Obituaries

Ralph Demers

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A photo of Ralph Demers

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, 2nd floor team for the incredible care and compassion given to Ralph and his loved ones.

 

Cyriel Frank DeNeve

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A photo of Cyriel Frank DeNeve

Service:

In keeping with Cyriel’s wishes, a private family remembrance
will be held at a later date. Interment will take place at
Evergreen Cemetery.

Cyriel Frank DeNeve of Blenheim, beloved husband of the late Dora (Bloemen), passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his children, Paul DeNeve and Sandra Myers, at Blenheim Community Village on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the age of 83. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Remi Myers, who brought him great joy.
Born in Belgium, Cyriel was the son of the late Rachel and Remi DeNeve. He is survived by his brother Wilfred DeNeve (Ida) and his sister Diane DeNeve. He will also be fondly remembered by Dora’s siblings, Hank and Betty Bloemen, and Judy Bloemen. He was predeceased by John and Harry Bloemen.
To say that Cyriel was a hard worker would be an understatement. He spent many years farming outside of Ridgetown, worked at Kearney Planters, and went on to build homes alongside Dudley and Danny Sparks. He took great pride in his work and in providing for his family. Steadfast and dependable, Cyriel was always there for those who needed him, quietly offering support and guidance. He will be remembered for his calm presence, his strong values, and as a voice of reason his family could always rely on. He will be deeply missed.
The family extends their sincere gratitude to the staff and residents of Blenheim Community Village for the care and compassion shown to Cyriel over the past year and a half. Your kindness and commitment did not go unnoticed.
In keeping with Cyriel’s wishes, a private family remembrance will be held at a later date. Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery.
Donations in memory of Cyriel may be made to the Blenheim Community Village Recreation Program or to a charity of your choice.

Gloria May (Crawford) Parker

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A photo of Gloria May (Crawford) Parker

Service:

There will be no public gathering for Gloria. 
Her family will remember her privately.

With heavy hearts, the family of Gloria May Parker (Crawford), sadly announce that Gloria passed away on March 23, 2026.  She now joins her loving husband Larry Glen Parker who predeceased her in 2012.
Mom was a woman whose life was as vibrant and well tended to as the gardens she loved so dearly… she was a true sanctuary maker.  She found her greatest peace in taking care of her home, her yard and her dog companions Lily and Pixie.
Many memories were made at the cottage in Rondeau, whether it was watching the lake change colours from her first home or enjoying the quiet company of the local birds, going to the beach, and having her mom come with her for the week.  She had a gift for spotting beauty in the simple things; a rare bird at the feeders, a perfectly blooming perennial and using her craftsmanship in sewing, cooking and homemaking.
Above all, Gloria’s heart belonged to her children, Sherry Marie Hope and Barry Glen Parker (Tanya), her grandchildren, Madison McKenzie Hope, Preston Parker Hope, Alexis Marie Parker and Logan Douglas Glen Parker.  Gloria took great delight in her great grandchildren, Zylen Kane, Alze Kane, Bentley Cadotte, Tyson Cadotte and Mylah Hope. She was their BIGGEST supporter, their confidant and the keeper of stories that will now be told for generations to come.
She was one of six children born to the late Milton & Phyllis (Rideout) Crawford.  She is survived by her sister Peggy Snobelen, her brother Steven Crawford (Leanne) and her sister-in-law Darlene Crawford.  She was predeceased by her sister Shirley Wilkinson (John), her brothers Murray Crawford and Sam Crawford (Lana) as well as her brother-in-law Laird Snobelen.
Mom’s legacy will live on in the flowers that bloom each spring and in the gentle rustle of the wind.  She will be deeply missed but her memory will remain as a beautiful garden in the hearts of all who knew her.
A private family service will be held in Craford Cemetery.
Those wishing to remember Gloria with a memorial donation are asked to consider Covenant House in Toronto www.covenanthousetoronto.ca/ 

Chris Rumble

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A photo of Chris Rumble

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.

Bonnie Nead

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A photo of Bonnie Nead

Service:

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.

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.

 

William “Allan” Lanman

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A photo of William “Allan” Lanman

Service:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home, Wednesday March 11, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Interment in Evergreen Cemetery

Visitation:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Tuesday March 10, 2026
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

William “Allan” Lanman

Passed away March 5th surrounded by his closest family.

Born June 2, 1945.

Known to friends and family as “Al or Allan”, he was raised in Kentucky and attended Kenyon College followed by the University of Kentucky before moving to Canada in the late 1960’s. He lived in various Ontario cities, and he eventually settled in Toronto where his passion for books and photography led him to owning a used book and photography shop.

Al leaves behind his loving wife of 42 years, Cathy, and son Christopher (and his wife Aman) and young granddaughter, Celine, who he adored.

He leaves behind his brother Ronnie (Judy) in Virginia along with nieces and nephews throughout the US.

Also leaves behind his sister-in laws Cindy, Caryn (Evan), Cheryl (Jim), Christine (Ron) and many loved nieces and nephews here in Canada.

Al loved reading books (often 3 at a time) and never went anywhere without one. He always had a true curiosity about life and learning right until the end. His passion for Kentucky and the University was always close to his heart. His love for Kentucky basketball was shared with anyone he knew.

Al’s unique sense of humor, wealth of knowledge, and enthusiastic debates on many topics will be missed by all who knew him well.

Visitation will be held, Tuesday March 10 from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 53 Stanley Street in Blenheim.  The Funeral Service will be held, Wednesday March 11 at 11 a.m., at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 53 Stanley Street, Blenheim, followed by internment at Evergreen Cemetery. A reception to follow at the Blenheim Legion.

Vince Bourdeau

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A photo of Vince Bourdeau
Vincent Alfred Bourdeau of Chatham and formerly of Blenheim passed away on Friday February 27, 2026 at the age of 92 years.  He was predeceased by his wife Loretta (Schnekenburger) Bourdeau in 2023.
Vince will be remembered with fondness by his children Norm (Sylvia) Bourdeau, Dwane (Pamela) Bourdeau and Yvonne (Chris) Callender, by his grandchildren Eric, Tanya, Zakery, Tina, Lori, Jeni and Tiffany.  He was the last surviving sibling born to the late Alfred & Irene (Marchand) Bourdeau.
Vince was a long time employee of Bell Canada and a strong supporter of Loretta over her many years of owning her own restaurant before they both moved to Riverview Gardens in Chatham.  In keeping with his wishes, cremation will take place.
Family and friends wishing to remember Vince with a memorial donation are asked to consider the Chatham-Kent Hospice https://chathamkenthospicefoundation.com/donations/

Shelagh Debra Harrison

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A photo of Shelagh Debra Harrison

Service:

In respecting Debby’s wishes, no funeral services will take place.
In lieu of flowers, Debby suggested a donation in her memory be
made to a charity of your choice.

Peacefully with her girls by her side, Debby Harrison passed away on February 25, 2026.
Shelagh Debra Harrison was born on June 28, 1954 to Donald Henry Harrison and Jean Fraser Doull.
Debby was the third daughter born, and sister to Cathé Fraser (Rosemary), Wendy Lavoie (Jean-Marc), and Donna Harrison.
Debby is survived by her daughters Kimberley (Ray), Melanie (Mike), Angela Nicole, and Sarah (Ryan).
One of the greatest promotions was when she became a Nana. Her grandchildren brought her great joy; Evan, Daniel (Carrie), Briana (Josh), Isabella – “Bella”, Owen, Samantha – “Sam”, Francis, Boniface – “Bo”, Pius – “Pi”, Saoirse, and Claire.
When she thought her heart couldn’t grow some more, she then became a Great-Nana to Hailey, Madilynn, Jaxton, Waylon, Harrison, Kohen, Malakai, and Marjorie.
Debby was loved by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Debby can be remembered for her love of gardening, scrapbooking, crafting, journaling, reading, and puzzles.
She was well known to the Merlin area for her loyalty and many years of service to Canada Post, where she eventually retired as postmaster.
Debby was proud to be raised in a military family, which provided her with the opportunity to travel various parts of the world, including Ottawa, Nova Scotia, Germany, Italy, England, and Greece.
She will be remembered for her witty sense of humour, distinct laugh, and spirited smile.
Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the entire care team at Meadow Park in Chatham for the years of unwavering love and support that carried her through to her final days.
In respecting Debby’s wishes, no funeral services will take place. In lieu of flowers, Debby suggested a donation in her memory be made to a charity of your choice.
Debby loved the poem by Linda Ellis “The Dash Between” and she lived her life, loving and embracing, not knowing what would happen during that dash.    1954-2026

Rob Lucio

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A photo of Rob Lucio

Service:

Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Thursday February 26, 2026
At 2:00 p.m. a short service will be held, followed by a time to visit.

In Loving Memory of John Robert Lucio

September 7, 1951 to February 20, 2026

Loving husband of Monika Lucio together 37 years, happily married 33 years. Dear Father of Leanne & Ryan, Kristal, Tina, Marcus & Keshia, and Brianna. A beloved grandfather and great grandfather. Loving son of Joan and the late Henry Lucio. Dear Brother of Rick & Pam, Pat & Kathy, Brian, Cathie, Kellie, Jeff & Lisa, Dana, predeceased by sister Connie (Marvin), and Klaus & Margitta. Cherished by his beloved furry best buddy Gandalf.

Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Rob knew what a kind, generous man he was and how he was always there to lend a helping hand. He was a jack of all trades from a mechanic, carpenter and painter to fixing just about anything and everything around the house. Rob was one of a kind with a great sense of humour and made friends everywhere he went. Rob was a Nascar fan of Jeff Gordon and devoted sports fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Lions. Rob loved to cook for his family and was a certified grill master. He loved traveling for work and with his family all around the world. Rob was an amazing husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend, he will be deeply missed.

Jerry Motycka

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A photo of Jerry Motycka

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jerry Motycka on February 22, 2026.  Born 85 years ago to the late Joseph and Rosie Motycka, he is survived by brother Stan Motycka (Sharon).

Jerry was predeceased by his wife Ann Motycka (nee Bell).  Father of Jeff Motycka, of twins Jeanette and Jennifer Motycka (Gerry Pfaff) and proud grandfather of River and Rain Pfaff.

Jerry worked for 36 years before retiring from Rockwell (Meritor) in Chatham.  He enjoyed the company of friends.  He enjoyed the outdoors, spending time boating, camping, snowmobiling and ice fishing.  Later, after retirement, he and Ann spent winter months in Florida.

A heartfelt thanks goes out to Dr. James Wheeler, the nurses and PSW’s at both the Blenheim Community Village and Chatham-Kent Hospice.  Your kindness and service is great.  Special thanks to my sister-in-law Nancy Shannon (nee Bell) for your kindness, care and friendship.

As per Jerry’s wishes, there will be no services.  Please consider the Chatham-Kent Hospice in your charitable donations this year.