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.

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

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.

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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

Gordon Leonard Bird

Gordon Leonard Bird

December 20, 1931 – April 25, 2026

Chapter 11 - Cornwall

Beloved husband of the late Viola Bird (née Morin). Loving father of Lynn Campeau (late Marcel) and Elaine Racine (Jason). Cherished pépere…

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It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Gordon Bird at St. Joseph’s Villa on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the age of 94 years.

Beloved husband of the late Viola Bird (née Morin).

Loving father of Lynn Campeau (late Marcel) and Elaine Racine (Jason). Cherished pépere of Laurie (Josip), Chrissy (Jeff) and Dale. Proud great-grandfather of five great-grandchildren. Dear brother of Bonnie Orsick (Paul) and Shirley Kirkey (Pat).

He is predeceased by his parents Leonard and Marguerite (née Duchesne) Bird, his son Glenn Bird (Brenda), two brothers and three sisters.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the St. Joseph’s Care Foundation or Hospice Cornwall would be appreciated by the family.

Visitation

May 12, 2026 • 7:00 pm @ LAHAIE & SULLIVAN CORNWALL HOMES EAST BRANCH 614 First Street East, Cornwall

Resting at LAHAIE & SULLIVAN CORNWALL HOMES EAST BRANCH 614 First Street East (613-933-2841) on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 7 pm to 9 pm and again on Wednesday from 10 am until the time Funeral Service in the funeral home Memorial Chapel at 11:00 am.

Timeline

  • Born

    December 20, 1931
  • Passed away

    April 25, 2026

    Age 94

  • Visitation

    May 12, 2026 • 7:00 pm @ LAHAIE & SULLIVAN CORNWALL HOMES EAST BRANCH 614 First Street East, Cornwall

    LAHAIE & SULLIVAN CORNWALL HOMES EAST BRANCH 614 First Street East, Cornwall • Resting at LAHAIE & SULLIVAN CORNWALL HOMES EAST BRANCH 614 First Street East (613-933-2841) on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 7 pm to 9 pm and again on Wednesday from 10 am until the time Funeral Service in the funeral home Memorial Chapel at 11:00 am.

  • Tribute shared

    April 30, 2026

    Submitted by Daniel Bissonnette

John Miles Braney

John Miles Braney

February 20, 1946 – April 14, 2026

Chapter 12 - North Bay

It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of John Braney on April 14, 2026. His unwavering spirit will…

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It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of John Braney on April 14, 2026. His unwavering spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

John leaves behind his wife and partner Danielle Braney (his Dani), his daughter Joanne Evenden (Scott), his son Colin Braney (Christina), their mother Carolyn Kirkland (Rick), his stepdaughter Mélanie de Bagheera (David Stephen) and stepson Ivan de Bagheera (Tara Alexander). He will be missed by his grandchildren, Brooke Cox (David), Hailey Froese (Jordan), Jillian Barbeau (Matt), Cole Braney (Emmy), Abbey de Bagheera and Myles de Bagheera, and by great-grandchildren Emett, Tyson, Luca and Allison.

John is predeceased by his parents Herbert and Madeline Braney and his sister Marie Templar and her husband Andy. Their daughters Debbie Hart (Doug) and Susan Vowles (Craig) will fondly remember their mischeavious uncle John. He will be missed by his brother and best friend Victor Braney (Georgia), his nephew Chris Braney (Silvia), his niece Cara Coulson (Ron Allen) and their children, Madeline and Erin Braney, and Victoria and Laura Southwood.

John had a long career with the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General, first as an OPP officer having served in Temagami, Grassy Narrows, Burks Falls from 1968 to 1983 and for the Office of the Fire Marshal in Timmins, St. Catharines, Sudbury, Toronto, Kingston and returning to Sudbury to end his career in 2000. John was Past Master of the Nipissing-Muskoka District Masonic Corona Lodge No.454, Burks Falls in 1979-80.

After retirement John volunteered his time to manage the Alertech project; the construction of a fire tower and fire grounds at the Lionel Lalonde Centre. He also served in Afghanistan, working for SNC Lavalin (embedded with the Canadian Armed Forces) in Kandahar as Health and Safety Officer and CSM. He was awarded the Commander’s Coin for making the motto “One Mission-One Team” a reality through his dynamic leadership and persuasive personality.

Despite his struggles with many health issues over the years, he always found time to help others. While working in the kitchen as a volunteer at the Maison McCulloch Hospice, he also lifted the spirit of everyone around him. John was a Board member of the Christ-the-King Residence for a few years.  He also served for a one-year term on the Board of the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra.

Many of his friends will continue sharing his memorable stories whether on the golf course or at coffee shops. Everyone will remember his strong beliefs and convictions which he passionately defended when given the opportunity.

We extend our gratitude for the medical teams at HSN and ARCC along with those who attended to his well-being for the last few weeks of his life and to Doctor Tom Urban and nurse Jen Philp for looking after his health over the years.

A celebration of life will be held at the Idylwylde Golf and Country Club, 400 Walford Rd. Sudbury, on Sunday May 17 between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Maison McCulloch Hospice or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

 

Timeline

  • Born

    February 20, 1946
  • Passed away

    April 14, 2026

    Age 80

  • Tribute shared

    April 24, 2026

    Submitted by Marilyn Halsall

Alexander Wayne (Sandy) Morrice

Alexander Wayne (Sandy) Morrice

October 17, 1942 – March 30, 2026

Chapter 17 - Kenora-Rainy River

Sandy (Alexander Wayne) Morrice of Atikokan and recently Winnipeg, Manitoba passed away March 30, 2026 Sandy was stationed at Atikokan Detachment from…

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Sandy (Alexander Wayne) Morrice of Atikokan and recently Winnipeg, Manitoba passed away March 30, 2026

Sandy was stationed at Atikokan Detachment from 1967 to 1977 leaving the OPP to work at the new Ontario Hydro generating plant in Atikokan as security officer.

He joined the OPPVA in 2009 and became a Life Member in 2022.

Sandy is survived by Connie his wife of 62 years, daughter Sharon, son Ronald (Kim) grandchildren Scott, Nick,   Allissa and Sophie and great grandchild Elizabeth.

Timeline

  • Born

    October 17, 1942
  • Passed away

    March 30, 2026

    Age 83

  • Celebration of life

    A celebration of life will be planned at a future date.

  • Tribute shared

    April 20, 2026

    Submitted by Dennis J. O'Sullivan

Christine (Chris) Haley

Christine (Chris) Haley

November 7, 1945 – April 13, 2026

Chapter 2 - London

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Chris Haley, Honorary Member of Chapter 2 on April 13, 2026.…

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It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Chris Haley, Honorary Member of Chapter 2 on April 13, 2026.

Chris is lovingly remembered by Roly, her devoted spouse of 61 years; her children, Andrew Haley and Sandra Wilson; her cherished grandchildren, Devon Wilson, Conner Wilson, Lucas Haley and Skylar Haley; and her great-grandchildren, Issac and Jenna Wilson. 

She will be fondly remembered by her sister, Barbara Blott of Woodstock, along with Barbara’s family and by her many nieces and nephews across the world.

Chris dedicated much of her life to the Girl Guides, sharing over 50 years of commitment, mentorship and passion with the organization. She also spent many years as a caring and devoted early childhood educator, a role she held close to her heart until her health no longer allowed her to continue. 

Chris will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

 

Interment service has been completed.

Timeline

  • Born

    November 7, 1945
  • Passed away

    April 13, 2026

    Age 80

  • Tribute shared

    April 18, 2026

    Submitted by Mel Getty

Fidelis (Phil) DeBruyne

Fidelis (Phil) DeBruyne

April 15, 1954 – April 12, 2026

Chapter 18 - Orillia

Phil joined the Tillsonburg Police Service (1974 -1977), then the Ingersoll Police Service (1977 - 1983), then worked at the Ontario Police…

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It is with sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Chapter 18 member Phil DeBruyne.

Phil joined the Tillsonburg Police Service (1974 -1977), then the Ingersoll Police Service (1977 – 1983), then worked at the Ontario Police College (1983-2009). He finished his 35 year career in law enforcement on a one-year secondment working at the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto. He retired in 2010.

In retirement, Phil remained very active in the community. He was inducted as a member of the Penetanguishene Police Service Board in 2020, and recently completed some contract work for South Simcoe Police Service.

He and wife Susan Robillard were involved in multiple local charities, including the Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation, the Huronia Community Foundation, the Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre, the Midland Cultural Centre, Hospice Huronia, and Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care.

Visitation

May 8, 2026 • 2:00 pm @ Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, 15 Yonge St S Elmvale ON

Visitation from 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Celebration of life

May 9, 2026 • 12:00 pm @ Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church 106 Yonge Street North, Elmvale

Reception to follow. / / Internment: St. Croix Cemetery in Lafontane

In lieu of flowers

Memorial donations may be made to Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation in Midland, and the Elmvale Food Bank

Condolences

Online condolences may be made on the funeral home's website when his obituary is posted

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • While at the OPC, Phil completed a secondment (1997–2002) to the Campbell Report Implementation Project (the implementation of the recommendations into the investigation of Paul Bernardo) in Toronto.

Family & loved ones

  • He will be missed by his wife Susan Robillard, his daughter Janna More (OPP), and Ian, his wife Krista and grandson Connor McBain.

Timeline

  • Born

    April 15, 1954
  • Passed away

    April 12, 2026

    Age 71

  • Visitation

    May 8, 2026 • 2:00 pm @ Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, 15 Yonge St S Elmvale ON

    Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, 15 Yonge St S Elmvale ON • Visitation from 2:00pm to 6:00pm

  • Celebration of life

    May 9, 2026 • 12:00 pm @ Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church 106 Yonge Street North, Elmvale

    Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church 106 Yonge Street North, Elmvale • Reception to follow. / / Internment: St. Croix Cemetery in Lafontane

  • Tribute shared

    April 16, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Henry P. Kostuck

Henry P. Kostuck

February 1, 1935 – April 4, 2026

Chapter 11 - Hawkesbury

It is with regret that I advise of the passing of retired Chief Superintendent Henry P. KOSTUCK #1716 on April 4, 2026. Henry…

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Henry was always ready to serve and proud of his time with the OPP. He was a Past-Chairperson of our OPPVA Chapter 11 Hawkesbury and a Life Member. He will be sadly missing and remembered fondly. Il nous manquera beaucoup et nous garderons de lui un souvenir ému.

It is with regret that I advise of the passing of retired Chief Superintendent Henry P. KOSTUCK #1716 on April 4, 2026.

Henry began his career with the Ontario Provincial Police on November 19, 1956, at Cornwall District Headquarters. A transfer to Hawkesbury Detachment followed on February 17, 1957.

On September 1, 1965, Henry was transferred to Casselman Detachment. On December 1, 1966, Henry was promoted to Corporal.

On December 6, 1971, Henry transferred to Security Bureau. On May 1, 1972, Henry was promoted to Sergeant and transferred to the Anti-Rackets Branch.

Henry transferred back to Hawkesbury Detachment on August 7, 1972. Henry was promoted to Staff Sergeant on February 1, 1974.

A transfer to Long Sault DHQ occurred on September 18, 1978. Henry was promoted to Inspector on March 1, 1979 and to Superintendent on February 1, 1984.

On November 4, 1985, Henry was promoted to Chief Superintendent and transferred to Field Operations Division.

Chief Superintendent Henry Kostuck retired from the OPP on October 31, 1988 with 32 years of service.

In lieu of flowers

Canadian Cancer Society or charity of your choice.

Condolences

Cards can be mailed to Diane and Philippe Kostuck at 1683 Greywood, Orleans Ontario K1C 4W3

Policing Career Highlights

  • In 2016, Henry was awarded the “Friends of the OPP Museum Heritage Award” for authoring a book titled “A Charmed Life” (photo attached).

Family & loved ones

  • Henry was married to the late Monique Kostuck for 66 years. He leaves behind two children, Diane and Philippe, granddaughters Kathryne and Gabrielle, and great-granddaughter Lilah.

Timeline

  • Born

    February 1, 1935
  • Passed away

    April 4, 2026

    Age 91

  • Celebration of life

    At the request of the family, there will not be a service.

  • Tribute shared

    April 11, 2026

    Submitted by Barbara Gray

Carol Christina Broughton

Carol Christina Broughton

June 12, 1942 – April 2, 2026

Chapter 4 - Niagara

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Carol Broughton, Honourary Member of #4 Chapter Niagara passed peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026 after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s.

Celebration of life

Miller Funeral Chapel, 28 Caithness Street East, Caledonia, Ontario N3W1B7 (905-765-2712)

Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers

Memorial Donations may be made to the West Haldimand General Hospital Foundation, 75 Parkview Rd., Hagersville, Ontario N0A 1H0 or Alzheimer Society of Canada, 20 Eglington Avenue West, Suite 1600, Toronto, Ontario M4R 1K8

Condolences

Friends or family are invited to send condolences and sign the Book of Memories at www.millerfuneralchapel.ca

Send condolences

Family & loved ones

  • She was predeceased by her loving husband Senior Constable Darrell Broughton, (2004) Haldimand County OPP (formerly Cayuga OPP) and her cherished son Todd (1994). She will be forever remembered by her surviving daughters Lori (Mark) Hamilton, and Kelly (Cory) Brain, grandchildren Brooke, Tyler (Olivia), Paige (Nick) and Matthew, Katie.

Timeline

  • Born

    June 12, 1942
  • Passed away

    April 2, 2026

    Age 83

  • Celebration of life

    Miller Funeral Chapel, 28 Caithness Street East, Caledonia, Ontario N3W1B7 (905-765-2712)

    Miller Funeral Chapel, 28 Caithness Street East, Caledonia, Ontario N3W1B7 (905-765-2712) • Cremation has taken place and a private family interment will take place at a later date.

  • Tribute shared

    April 10, 2026

    Submitted by Webmaster