick leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable moments. A devoted father to Jennifer (Paul) and David (Marife), and a proud Grandpa Nick to his beloved grandchildren—Benjamin (Benny), Makenna (Moo Moo), and Nicole—Nick’s family was the centre of his world. He shared a lifetime bond with his brother Mike (Candice), a bond that could never be broken, and it was a constant source… Read complete obituary here.

Passed away peacefully at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the age of 63. Proud mom of Amanda Farrell, and Ryan Farrell. Dearly missed by her four legged companion Zoey. Dear sister and sister-in-law of Bob and Deb Gehan. Cherished aunt of Patrick Gehan, and Laura Gehan. Predeceased by her parents Bruce and Lillian “Toots” (Southgate) Gehan. Pat worked at Metcalfe Gardens in St. Thomas for many years and will be fondly remembered by the staff and residents. She enjoyed wildlife and the beauty of nature. Above all, she was so proud of her children… Read complete obituary here.

Passed away peacefully at LHSC-University Hospital on Friday, November 1, 2024 at the age of 83. Cherished mother of Paul (Michelle) Moossdorff and Heather (Wayne Venhuizen) Moossdorff and wife and friend of Bill Moossdorff. Adored granny of Jack, Drew, Ryan, Luke, Robyn, and Melanie. Fondly remembered by her siblings, nieces and nephews in Ireland and Canada. Mom will be remembered for her unwavering love of family and friends, her joyful personality and her fondness for fashion. Words will never do justice to this wonderful woman.  She always had a kind and encouraging word, an Irish sparkle in her eye and… Read complete obituary here.

It is with great sadness but understanding hearts that we announce the passing of Peter Barczynski on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the age of 66. Cherished husband and soulmate of Sharon Fitzsimmons. Dearly loved father of Lawrence Barczynski, Bryan Nash and stepfather of Marc Le Blanc, and Onile Le Blanc. Survived by his sister Linda Barczynski. Fondly remembered by nieces, nephews and extended family. Predeceased by his parents Stanislaw (Stanley) and Martha Barczynski. Peter was known for his admiration of the outdoors. He enjoyed hiking, photography and the beauty nature had to offer. Peter was recently retired from 23… Read complete obituary here.

Robert Lawrence “Larry” Cook was gathered into the arms of his Saviour on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from London Health Science Centre, Victoria Hospital in London; the cherished husband of Sue Cook who were married for a wonderful 39 years. Larry was born on May 21, 1952, to Jack and Agnes Cook, and grew up in a large family, the loved brother to seven siblings—Gord (Sharon) Cook, Jan (Earl †) Sharpe, Ernie (Linda) Cook, Bruce (Virginia) Cook, Doug (Wendy) Cook, Bryan (Lucy) Cook, and Glen (Manon) Cook. A loved brother-in-law to Isabelle & Max Faulds, Olive & Dusty Bodnar, Dan… Read complete obituary here.