Obituaries

Joyce & Charles Judson

A photo of Joyce & Charles Judson

Judson, Joyce Ann (nee Lister)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother who passed away on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the age of 92 years at Guelph General Hospital. Beloved wife of the late Charles Judson (August 2023). Proud mother of Laurie Hasson (Bob), Scott Judson (Susan) and Carrie Steele (Bill). Cherished Grandmother of Stan (Kristi), Sarah (Fedor), Scotty, Emily (Jimmy) and Charlie (Taylor) and great grandmother of 6. Joyce was the dear sister of Ken Lister (late Marion), the late Murray (Ella) (Rita) and the late Lavern. She was sister-in-law of Chuck Sequire, Flo Lister, Alex Judson (June) and the late Helen Sully (Victor), Stan Judson (Pat), Kathleen Seguire and Iris Archer (Doug). As well, she will be sorely missed by her two fur babies, Zachary and Gigi. Joyce will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Arrangements entrusted to Brombal Funeral Home & Cremation Care, One Delhi Street, Guelph (formerly Gilchrist Chapel). Cremation has taken place. Joyce will be laid to rest in Craford Cemetery in Cedar Springs, ON. Memorial contributions to Hospice Wellington or to the Guelph Humane Society would be appreciated. We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at:  www.brombal.ca where they will be directed to the family.

Judson, Charles Murdock

Passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the age of 90 years at Hospice Wellington. Beloved husband of Joyce (nee Lister). Proud father of Laurie Hasson (Bob), Scott Judson (Susan) and Carrie Steele (Bill). Cherished Grandpa of Stan (Kristi), Sarah (Fedor), Scotty, Emily (Jimmy) and Charlie (Taylor) and great grandpa of 6. Charlie was the dear brother of Alex Judson (June) and the late: Helen Sully (Victor), Stan Judson (Pat), Kathleen Seguire and Iris Archer (Doug). Brother-in-law of Ken Lister (late Marion), Flo Lister (late Lavern) and Chuck Seguire. He will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews as well. Friends and family are invited to Brombal Funeral Home & Cremation Care, One Delhi Street, Guelph (formerly Gilchrist Chapel) on Thursday, August 24 for visiting from 10:30 – 11:30, with a Memorial Service at 11:30 a.m. followed by a reception in Branchton, ON. Memorial contributions to Hospice Wellington or to the Guelph Humane Society would be appreciated. We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at:  www.brombal.ca where they will be directed to the family.

 

 

Neil Seney

A photo of Neil Seney

Service:

St. Paul's Congregational Church
Chatham, ON
Saturday October 21, 2023
11:00am

Visitation:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Friday October 20, 2023
2pm- 4pm and 6pm-8pm

Neil Seney (84), lifelong resident and farmer of Raleigh Township passed away on Oct. 17, 2023 as a result of a car crash. Neil was the son of the late Ben and Charlotte Seney (nee King).

Loving husband and best friend for 53 years to the late Mary (2015). Father of Sally Thompson (Lloyd), Patti Nauta (Jake) and Ben (Tara). Neil was thrilled to be a grandpa to 6 grandchildren, Beth-Ann (Brian), Katie (Chad), Ty (Alisha), Meesha (Jamie), Alex (Kara) and Nathan. He was a great Papa to three great grandchildren, Liam, Brooklyn and Benjamin who loved him dearly.

Brother of the late Ada English (survived by Bill). Brother-in-law of the late Pat (Leona) McGivern, late Mike McGivern (late Reta), late Hugh (Rita), late Francis McGivern (Laura), John McGivern, Rose Johnson (John), Theresa McDonald (Mike), and Bernadette Moor (Brent). Friend of Marion McEachran.

Neil loved to “talk farming” with anyone who would listen. He loved to reminisce about his years of growing tomatoes for Campbell Soup and his time as a county and municipal councilor. Dad served on the transition board for the amalgamation of Chatham Kent. He was an active lifelong member of St. Luke’s United Church and the Merlin Legion. Neil was always up for a chat at any local coffee shop.

He will be remembered for his drop in visits and all the love he gave.  He was a proud supporter and cheerleader for his many grandchildren at all their events. For this reason the family has selected ALL for kids as one of the suggested charities. It provides funding for recreational activities for Chatham Kent Youth. He was also a supporter of the Word of Life soup kitchen.  Donations to either charity would be appreciated. Cremation has taken place. Visitation for Neil will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 60 Stanley St in Blenheim on Friday October 20, 2023 from 2:00pm until 4:00pm and 6:00pm until 8:00pm.  A funeral service will be held at St Paul’s Congregational Church in Chatham on Saturday October 21 at 11:00am with Rev. Eric Skillings officiating. A private family burial will take place at Pardoville-Union Cemetery at a later date.  Online condolences may be left at www.blenheimcommunityfuneralhome.com.

“We will miss you Dad”

The memorial video of Neil can be viewed by clicking the following link:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/M4LQ7SYPP57KR36N

Lynda Pickering

A photo of Lynda Pickering

Visitation:

Thursday Oct. 19
4pm-7pm

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Lynda Pickering, who passed away on October 11, 2023 surrounded by her family at the Victoria Hospital in London, after her short but fierce battle with cancer. She is now resting in peace joining her husband Gary and all the loved ones who went before her.
Lynda was the daughter of the late James & Mayme (nee Coll) Graham. Loving and proud mother to Bob (Carrie) Pickering and Brad (Rachel) Pickering. Cherished grandmother to Blaine and Quinn who she referred to as “her boys” and Elizabeth and Madison, “her girlies”. Predeceased by her siblings James (Maxine) Graham, Robert Graham, and Mary Ann (John) Johnston. Sister in law of Joanne Drury (late Leonard), Pauline Devries (late Ben), Brian (Linda) Pickering, Betty Ann (late Percy), and predeceased by Harvey (Elda) Pickering, Eileen (Hank) Srigley, and Louise (Don) Sutherland.

Lynda was a long time resident of Erieau, spending her childhood growing up at the family business-Grahams Boats and Bait. She bought a home with Gary and raised their family in Erieau. She was always there to help anyone who was in need. Her kind, gentle and humble spirit shone through in all aspects of her life. Her desire to help others lead her to becoming an RPN, working at the Blenheim Community Nursing Home for 29 years. Lynda often talked fondly about the life long friends she met while working there. She enjoyed the simple things in life – family, travel, going to the gym, and spending time with her dog. She never needed “fancy things”, opting for yard sales rather than paying full price.

Cremation has taken place with a celebration of Lynda’s life being held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 60 Stanley St in Blenheim on Thursday October 19 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. A private family interment will occur at Evergreen Cemetery. Donations made in memory of Lynda to the St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Erieau or to PAWR (Pet and Wildlife Rescue) would be appreciated.

We will think of you often and all the love you gave to everyone’s life you touched.

Jennifer (Dunlop) Carroll

A photo of Jennifer (Dunlop) Carroll

Service:

A Celebration of Life will be
held at the Guilds Hall on
Saturday December 9, 2023
from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jennifer Lynn Carroll (nee Dunlop), a beloved 70-year-old warrior who valiantly battled cancer with unwavering courage and resilience. Jen departed this world on October 12, 2023, surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and a passion for crafts that touched  the hearts of all who knew her.

Jen’s strength was never more evident than during her battle with cancer. She faced each day with an unparalleled grace and an unshakable spirit, demonstrating extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.

Jen was not just an artist; she was a loving matriarch. Her warm smile, kind heart, and creative energy touched the lives of many. She leaves behind her loving husband of 51 years, Bruce, her son, Aaron (Jackie) and daughter Jonelle (Danielle) and 6 grandchildren; Raven, Clover, Austin, Cameron, Ainsley and Ryan. As well as her best friend of 60 years, Judy, her brother Terry (Joy), predeceased by her brother Tom (Francoise), and a wealth of memories filled with laughter, shared projects, and the joy of camping.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated medical staff at Chatham Health Alliance and Dr. Abdi who supported Jen throughout her journey.  A celebration of Jen’s life will be held at the Guilds Hall on December 9th, from 2pm – 5pm. We invite all who knew and loved Jen to join us in celebrating her life and a battle fought with remarkable grace and fortitude.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Optimist Club of Blenheim on Jen’s behalf.

May Jen’s soul find eternal peace, free from the pain and suffering of this world. As we grieve her loss, let us also remember the strength and resilience with which she faced her battle, and may her memory serve as a reminder that love, hope, and courage can endure even in the most trying of times.

Mary Bertha (Kozlof, nee Beaubien) Johnston

A photo of Mary  Bertha (Kozlof, nee Beaubien) Johnston

Service:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Monday October 16, 2023
1:00 p.m.

Visitation:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Monday October 16, 2023
12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Mom passed away peacefully at the Blenheim Community Village. Mother of ten, Mary is survived by her children Larry Kozlof (Jane), Sharron Cooper (Brian), Patricia Hamelin (Tommy, deceased), and Maggie Engel (Rudi).  Mom is also survived by her sister, Lillian Mervin.

Predeceased by her husband Clarence Johnston and first husband Walter Kozlof.  Also predeceased by her siblings George Beaubien, Ed Beaubien and Edith Pickering, and parents Henry and Mabel Beaubien.

Sadly, Mom was also predeceased by her children Alexander Kozlof, Janice Yourex (Glen-deceased), Richard Kozlof, Paul Kozlof, Karen Armstrong (Phillip) and David Johnston.

Lovingly remembered by her many, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren and all her wonderful nieces and nephews.

Our heartfelt thanks to the caring and compassionate staff at the Blenheim community Village, and to DR. Martha Clendenning.

According to Mom’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  Visitation will take place at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Monday October 16, 2023 from 12:00 – 1:00pm.  A Funeral Service will follow immediately after the visitation and will be livestreamed by clicking the following link:https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=110de57f-5d09-482b-ad37-6bdeebd1ecef

A private interment will be held at a later date, at Evergreen Cemetery.

Norma Pickering

A photo of Norma Pickering

Visitation:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Wednesday October 11, 2023
3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Norma Margurite Pickering of Blenheim passed away at home on Friday October 6, 2023 at the age of 84 years.  She was the daughter of the late William and Lela (Haskell) Shepley.  Norma met the love of her life James Pickering while they were both attending Blenheim District High School and were married almost 52 years before James predeceased her in 2012.  She had five children; Susan Rood (Gerard), Chris Pickering (Mary Alice), Timothy Pickering who predeceased her in 1985, Shawn Pickering (Maria) and Michelle Miles (Rick).  She was the proud grandmother of Tina (Dan), Brian (Bailey), Ashli (Joe), Taylor (Kayla), Tim (Paige), Kody and Alex and great-grandmother of Lukus, Hunter, Emily, Alivia and Emerson.  She is survived by her sister Donna Goodwin and was predeceased by her siblings Aileen Murray, Marie Pepper and William Shepley.

Norma enjoyed her career of being a homemaker for the Red Cross where she became long time friends with Alvin and Wilma Armstrong.  She was a member of the Blenheim Seniors Centre and enjoyed doing many crafts.

Visitation will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Wednesday October 11, 2023 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.  Cremation will follow and a private graveside service will take place in Evergreen where Norma will be laid to rest with Jim.

John Nichol

A photo of John Nichol

It is with great sadness that we, Tyler, Boyd and Daniel Nichol announce the sudden passing of our dad, John Nichol.  Dad fell ill recently and on September 27th, he unexpectedly succumbed to his illness.  He spent his last days at home with our loving mom Karen.  This is a great shock to us as dad was just visiting Tyler and his family in Dawson and everything was great.  Maybe the only consolation in all of this is that he’s giving a big hug to our brother Jesse who passed away in 2018.

Dad was one of a kind and we’re gonna miss him like crazy.  He was a man of the fire, always cutting wood, spending time with friends and family around the campfire telling stories.  He was super generous and was always there to help people.  He really believed in living simple and understood the benefit of small communities.

Many years ago Dad went to Dawson City to mine for gold and loved it so much that he moved his family of 6 there in a school bus.  It was a grand adventure driving across the country moving to the north.  During that time, he worked gold mining and for the Yukon Government maintaining parts of the Dempster Highway and surrounding area.  Even though the family  moved back to Blenheim, part of Dad’s heart stayed in Dawson City.  He loved the country and he loved the people there.  Everyone had so many good times going to Dawson and camping at his place.  He loved hosting people and spending time with the younger generation and the energy they brought.  The past few years found him in Dawson again helping Tyler build the dirt work for the winter terrain parks at Moose Mountain and Mt Maichen and the Cross Country ski trails at Mt Mac in Whitehorse.  Dad loved the trails and spending time on them with us. If you wish to make a donation in his memory, it would’ve made him smile.  Please consider a donation to the Klondike Active Transport and Trails Society in Dawson City to continue the work that he loved so much.  Donations can be mailed to KATTS, Box 1223, Dawson City, Yukon, Y0B1G0 or e-transferred to [email protected] stating who the donation is for.

Dad was an inspiration to all four of us growing up, and in turn, we became an inspiration to him.  He was 65 years young.  He showed us you’re never too old to learn how to snowboard, downhill mountain bike or tow behind Bella his dog on his longboard, he was a natural.  His energy brought so much to all of our lives.  His inward happiness and adventurous sides were gifts that he gave us and for that we will always be grateful.  His free spirit took him far and wide where he was able to experience so much of what life has to offer.  He was a talented heavy machine operator whose favourite pieces of equipment were the grader and excavator.  He was a member of the Operating Engineers Union – Local 793, working wherever the job took him.  A Celebration of Life for John will be held at Karen’s, 19360 Fargo Rd. Blenheim on Sunday October 15 from 2pm-5pm.  Please bring your lawn chair and favourite pot luck dish.

Dad, there’s no one like you and we’re really gonna miss ya.  We love you so much!

Tyler, Boyd, Daniel and Mom

Gavin Mifflin

A photo of Gavin Mifflin

Visitation:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Wednesday October 4, 2023 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Thursday October 5, 2023 from 2:00 - 4:00 & 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Gavin Mifflin of London and formerly of Blenheim passed away unexpectedly on September 28, 2023.  He was born 49 years ago to his parents Gaele and Gary Mifflin, the two people he gave credit to for the successes that he, his brother Richard & Heather with their children Aislinn and Kaelan, and his sister Rebecca experienced in life.

Gavin’s careers in life took him to Toronto, Chatham, back to Blenheim and finally to London.  He would tell you that London was his best move, because it was there that he met the love of his life Jennifer and where he became a dad to Connor and Spencer.  Being a husband and a dad were the two greatest journeys of his life.

He was a graduate of Blenheim District High School and played football there for the Blenheim Bobcats.  After graduation, he enjoyed coming back to be an announcer for the games.  He will always be remembered for his catchphrase that the opposing team had been “stopped by a pack of cats”.  He was a part of the Blenheim Blades and would also be an announcer for their games.  He had a great voice, whether it was announcing or singing and it was no surprise that he studied at Humber College to be a radio announcer, working for CKSY in Chatham and Rogers TV in London.  He always smiled.  He had a way, even after long absences of making friends feel like they were an important part of his life and he always took the time to keep in touch.

Gavin loved all kinds of sports.  He cheered for the Wings, the Lions, the Pistons and the Tigers, but his all time favourite was the Florida Gators, the team that he had his license plates personalized with.  He spent time working with his friend Matt at Sport Travel before making his final move to London.  After taking the Golf and Club Management course at Fanshawe College he accepted a position at the Innerkip Highlands Golf Club before moving to be the General Manager at the Sally Creek Golf Club.  He also became a Professor at Fanshawe College, teaching his graduate course.

Gavin was welcomed with open arms by Jennifer’s family including her Mom Martina, her Dad Kerwin & Joanne, her Oma Carla, siblings Karen and Stacey, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.  He was a loved uncle, nephew, son-in-law, brother-in-law and friend.  His enthusiastic personality and contagious laugh could light up a room.  He will be missed.  He always looked out for his family and friends and they looked out for him.  His last post on Facebook said “I am beyond words and filled with love and support from you all.  Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, encouragement and positive messages.  I am blessed”.

Cremation has taken place.  Visitation will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Wednesday October 4 from 5 – 8 p.m. and again on Thursday October 5 from 2 – 4 & 6 – 8 p.m.  A private family interment will be held at Riverview Cemetery in Wallaceburg.  Donations in memory of Gavin can be made to an education fund set up for his children or to the London Humane Society.

A memorial tribute of Gavin’s life may be viewed by clicking the following link:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/PTBJ3HD8DRMPSG8L

Grover Gall

A photo of Grover Gall

It all began New Year’s Eve 1979 in Windsor at a dance. Jean said because she was only 18 yrs old, she fell for his line of , “Where have you been all my life?” This New Years Eve 2023, their love story would have gone on for 44 years. I guess his line worked after all.
Grover Elgin Gall of Blenheim passed away on September 20, 2023 at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance with Jean by his side. Grover was born in Chatham in June of 1949. His parents were the late Joyce Elizabeth and Elgin Ray Gall. Grover was married to Jean Gall (nee Kane) in December of 1980. Grover and Jean had no children of their own, however, their nieces and nephews, “the Buckwheat’s”, were always in their life. Ashley (Mark), Katie (Fil), John (Sarah), Ian, Sean (Mila) and Leah (Curtis). Grover leaves behind his sister-in-law, Maggie Buckwheat of Erieau and brother-in-law, Bill Kane of Chatham. Predeceased by his in-laws Bill and Betty Kane who he loved as his second parents and in return was loved and respected by them.
Being housebound from the spring, Grover had some great visits whether on the phone or in person with his cousin Jack (Jane Ann) Tasker, as well as some great visits with Linda (Doug) Dyet when they moved to Blenheim.
Grover worked at Canadian Fram when he met Jean. After a few years in Chatham, they bought Jimmy J’s Drive In Restaurant (formerly known as Brockies). After running the drive-in for two seasons, they added a dining room and it became Grover’s Family Restaurant. They sold the restaurant and bought a home at Rondeau while Grover worked at the Southwestern Regional Center for a short time before becoming ill. Although it wasn’t required for his job, he wrote the government exam and received his chef’s papers. Jean and Grover sold their home at Rondeau and became Winter Texans for two winters. Home from Texas they settled in Ridgetown. From there, they lived in London and finally returned to Blenheim. Grover got sick in the spring but was thrilled to reconnect with old friends from AA, Brentwood, and his church friends. September was the month he passed away but it was also the anniversary of his 45th year of being sober. Our family doctor, Dr. Anna Pawelec is one in a million. At the Chatham hospital Jean would like to say thank you to Dr. Newell and Dr. Merotto. The palliative nurses at the hospital are angels in disguise. Karen and Ashley you have compassion beyond measure for your patients and their families. You both were everything that a hospice setting should be. Terry, Aleena, and LeeAnn, thank you for getting Grovers sense of humour. You showed such great kindness in caring for him. Marc and Mike from the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, thank you for your compassion and guidance. To Rev. Ken Powell for your visits and Godly counsel. Pat, Bev, and Nettie for your friendship and support. Grover was a humble man who loved God with all his heart. His animals at home were a comfort to him. Leaving behind Spice the cat, and Mabel his dog. As per Grover’s wishes there will be no funeral service at this time with a possibility of a Celebration of Life at a later date. If you would like to make a donation in Grover’s name, you can give to the wonderful rescue that his dog Mabel came from: Barks and Meows Rescue, or the Chatham Kent Hospice would be appreciated.
Dear Grover: “Lovin’ you was easier than anything I’ll ever do Again” -Jeannie

A memorial video of Grover’s life can be viewed by clicking the following link:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/8CQPXX2C2MCDDSNT

Hugh Stonehouse Jr

A photo of Hugh Stonehouse Jr

Service:

Blenheim Legion (Upstairs)
Monday September 25, 2023
Beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Memories will be shared at 7:00 p.m.

Visitation:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Monday September 25, 2023
3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hughie Stonehouse Jr, our son, brother, father, uncle, and friend in his 50th year.

Hughie’s proudest accomplishments in life were, as everyone knew, his two beautiful daughters, Oliva Pre and Morgan Rose.  Hughie is also survived by his parents, Linda Stonehouse-Paling (George), Hugh Stonehouse Sr (late Mary Anne), sister Karen Stonehouse and her son Isaac, brother Jeff Stonehouse, sister-in-law Lisa and their children Brady, Abby and Brett, his stepbrother, Craig Horak, his wife Amanda and their children Connor and Casey.

Hughie was born May 30th, 1973, and recently celebrated his milestone 50th birthday with two of his favourite people, his mom and daughter Olivia who proudly cooked him a homemade meal. Most recently, just two weeks ago, Hughie was able to check off his main bucket list item of going to a Guns n Roses concert with one of his daughters.

Hughie was the Habs biggest fan, a goalie extraordinaire and he couldn’t have been happier than just two years ago having the chance to attend Maskfest where he had the opportunity to meet a former NHL mask maker and be surrounded by hockey enthusiasts such as himself.  “Goaltender – the one brave player willing to have pucks chucked at his face all in the name of hockey and enjoys it.”

Hughie was an active child playing most sports and found his passion playing net. Even as young adults his large circle of friends that chummed around since public school could be found playing some road hockey. His social life was full through his teens and 20s and he loved throwing his annual Halloween party where many Blenheim folks danced the night away.

Hugh “had eyes of the bluest sky”, Nothing last forever and all you need is a little patience. Shed a tear ‘cause I’m missin’ you, I’m still alright to smile. We pray that when Hughie Knocked on Heaven’s door, that his predeceased family, friend, rock, and hockey icons were all there to Welcome him to Paradise City. Don’t you cry tonight, there’s a heaven above you, And don’t you cry tonight.

Hughie had a huge impact on countless children and youth over his 15-year span of being a Children’s Service Worker. He also coached Olivia and Isaac through their Blenheim Minor Hockey years.  His dedication to children and the impact he made on their lives will be remembered by so many young athletes.  With that in mind, donating to a cause that involves youth and sports such as ALL for Kids would be a great way to continue his legacy.  He would have wanted any child to have an opportunity to play sports.

Visitation will be on Monday, September 25th from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home. This will be followed by a celebration of life in the upstairs of the Blenheim Legion where we welcome you to share some favourite ‘Stoney Stories’ beginning at 7:00 p.m. Please wear your favourite jersey, band tee or flannel!

“Remember, in this game we call life, that no one said it’s fair” – Breakdown

“Play every game as it is your last one.” Guy Lafleur