On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, with her family by her side, Marion Jean Pardo (Castleden) passed away peacefully at the age of 89.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and raised in Sudbury, Ontario, Jean’s early years were shaped by a love of learning and the outdoors. She pursued higher education with distinction, earning an Honours BA in Geological Sciences from the University of Toronto. Jean and two other women tied for first place to receive the prestigious Coleman Gold Medal, a recognition of outstanding academic achievement. Later in life, her passion for education led her to complete her Honours Bachelor of Education in 1990.

Jean began her career as a geologist for Consolidated West Petroleum in Port Alma, Ontario, where she met her first husband, Fred. She later found her true calling in education, teaching science, mathematics, and geology in Ridgetown, Walkerton, and Chatham.

During Jean’s retirement she travelled extensively visiting place such as Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, South America, England, and journeying from coast to coast in Canada. Jean was a proud member and leader in the Girl Guides of Canada. Jean rose from a young Brownie to become Commissioner of the Trillium Area, with approximately 12,000 members at the time. The Girl Guide motto remained a guiding force in her life.

Jean would marry Fred Pardo in 1960 until his passing in 1996. In 1999, Jean remarried JAF Fenwick and together they spent cherished years between Canada and Australia until his passing in 2004.

Jean had a deep love for reading, teaching, gardening, and spending time with her family near and far. She was a dedicated volunteer throughout her life—serving with the Girl Guides, IODE, the Altar Guild of the Anglican Church, the University of Toronto Women’s League, the Blenheim Historical Society, and was fondly known as part of the “Pie Lady” club.  She served as a board member of the Howard Rees Foundation for many years.

She is predeceased by her parents Geof (1971) and Margaret (1949) Castleden, her husbands Fred (1996) and JAF (2004), her son Hugh (2019), daughter Melanie (1968), stepson Ross (2016), stepdaughter-in-law Jo (2024), sister-in-law Jaye (2022), and her parents-in-law Charles (1949) & Eleanor (1960) Pardo and Charles (1947) & Eileen (1936) Fenwick.

Jean will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Margaret Pardo, daughter-in-law Cathy, brother Donald Castleden, and stepchildren Bill, Andrew, Susan, and daughter-in-law Kathy Fenwick.

She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Nicole (Florin), Laura (Nathan), Daniel, Natalie (Connor), Eric (Kennidi), Sarah (David), Libby (Simon), and Iian, and her great-grandchildren: Caitlin, Tristan, Sebi, Hayden, Logan, Tierian, Alice, Oscar, Edward, Arthur, and Amelia.

She will also be fondly remembered by her nieces Jennifer and Heather (Jay), and her great-nieces and nephews: Dylan, Jordan, Iredia, Ikhide, Ivie, and Kevin.

Visitation will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Friday, June 20th from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m.

A Funeral Service will take place at Trinity Anglican Church on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a light luncheon in the church basement. Interment will follow at Pardoville Cemetery.

Donations would be appreciated to the Blenheim Community Health Hub, Chatham-Kent Hospice, or Girl Guides of Canada.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Martha Clendenning for her years of care and compassion, and to the Chatham-Kent Hospice team for their loving support during Jean’s final days.

Rest in Peace, Mom.

Due to local events and road closures in Blenheim on Saturday, parking will be available behind St. Mary’s Church. Those wishing to join the funeral procession to the cemetery are invited to gather there, as the procession will depart from that lot.

Grant Coatsworth passed away on June 17, 2025 at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance in Chatham.

Grant was survived by brothers Wayne and Barry.  He was predeceased by his parents Glen and Edna Coatsworth as well as his older brother Leighton.  There are other extended family members who will miss him.

Being a farmer, Grant understood the demanding yet rewarding nature of farming, the challenges of the work, and the deep connection to the land.

Grant preferred to not have a service or visitation.

It is time to say goodbye to a great lady. With her husband of 65 years at her side Marilyn Jean Shaw passed away peacefully on the evening of June 12, 2025 in her 87th year. Born on September 5, 1938 in Chatham, ON she was raised in Rodney, then raised her family in West Lorne before settling in Blenheim. She is survived by her husband Clarence (Yogi) Shaw, her son Darcy and his wife Wendy Shaw, daughter Denise and her husband Rob McGahan, and her sisters Karen Leitch, Marg McDonald, Dorothy Braddon and Wendy Carver and her husband Chester. Also survived by her loving grandchildren, Danny McGahan, Andrew Shaw, Megan Shaw and Casey Lahn-Caputo and her husband Chris and great-granddaughter Marcy Lahn-Caputo as well as many nieces and nephews.

When her children were young Marilyn could often be found volunteering with the Cub Scouts and the West Lorne Figure Skating Club. She was Past President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the West Lorne Legion Branch 221 where she could often be found in the kitchen preparing and serving food for various functions. She enjoyed dancing and spending time with her friends, often at home in the kitchen.

The family would like to thank Dr. Martha Clendenning as well as the staff of VON and the Blenheim Community Village that provided care for Marilyn.

Friends and family can call at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Wednesday June 18th for visitation from 1 p.m. followed by a service at 2 p.m. Interment will follow at the Rodney Cemetery.

Sarahlee Coatsworth, much loved wife of Ron (2012) and mother of Tracy O’Sullivan (James), Karl Coatsworth (Tracy) and Samantha Deseure (Rob) passed away at the C-K Hospice on Thursday June 12, 2025.  She was the proud grandmother of Chris Smith, Tawnya Smith, Courtney Coatsworth, Kyle Coatsworth (Carly), Brayden Deseure (Tommy) and Adam Deseure (Shayna) and great-grandma to Hailey Hunter, Keegan Raes, Abigail Raes and Claira Robinson.

Born in Chatham 81 years ago to the late Alda & Ross Haskell, Sarahlee was the last surviving member of her family, having been predeceased by her sisters Delnore and Harriet.

Sarahlee worked for many years at Big V and Shoppers Drug Mart.  She will be remembered by her family and the community in simple things each day. Remember her when you sip a cup of hot tea or play a game of euchre. When you cast a friendly smile on the street or get to know to someone new. When you eat dessert first and when you witness someone caring for an animal in need. Sarahlee’s compassion was only outmatched by her keen wit and sense of humor. Those that knew her will treasure the times they shared. Sarahlee will be missed by all, but we will carry a piece of her everywhere we go.

Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Monday June 16 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.  A service to remember a life well lived will be held at the Funeral Home on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. followed by placing her urn with Ron’s in Evergreen Cemetery.

Those wishing to remember Sarahlee with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Chatham-Kent Hospice https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations/ .

William (Bill) Ceccacci of Blenheim passed away at his home on Thursday June 5, 2025. He will be remembered fondly by his children Catriona Huggins (JP), Miranda Ceccacci (Grant Smith), John Ceccacci (Lacey) and Liam Ceccacci (Baillie Siefert), by their mother Tracey Ceccacci, and by his grandchildren Renton, Jett, Gavin and Rigby Huggins, Sophia and Lilly Smith, and Luca, Julia and Owen Ceccacci. Bill was born in Chatham 69 years ago to the late Siggismondo & Maria Ceccacci. Bill was predeceased by his brother Renato Ceccacci, and is survived by his siblings Sue Robinson (Tim), John Ceccacci (Jenny), Phil Ceccacci (Anne Marie) and Claudio Ceccacci. Bill is also remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Bill was a kindhearted man who deeply loved his family. Though he struggled, he always managed to persevere in the face of difficulties. His love for music, soccer, hockey, Italian culture, and most of all the people he cared about, helped him keep his optimistic outlook. He was also an avid gardener with the greenest of thumbs. Bill was often funny, silly, and quick with a smile. It brightened his day to visit with people and to see them laugh. He took great joy in the accomplishments of his children, and grandchildren; who’s pictures covered the walls of his home.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Thursday June 12, 2025, from 1:00 – 3:00 which will be followed immediately by a funeral service. Friends wishing to remember Bill with a memorial donation are asked to consider Diabetes Canada.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our precious Tim (formerly known as J.R. Ewing of Southfork) on Saturday May 31^st at the age of 58.

Tim resided on Regent Street in Blenheim from the time of his birth in 1966 up until 2018 when he moved to Chatham and entered a Community Living Group Home.

Throughout his life, Tim met and made many friends at school, ARC Industries, Friendship Circle and the Legion just to name a few.  Tim loved being with his family and enjoying any party that took place either at home or elsewhere.  Going to the Legion to dance or to the Golf Course with his brothers was his idea of a great time, especially if he got to drive the golf cart.

Tim was predeceased by his Mom & Dad; Mary & Peter Hare, his sister Arlene Hare, his brother Frankie & wife Patsy, his brother Delbert & wife Deanna, his brother Bobby, brothers-in-law Ed Butler and Wayne Henderson and sister-in-law Lise Coulter.

Left to mourn our “#1 Son” are Roger Coulter & family, Ila Hare & family, Kathleen Henderson & family, Judy Butler & family, Suzie & Don Scott & family, Sandy Hare & family, Donna & Mark Hare & family, the best brother he ever had Steve Hare and his best girl Dorothy Verkaik.  Tim also had numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews who loved him.

Cremation has taken place.  Family and friends are invited to gather at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Saturday June 7^th for visitation from 1:00 – 2:00.  A Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Bill Terris officiating.  A Celebration of Life will be held at the Blenheim Legion, Branch 185 following the service.  Casual bright attire and funky socks are recommended.

Friends wishing to remember Tim with a memorial donation are asked to consider Community Living Chatham-Kent, the Chatham-Kent Hospice or a charity of your choice.

It is with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation that we thank the Community Living workers, the Chatham-Kent Hospice workers, the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and all who took the time to see to our Tim’s needs.  Thank you.

A livestream of Tim’s service will be available on the day of the service at https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=6b6f5cd5-dc36-4c3b-872f-b913a92d8dd3

It is with deep sadness we announce that our Dad, Ron (Sonny) Gervason passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025. He grew up in the town of Wallaceburg, is the son of the late Paul and Helen (Bachynski) Gervason.

He was married to our Mom, Mary (Van De Velde) also of Wallaceburg, for 62 years, until her passing in 2018. Together they raised five children, Paulette (late Rick) Steel, David (Yolanda Brisco) Gervason, Pamela (Leon) Dorssers, Patty (late Dave) Smith and Yvette White. He was a proud Grandpa to Adam (Nathalie), Julia (Ernie), Eric (Vanessa), Corey (Natalie), Aaron (Amanda), Heather (Jeremy), Drew (Angele), Lee (Dayna), Tiffany (Aaron), Rachel (Braden), Jillian (Armando) and Vanessa (Ryan).

Our Dad will also be remembered by his special step-grandchildren Jason, Jeff, Kelly and Brandon Brisco. He got a kick out of entertaining his 21 great-grandchildren, who gave him so much joy.

Dad is predeceased by his only brother, Paul Raymond Gervason (late Gladys) of Nova Scotia. He was the beloved brother-in-law of Clara (late Alton) Brown, late Rene and Alice Van De Velde, late Nascarino and Harry Rosseel.

Dad began his work career as a butcher, at Gordon’s Supermarket in Wallaceburg. After a career move that took his family to Ottawa for a time, he brought his family back to the Chatham-Kent area and settled in Blenheim. From there, he and our Mom operated the Blenheim IGA Supermarket for five years. Following that, they opened the BP Mini Mart/Petro Canada gas station and variety store, which they owned and operated for 20 years.

He was proud to have employed so many wonderful young people from the Blenheim area over the years. He was a parishioner of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Blenheim, as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus and Jaycees. Dad was very involved in the community; he served on Blenheim town council for many years and belonged to several service groups.

Dad had a passion for the outdoors, but his family was always the most important to him. He will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity, sense of humour and his signature laugh. He had a talent for storytelling and a gift for bringing stories to life in a captivating way.

Our family will miss him tremendously and are comforted in knowing he is now at peace.

A special thank you to Dr. Martha Clendenning for her exceptional care. Also, to the kind and dedicated staff of Blenheim Community Village for making our Dad’s final days more comfortable.

Visitation will be held Monday, June 2, 2025 from 4:00 to 7:00pm at Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 60 Stanley St., Blenheim. Funeral mass will be held Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 10:00am at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 95 Marlborough St N, Blenheim.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Blenheim Health Hub  https://blenheimhealthhub.com/donate/

With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Leslie Ann Brown (née Smith), who left us after a life full of laughter, creativity, and generosity.

Born on October 25, 1949, Leslie was the second daughter of the late W.G. (Bill) Smith and Dora Jean Smith (Findlay). She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 39 yrs, Glen Brown (2007), and leaves behind a loving family and countless fond memories.

Leslie will be forever missed by her siblings Karen Richards (Lee), Randy Smith (Janet), Brett Smith (Lynn), and Sydney Lewis (Paul). Her spirit lives on in her children—Mike (Brownie) and Lisa, Amy and Dan Lozon, and Ange and JayDee Hack—who will always remember her legendary over the top Christmas Day celebrations and the tradition of getting the wrong size t-shirts for birthdays.

Her greatest joys were her grandchildren: Denver, Bennett, and Niya Brown; Riley O’Sullivan; Zoey and Jack Moore; Elliot Hack; Trish and Danni Lozon—and her cherished great-granddaughter, Charlotte. They will forever treasure memories of Nana Camp, NASCAR Nana adventures, spontaneous road trips, and the endless array of homemade snacks and treats she lovingly prepared.

A lifelong crafter, Leslie had a passion for painting, sewing, and creating. Her motto, “We can make it for cheaper,” often led to projects that cost more but brought far more joy. She retired from ODSP and remained active in her community through the Eastern Star and her Sewing Club.

Leslie’s zest for life took her to car shows with her grandkids, shopping trips to the States with her dear friend Cheryl, and countless adventures with her best friend, Shelly. Her warmth, humor, and open heart touched everyone she met.

Known affectionately as “Nana” to many, Leslie’s final act of generosity was to donate her body to science—a reflection of her deeply giving nature.

In lieu of a formal celebration or gifts, Leslie’s wish was simple: please consider donating your time or gratitude to the Chatham-Kent Hospice, a foundation that made this journey peaceful and comfortable. Special Thank you too all of the staff from the following who supported Nana with so much kindness and care.

VON nursing

Nurse practitioner Olga Stuckey

Bayshore and CK CarePartners

PSW Care and The Community Paramedics Program

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Chatham Kent Hospice

In loving memory of Louise Masse

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Louise Masse, who left us peacefully at the age of 84.  She is now reunited with her beloved husband Donald Masse and cherished daughter Theresa Masse.

Louise leaves behind a legacy of love through her three devoted sons: Donnie (Jodie), Gary (Cindy), and Glenn (Kathleen).  She was a proud and loving grandmother to 9 grandchildren: Lindsey (Dan), Mikki (John), Ryan (Anna), Alex, Amber (Dre), Chase (Carol), Jessica (Dakota), Brandi (Raphael), and Dylenn (Hailey).

Nothing brought Louise more joy than cheering on her great-grandchildren at their sporting events.  She was their biggest fan and loudest cheerleader – always there with a smile and words of encouragement.  She leaves behind six great-grandchildren: Lexyss, Ollie, Remi, Millie, Blakely and had the honor of meeting her newest great-grandson, Kyllian.

Louise dedicated her career to teaching, touching countless young lives with her warmth, patience and care.  She also had a deep love for music, spending many joyful years singing in her cherished choirs: The Sweet Adelines and St. Clements, forming lasting friendships with the women she sang alongside.

Together with Don, Louise had a spirit for adventure.  They shared a deep love for travel, exploring Canada and the United States in their motorhome, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Louise will be remembered most for her beautiful smile, her optimistic heart, and her unwavering love for her family.  She will be deeply missed by her siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends whose lives were brightened by knowing her.

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure.  She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.

A special thanks to her brother Fred (Lynn), as well as the Hospice for their help, for their care and compassion.

On July 6, 2025, there will be a Celebration of Life, in McGregor.  After the 9:45 mass at St. Clements Parish, 9567 County Road 11, McGregor, we will gather at The McGregor Columbian Club, 9560 Walker Road, McGregor.