Dave Klages of Blenheim passed away at home on May 8, 2024.  He was the much-loved husband for 43 years of Brenda (Caron), father of Stacey and Josh, step-father of Deb and Becky and brother of Nancy (John).

He was born 70 years ago in Cochrane to the late Alvin & Beth (Knight) Klages (2011).  He was predeceased by his sister Deborah (2003).   Friends will remember him from his many years at Southwestern Regional Centre working on the wards, in housekeeping and retiring from the transportation department.

Dave was affected by a rare disease called Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension.  If you wish to remember him with a memorial donation, he would have appreciated supporting research and treatment to bring awareness and help to others affected by the disease.  Online condolences for the family may be left at www.blenheimcommunityfuneralhome.com  and donations may be made either at the funeral home or online at https://phacanada.ca/get-involved/donate

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Bertha Wright on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the age of 91 years.  Beloved wife and best friend to her husband Doug Wright.  Cherished and loved by her son Dennis (Jacalyn) Blommaert, her daughter the late Janet (Al) Cunningham.  Proud Nana to Erica (Rob) Girimonte and loving sister to Hector (Marilyn) Delanghe.  She was predeceased by her husband Frank Blommaert, her parents Maurice & Lucy Delanghe, her sister Mary & George VanGassen and her brother Henry (survived by Yvonne) Delanghe.

Loved by stepdaughters the late Lesa (Henry) Jansen, Lori (Daniel) Collins, Michelle (Marco) Wright and stepson Lloyd (Michele) Wright.

Grandma to Craig (Natalie) Jansen, Doug (Melissa) Jansen, Mike (Jocelyn) Cunningham, Heather Cunningham, Bryanna Alexander, Lea Wright and Jennifer (Mike) Rice.  Proud Great Grandma to Audrey, Tanner, Taylor, Macy, Hunter, Brody and Hayden.

Bertha is survived by many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.

Special thank you to Dr. Lanz-O’Brien for his dedication, compassion and special care of Bertha.

Family and friends are invited to the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 53 Stanley Street, Blenheim on Tuesday May 7, 2024 with visiting from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.  The Funeral Service will be conducted from the chapel of the Funeral Home on Wednesday May 8, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Eric Skillings officiating.  Interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Blenheim.

Friends planning an expression of remembrance are asked to consider the Blenheim Medical Health Hub  http://www.blenheimhealthhub.com

Peacefully, surrounded by his family David Green passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Friday, April 26, 2024 at the age of 71. Born in Chatham, he was the son of the late Andrew and Mildred (nee Gosnell) Green. Loving husband of 41 years to Penny (nee Martin) Green. Cherished and adored father of Victoria Lane (Christian) Belau of Germany and Amanda Ashley (Eric) Nipp of Winnipeg. Loving grandfather of Joshua, Aiden, and Jasper. Dear brother of Kathleen Perry and brother-in-law of Lyn Green, Shirley Green, and Rick Martin. Predeceased by his brothers Dr. Peter Green, Ken Green and brother-in-law David Perry. Sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, and close friends. David was a fine man, brave, strong, and smiley. He had a meticulous nature about him. He was a long digressive storyteller, a lover of jocularity, and he wanted to tell his family and friends as the song goes, “I’ll meet you further on up the road!” As per his request, cremation has taken place and the family will remember him privately. Donations made in memory of David to the Blenheim Medical Health Foundation would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.blenheimcommunityfuneralhome.com

Mary Rose (Hanak) (Story) Hearn passed away peacefully at Riverview Gardens in Chatham on Saturday April 20, 2024. Born 90 years ago, March 21, 1934 in Chatham to the late Henry & Rose (Vsetula) Hanak. Mary is survived by her brother John Helen Hanak and was predeceased by her sister Lillian Marcin (survived by Joe). She was predeceased by her husband Chuck Hearn and her ex-husband Donn Story of Michigan.

Mary was the proud mother of Jo-Anne Hendry of Blenheim and Laird Story (Sheila Bondy) of British Columbia. She will be remembered fondly by her grandchildren Jennifer McMonnies (Paul Germs), Craig Hendry and Tavis Hendry. Nanna will be sadly missed as well by her Great-Grandchildren, Katrina Marianchuk and Leila Hendry, plus many nieces.

Mary’s career was spent at Southwestern Regional Centre where she worked as a Developmental Service Worker. She was a long time member of Trinity Anglican Church in Blenheim and a member of IODE Randolph Churchill Chapter for over 30 years. She enjoyed working in her yard and kept her property looking beautiful until a stroke affected her ability to do the things she enjoyed in life.

Visitation will take place at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Thursday April 25 from 2:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.  A Funeral Service will take place at the Funeral Home on Friday April 26, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.  Interment will take place in Evergreen Cemetery where Mary will be laid to rest with her husband Chuck and along with her parents Henry and Rose.

Warren Guttridge of Merlin passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on Saturday April 20, 2024.  Born in Raleigh Township 92 years ago to the late Albert & Mary Jane (VanSickle) Guttridge, Warren was predeceased by the love of his life Geraldine (Graham) Guttridge in 2017.

Warren & Geraldine were the proud parents of Pam & Bob Tasker of Chatham, Kim & Shelley Guttridge of Merlin and Theresa & Mike Fleury of Merlin.  Over the years, their family grew to include 8 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.  Warren was the last surviving member of his family, having been predeceased by Betty-Jo & Ted Willing, Shirley Ann & Clifford Glasier, Dennis & Pauline Guttridge and William Guttridge (survived by Judy).  He will be remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Warren was the light of the family, and enjoyed being around everyone, conversing endlessly with those around him.

In his younger years, he was an avid fisherman and hunter, who loved spending all his free time on the boat with the love of his life Geraldine.  The two of them also enjoyed dancing at Pyranon Ballroom Chatham.

Warren spent his life in the fields – farming, working on equipment, and making the life he loved for himself and his family.  Warren was a lifetime legion member and helped at many functions.

As Warren grew older, he began spending more time with his grandchildren and family, holding family get-togethers and being the man on the grill.  Warren was an honest and true man, always willing to give a helping hand without hesitation.

He loved his family with his entire heart, he loved to go watch his grandchildren’s sports, including hockey, baseball and so much more.  Warren was really a true family man, and he will be deeply missed by all.

Cremation has taken place.  Warren’s family will gather at the Merlin Cemetery at a later date to lay him to rest with Geraldine.  Friends wishing to remember Warren with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Chatham-Kent Hospice https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations/ in lieu of flowers.

Norma Robinson of Blenheim passed away on April 12, 2024.  She was born in the heart of the Muskoka’s 93 years ago to Ellen & Oliver Cameron. Norma grew up with six siblings and will be missed by her sisters Marion, Madeleine and Isabelle.  She will now be reunited with her sister Beverley and her brothers Harold and Ken.

Norma and her late husband Stewart were the proud parents of Wayne Robinson (Shirley), the late Jerry Robinson (Karen), Joseph Robinson, Stewart Robinson (Kim) and Jackie Lindsay.  She was ecstatic to welcome 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren into her life.  Family always came first for her.

Home for Norma over the years included the Muskoka’s, British Columbia, Texas and finally Blenheim where she lived with her daughter Jackie.  She was a kind and caring soul who put the needs of others before hers.  She had a calming presence and always seemed to know just what to say to make you feel better if you were having a bad day.  She loved to cook and she loved to travel, especially to Florida.  She loved kicking back and enjoying a beer with her friends.  She will be missed beyond measure and loved forever.

Norma’s family will remember her privately.

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our dearest, David Langstaff.  He was surrounded by his loving family at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at the age of 80.

David was the dear husband of Mary Lou Langstaff (nee Foster) of Morpeth for 56 beloved years.

He was a loving Father of Mary Alice (Bob) Searles of Chatham and Scott (Karen) Langstaff of West Lorne.

He was an adored Grandfather of Erin Langstaff, Anna Searles (Tony), Nick Searles, and Ashe Langstaff.

Being the oldest in the family, David set the standard of being a loving and very supportive and involved big brother to; Alice (late Bill) Deseure, Grant (late Arlene Bolton) Langstaff, Jean (Tony) Sommerdyk and the late Nancy Langstaff (1979), and brother-in-law of Linda (Jim) Somerville and Blake (Nona) Foster.

Son of the late Alfred and Muriel (nee Willmore) Langstaff.

Sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

David will be remembered for his warm laugh and gentle smile.  He was very kind hearted and loved to socialize with his many family members and friends.  His greatest pride was spending time with his children and grandchildren.  David, along with his wife Mary Lou, could be found joyfully visiting at many social gatherings at his local church, New Scotland United Church, as well as many events at the Morpeth Community Centre, and other local community gatherings.

David was an avid farmer with an affinity for his pigs and his field crops. He was very ambitious and worked many years at the Ford Plant, while continuing to farm. One of his greatest accomplishments and passions, was his involvement in the local politics.  David was appointed as a Councilor with the former Howard Township from 1981 – 1985; then became Deputy Reeve from 1986 – 1991; and finally became Reeve from 1992 – 1997. During his time as Reeve, he was also appointed as Warden for the County of Kent in 1994.

In his spare time, David loved to read and play games like chess, crokinole, euchre and checkers, with his family and friends. He was often found showing up for visits, when he was in the area, to his family and friend’s houses, with a warm, positive greeting.  These visits are now precious, cherished memories.  David will be greatly missed!

Cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 60 Stanley St, in Blenheim on Sunday April 14, 2024 from 1:00pm until 4:00pm with words of remembrance held at 2:30pm.  A private family burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery at a later date.

Donations made in memory of David to the New Scotland United Church or a charity of choice would be appreciated.  This can be done at the funeral home by cash, cheque, debit or credit card or even by calling the funeral home at 519-676-9200.  Online condolences may be left at www.blenheimcommunityfuneralhome.com

Melvyn John Broughton, 85, of Chatham, Ontario passed away peacefully on April 9, 2024 at Blenheim Community Village. Mel was the oldest son of William and Alice Broughton (nee Reid). A devoted husband to his wife Patricia (nee Kennedy) for over 30 years, before she passed away in 2021. Predeceased by his brother Garry Broughton, and his son Michael Broughton, Mel is survived by his daughter Sheila McIntosh (David), his step-daughter Lisa Uher, his step-son Ryan Deakins, his grandchildren DJ McIntosh, Michael McIntosh, Lauren Uher, Emily Uher, Claire Uher, Craig Church, Tyler Deakins, and his great-children Danielle, Dakota, Cole, Jonathan, Sawyer, and Arlo.

Mel was born in Pontefract, England and immigrated to Canada as a young lad. Mel joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1957, where he served until his honourable release in 1962. Mel settled in Cambridge, Ontario with his family, and worked in sales until he found his true calling as an auctioneer and real estate agent. As a bit of a showman, Mel loved taking centre stage selling everything from bicycles for the Police Department to entire farms in rural Ontario. Working as a real estate agent, Mel derived great satisfaction in helping his clients find their forever homes. As an ex- Navy man, Mel loved to sail his sailboat, and was a proud member of the Blenheim Legion. In1993, Mel married the love of his life Patricia and relocated to Chatham, Ontario. He and Patricia enjoyed travelling, taking numerous cruises around the Caribbean and spending time at their timeshare in Collingwood. He loved spending time with his good friend Vince, going to the movies, out for lunch, or a coffee and chat at Tim Hortons. His absence will be deeply felt by those whose lives he touched. Special thanks and deepest gratitude to Dr. Martha Clendenning the amazing staff at Blenheim Community Village for all of their care and compassion. Over the course of his and his wife Pat’s stay at the Blenheim Community Village, staff created a beautiful sense of friendship and family to Mel with many heart touching and humorous memories created.

As per his wishes, Mel will be cremated. If desired, donations only. Donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org or the Heart and Stroke Foundation at www.heartandstroke.ca

Jacob Blatz of Blenheim passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on April 3, 2024.  He was born in Mexico 61 years ago.  He is survived by his wife Maria Blatz, his children Abe (Lisa), Margaret (Aaron), Corny (Lisa), Frank (Henrietta), Jake (Annie), Tina (Isaak), 12 granddaughters and 10 grandsons.

Visitation will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Sunday April 7, 2024 from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.  A Funeral Service will be held at the Old Colony Mennonite Church in Charing Cross on Monday April 8, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.  Interment will take place in Pardoville Union Cemetery.

Edith Lacey, affectionately known as “Edie” passed away with her favourite person in the world, Iris by her side on April 2, 2024.  Born in Germany on July 26, 1924 to the late Gertrude & Wilhelm Schunke, Edie was the last member of her family having been predeceased by her sister Elly Wehrmann and her brother Horst Schunke in Germany.  She was also predeceased by her husbands Werner Helass in 1981and Sean Lacey in 2016.

Edie’s captivating personality, doubled with a smile that lit up a room let you know you were loved.  She was the best friend of her daughter of Iris Keating (Jim Knowles) and “Omi” to her grandchildren Jason & Tara McKinnon and Ryan & Laura McKinnon, her great-grandchildren Lucas, Lincoln, Leela and Sunny and their friends as well.  She will be remembered by many nieces and nephews.

After emigrating to Canada from Germany in 1960, Edie went to night school to learn English.  She got jobs with Sears, Cockshutt Farm Equipment and finally retired from Zimmer Biomet, a company that manufactured the replacement parts for knees and hips that she would eventually receive herself.

Edie was quite the trendsetter, especially when it came to procedures, and a trailblazer who always put her family first.  She was the “hostess with the mostest”, entertaining anyone who sat at her well  dressed table that included all the bells and whistles or who joined her for a walk through her gardens that she spent many hours manicuring.  She was one of those people who had a certain twinkle in her eye and smile on her face that let her get away with many things, including tossing all filters aside and speaking her mind.   The staff at the retirement and nursing homes described her as “cute”, “a firecracker”, “spicey”, “happy”, “affectionate” and “feisty”.

Many thanks go out to the caring staff at the Village On The Ridge in Ridgetown and Riverview Gardens in Chatham for their patience, guidance and great care of Mom.  Also, we want to give a shout out to Angelo at the Venus de Milo restaurant and Fred Burchiel at the Blenheim Legion, who Mom affectionately referred to as her “boyfriends” for giving her all of the special attention that she so enjoyed.

Mom was seldom without a pet dog.  If you would like to remember her with a memorial donation, please consider the Pet & Wildlife Rescue https://pawr.org/funds/  That would have made her happy.  Her wish at this time was for us to remember her privately (with a glass of wine)!