Ontario Provincial Police Veterans' Association

In Memoriam

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

Wallace James Osborne (Jim)

Wallace James Osborne (Jim)

June 9, 1944 – August 27, 2026

Chapter 17 - Kenora-Rainy River

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of W. James (Jim) OSBORNE, OPP Senior Constable (retired) badge # 3463…

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OPP Senior Constable (retired) W. James (Jim) OSBORNE passed away peacefully on August 27, 2026 with his family at his hospital bedside

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of W. James (Jim) OSBORNE, OPP Senior Constable (retired) badge # 3463 on Thursday August 27, 2026, at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre after a brief illness.

Jim started his OPP career in 1968 at Longlac Detachment. He was transferred to Manitouwadge in 1975 and Dryden in October 1980.

He retired on December 31, 1998, and continued to reside in Dryden. He was active and involved in the community and local fire department. After retirement he worked as a guard at Dryden Detachment.

He joined the OPPVA in 2005. In 2021 he assumed a Chapter 17 Director position for the Dryden Detachment area.

In 2025 Jim was awarded the Chapter 17 President’s Award.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn and two daughters Wendy and Penny and their families.

Celebration of life

September 10, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Dryden Royal Canadian Legion Branch 63, 34 Queen Street, Dryden, ON

In lieu of flowers

Family has requested donations to: OPP Youth Foundation, 777 Memorial Avenue, Orillia, ON L3V 7V3 or Dryden Go Getters Activity Centre, 84 St. Charles Street, Dryden, ON P8N 1L3

Condolences

Letters or cards of condolence may be forwarded to: Marilyn OSBORNE and Family. Box 26, Site 118, RR4, Dryden, ON P8N 0A2

Timeline

  • Born

    June 9, 1944
  • Passed away

    August 27, 2026

    Age 82

  • Celebration of life

    September 10, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Dryden Royal Canadian Legion Branch 63, 34 Queen Street, Dryden, ON

    Dryden Royal Canadian Legion Branch 63, 34 Queen Street, Dryden, ON

  • Tribute shared

    September 3, 2026

    Submitted by Dennis J. O'Sullivan

Jean Kellar

Jean Kellar

October 7, 1934 – August 21, 2026

Chapter 17 - Kenora-Rainy River

Jean was an Honourary member of the OPPVA, Chapter 17 Districts of Kenora/Rainy River. She was predeceased by her husband of sixty-six…

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Chapter 17, Districts of Kenora/Rainy River are saddened to announce the passing of Chapter 17 Honourary member Jean KELLAR of Dryden, ON on August 21, 2026, at the age of 91 years

Jean was an Honourary member of the OPPVA, Chapter 17 Districts of Kenora/Rainy River. She was predeceased by her husband of sixty-six years, OPPVA Life member Earl KELLAR.

Jean was awarded the OPP Silent Partner Award in the first round of presentations for her support of her husband, the OPP and citizens of Ontario.

Jean leaves to mourn her daughters Lucille, Cheryl, Norma, and Patty and their families.

 

In lieu of flowers

Donations may be made to the Princess Court DECO or the Lions Foundation of Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario through Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Condolences

Cards of condolence can be forwarded to the Jean KELLAR Family in care of Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Timeline

  • Born

    October 7, 1934
  • Passed away

    August 21, 2026

    Age 91

  • Celebration of life

    Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00AM on Monday, September 21, 2026 at the Dryden Go Getters Activity Centre.

  • Tribute shared

    August 30, 2026

    Submitted by Dennis J. O'Sullivan

Denise Brenda Traviss

Denise Brenda Traviss

November 30, 1955 – August 24, 2026

Chapter 18 - Orillia

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It is with heavy hearts that we advise of the passing of Chapter 18 member Denise Traviss on Monday August 24th, 2026, at the age of 70.

Celebration of life

August 28, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James St. E, Orillia

Denise's family invites everyone to take part in a celebration of life, on Friday, August 28. Service will start at 11am, followed by reception, concluding at 1pm. Please dress as you feel most comfortable.

In lieu of flowers

If desired, donations may be made in Denise’s name to the Green Haven Shelter for Women or the Comfie Cat Shelter, through the Simcoe Funeral Home

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Condolences

Messages of condolence are welcomed on the Simcoe Funeral Home website: www.simcoefuneralhome.ca

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Policing Career Highlights

  • Denise joined the Ontario Provincial Police on April 1, 1999 as Human Resources Assistant in the Organizational Development Bureau. She retired from the OPP on April 30, 2019 as an Administration Assistant in the Psychological Services Unit of the Career Development Bureau.

Family & loved ones

  • Denise was born in Orillia and predeceased by her parents George and Marjorie Miller. Beloved wife of Brian Traviss for 49 years. Loving mother of Justin (& partner Alison), and mother to Trever Gill. Grandmother of Raine, and cherished aunt to Troy. Dear Sister of Lorraine Earl (Jerry), both pre-deceased, and Darlene Henderson (Vic). Beloved life-long friend to Nancy and Ted Hill.

Timeline

  • Born

    November 30, 1955
  • Passed away

    August 24, 2026

    Age 70

  • Celebration of life

    August 28, 2026 • 11:00 am @ Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James St. E, Orillia

    Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James St. E, Orillia • Denise's family invites everyone to take part in a celebration of life, on Friday, August 28. Service will start at 11am, followed by reception, concluding at 1pm. Please dress as you feel most comfortable.

  • Tribute shared

    August 27, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Wilmay Leveillée (Willy)

Wilmay Leveillée (Willy)

June 16, 1940 – August 16, 2026

Chapter 13 - Sudbury

It is with profound sadness that we regret to inform you of the passing of Chapter 13 Life Member, Wilmay (Willy) Leveillée…

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A life defined by service, devotion, and compassion

It is with profound sadness that we regret to inform you of the passing of Chapter 13 Life Member, Wilmay (Willy) Leveillée who passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at the age of 86.

Willy was the cornerstone of his family. He was a loving husband to the predeceased Thelma Leveillée. He was a devoted and loving father to Billy (Debbie), John, Sandy (Bill), and Vicky (Shane, predeceased). His gentle presence, wisdom, and warmth will be deeply missed by his cherished grandchildren—Chad (predeceased), Kaitlin, Ryan, Brent, Mercedes, Courtney, and Jean-Francois—as well as his treasured great-grandchildren, Addison and Halle.

Celebration of life

September 5, 2026 • 1:00 pm @ 156 Carr's Landing Rd., Skead, On

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 05, 2026 from 1:00pm to 5:00pm at 156 Carr's Landing Rd., Skead, On

In lieu of flowers

Donate

Condolences

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • Willy lived a life defined by service, devotion, and compassion for others. A dedicated public servant, he spent many years protecting and caring for his community as an OPP officer in Warren, continuing his commitment to helping others through various local programs and community initiatives. Beyond his service, Willy found his greatest joy in the tranquillity of nature and had a profound love for animals.
  • His legacy of kindness, protection, and love lives on in the many lives he touched.

Keepsakes & documents

Timeline

  • Born

    June 16, 1940
  • Passed away

    August 16, 2026

    Age 86

  • Celebration of life

    September 5, 2026 • 1:00 pm @ 156 Carr's Landing Rd., Skead, On

    156 Carr's Landing Rd., Skead, On • A Celebration of Life will be held on September 05, 2026 from 1:00pm to 5:00pm at 156 Carr's Landing Rd., Skead, On

  • Tribute shared

    August 27, 2026

    Submitted by Michelle Coulombe

Howard Earl Beam

Howard Earl Beam

February 20, 1937 – August 23, 2026

Chapter 4 - Niagara

Beloved husband of Gisele BEAM and dearly loved father of Gary BEAM (retired RCMP) and his wife Karla, Brian BEAM, and Daril…

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Retired Senior Constable Howard BEAM, Badge # 1956, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at the St. Catharines General Hospital on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the age of 89.

Beloved husband of Gisele BEAM and dearly loved father of Gary BEAM (retired RCMP) and his wife Karla, Brian BEAM, and Daril BEAM (retired OPP) and his wife Ingrid. He will also be sadly missed by his 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Howard joined the OPP in 1959 and was posted to the Cornwall OPP Detachment. In 1965, he was transferred to the St. Catharines OPP Detachment and served there until it closed and was absorbed by the Niagara Falls OPP Detachment. Howard retired in 1990. 

Howard was a Life Member of the OPPVA Chapter #4 Niagara. In accordance with Howards wishes, cremation is taking place.

Visitation: Visitation to take place at St. Alfred Church, 272 Vine Street, St. Catharines, Ontario on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 10:00 am. The church service will follow in the church at 11:00 am, directly after the visitation. 

Celebration of Life and Luncheon: Will follow in the church from 12:00 noon until 2:00 pm, same date.

Funeral Arrangements by George Darte Funeral Chapel, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines, Ontario.

Correspondence: Gisele BEAM (wife) 25 Regent Drive, St. Catharines, Ontario L2M 3L6  Email:hgbeam@bell.net

Charity: Anyone wishing to make a memorial donation in honour of Howard is asked to consider the Covenant House Toronto, 20 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, Ontario M5B2P3.

Timeline

  • Born

    February 20, 1937
  • Passed away

    August 23, 2026

    Age 89

  • Tribute shared

    August 24, 2026

    Submitted by Jacob Termorshuizen

Patrick Petz

Patrick Petz

March 17, 1931 – August 14, 2026

Chapter 2 - London

Patrick Petz of St. Thomas passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his loving family on Friday, August 14th, 2026, at…

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Our blessings go out to the Family of Patrick Petz. You were an integral part of the creation of the Ontario Provincial Police, and serving officers owe you, and your fellow officers a debt of gratitude for laying the foundation of an outstanding Force. Thank you sir.

Patrick Petz of St. Thomas passed away peacefully at his residence, surrounded by his loving family on Friday, August 14th, 2026, at the age of 95. Beloved husband of the late Faye (Gilbert) Petz and dearly loved father of David Petz (Kathy), Mike Petz (Rita), Patricia Doolittle (late John), Jeffrey Petz (Ruth) and Kimberly Merklinger (Steve). Sadly missed by 9 grandchildren and several great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. He was the last of his family. Pat was born in Tillsonburg on March 17th, 1931, the son of the late Leo and Francesca (Fardella) Petz. He was retired from the Ontario Provincial Police after 30 years of service. Pat was a member of St. Anne’s Church.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Cremation, with private interment of ashes in Tillsonburg Cemetery. Remembrances made be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society or the New St,. Thomas Animal Shelter. Williams Funeral Home, 45 Elgin St., St. Thomas in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers

Remembrances can made be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society or the New St. Thomas Animal Shelter.

Donate

Condolences

Condolences may be shared with the family via the Williams Funeral Home website.

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • He was retired from the Ontario Provincial Police after 30 years of service. Pat was a member of St. Anne's Church.

Family & loved ones

  • Pat was the father of David Petz (Kathy), Mike Petz (Rita), Patricia Doolittle (late John), Jeffrey Petz (Ruth) and Kimberly Merklinger (Steve). Sadly missed by 9 grandchildren and several great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. He was the last of his family.

Timeline

  • Born

    March 17, 1931
  • Passed away

    August 14, 2026

    Age 95

  • Celebration of life

    A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Cremation, with private interment of ashes in Tillsonburg Cemetery.

  • Tribute shared

    August 22, 2026

    Submitted by William Harrington

Allan John Gole

Allan John Gole

June 20, 1945 – August 16, 2026

Chapter 6 - Mount Forest

Passed away peacefully at Brightshores Health System Owen Sound on Sunday, August 16, 2026. Born in Kitchener on June 20, 1945, Allan…

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Passed away peacefully at Brightshores Health System Owen Sound on Sunday, August 16, 2026. Born in Kitchener on June 20, 1945, Allan “Al” John Gole of Owen Sound, was in his 82nd year.

Beloved husband and best friend of Ruth Gole (nee Reeve) formerly of Galt Ontario. Proud father of Rob Gole (Kim) of Owen Sound, Lori Cunningham (Trevor) of Owen Sound, and Jeff Gole (Julie) of Goderich. Treasured grandfather of Brittany (Andrew), Emily (Tyler), Jacob, Tyler (Meg), Jenna (Kenny), Jamey (Brett), Hudson, and Violet. Cherished great-grandfather of Scarlett, Miller, and Valerie. Dear brother of Robert Gole (Brenda) of Campbell River, BC, and brother-in-law of Patricia Reeve, David Reeve, and Alice Kienapple (Larry). Al will also be missed by his many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Predeceased by his parents Ruth and Abram Gole (nee Hodgson), and his siblings-in-law Gord Reeve, and Pam Reeve.

Al became a member of the Ontario Provincial Police in Kitchener in 1963 as a cadet. In 1974 he was transferred to the Owen Sound Detachment where he continued his employment until retiring in December 1995. Al was an active member of his community, volunteering with the senior B woodsman lacrosse team, the railway museum, as an Owen Sound Minor Hockey trainer, selling 50/50 tickets at the Attack games, and participating with the Owen Sound Little Theatre. He also held the position of a ‘starter’ at the Cobble Beach Golf Club.

Above all, Al took great pleasure in watching his kids, grandkids, and great-grandchildren participate in all sports.

Celebration of life

August 23, 2026 • 1:00 pm @ Brian E. Wood Funeral Home, 250 14th Street West Owen Sound, ON N4K 3X8

Celebration of Life
Sunday , August 23, 2026 1:00PM - 4:00PM
Words of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers

Canadian Cancer Society

Donate

Condolences

Tribute Wall: Brian. E. Wood Funeral Home

Send condolences

Timeline

  • Born

    June 20, 1945
  • Passed away

    August 16, 2026

    Age 81

  • Celebration of life

    August 23, 2026 • 1:00 pm @ Brian E. Wood Funeral Home, 250 14th Street West Owen Sound, ON N4K 3X8

    Brian E. Wood Funeral Home, 250 14th Street West Owen Sound, ON N4K 3X8 • Celebration of Life
    Sunday , August 23, 2026 1:00PM - 4:00PM
    Words of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m.

  • Tribute shared

    August 18, 2026

    Submitted by Michael Guilfoyle

Michael Barnes

Michael Barnes

September 26, 1934 – August 11, 2026

Chapter 8 - Peterborough

I advise the passing of Honorary OPP Inspector Michael Barnes, at Ross Memorial Hospital, Lindsay at the age of 91.  

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I advise the passing of Honorary OPP Inspector Michael Barnes, at Ross Memorial Hospital, Lindsay at the age of 91.  

In lieu of flowers

Alongside Hope, arranged through The Gordon A. Monk Funeral Home

Condolences

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • Michael wrote a children's book about the OPP, "In the Public Service", authorized by then commissioner H.H. Graham.
  • Michael published account of the provincial police service in 1991 "Policing Ontario - The OPP Today" supported by former Commissioner Archie Ferguson. Later, Commissioner Tom O'Grady. The content of the book is an overview o the life as a provincial police officer.
  • In 1999, Michael with the support of the OPP Commissioned Officers" Assoc. published a 96 page children's book entitled "Helping You" to commemorate the 90th Anniversary of the OPP
  • In 2001, Michael published "Dedication to Duty - OPP Officers Who Died Serving Ontario".

Family & loved ones

  • Michael was married to Joan (nee Wyatt) for 63 years until she passed away in 2022. Survived by their children are Stephen, Alison (Jim) and retired Provincial Constable Wesley (Sharla) and grandchildren, Derek (Irina), Joshua and Hunter.

Timeline

  • Born

    September 26, 1934
  • Passed away

    August 11, 2026

    Age 91

  • Tribute shared

    August 17, 2026

    Submitted by Susan Hackett

William “Graham” Lloyd

William “Graham” Lloyd

March 16, 1941 – August 6, 2026

Chapter 13 - Sudbury

It is with profound sadness that we regret to inform you of the passing of Chapter 13 Life Member William "Graham" Lloyd…

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His family was the center of his world!

It is with profound sadness that we regret to inform you of the passing of Chapter 13 Life Member William “Graham” Lloyd who passed away peacefully at the Manitoulin Health Centre on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at the age of 85, with his loving family by his side.

Graham was the beloved husband and best friend of Ila (nee Dinsmore) Lloyd, with whom he shared nearly 63 years of marriage.

Graham began his career with Smith’s Wholesale, which later became Manitoulin Transport. He mined with INCO for a few years, then in 1963, he answered the call to public service by joining the Ontario Provincial Police. He began his policing career in Sault Ste. Marie, before transferring back Elliot Lake, where he served for more than 12 years. He was later promoted to Staff Sergeant in Sudbury before being transferred to Manitoulin Island in 1984 as Detachment Commander for the Manitowaning and Gore Bay Detachments, while also overseeing policing services for Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service. Throughout his distinguished 33 year career, Graham earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the communities he served through his fairness, leadership, compassion and unwavering commitment to public service. He retired from the OPP on March 31, 1996 and remained a proud member of the OPP Veterans’ Association.

Visitation

August 11, 2026 • 2:00 pm @ St. Paul's Anglican Church, 26 Spragge St, Manitowaning, ON

Visitation from 2 pm to 3 pm and service to follow.

Celebration of life

August 11, 2026 • 3:00 pm @ St. Paul's Anglican Church, 26 Spragge St, Manitowaning, ON

A Celebration of Life will follow at the Assiginack Curling Club, 26-A Clover Valley Road Manitowaning, ON at 4:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers

Memorial donations may be made to the Manitoulin Health Centre -www.mhc.on.ca

Donate

Condolences

Mrs. Ila Lloyd and family
55 Walcot St., Box 323
Manitowaning, ON
P0P 1N0

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Policing Career Highlights

  • Graham believed deeply in giving back to his community. He served on the board that helped establish Rainbow Ridge Golf Course and the Manitowaning Curling Club addition. Projects that continue to benefit the community today. He was a member of the Southeast Manitoulin Lion's Club. Through this club he became the familiar voice of the Manitowaning Summerfest Smash-up Derby for many years. A role he embraced with enthusiasm and community pride.
  • A devoted Christian, Graham's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a faithful member of St. Paul's Anglican Church in Manitowaning, where he served for many years as a church warden and server. His faith was evident not only in what he believed, but in how he lived -- with humility, kindness, generosity and service to others.
  • Some of Graham's happiest days were spent with his family at the Motor Hunt Club in Meldrum Bay. Whether sharing stories, enjoying the outdoors or simply being surrounded by those he loved. These moments became treasured memories that his family will carry with them always.

Family & loved ones

  • He was the proud and loving father of Lori (Lynn), Paula (Bill) and Randy (Tamara).
  • Loving brother of Clarke (Helen) (both predeceased), Gerald (predeceased), Norma (predeceased) (Leatha), Bob (Marnie)) (both predeceased), Don (predeceased) (Joan), Ruthann (Victor) (predeceased) and Sally (Victor).
  • Graham was a cherished grandpa of Lyndsay (Trevor), Hunter (Paige), Brett (Haley), Garret (Kaylee), Ava, Dylan, Landra and Rhyder.
  • Devoted great grandpa of Alyssa, Taytum, Clark, Georgia, Lauren and Emilio.
  • Predeceased by his beloved parents, Cecil and Eileen Lloyd.
  • Born in Gore Bay, Ontario on March 16, 1941, Graham lived a life defined by service, integrity, faith and unwavering commitment to his family and community. Whether serving in uniform, volunteering or quietly helping a neighbour, he made a lasting difference in the lives of countless people.
  • Above all else, Graham was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His greatest legacy is not found in the positions he held or the honours he earned, but in the love he gave, the values he instilled and the examples he set. His strength, unwavering integrity, gentle wisdom and compassionate heart will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
  • A life well lived is measured not by years alone, but by the lives it touches. Graham's legacy of service, faith, humility and unconditional love will continue to guide his family and inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Timeline

  • Born

    March 16, 1941
  • Passed away

    August 6, 2026

    Age 85

  • Visitation

    August 11, 2026 • 2:00 pm @ St. Paul's Anglican Church, 26 Spragge St, Manitowaning, ON

    St. Paul's Anglican Church, 26 Spragge St, Manitowaning, ON • Visitation from 2 pm to 3 pm and service to follow.

  • Celebration of life

    August 11, 2026 • 3:00 pm @ St. Paul's Anglican Church, 26 Spragge St, Manitowaning, ON

    St. Paul's Anglican Church, 26 Spragge St, Manitowaning, ON • A Celebration of Life will follow at the Assiginack Curling Club, 26-A Clover Valley Road Manitowaning, ON at 4:30 p.m.

  • Tribute shared

    August 9, 2026

    Submitted by Michelle Coulombe