At the Woodland Villa Nursing Home in Long Sault on Thursday, February 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, Roger Morel of Morrisburg, at the age of 83.  Beloved companion of 40 years of Diane Champagne.  Loving father of Suzanne Morel (Mike O’Neil) and Julie Morel and their mother Sadie Morel.  Stepfather of Stephane Lauzon (Rhianna) and France Lauzon and grandfather of Devan Lauzon.  Dear brother of Laura Pitts.  Roger will be fondly remembered by his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews.

Don O’Connor, 72, passed away on February 15th in his hometown of Orillia, Ontario, after a courageous battle with leukemia. His strength and resilience in the face of such challenges were truly inspiring, and he faced each day with a smile. Despite the hardships, Don remained a hero, holding strong until the very end.

Don’s early years were spent in Low, Quebec, where he grew up on a farm and worked in the family general store. He later found his true calling with the Ontario Provincial Police, where he dedicated more than 30 years of his life to serving others. His passion for policing didn’t end with his retirement; Don continued to serve in various roles, including a UN peacekeeping mission to Haiti with the RCMP, the OPP recruitment unit, and conducting polygraphs and investigations. His love for law enforcement was passed down to his two sons, both of whom followed in his footsteps.

Throughout his career, Don became a legend within the OPP, earning the respect of both uniformed officers and civilian staff. Though his exterior might have seemed tough, those who knew him understood that he had one of the biggest hearts. He cared deeply for others and showed this in everything he did.

While Don’s career in policing was a significant part of his life, his family always came first. He was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren, frequently expressing his love and support. He could always be found cheering them on at various events—hockey, ringette, soccer, lacrosse, gymnastics, and dance.

Don leaves behind his loving wife of 34 years, Cathy O’Connor, children Matthew O’Connor (Kandice), Sean O’Connor (Sonia), and Shannon O’Connor (Mitch), as well as his predeceased daughter Erin O’Connor. He was also a proud grandfather to Kalleigh, Darcy, Owen, Drew, and another granddaughter on the way. Don will be deeply missed by his many friends, siblings, and extended family.

With sadness the family announces that Donna passed away peacefully at Ruddy Shenkman Hospice on Wednesday morning, February 12, 2025. She was 73.

Beloved wife of the late Keith Gardner (2015). Daughter of the late George and Bertha (nee Pemberton) Desmarais. Dearest sister of Wendy Desmarais.

Special thank you to the staff at the Ottawa General Hospital Cancer Centre, Irving Greenberg Family Cancer Centre, and Dr. Paul Hacker and Ruddy Shenkman Hospice for all their compassionate care and support.

Private care and arrangements have been entrusted to the Pilon Family Funeral Home in Arnprior.

Born in Woodstock, Ontario, to the late Dorothy (Webb) Hutchison and Clifford Rudy.

Survived by his true love and best friend, Donna (McGregor) Rudy. Married for 66 years, together they raised four children, Debbie (Murray Paton), Jeff Rudy (Nancy Watts) both of Woodstock, Karen Rudy-Tuffnail and Tracy Lynne Rudy-Petrie (Steve Teixeira), both of London. Extremely proud grandpa to Geoff Paton (Shaughna) of Woodstock, Kelly Paton of Waterloo, Corey Tuffnail (Breanne) of Stratford, Julia Petrie (Brody Roote) of New Hamburg, and Kate Petrie of London. Adoring great grandfather to Brooke and Cole Paton and Colter Tuffnail. Also survived by his sisters-in-law, Pat Rudy and Joyce Wilker.

Predeceased by his parents, as well as brothers Bob Rudy, Harold Rudy, step-father, Elgin Hutchison and brother-in-law, Don Wilker.

Ron began his career in Embro as an automobile mechanic as well as being a member of the Embro and West Zorra School Board during the time when Zorra Highland Park School was built. Ron was also a volunteer firefighter with the Embro West Zorra department, receiving his 25 year service medal. Intrigued by a career in law enforcement, Ron joined the Woodstock OPP detachment as an Auxiliary Officer, before joining the Tavistock Police Force as a Constable. Never wavering in his service to his community, he stayed with Tavistock Police up to the amalgamation with Oxford Community Police Service where he continued working and ended his 36 year career with the Woodstock Police Service.

On February 10, 2025, Peter Edward Connors, age 81, of Kakabeka Falls, was reunited with the love of his life. He embarked on his final journey with his daughter and grandson by his side.

Peter was born in Ottawa, Ontario, on September 30, 1943, to Dr. Raymond and Anna Connors. In his younger years, he joined the Army, becoming a Craftsman with the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers branch, where he served for several years.

In 1965, after a long courtship, he married the love of his life, Marie, and the couple moved to Kakabeka Falls. Shortly after, Peter began his career with the Ontario Provincial Police. In 1978, he joined the Thunder Bay Police Service, where he worked until his retirement in 2001, after 23 years of service.

Peter was dedicated to serving his country and community. He was an active member of the Kakabeka Falls Fire Department for many years and also volunteered with Search & Rescue and Operation Red Nose.

Peter is survived by his daughter, Christine; grandson, Julian Serino; and sister, Norah Campbell of Ottawa. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife, Marie; and his brother-in-law, Marv Campbell.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at St. Dominic’s Church – 130 Redwood Ave., Thunder Bay, Ontario.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ronald (Ron) Albert Golden. He passed away on January 24, 2025 at Health Sciences North in Sudbury at the age of 78. Ron was born in Espanola on July 6, 1946 to his late parents Robert Golden and Dorothy (Kenward) Golden. He was a devoted husband to his “sweetheart”, the late Suzanne “Sue” (Lamoureux) Golden. Ron was the very proud Father of his two children, his daughter Andrea Lynn Golden (predeceased) and his son Ronald Alan Golden.

Ron chose a career in law enforcement where he endeavoured to uphold the law, to serve and to protect. He began his career as an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer in 1967 and ended his career in 1997 when he retired as a Staff Sergeant. Ron served many communities and worked in numerous police detachments throughout 30 years of service. In order, these are the postings he held: Sudbury, Gogama, Sudbury, Chapleau, Barrie, Sudbury, Mindemoya, Manitowaning, Gore Bay and finally the Manitoulin detachment. Ron loved his career. He wore his badge and uniform with pride.

When he retired, Ron and his wife Sue chose to remain in Mindemoya, on Manitoulin Island. They enjoyed the quiet lifestyle and the dear friends they had made. Mindemoya was their true home. (It’s safe to say that Ron’s love of hunting and fishing may have contributed to this decision).

Ron is predeceased by his parents Robert and Dorothy, his wife Suzanne, his daughter Andrea, his sisters Linda Lamoureux, Margaret (Peggy) Golden and his brother Alan Golden. He will be greatly missed by his surviving sisters Daphne Golden and Valerie McKenzie. He will be fondly remembered by his surviving in-laws: Adrien Lamoureux (Marie-Paule), Jacques Meilleur-Lamoureux, Pauline Plante, Gaston Lamoureux and his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mindemoya Hospital Auxiliary Inc. or to the Northern Cancer Foundation would be appreciated. In honour of Ron’s wishes, there will not be a service.

Bruce passed away at the young age of 90 years on January 23, 2025, peacefully with family by his side. Born in Fort William, Ontario, Bruce’s life was marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his community. He leaves behind a legacy of service and love that will be remembered by all who knew him.

Bruce’s journey began in Fort William, but his life’s work would take him across the region. His career started at the Board of Grain Commissioners, but his passion for service led him to the Ontario Police College as an OPP Cadet. In 1960 he married the love of his life Dorothy and beginning in Thunder Bay started a family. Bruce patrolled the areas of Thunder Bay and Manitouwadge before settling in Schreiber. It was there that he joined the Masonic Temple and ascended to the rank of Master Mason of the Terrace Bay Lodge. His commitment to the community was further demonstrated by his role on the board of directors of the McCausland General Hospital in Terrace Bay.

Seeking a career shift, Bruce joined Ontario Hydro and moved back to Thunder Bay, where he embraced the opportunity to join Connaught Lodge and become a Shriner. His 17 years as a Security Investigator for Hydro around the region were marked by dedication and integrity. In 1992 Bruce retired, ushering in a new chapter of life.

Retirement brought with it new adventures for Bruce and his beloved wife of 62 years, Dorothy, who predeceased him. They spent 15 winters in Tucson, Arizona, enjoying the warmth and forming lasting friendships. Bruce continued to indulge his love for golf, while Dorothy explored hiking trails. Their time in the south was a season of health and happiness, which they carried with them upon their return to Canada.

Bruce, affectionately known as ‘Pops’ to his family, is survived by his loving children, Marilyn (Rick) Donaldson, Diane (Ruben) Camelino, and John (Julie) Tilbury. His grandchildren, Eric (Mackenzie), Rachel (Conor), Jessica, Nicole (Mat), and Zachary, will fondly remember their grandfather’s guidance and support. Bruce’s great-grandchildren, Aiden, Noah, Ellie, and Hudson, will grow up in the shadow of their great-grandfather’s kindness and strength. Bruce was also survived by older brother Ernie Tilbury and younger sister Ann Welland. Predeceased recently by his sister Evelyn Williams.

An avid curler and golfer, Bruce devoted time to the Fort William Curling Club and the Chapples Golf Men’s Club as a secretary. His commitment to his interests was only matched by his devotion to his faith. Bruce and Dorothy renewed their spiritual journey together at Hope Christian Reformed Church. There, they found fellowship and knowledge, and they took great joy in volunteering and being part of the church community.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Brent Peter Mikstas at the age of 73. He passed away on January 22nd at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener. Brent had been vacationing in Cuba when he fell ill and was admitted to a local hospital. He was later medically transported back to Canada on January 18th, where he spent his final moments surrounded by his daughter and close friends.

Brent was a devoted father to Laurie (Blake) Crawford of Cornwall and a cherished grandfather to Grace and Presley. He was also a hero to his grandson Phoenix and a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is survived by his dear sister, Dale (Lloyd) Sturge of Kamloops, B.C. Brent was predeceased by his wife, Mary Lynn Mikstas (née Prior) in 2011, his brother Paul Mikstas in 2021, and his parents, Mary and Antanas Mikstas.

Born and raised in Sudbury, Brent earned his B.A. from Laurentian University, where he also played varsity football. Following university, he briefly worked in Sudbury’s mining industry before embarking on a distinguished 33-year career with the Ontario Provincial Police. Brent rose through the ranks to become an Inspector and served as Commander of the Downsview/Toronto OPP Detachment. Known for his strong leadership, he was a respected and admired figure—always leading from the front in challenging times and supporting his team from behind the scenes during smooth sailing.

Beyond his career, Brent embraced life with passion. In his later years, he developed a love for boating, spending summers on the Toronto waterfront with his wife, Mary Lynn, and their two dogs. He found joy in sailing across Lake Ontario, often toasting a glass of wine on the American side.

In accordance with his wishes, Brent has been privately cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring, with details to be announced.

To honor his memory, donations to a local SPCA or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.

At the Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital on Wednesday January 15, 2025 at the age of 93. Maurice Seymour of Orillia, beloved husband of the late Mary Seymour. Loving father of Sandy and husband Marty Davis and the late Douglas Seymour. Loving grandfather of Rebecca Davis and Andrew Seymour. Cherished great grandfather of Chase and Bristol. Predeceased by brothers Jack, Charles and twin sister Margaret. Cremation has taken place. If desired, memorial donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes – L. Doolittle Chapel 54 Coldwater St. E Orillia (705) 326-3595.