Ontario Provincial Police Veterans' Association

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In Memoriam

A space to honour members who have recently passed, reflect on their service, and keep their stories alive within our community.

William German (Bill)

William German (Bill)

June 6, 1933 – June 18, 2026

Chapter 3 - Burlington

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Bill began his policing career with the Ontario Provincial Police on April 7, 1959, with a posting to London DHQ/London Detachment. On February 14, 1983, Bill was transferred to the Professional Standards Branch. Inspector German retired from the OPP on December 31, 1987. Bill was also a Life Member of the Burlington Chapter of the OPP Veterans’ Association and member of the Ninety Plus Club. Bill was 93 and had been retired for 38 plus years when he passed away. Bill is survived by his children John and Robert and pre-deceased by his spouse Norma.

Celebration of life

June 27, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Granton Cemetery, 5439 Whalen Line, Granton ON N0M 1V0

In lieu of flowers

Ontario Police Memorial Foundation 200 – 2075 Kennedy Road Toronto ON M1T 3V3

Timeline

  • Born

    June 6, 1933

  • Passed away

    June 18, 2026

    Age 93

  • Celebration of life

    June 27, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Granton Cemetery, 5439 Whalen Line, Granton ON N0M 1V0

    Granton Cemetery, 5439 Whalen Line, Granton ON N0M 1V0

  • Tribute shared

    June 22, 2026

    Submitted by Ron Dosman

Submitted on June 22, 2026 — Ron Dosman

William (Bill) Bethell

William (Bill) Bethell

February 14, 1946 – June 8, 2026

Chapter 12 - North Bay

Bill became a member of the Ontario Provincial Police on April 17, 1967, with a posting to Mattawa Detachment. On August 3,…

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It is with sorrow that I advise the passing of Chapter 12 - North Bay Life Member retired Detective Constable William (Bill) Brian Bethell #3286 on June 8, 2026.

Bill became a member of the Ontario Provincial Police on April 17, 1967, with a posting to Mattawa Detachment.

On August 3, 1970, Bill was transferred to Ottawa Detachment.  A transfer to Burk’s Falls Detachment followed on July 7, 1975.

On June 25, 1990, Bill was transferred to North Bay Detachment.

On July 17, 1995, Bill was transferred to the North East Region Crime Unit.

Detective Constable Bethell retired from the OPP on September 30, 1996.

Bill was a Life Member of the North Bay Chapter of the OPP Veterans’ Association.

Bill was 80 and had been retired for close to 30 years when he passed away.

Bill is survived by his spouse Patsy and stepchildren Claudine and Aaron.

Condolences to the Bethell family, friends, and former colleagues. May you rest in peace.

Funeral Service:
Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 1100 hrs
St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Church
241 2nd Street, Mattawa ON P0H 1V0

Family has requested in lieu of flowers memorial donations to:
Canadian Cancer Society

Celebration of life

July 11, 2026 • 11:00 am @ St. Anne's Roman Catholic Church, 241 2nd Street, MATTAWA ON

In lieu of flowers

Canadian Cancer Society

Condolences

Condolences may be sent to: Patsy Backer - 271A Lake Chant Plein Road, R.R. #1, Mattawa, ON POH 1V0

Timeline

  • Born

    February 14, 1946

  • Passed away

    June 8, 2026

    Age 80

  • Celebration of life

    July 11, 2026 • 11:00 am @ St. Anne's Roman Catholic Church, 241 2nd Street, MATTAWA ON

    St. Anne's Roman Catholic Church, 241 2nd Street, MATTAWA ON

  • Tribute shared

    June 18, 2026

    Submitted by Marilyn Halsall

Submitted on June 18, 2026 — Marilyn Halsall

David (Dave) John Woodhouse

David (Dave) John Woodhouse

August 23, 1952 – June 14, 2026

Chapter 18 - Orillia

Dave was born and raised in The Beaches in Toronto. As a young man, his talent as a baseball pitcher took him to the…

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chapter 18 Member David John Woodhouse, known to family and friends as Dave. He was 73.

Dave was born and raised in The Beaches in Toronto. As a young man, his talent as a baseball pitcher took him to the University of Alabama, where he began his professional baseball career before an injury eventually brought him back home to Canada.

Returning to Ontario, Dave began a long and respected career with the Ontario Provincial Police, first serving in Owen Sound, then Downsview, and later at the OPP Academy in Brampton, where he met Debbie, who would become not only his wife, but his best friend and partner in life.

Dave had a curious mind and a real appreciation for life. He loved motorcycle trips, golfing, travelling, science and space, testing his knowledge with Jeopardy!, and working through crossword puzzles. Some of his happiest times were spent cheering on Jacob from the sidelines, riding his motorcycle on the open road, and being with the people he loved most.

Dave will be remembered for the way he lived life fully, the love he gave so freely, and the many memories he leaves behind for those lucky enough to have known him.

Visitation

July 12, 2026 • 2:00 pm @ Hawk Ridge Golf Club, 1151 Hurlwood Ln, Severn, ON

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 12th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Orillia. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Dave’s life, with a short tribute beginning at 3:00 p.m.

In honour of Dave and the vibrant life he lived, guests are encouraged to wear colour as we come together to share stories, laughter, and memories.

In lieu of flowers

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dave’s memory may be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation – Carry the Fire Fund, supporting vital cancer research and care.

Donate

Policing Career Highlights

  • Throughout his OPP career, Dave was known for his leadership and his deep commitment to service. While with the Training Branch, he developed specialized victim awareness training programs in partnership with TV Ontario, creating educational resources used across the province, work that earned him a Commissioner’s Commendation.
  • During his years with the OPP, Dave was also a proud member of the Golden Helmets precision motorcycle team, a role that reflected both his dedication to service and his lifelong love of motorcycles.
  • Staff Sergeant Woodhouse retired from the OPP on May 31, 2006 after close to 34 years of public service.

Family & loved ones

  • Family meant everything to Dave. He leaves behind his beloved wife and best friend Debbie (retired OPP Civilian Member - OPP Academy); his only daughter Victoria, whom he famously delivered himself while en route to the hospital and who remained one of his greatest sources of pride throughout his life; his stepson Jason (Lucy); his cherished grandson Jacob, whose baseball and hockey games brought him so much joy; and his stepson Stephen. He will also be deeply missed by his beloved grand dogs, who were always part of the family.

Timeline

  • Born

    August 23, 1952

  • Passed away

    June 14, 2026

    Age 73

  • Visitation

    July 12, 2026 • 2:00 pm @ Hawk Ridge Golf Club, 1151 Hurlwood Ln, Severn, ON

    Hawk Ridge Golf Club, 1151 Hurlwood Ln, Severn, ON • A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 12th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Orillia. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Dave’s life, with a short tribute beginning at 3:00 p.m.

    In honour of Dave and the vibrant life he lived, guests are encouraged to wear colour as we come together to share stories, laughter, and memories.

  • Tribute shared

    June 17, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Gallery

David (Dave) John Woodhouse

Submitted on June 17, 2026 — Robert Cousineau

Allan Dawson

Allan Dawson

February 8, 1948 – June 6, 2026

Chapter 12 - North Bay

Beloved husband and best friend of Sharon (Burns) Dawson for 57 years. Loving Dad of Marylin Dawson (Vic); and Kristine Dawson (Casey).…

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Allan Vernon Dawson (retired Chief Superintendent of the North East Region of the O.P.P.) passed away peacefully with his family by his side, at the West Parry Sound Health Centre on Saturday, June 6th, 2026. Age 78 years.

Beloved husband and best friend of Sharon (Burns) Dawson for 57 years. Loving Dad of Marylin Dawson (Vic); and Kristine Dawson (Casey). Loving Grandpa of Colton, Kyler (Tasha), Parker (Hope), Nathan (Erica), Justin (Kayla), and Monty. Great Grandpa of Georgia, and Baby Dawson whose arrival is expected in the summer. Dear brother of Betty, Ray, Marion, and Linda. Fondly remembered by his step-mom Helen, and by his nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Allan had a distinguished career with the O.P.P. for 38 years, however his family was always most important. Allan and Sharon were inseparable and managed their daily lives together. Allan enjoyed his summers on the golf course, and winters playing hockey, with Sharon as his number one supporter.

As was Allan’s wish, cremation has taken place.

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, September 19th from 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. at the Foley Community Hall, 60 Rankin Lake Road, Seguin, Ontario.

Celebration of life

September 19, 2028 • 10:00 am @ Foley Community Hall, 60 Rankin Lake Road, Seguin, Ontario

Celebration of Life

In lieu of flowers

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Care Coalition Parry Sound (cheques payable to Care Coalition, or by deposit to Kawartha Credit Union), the West Parry Sound Health Centre Foundation (Palliative Care), or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Donate

Condolences

Online condolences can be sent through the funeral home's website

Send condolences

Timeline

  • Born

    February 8, 1948

  • Passed away

    June 6, 2026

    Age 78

  • Celebration of life

    September 19, 2028 • 10:00 am @ Foley Community Hall, 60 Rankin Lake Road, Seguin, Ontario

    Foley Community Hall, 60 Rankin Lake Road, Seguin, Ontario • Celebration of Life

  • Tribute shared

    June 10, 2026

    Submitted by Marilyn Halsall

Submitted on June 10, 2026 — Marilyn Halsall

Brian E. NEWTON

Brian E. NEWTON

October 4, 1944 – May 27, 2026

Chapter 17 - Kenora-Rainy River

Brian passed away on Wednesday May 27 in Thunder Bay after a brief illness. Brian joined the OPP in February 1972 serving…

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It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Chapter 17 Life Member Brian E. NEWTON, OPP Senior Constable (retired) badge no. 4548.

Brian passed away on Wednesday May 27 in Thunder Bay after a brief illness. Brian joined the OPP in February 1972 serving at Red Lake, Central Patricia, Kenora, Wawa, Goderich and back to Kenora. He retired in February 2002.

Brian was known as “Newt” to everyone. He was very involved in the OPPA serving as Branch 17 President for a number of years.

He joined the OPPVA in 2004, becoming a Life Member in 2024.

Brian to mourn his two sons, Ryan an OPP Sergeant, Kenora Detachment, his wife Corinne, grandchildren Rowan and Letta and son Matthew.

Partner Dianne Gilberston.

He was predeceased by wife Lorraine (2015)

In lieu of flowers

Donation can be made to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation, Chemotherapy Department, 21 Sylvan Street, West, Kenora, ON P9N 3W7

Condolences

Cards of Condolence can be forwarded to Ryan NEWTON and Family, 215 Autumnwood Drive, Kenora, ON P9N 4H6

Timeline

  • Born

    October 4, 1944

  • Passed away

    May 27, 2026

    Age 81

  • Celebration of life

    A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future.

  • Tribute shared

    June 4, 2026

    Submitted by Dennis J. O'Sullivan

Submitted on June 4, 2026 — Dennis J. O'Sullivan

Georgina Townson

Georgina Townson

February 20, 1944 – May 25, 2026

Chapter 16 - Thunder Bay

Georgina was born on Sunday, February 20, 1944, in Port Arthur, Ontario. She spent her early years in White River and later…

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Mrs. Georgina Townson (nee Doyon) beloved wife of Chapter 16 Life Member Stanley Townson, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at Pioneer Ridge Nursing Home, surrounded by family.

Georgina was born on Sunday, February 20, 1944, in Port Arthur, Ontario. She spent her early years in White River and later returned to Thunder Bay. After marrying Stanley Townson on August 7, 1965, the couple briefly lived in Galt, Ontario, before settling back in Thunder Bay to raise their family. Together, they enjoyed many years of camping, fishing, traveling, cruises, winters in Arizona, and summers at Whitefish Lake.

Visitation

June 1, 2026 • 10:00 am @ R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre

Celebration of life

June 1, 2026 • 11:00 am @ R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 Cumberland St, N., Thunder Bay ON P7A 4R9

Presided by Father Terry Sawchuk at 11:00 a.m. followed by interment at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers

In lieu of flowers, donations in Georgina’s memory to Pioneer Ridge LTC .

Condolences

Stanley Townson
461 Pineview Bay
Thunder Bay, ON
P7C 1Y7

Family & loved ones

  • After nearly 61 years of marriage, Georgina will be deeply missed by her husband, Stan; her siblings Raymond, Louise, and Phylip (Lise); her sister-in-law, Mary Ann; her daughters, Patricia Hyatt (Brendan) and Janet Hanlon (Matthew); her grandchildren, Caitlin (Brad), Tanner, Jessie (Ian), Joey (Julia), and Arianna; great-grandchildren, Sophie and Nathan; and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by brother-in-law Alan Townson

Timeline

  • Born

    February 20, 1944

  • Passed away

    May 25, 2026

    Age 82

  • Visitation

    June 1, 2026 • 10:00 am @ R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre

    R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre

  • Celebration of life

    June 1, 2026 • 11:00 am @ R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 Cumberland St, N., Thunder Bay ON P7A 4R9

    R. Leino Memorial Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre, 499 Cumberland St, N., Thunder Bay ON P7A 4R9 • Presided by Father Terry Sawchuk at 11:00 a.m. followed by interment at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

  • Tribute shared

    May 28, 2026

    Submitted by Donald Macdougall

Submitted on May 28, 2026 — Donald Macdougall

Helen Findlay Elliott

Helen Findlay Elliott

January 30, 1934 – May 18, 2026

Chapter 8 - Peterborough

Chapter 8 Honourary Member Helen Findlay Elliott, was the beloved wife of the late William (Bill) Elliott. Born in Scotland.  Helen passed…

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Chapter 8 Honourary Member Helen Findlay Elliott, was the beloved wife of the late William (Bill) Elliott. Born in Scotland.  Helen passed away at Northumberland Hills Hospital, Cobourg.

Celebration of life

June 23, 2026 • 12:00 pm @ Gordon A. Monk Funeral Home, 127 Bobcaygeon Rd., Minden, Ontario

The family invites friends to visit on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 12:00 o'clock noon until the time of the Service to Celebrate Helen's Life at 1:00 pm.
Reception to follow at the Monk-Cray Family Center at the funeral home.
Interment at Twelve Mile Lake Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers

Heart & Stroke Foundation or Northumberland Hills Foundation-Palliative Care

Family & loved ones

  • Mother of William, (Carrol), Morag Ritchie. Grandmother of William Elliott, Nicholas Elliott, Zachary Elliott, Rebecca Ritchie and Emily Ritchie. Sister of Sadie Sommerville.

Timeline

  • Born

    January 30, 1934

  • Passed away

    May 18, 2026

    Age 92

  • Celebration of life

    June 23, 2026 • 12:00 pm @ Gordon A. Monk Funeral Home, 127 Bobcaygeon Rd., Minden, Ontario

    Gordon A. Monk Funeral Home, 127 Bobcaygeon Rd., Minden, Ontario • The family invites friends to visit on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 12:00 o'clock noon until the time of the Service to Celebrate Helen's Life at 1:00 pm.
    Reception to follow at the Monk-Cray Family Center at the funeral home.
    Interment at Twelve Mile Lake Cemetery.

  • Tribute shared

    May 25, 2026

    Submitted by Susan Hackett

Submitted on May 25, 2026 — Susan Hackett

Philip (Phil) David Benest

Philip (Phil) David Benest

June 20, 1947 – May 10, 2026

Chapter 18 - Orillia

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It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Chapter 18 Member Phil Benest. He was 78

In lieu of flowers

In lieu of flowers donations made to your local Palliative Care Team or your local Breakfast for Kids Club would be appreciated by the family.

Policing Career Highlights

  • During his career in the OPP, Phil worked at Gananoque, Intelligence Branch, Intelligence Branch (Kingston), Operational Services Branch, Technical Support Branch and in the Installation Unit (Investigation Support Bureau).
  • He retired with over 36 years of service on March 31, 2007.

Family & loved ones

  • Phil was the partner of Chapter 18 Member Susan Lloyd.
  • Phil was the very proud father to (Kim and Billy), and beaming proud Grandpa (Kyle, Shawn and Tyler). He was also super-excited and expectant Great Grandpa of twins. He was a loyal and loving brother (Byron) and very proud uncle (Katy).

Timeline

  • Born

    June 20, 1947

  • Passed away

    May 10, 2026

    Age 78

  • Celebration of life

    Cremation has already taken place. There will be no funeral service.

  • Tribute shared

    May 12, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Submitted on May 12, 2026 — Robert Cousineau

William (Bill) Paterson

William (Bill) Paterson

July 4, 1942 – May 1, 2026

Chapter 18 - Orillia

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It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Chapter 18 Life Member William (Bill) Paterson. Bill was 83

Visitation

May 22, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie ON

Celebration of life

May 22, 2026 • 12:00 pm @ Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie ON

In lieu of flowers

Family has requested in lieu of flowers memorial donations to: Hospice Simcoe, 336 Penetanguishene Road, Barrie ON L4M 7C2 or Charity of your choice

Condolences

Letters or cards of condolence may be forwarded to: Mrs. Jackie Paterson and Family, 504-2 Toronto Street, Barrie ON L4N 9R2. Online condolences may be left on the funeral home's website.

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • Bill served at Downsview, Brampton, Snelgrove, Security Branch, Intelligence Branch, Blind River, Rockland, and Hawkesbury Detachments and Long Sault DHQ Crime Unit before retiring as Detective Staff Sergeant from the Barrie DHQ Crime Unit on February 28, 1995

Family & loved ones

  • Bill is survived by his wife Jackie and children Sheri-Lyn and Jeff.

Timeline

  • Born

    July 4, 1942

  • Passed away

    May 1, 2026

    Age 83

  • Visitation

    May 22, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie ON

    Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie ON

  • Celebration of life

    May 22, 2026 • 12:00 pm @ Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie ON

    Legacy Funeral Home, 55 Cedar Pointe Drive Barrie ON

  • Tribute shared

    May 4, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Submitted on May 4, 2026 — Robert Cousineau