Wilfred Henry Harback of Chatham passed away at the Meadow Park Nursing Home with his loving wife Cathy (Lachine) Harback by his side on Saturday July 20, 2019.  Wilf was born in London 85 years ago to the late Wilfred & Eileen Harback and will be remembered by his sister Janet Taylor, his brother Rick Harback, by his children Mary Sue, Rosemarie, Kathy, Wilfred and Jim, by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and by his sister & brother-in-law Lorrie & Ron Little.  He was predeceased by his mother & father-in-law Earnestine & Leao Lachine and by his brother & sister-in-law Jim & Linda Lachine.

Wilf was a good-natured man who worked at London Hoisery before taking a job in Security at the London Courthouse.  He and Cathy retired in Chatham where he enjoyed music, dancing, tennis and going for long walks.

Cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life will take on August 14, 2019 at the Campbell AME Church (corner of King Street East and Prince Street in Chatham) at 3:00 p.m. followed by a luncheon.

Friends wishing to remember Wilf with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Alzheimers Day Program in Chatham, the Campbell AME Church Soup Kitchen or the Meadow Park Nursing Home Activity Music Program.

Gwendoline Belle Hitchcock of Guilds passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Friday July 19, 2019.  Gwen was born 97 years ago to the late Robert & Jane “Jennie” Shaw and was the last surviving member of her family having been predeceased by her sisters Betty Ouellette, Bonnie Shaw and Geraldine Shaw as well as her brother Robert Shaw.

Gwen and her husband Bruce Raymond Hitchcock (1992) farmed for many years in Guilds.  They raised three children; Geri McPherson of Guilds, Jack & Katherine Hitchcock of Rondeau and Don Hitchcock of Guilds.  She was the proud grandmother of Alicia & Jarrod Kemp, Wyatt Hitchcock, Danielle & Scott Parker, Leah Guyitt, Julie Guyitt, great-grandmother of Dylan, Darrell, Laci and Livia Coll, Alexia Huffman Guyitt, MacKenzie and Leland Parker, and Isabel Kemp as well as the great-great-grandmother of Nash Beecroft Coll.  She is also survived by her sister in law Ann Hubbard Johnson.  Gwen is now reunited in heaven with her great granddaughters Amelia Ann and Christina Emily.

Gwen worked at the Sara Johnson Residence in Guilds prior to her retirement and was a lifetime member of New Scotland United Church.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service will take place at a later date.

Friends wishing to remember Gwen with a memorial donation are asked to consider the New Scotland United Church.

AINSWORTH, Glenn Ross                                     1962 – 2019

Glenn fought a very courageous battle with cancer and died peacefully at Chatham Kent Hospice on Thursday, July 11, 2019.  He was born in Montreal on June 6, 1962 to the late Ross Clifford Ainsworth (1993) and Dorie (Dunn) Ainsworth (1994). Glenn is survived by his older sister, Lynn Ainsworth. Glenn was very proud of his two children, Robert Glenn Cameron Ainsworth and  Natalee Rose Brittany Wheeler (Matthew).  His grandchildren were a special light in his life, Dante Robert Ainsworth and Quinn Caroline Wheeler. Glenn will be dearly missed by his close friends, by his cousins and extended family.

In 1968, when he was in elementary school, Glenn’s family moved from Montreal to Mississauga and new friendships took root. Dave Rowlison, Gavin Morcom, Phillip Chmielinski and Michael Mizzi became true, lifelong friends.  Glenn, Dave, and Gavin passionately raced go-karts when they were teenagers in the 1970’s. In their later years, they also raced cars and sailboats. Their friendship of three grew to include Phil and Mike in the 1980’s as they graduated from Erindale Secondary School, Mississauga in 1981.

Glenn graduated from Sheridan College and the highlight of his working career was when he joined his Dad at Gorrie Marketing. He eventually advanced to become an Account Executive and enjoyed the clients he served.  It was his father who introduced the family to the joys of sailing.  As an adult, Glenn’s ongoing interest in the sport led him to the Mississauga Sailing Club.  He became an avid racer and a volunteer.  Sailing vacations to the British Virgin Islands with his family will remain a treasured memory.

Glenn was consistently captivated by cars.  His comment when he heard race car motors revving was, “it is just like music.”  As often as possible, Glenn enjoyed following young and up and coming racers both locally and professionally as they honed their skills. He was an avid arm chair racer each weekend.

At aged 49 Glenn retired from work due to failing health.  He enjoyed the pace of his most recent home in Blenheim.  He often commented on his happiness with this region of Chatham Kent, because it is a mecca for high end car restoration.  Glenn thoroughly enjoyed the vintage cars when they paraded along the main street of town.

In the last week of Glenn’s life he became addicted to Mott’s Fruitsations Freezies. Country apple was his favorite, go out and  try one! And then, when you have it in your hand, smile and think of Glenn’s deep appreciation for life’s Simple Pleasures.

A special thanks to Darren, Andrea, Judy, Marnie, Joanne and Tony.

If so inclined, a Memorial donations may be made in memory of Glenn to Chatham Kent Hospice, or a  charity of your choice.

Michael Wayne Knott passed away unexpectedly at home on May 31, 2019.  Mike was born in Chatham on March 25, 1955 to Murray and the late Helen (Malott) Knott.  He will be missed by his daughter Jolynne Vercouteren (Shep) and his grandchildren Noah and KeyAndre, by his friend Janet Girard, his siblings Dixie & Delbert Jackson, Diane & Ivan Bonnell, Darlene Knott and Mark Knott (predeceased by Matthew Knott in 2016), by his nieces and nephews Taylor, Madison, Hailey, Isaac, Monique & Eddie, Megan & Simon, Rygel & Aliece and his great nieces and nephews Bradley, Cassidy, Dakota, Christopher, Nyssa & Royce and Cahira & Orla (predeceased by Alexander).  He will also be missed by his extended family and friends.

Mike worked until the doors closed at Siemens in Chatham and then went to Chrysler in Windsor.  His true passion was umpiring and refereeing and also coaching the Blenheim Golden Jets to winning the Ontario Championships.  In his spare time he enjoyed fishing.

Cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Mike’s life will take place at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Saturday July 13, 2019 at 1:00 p.m..  Friends wishing to remember Mike with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Parkinsons Society of Southwestern Ontario.

Robert John “Bob” Bacik, father of Becky (Matt) Larkin, Kim Bacik, Rob Bacik and proud papa to Bryden, Darion, Brynn, Cohen and Leah passed away after a courageous battle of cancer with his children by his side at the Chatham Kent Hospice on Friday, July 5, 2019. Bob was born 67 years ago to the late John and Mary (Kacer) Bacik. He was the last surviving sibling having been predeceased by his brothers John “BJ” Bacik, Stan Zruna and Frank Zruna. Special thanks to all the staff at the Hospice for taking such amazing care of dad during his stay. Cremation has taken place and Bob’s family will be remembering him privately. Friends wishing to remember Bob with a memorial donation are encouraged to consider the Chatham-Kent Hospice.

Joseph J. Huffman passed away suddenly on Monday June 24th. His life will best be remembered for the compassionate care given to patients in the ICU at St Joseph’s Hospital in Chatham, and patients in the Arrhythmia Unit at LHSC University Hospital. An avid hunter, German Short-Haired Pointer enthusiast, and boatsman, he leaves a legacy of good times on Rondeau Bay and Lake Erie water skiing, sailing and boating. He will be dearly missed by many close friends and colleagues. He was deeply loved by his brothers and sisters: Annabelle, Bruce (late), Doris, and Arthur, nephews and nieces: David, Laura and Bob Salter, David Huffman, Steven Lane, Henry, Natasha, and York Sikora and great-nieces and nephews – whom Uncle Joe adored with great joy. Joe was a truly devoted son to his parents Dr. A. S. And Ervine Huffman with whom he has now been reunited.

A gathering of family and friends will take place at the Willow Ridge Golf & Country Club in Blenheim on Sunday August 11, 2019 from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m.

Friends wishing to remember Joe with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Erieau Community Association.

Bruce Embury of Blenheim passed away at home on Saturday June 22, 2019 at the age of 76 years.  He was one of four children born to Ken & Evelyn (Graves) Embury and is survived by his siblings Joanne & Jim Laurie, Kim & Terry St. Pierre and Ken & Sheila Embury.

Everyone who knew Bruce would agree that he was a man of few words, but a quick google search about people who are quiet would let you know “those who talk less really are smarter”!  And if being his wife’s biggest supporter and a hero to his children was an indication of a life well lived, Bruce was an intelligent man who lived life to the fullest!  He was only 18 years old when he married the love of his life Carol (Goodwin) and began a journey that would span almost 58 years.  Together they raised two children who they were very proud of; Shelly & John DeBrouwer and Rick & Anne-Marie Embury.  They were blessed with five grandchildren and their families; Joshua Embury & Amber Christiansen (Liam), Nicole Embury & Adam Iannetta, Lauren & Jarrod Oliphant, Sarah & Joel Pepper (August, Julien and the late Benjamin (2016) and Erica Embury.   He will be missed by his little buddy Bijoux who never left his side whenever he was home.

Being a butcher and a hockey player were major parts of Bruce’s life.  He retired from Blenheim Meats in 2015 and played hockey as a goal tender since his youth to an oldtimer.  Beyond that, his pleasures in life were simple…Wednesday night steak barbeques with a couple of beers and Friday night Wayne’s Pizza were two things he looked forward to every week.

Cremation has taken place.  Family and friends are invited to the Blenheim Community Funeral Home for visitation on Friday from 2 – 4 & 7 – 9 p.m.  A Funeral Service for Bruce will take place in Trinity Anglican Church on Saturday June 29, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.

Friends wishing to remember Bruce with a memorial donation are asked to consider either Trinity Anglican Church or Pet & Wildlife Rescue.

Nancy King of Blenheim, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, on Saturday June 22, 2019.  Nancy was born 85 years ago to the late Stan and Jean (Stenton) Crackel. She was married to Ken James King who predeceased her in 2002. Nancy was super proud of her family and their families which includes:

Her son Ken & Rose King, grandson Trevor & Catherine, great-grandson Nolan.

Her son Jamie & Bonnie King, grandaughter Melissa, great-grandson Brody, grandson Matthew & Marcie, great-grandchildren Abigail and Austin.

Her son Kevin & Fiona King, grandchildren Karley, Jason, Darren, Karen, Bella and Adam.

Her daughter Kathy & Rick Henry, grandchildren Neila, Romaine, Shavaine, Demar, and Kiki.

Her son Kris & Joanne King, granddaughter Tara and Dean, great-grandchildren Dominic and Desmond, grandson Adam, great-grandchildren Kai and Severyn, grandaughter Rachel and Kevin.

Nancy is survived by her brothers Dick & Linda Crackel and Ewart & Nancy Crackel and their families, as well as her sisters-in-law Isabella King, Lucy King and their families.

Nancy had a long table in her kitchen where a lot of life decisions were made and where friends were always welcome.  You could always count on her for some good old fashioned, no-nonsennse advice.  She was a lady of epic determination who was proud to have lived life on her own terms without losing sleep or friends (she had her own euphemism for that, but the kids didn’t think it should be put in the paper!)

Cremation has taken place.  Family and friends are invited to the Charing Cross United Church on Wednesday June 26, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. for a Funeral Service, immediately followed by a time of Fellowship in the Church hall. Interment will then follow with Rev. Bill Terris, and will take place at Evergreen Cemetery where Nancy will be laid to rest with Ken.

Friends wishing to remember Nancy with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Charing Cross United Church General Fund or Pet & Wildlife Rescue.

It is with great sadness and broken hearts we announce that Dr. Michelle Suzanne McLauchlin passed away at the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Ross Tilley Burn Unit in Toronto on Wednesday June 19, 2019.

Michelle was born in Chatham 48 years ago.  She was the little girl who grew up to become the best friend of her mother Noreen and her father Dr. Murray McLauchlin.  She will be forever missed by her brother Dr. Michael McLauchlin, his wife Cecilia and their daughter Mia.   She will also be remembered with great fondness by her partner Rui Raposo and his children Alexander and Victoria as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Michelle accomplished great things in her life, both personally and professionally.  After graduating from the Blenheim District High School, her studies took her to the University of Western Ontario where she received a Bachelor of Science degree and earned the distinction of Medical Doctor in 1996.  In keeping with her life ambition, she was received into the Residency Program at The Hospital For Sick Children in Toronto where she became a Paediatrician.  Michelle then furthered her studies to become a well-respected Allergist and Clinical Immunologist who was loved by her patients and colleagues.

In her spare time, Michelle became an accomplished musician.  She appreciated all of the beauty that the world had to give.  She was a kind and caring person whose thoughts were never far from the ones she loved.

Michelle’s family will be remembering her privately.  Friends wishing to remember her are asked to consider supporting the SickKids Foundation in Toronto as children were always close to her heart, or the Ross Tilley Burn Unit at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in recognition of the care and treatment given to her following her accident.

Max A McLeod passed away at the Tilbury Manor on Wednesday June 5, 2019.  Max was born to the late Neil & Mabel (Carr) McLeod 86 years ago and lived in the Merlin area all of his life.  He is survived by his wife Muriel (Sheeler) McLeod, his daughter Carolyn Lavigne (Andre), his son Brad McLeod (Sarah), grandchildren Andre Jr, Ashleigh, Vanessa, Dylan and great grandson Benjamin.  He is also survived by his sister Barb Zavitski (Ed) and brothers Wayne McLeod (Mary) and Roger McLeod.  He was predeceased by his son Stephen Max and his brothers Glen and Bill.

A private family graveside service will be held at Pardoville Cemetery.   Friends wishing to remember Max with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Pet & Wildlife Rescue Society.