We’re heartbroken to share that our son Blake Michael Clarence Daniel Swackhammer was born sleeping on September 26, 2025. Even though his time with us was so short, he touched our hearts in ways we’ll never forget. He was already so loved by his parents, grandparents and everyone else in the family, and we had all started imagining the laughter and happiness he’d bring.

We didn’t get to hear his giggle or see his smile, but from the moment we learned he was coming, he was cherished. We’ll always remember the hope and excitement as we waited for him, and the huge love that grew in our family.

He’ll stay with us in soft memories, quiet thoughts, and every wish for what could’ve been. Our love for him won’t fade—he’ll always be part of our story and the light in our lives, even if just for a short while.

Rest gently, little one. We love you to the moon and back, and you’ll be missed every single day.

Bobbie-Lynn Reaume & De Swackhammer

In true religious fashion, Jeannette Marie Fiala (Jean) accepted her wings on Sunday, October 5, 2025 and floated off to heaven… Greeting her when she arrived was her greatly missed husband Frank Fiala (2016), and her much loved children Jody Fiala (2020), and Frankie Fiala (2025). Cherished and adored mother of Mary Lynn McKillop (Tom), Joey Fiala (Linda), Terry Fiala (Janice), Jackie Lalonde (Denis), son-in-law Dan Mifflin, and daughter-in-law Pam Fiala.  Honoured Mémère of Jolene McKillop (Jason), Kirk McKillop (Carly), Marcie King (Matt), Alena Fiala (Nicole), Jared Fiala, Kayla & Jenna Fiala, and Brodie & Madison Lalonde. Special Grande Mémère and giver of treats to Jettson and Marigold Hatton, and Linden McKillop.

Jean was born February 24, 1946 in Chatham, Ontario to Wilfred and Beulah (Griffore) Benoit.  She was eighth born in a family of 10 children: admired sister of the late Omer Benoit (Rita), the late Don Benoit (Anna), Doreen Alexander (late Don), late Bernice Fiala (late Ed), Diane Myers (late Robert), Leo Benoit (Adrienne), the late Annette VanDeHogen (Peter), Roland Benoit (Connie), and Lucille Laprise (Jean). Sister-in-law to the late Vera Engl and Fred. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Mom was truly a saint. Mom treasured her children and her mission in life was to provide for and take care of them. She always put her children’s needs before her own and was a home maker by heart. She worked hard on the farm while raising her 6 chidren, and when they went to school, she continued to work in the agricultural sector planting and harvesting crops for local farms and greenhouses. Mom enjoyed traveling with her one and only love, and of course spoiling her grandchildren.

There was always an abundance of food cooking in Mom’s kitchen and the cookie jar was never empty. Mom’s door was always open to everyone, not only for home-cooked meals but also a place for comfort. If six kids weren’t enough, she welcomed more in need. Birthdays and special occasion cards were always purchased and done up well in advance for fear that she should miss someone’s special day. She was very thoughtful and sometimes a stubborn soul. No matter the job that needed to be done, she was bound and determined to do what she could to help, regardless of her limitations. Mom was proud to be a 100 time blood donor, and was Queen of the 3 r’s: she reduced, reused and recycled to the limit (she was married to Frank for 53 years).

In keeping with Mom’s wishes, there will be no Funeral Home visitation. A Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday October 9, 2025 at St. Mary’s church to celebrate her life. Internment at Evergreen Cemetery in Blenheim to follow.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s memory be made to the
Chatham-Kent Hospice. https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations/

Val Martin was born on December 31, 1944, in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, where he grew up as part of a large and loving family. He later moved to Toronto with his mother and siblings, where he spent most of his adult life.

Val worked for many years in construction, earning a reputation for his skill, reliability, and quiet pride in a job well done. He loved being outdoors — often bicycling through the city or spending weekends in the countryside with his children at their family camper. A hands-on learner with a creative spirit, Val discovered a lifelong passion for woodworking, finding joy in shaping and crafting with care.

In his later years, he continued to build and create, crafting artisan gifts and keepsakes often adorned with his partner Gil’s beautiful paintings. Together they restored and refinished furniture, sharing a deep appreciation for upcycling vintage and well-loved pieces, giving them new life through their creativity and teamwork.

Val and his beloved partner, Gilberte Cofell, shared 25 wonderful years together. Gil fell for Val at first sight — captivated by a blue-eyed, handsome man with a smudge of cream cheese on his face. They made each other laugh and stood by one another with loyalty and love. In 2011, they moved to Blenheim, Ontario, drawn by the quiet country life and the friendly community near Gil’s hometown of Leamington. There, they built a peaceful and happy life surrounded by family and friends.

Val will be remembered for his gentle nature, quick wit, and unmistakable laugh — a shy man with a big heart whose kindness and humour drew people to him wherever he went.

He will be deeply missed by his children, Evelyn (Mark Watts) and Ethan (Rebecca Martin), and his cherished grandchildren Benjamin, Thomas, Aubrey, and Logan. He also leaves behind his loving partner Gilberte, her daughter Ré (Nigel Peña), and their children Sydney and Bryce, who brought great joy to his later years.

Though distance often separated them, Val’s love for his family never wavered. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren, celebrating their milestones and cherishing every visit, call, and photo shared. His heart was always with them, and his family will forever hold him close in theirs.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 10th, from 2–4 p.m. at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation https://www.heartandstroke.ca/how-you-can-help/ways-to-give/legacy-giving made in Val’s honour are welcome.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Nancy Kuipers at the age of 86.  Nancy is predeceased by her husband Harry Kuipers, her parents Fred and Shirley Sargent, her grandson, Joey Russelo and her sons-in-law, Glen Desrosiers, Ron Reader and Jim Baxter.  She is survived by her nine children, Ellen Boughner (Keith), Laurie Kuipers, Doug Kuipers (Angela), Neil Kuipers (Terry), Gail Baxter (Barry), Paul Kuipers (Kim), Patty Russelo (Bob), Mike Kuipers and Barb Brady (Trevor).  She is also survived by her sister, Barbara Sargent and her sister-in-law, Gerda Morton, as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Nancy spent a large part of her life working in retail.  Many people will remember her from Woolworths, Blenheim Sport and Toy, Hendersons Shoe Store, Steadmans and 7-11.

Nancy was a long time resident of Blenheim and became very involved in her community.  She served as President of Blenheim Minor Hockey Moms for many years.  She and Harry could be found at the arena almost daily, supporting Blenheim Minor Hockey and the Blenheim Blades.  Today, there is an award in their names, given annually to a Blenheim Blade showing desire and determination.  She also was an active advocate and fundraiser for the Parkinson’s Society, earning the Queens Jubilee Award for her service.  Nancy enjoyed spending many Tuesdays at the Blenheim Seniors Centre with her friends, working on crafts and knitting hats, mitts and scarves to donate to local schools.  She was a member of the Blenheim Baptist Church where she made many life long friends.  She was an avid reader and thoroughly enjoyed her trips to the Book Brothers store.

Nancy was a resident of Legion Villa and loved every minute of it.  There she enjoyed playing games in the hall, attending dinners and socializing with other residents.  The family would like to extend their gratitude to her Legion Villa friends for helping her when she was unwell.

Special thanks to Pastor Kent Babby and Bill Terris for their words of comfort for Nancy in her final days.

The family would also like to recognize the staff of Medicine A floor of the CKHA, especially Brittany, Kim and Holly, as well as the staff and volunteers of Chatham Kent Hospice, for their compassion and care.

Services for Nancy will be held at the Blenheim Baptist Church on Monday September 29.  Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. which will be followed immediately by a funeral service.  A luncheon will take place in the church basement after the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Blenheim Baptist Church or Chatham Kent Hospice https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations/.

There is no greater heartache in life than having to share the loss of your child.  With broken hearts we let you know that Olivia Sarah Hanak-Guttridge, just 23 years old passed away on September 22, 2025 following a car accident.  She will be missed immensely by her parents Heather Hanak (Gary Bryans) and Warren Guttridge (Marylu), her brother Joseph Guttridge and her sister Jennifer Brown (Kevin).  She was an awesome aunt to Gideon and Grace, granddaughter to John & Helen Hanak and the late Harley & Donna Guttridge and niece to Linda Dupuis (Al Howes), Sally Benge (Terry) and Allison Graef (Harley).

Olivia had a huge heart, especially for animals – a steady stream of furry friends including cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and ducks always seemed to find their way to her door.  And throughout her life, any job that she had was one where she could make a difference in someone’s day.  Most recently she worked at the Tilbury Tots Daycare.

True to her caring nature, Olivia wanted to help others even after her death.  To that end, she had signed her license to become an organ donor, and thanks to her generosity, others have now been given a second chance at life.  That’s the kind of selflessness she showed every day.

We would have celebrated Olivia’s birthday with her on November 29^th.  We have chosen to keep that day now to celebrate her life.  Friends and family are invited to the Blenheim Community Funeral Home that day at 11:00 where there will be a chance to visit with her family until noon when a Funeral Service conducted by Rev. Eric Skillings will take place.  Following the funeral service, everyone is invited to gather at the Merlin Legion to join us in celebrating a life, albeit too short, was lived fully, boldly and without regret.

Our family would like to convey our sincerest gratitude to the Chatham-Kent EMS and Police Service as well as the Victoria Hospital Critical Care Trauma Unit.  The care and kindness that you gave to Olivia did not go unnoticed.

In keeping with Olivia’s love of animals, those wishing to remember her through a memorial donation are encouraged to consider the Chatham-Kent Animal Rescue https://ckanimalrescue.com/donate/ or Chatham-Kent Pet & Wildlife Rescue https://pawr.org/funds/

Ed Vanderveen of Blenheim, Ontario passed away on September 23, 2025 at the age of 96.

Ed was born in the Netherlands and spent many years in Calgary, Alberta before coming to Blenheim in 1979, where he managed the Rol-land Farms mushroom plant until his retirement.  He was a faithful member of Blenheim Christian Reformed Church.  He spent many hours volunteering at the Bible For Missions Thrift Store in Chatham during his retirement.

Ed was a loving and dedicated family man.  He is survived by his wife Greta Vanderveen (VanderPol), his children and their spouses Carol and Patrick Meyer and David and Katrina Vanderveen, his grandchildren Logan and Lauren Meyer, Carter Meyer, Kate Vanderveen and Jack Vanderveen.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25 at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home from 7:00–9:00pm.  A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, September 26 at the Blenheim Christian Reformed Church, beginning at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blenheim Health Hub https://blenheimhealthhub.com/donate  and the Chatham Christian School  https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/5372?v2=true.

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Gwendolyn ‘Anna’ Fife. Surrounded by family, Ann passed away peacefully on Saturday September 20th at London Health Science Centre.

Ann will be deeply missed by her husband and best friend of 58 years, Bill. Ann leaves behind her loving children Brian (Cheri), Carman (Craig) and Larry (Tonya).

She was the cherished grandmother of Tayler (Casey), Jeramy ( Vanessa), Erika (Taran), Jared (Laccie), Cody (Randi), Kyle (Ashley), Kara, Karly, Lucas, and Cooper. The proud great-grandmother of Payton, Branson, Brooklynn, Westyn, Blake, Colson and baby O’Hara.

The loving daughter of Margaret Steinberg and John Dodman (deceased). She will be missed by her many brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends.

We would like to extend a thank you to the CCTC unit; the C7 floor, Dr. V and Dr. Welch, at the LHSC for their exceptional care. Donations can be made to Canadian Blood Services https://www.blood.ca/en/ways-donate/financial-donations , Canadian Cancer Society https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/personal-donation  and Juvenile Diabetes Foundation https://breakthrought1d.ca/give/ .

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place Friday September 26th from 1pm-4pm at Blenheim Community Funeral Home.

With a wonderful and loving family by his side, David Alexander Ashby passed away peacefully on Thursday September 11, 2025.   

David’s life began on January 13, 1950 when he was born to parents Percy and Mable (Holmes) Ashby.  He was the baby brother to Brenda and the late Eldon Dent, Barbara and Wayne Richmond.  He was predeceased by Fran and George Felder, Louise and Bill Johnston, Mary Lou and Fred McEachran, and Donna Marie Meyers, James Barnes, Joseph Meyers.  He was a brother-in-law to Rick Verburg (Annie). Dave will be remembered by extended family and friends whom he loved.

David’s life was filled to the brim with blessings, with a family that included his beloved wife, Maria (Verburg) who he spent a full 47 years with.  Much joy was added when he became a father to Jason, Scott and Rachel, Rob, Crystal and Iain Scade and proud Papa to Ethan and Daniel Ashby and Ainsley, Logan and Emerson Scade and an honorary daughter Beth Schieman-Doherty.  Papa David was patiently awaiting the arrival of his sixth grandchild.   

Aside from his family Dave enjoyed harness racing at the track, playing cards, classic car’s, cooking and family BBQ’s.  He loved baseball and spent time coaching kids in the sport.  In his spare time he enjoyed the occasional trip to the casino and was a fan of Giant Tiger shopping adventures.  He also appreciated nature and fishing, camping and would pause by a good campfire.

Dave was a hard worker and began his career working for Fred McEachran learning the skill and art of autobody work.  He eventually went to Fanshawe College to become licensed and ultimately opened his own autobody repair shop at his home.  He also spent time working for the school board as a custodian. 

There will be a great void in David’s family and community but there are many wonderful memories to look back on. 

David Ashby’s life will be celebrated.  Visitation will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Monday September 15, 2025 at 2-4pm and 6-8pm.   A funeral will be held at the Funeral Home on Tuesday September 16 beginning at 11 am, with a reception at the Blenheim Legion afterwards. 

You are welcome to honor David with a donation to either the

Heart and Stroke https://www.heartandstroke.ca/donations

Lung Health Foundation https://lunghealth.ca/supporting-canadians-living-with-copd/

Surrounded by the love of her devoted family, Ruth (Simpson) Campbell passed away in Woodstock on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, 16 days before her 98th birthday, and 21 years after Dad, her beloved husband Mac Campbell.

Always very proud of her family, Mom and Dad raised their family of 5 – Margaret & Ross McGhee, Kathryn & Ed Blonski, Brian & Debbie, Liz & John Scoyne, and Brad & Michelle. Her family grew to include grandchildren – Andrea & Chris, Matt & Tabitha, Megan & Alex, Jennifer & Drew, her special angel Julie, Melanie & Neil, Brandon & Madison, Justin & Kathleen, Jordan & Cora, Alyssa, Kendra & Brennon, Tyson & Emily, Cassie, Morgan & Keith, Ben & Veronica, Brady & Kayla, Carly & Cody. Her family has continued to grow, Mom became a proud great Gramma to – Cynthia, Graham, Claire, Kara, Kylie, Rylan, Mackenzie, Madilyn, Delanee, Julie-Ann, Jack, Clark, Cole, Vera, Calum, Noah, Samuel and Mia.

At a young age, Mom devoted her life to family “keeping house” with her brother Russell to help raise her younger siblings after the early death of her parents Janet and Willard Simpson. Mom is predeceased by all of her siblings – Kelso & Grace, Fern & Rev. Alex Simpson, Max & Marjorie, Eileen & Adrian Hayes, Ray & Ruth, Donald, Russell & Ruth, Doug & Marjorie, Fred & Berniece, Beth & Bob Eskritt, & Ivan. Survived by sisters-in-laws Donna Simpson & Helen Field. Even at 97 years old, Mom still was able to name every one of her siblings in order, our names in order, as well as many of her foster children.

Also predeceased by Dad’s parents Lorne & Mary Campbell, his siblings Murray & Norma Campbell, Marjorie & Ken MacDougall, Donna Uffelman, Gordon Campbell. Survived by brother-in-law Ward Uffelman and sister-in-law Irene Campbell.

Mom’s family also includes many nieces and nephews of both the Simpson and the Campbell families.

Outside of family, Mom opened her heart and home to others as she and Dad became Foster Parents, providing care to 47 babies and young children. Even into her most recent weeks, Mom continued to be drawn to the sweetness and fun of young children including watching & hearing of the accomplishments of her precious great grandchildren.

She spent countless hours at her sewing machine making clothes for family & friends, as well as turning random pieces of cloth into blankets, bedspreads and anything that took her fancy!  Her love for sewing turned into a passion for dressing dolls of any size, and becoming a member of her local Doll Club. Eventually Mom donated part of her collection to less fortunate little girls overseas to bring smiles to their faces. Enjoying all shapes and sizes from baby dolls to Barbie dolls, she was also passionate about collecting and learning more of the story of the Dionne quintuplets. She could also entertain herself inside & outside finding leaves of all sizes to press and appreciate later. She had a unique ability to find joy in the simple things outdoors, continuing to notice the beauty in the clouds, the birds, the flowers (including dandelions) and anything that sparkled!

In her earlier years, Mom served in various positions within her church in Ridgetown – Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) always recognizing the importance of living out her faith. She maintained her ability to join in the singing of familiar hymns.

Mom has been surrounded by so much love from all her family, appreciating any and all visits. She had been well cared for and dearly loved by so many of her care providers who were always able to find words of support and encouragement. At the age of 97 years, she was still able to crack a joke or share a thought in her head. Recently a staff member said “Ruth, I just love your smile”  Mom was quick to respond with “ I take it with me wherever I go!”  We will miss her dearly, yet we can feel good knowing Mom has been reunited with Dad and her family, continuing to share her smiles in Heaven!

“Crying Is How The Eyes Speak When The Mouth Can’t Say How Broken The Heart Is”

Memorial Donations can be made in Ruth’s honor to either the

Blenheim and Merlin School Breakfast Program http://www.bmsbp.ca/donate.html

Blenheim Medical Hub https://blenheimhealthhub.com/donate/

On September 1^st, 2025 our dear husband and father Frank Dwayne Fiala Jr. passed away peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance knowing how much he was loved. Although Frank’s battle with cancer was fought with all of his strength, we know now that he is at peace. Frank was the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart Pamela Fiala (Glazier) whose love for one another spanned for more than 45 years.

Frank was the biggest supporter of his children Alena Fiala and her wife Nicole, and Jared Fiala. They were the centre of his universe and he would proudly share, with anyone willing to listen, about all of their accomplishments. He had endless pictures on his phone of his grand pups, Finni and Rexi, who he was affectionately referred to as Papi.  His kitties, Lucy and Nala, will miss cuddles on the couch with their dad.

Frank was born in Chatham, Ontario, to Frank (2016) and Jeannette (Benoit) Fiala.  He is survived by his siblings, Mary Lynn McKillop (Tom), Joe Fiala (Linda), Terry Fiala (Janice), Jackie Lalonde (Denis) and brother-in-law Dan Mifflin. He deeply missed his sister Jody Lynn Fiala (2021).

He is survived by his father-in-law Nickolas Glazier and will be reunited with his mother-in-law Linda Glazier (2015). He will miss travelling and spending time with his aunt “the muskrat” Melinda Lu Glazier. Also, the beloved brother-in-law of Brian Glazier (Becky). Frank is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Growing up on a farm in a household of eight, Frank learned the importance of hard work, early mornings, quality time, and family at a young age. In fact, he carried these lessons with him throughout his life. The epitome of a family man—he was a natural provider, advice giver, role model, and steady rock. Always putting others first, he constantly lent a helping hand, often bending over backwards and jumping through hoops if necessary.

As a tool and die maker, Frank’s occupations provided him with opportunities to work in many places. At the time of his retirement, he worked for Ford Oakville. Despite his time working away, Frank always made his family his priority. You could often find him in the stands at hockey arenas, and on the sidelines of soccer and football fields. Along the way, lasting friendships were formed. Frank was often the life of the party and the best story teller. Outside of the passion he had for his family, Frank enjoyed the outdoors. He was the happiest when hunting and fishing on God’s wonderful creation.

Frank will be remembered for his quick-wittedness, sense of humour, analytical thinking, extensive love for his family, big bear hugs, the ability to fix anything, and his habit of laughing harder at his jokes than the audience around him. Like his father, he even kept everything, but this tendency proved itself to be quite useful many times.

Donations to be made to Make Children Better Now Association.

Donate to MCBN