It is with great sadness that the family of Petrus (Peter) Lambertus Van De Hogen announces his passing on Saturday April 18, 2026 at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance at the age of 86. Born September 16, 1939 in Nistelrode, Netherlands was the son of the late Frank & Anna (nee Van Aalst) and was the 5th of 8 children.

He was predeceased by his wife of 57 years Annette Van De Hogen (nee Benoit) (d.2021) and by his daughter Lisa Anne in 1964. Father of Jason Van De Hogen (Elaine) and proud Grandfather of Ian and Emily.

Brother of the late Martin (late Liz) Van De Hogen, late John (Mary) Van De Hogen, late Adrian (late Anne) Van De Hogen, late Joe Van De Hogen (late Helen), Nellie (late Joe) Venclik, late Annie Beuglet, Frank (Carol) Van De Hogen.

Peter and his wife, Annette, purchased land on Communication Road in Blenheim in the mid-1960s, shortly after they were married, and began building their life together. While both worked full-time jobs, they also dedicated themselves to farming. In 1986, they proudly purchased the farm that had once belonged to Peter’s parents, bringing his roots full circle. Annette always referred to Peter as her “Silver Fox.” They often enjoyed hosting dinners, spending quality time gathered around the table with family and friends.

Peter took great pride in maintaining his farms. He was meticulous about keeping the fields free of weeds and the yard well cared for, often trimming trees and tending to the property. He was never at a loss for words — a quick two-minute visit to his farm could easily turn into a two-hour conversation. Farming was truly part of who he was, and even up to this past year, he could never sit still. He was always outside, working on something. When he did come indoors, he enjoyed watching the news, keeping up with world events, and following the latest political issues – often staying up to watch the late-night talk shows.

Visitation will be held Friday April 24 from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 53 Stanley Street, and Peter’s life will be remembered Saturday April 25 at 11 am at St. Mary’s Church at 95 Marlborough Street in Blenheim. Peter will be laid to rest beside Annette at Evergreen Cemetery in Blenheim.  A reception will follow at St. Mary’s Hall.

In lieu of flowers you are welcome to donate to the Canadian Cancer Society https://cancer.ca/en/

Linda was born in Oshawa, the daughter of the late Reta & Bert McLean.  She was one of six children and is survived by her sister Rebecca Anne Fava and her brother Wayne Calvery McLean.  She was predeceased by her brothers Bertram Drew, Johnathan David and Stephen Aaron McLean.  She will be remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was an employee of Libby’s for many years and she travelled to many parts of Canada and the U.S. with her husband John, but her number one joy in life was being a Mom to her boys.

A service will be held Saturday April 18 at 11 a.m. at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 53 Stanley Street in Blenheim, followed by internment at Evergreen Cemetery, Blenheim.

David “Dave” Peter Waddick passed away on April 1, 2026, leaving behind those who knew and loved him.

Born on September 29, 1975, Dave will be remembered for the impact he had on the lives of his family and friends.  He was known for his kind nature and his willingness to help others whenever he could.  Dave enjoyed plants and gardening, and found peace and happiness spending time outdoors.

He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Ann Marie and Diana, and his brother, Jason.  He is also remembered by Nikki Suitor, and her children Blade and Devree, as well as many uncles aunts and cousins.

Dave will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Dave will be laid to rest on April 20 at 3 pm at the Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham.

Memories of Dave will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Donations in honor of Dave can be made to the Chatham Kent Hospice. https://www.chathamkenthospice.com/

Elizabeth Boothe of Thamesville passed away on Wednesday April 1, 2026.  She was the last surviving child of the late Joseph Charles and Zuzanne (Boyes) Rajz.

Elizabeth lived a full and happy life for 93 years.  She and her late husband George were the parents of twelve and will be missed very much by Elizabeth DeBaene (Wayne), Susan Daly (Brian), Emily Daly, Georgina Boothe, Kathy Gehl (Dave), Jim Boothe (late Carolynn), Joe Boothe (Leanne), John Boothe (Donna) and George Boothe.  She was predeceased by three children Pam McCullough (survived by Ron), Lynn Ameel and Bob Boothe (survived by Laurie).

She was loved by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.

Nothing made Elizabeth happier than to take care of her family.  Her door was always open and her love knew no bounds.  Some of the greatest lessons in her life were learned through the eyes of a child.   Christmas time would find her in the kitchen baking for days in anticipation of the family get togethers that would take place.  She also worked for many years as a Health Care Aide at the Victoria Residence in Chatham.

Elizabeth’s family will remember her privately.

The family of Ralph Demers is saddened to announce his passing on March 30, 2026 at the age of 86 years.

Ralph grew up on his family farm in Grand Pointe, working alongside his father at the tender age of 5, he would tell us.  During the course of his life, he worked at many places but mostly recalled his days at Ontario Steel and Eaton Springs.  Ralph’s hobby of woodworking kept him busy in his garage, making shelves, stools, shadow boxes or anything we asked for.  He was also a pretty good handy man being able to fix things around the house.

Ralph really enjoyed getting out of the house and going for drives to Mitchell’s Bay.  We all share many memories of his love of ice fishing there in the winter.  An old fashion country music fan at heart, some of Ralph’s favourite artists were Kenny Rogers, Roy Orbison, the Melody Ramblers and Loretta Lynn.  He appreciated any music with a good fiddler, because it reminded him of when his father played the fiddle.  It was his love of music that drew him to local dances and he always enjoyed a good game of cards (euchre) with friends.

Ralph had a love for good food, especially his famous bologna sandwiches.  He enjoyed going out to a restaurant for a meal and knew where all the local hot spots were.  He especially liked Yeck’s in Ridgetown for their huge burgers and fries.  Although he lost most of his vision, he had the ability as a passenger to direct you to any destination without error. His bright blue eyes and warm smile will be etched on our hearts forever.

Ralph is predeceased by his parents Ernest and Regina Demers of Grande Pointe, his brother James Demers, his son William “Bill” Demers and his grandson, William “Will” Demers.  He will be lovingly remembered by his partner, Dorothy Gough, his children: Melody (Bruce) Robertson, Jean (the late Bill) Demers, Wayne (Laurie O’Rourke) Demers, Charlene (Glen) King, Darlene (John) Rylett, and Christine (Joseph) Zink.  He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren:  Robert (Heather) Demers, Jacqueline Demers (Chris) Kolodziej, Ryan (Casey) King, Chantel King-Therrien, Max (Kristy) Rylett, Brittany Rylett (Matt Smith), T.J. (Sarah) Rylett, Brooke (Lincoln) Smith, Jerzie Rylett, Kala Zink-Smith, Joseph “Joey” Zink (Kelsey Zondag), Haley Zink, and many great grandchildren, and friends.

A private family visitation will be held at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home.  Ralph will be laid to rest with his parents and brother in the Saint Philippe Cemetery in Grande Pointe.

If you would like to make a charitable donation in memory of Ralph, you can dedicate donations easily on the Diabetes Canada Website https://diabetes.ca/  or the Chatham Kent Health Alliance Website https://ckhaf.ca/donate/

The family would like to thank all the staff at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance, 2^nd floor team for the incredible care and compassion given to Ralph and his loved ones.

Christopher (Chris) James Wayne Rumble was born on August 9, 1956 and passed away on Tuesday March 10, 2026.

He was predeceased by his mother Ivy Rumble and is survived by his sister Karen Colenutt (husband Don).  Also survived by special friends, Lila Walker and her son Shannon, Vicki Ceccacci, Roy & Darlene Smyth, Tom Moulton and Julie & Jim MacLeod.  Also survived by many cousins.

As per Chris’s request, there will be no visitation or service.  Cremation has taken place.

Peacefully, surrounded by her family’s love, on Sunday, March 8, 2026, Bonnie Lou Nead (nee LaBonté) passed away at the age of seventy-six.  She is survived by her loving children; Jeff (Amber) Nead, Gerry (Sue) Nead and Julie (Steve) Tellier. She was a very proud Grandma to her grandchildren Emily (Tyler), Caitlin (Ron), Kyle (Brooke), Sydney (Braden),  Hunter (Sean), Jordan (Josh), Warren (Marisa), and Jadyn (Cole). She treasured her time with her seven great grandchildren. Also survived by her sister-in-law Diane (Graham) Adamson. Predeceased by her parents Gene and Betty LaBonté, her in-laws Howard and Betty Nead, her two brothers Ron Pearce and Bob LaBonté . Waiting for her with open arms, a twinkle in his eye and a warm smile, will be the love of her life, Don Nead (2019).

Bonnie found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially riding her bike around Merlin, family gatherings, and spending time outdoors tending to her lawn.

The heart of the Nead family is gone, missed dearly, and never to be forgotten.

Cremation to take place with a private family burial.

A celebration of life will be held at the Merlin Legion on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 2-4 pm, with words of remembrance at 3pm.  Family and friends wishing to remember Bonnie are asked to consider your local Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund.