It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Webster on June 30, 2025, at the age of 69. Born in Sarnia on April 8, 1956, Don’s life was defined by service, passion, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones and his community.

A dedicated and respected member of the Ontario Provincial Police, Don’s career spanned decades, during which he made an indelible mark as part of the Tactical Rescue Unit (TRU), the Emergency Response Team (ERT), and Search and Rescue. Don’s leadership and bravery were integral to his success, and he retired as a Staff Sergeant, leaving behind a legacy of courage and professionalism.

Beyond his work in law enforcement, Don’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Gail, sons Rory (Tanja), Patrick and daughter Kelsey (Joe), and four adoring granddaughters (Charlotte, Lilah, Anna, Summer). His family was always his number one priority, and he took great pride in the role he played as a husband, father and grandfather.

Don had a zest for life. He was an avid motorcyclist, loved the freedom of the open road, and had a special place in his heart for his beloved Harley-Davidson. A lifelong fan of Bruce Springsteen, he could often be found enjoying his favorite songs with a rum and coke in hand, usually in the Iron Horse. He also enjoyed sailing, finding peace and tranquility on the water.

Though Don faced a courageous battle with cancer, he never lost his strength or his sense of humor. He faced his illness with the same determination and resilience that defined his life. His family and friends will forever remember him as the king of push-ups, being the “lead dog” on his motorcycle trips and always sporting a durag and a Harley t-shirt.

Thomas Charles Randall — known as Tom, T.C., Dad, Poppa, Coach, and “Fox,” passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 28, 2025, at the age of 81. He leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, compassion, and a lifetime of captivating adventure stories that only became more detailed and exciting each time he told them.

Born into a military family in Winnipeg in 1944 to Duncan and Phyllis, and raised in Montréal by his Uncle Ray and Aunt Marcella, Tom spent a brief time as an Air Force recruit until he discovered how long it would take before they’d actually let him fly a plane. He was the beloved son-in-law of WWII Royal Canadian Navy veteran Jack Wright, and grandfather to recently retired Naval serviceman Andrew Mason. He cherished these connections and upheld their values with pride.

Tom worked as a technician with Bell Canada, where his knowledge of communication technology and attention to detail would serve him well in future intelligence, surveillance, and undercover work. He had a brief but noble stint as a paramedic which was cut short when he realized his strong stomach was no match for actual blood. It was with the Ontario Provincial Police that he found his true calling.

During a decorated career spanning decades, Tom served with unwavering integrity and unmatched work ethic, rising through the ranks to become Superintendent and District Commander. He was trusted with some of the most sensitive operations in the province, including taking down corrupt judges, infiltrating organized crime syndicates, and providing protective detail for HRH Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during their 1984 visit to Toronto. He was seconded as Executive Assistant to the Deputy Solicitor General, trained future officers at the O.P.P. Police College in Brampton, and led the O.P.P. Veterans’ Association as President in his retirement.

Tom earned an Executive MBA from Queen’s University and was — as his daughters proudly say — “woke before it was cool.” He advocated for diversity in policing, championing gender, racial, and cultural representation within the O.P.P. because of his core belief that officers should reflect the people they serve. He was also proud of the relationships he built with First Nations neighbours wherever he served, and with every community member he protected with quiet dignity and empathy.

A true gentleman and natural-born leader, he may not have quite reached his childhood dream of becoming six feet tall, but his presence was commanding. His voice could silence a room, a mere glance could settle the most unruly toddler, and his calm, steady manner earned him instant respect. When Tom Randall spoke, one was wise to listen. His stories, while entertaining, often contained real life examples that provided significant learning opportunities – both professional and personal. His mentorship changed lives and careers. He saw the potential in everyone and made every person he met feel heard and welcome.

Outside of the uniform, Tom wore many hats: hockey coach, soccer coach, stage dad, dance critic, and amateur sideline commentator. He rarely missed a play, recital, game, or other opportunity to beam with pride over his daughters, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren. He was an eloquent speaker, a gifted writer (with an affinity for the strongly worded letter), and a man of faith who served his church with the same quiet commitment he gave to his family and community.

Tom loved sports: curling, golf, les Canadiens, les Expos (RIP), the Jays, and the Packers – turning off the TV the moment his team was eliminated from the playoffs. His marksmanship may have been questionable but his hole-in-one was legendary.

He is predeceased by brothers Robert (Liz), Martin, and Dennis (Betty), and survived by his sister Judy Dougan (Hugh), brother-in-law Greg Wright (Starr), and sister-in-law Donna. He is mourned deeply by his wife Elizabeth, daughters Melanie Rich (Jarvis), Hillary Randall, and Heather Randall, grandchildren Andrew Mason (Josh), Spencer Mason (Julia), Avery, Alice, and Ellen Sutherland, Marin Jarrell, J.T. Barrett and great-grandchildren Warren and Wrenley, who lovingly called him “Big Poppa.” He is also remembered fondly by friends and family from Nova Scotia to Victoria, Noelville to Windsor, Green Bay to Destin, and everywhere in between.

He passed down a 200-year-old shortbread recipe, made lemon meringue pie from scratch, flipped the world’s best blueberry pancakes, and somehow rocked a Speedo with confidence. Though outnumbered, he had unrelenting patience for the four women in his life and a gift for seeing the big picture in policing, parenting, and the world around him.

Tom loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved the O.P.P.

A celebration of life will take place on Aug 6, 2025 from 1-4 at the Moose Lodge on Richmond Street in Chatham. Please join us with your 1950s playlist and your best stories of everyone’s favourite guy. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Chatham-Kent Hospice at www.chathamkenthospice.com to show appreciation for the unsurpassed care they provided for Tom and his loved ones in his final days.

After 85 years of a full, adventurous, uncompromising and joyous life, Darryl Irwin Stutt passed away peacefully in his sleep June 7, 2025. He was a truly magnificent man and will be missed forever by his wife, Catherine.

Darryl was born in Killam, Alberta on November 4, 1939, to Vivian (McCune) and Percy Stutt. His mother told a story of Darryl disappearing one day when he was three years old; she found him at the corner, directing traffic in the small prairie town. That was a harbinger of a legendary 30-year career with the Ontario Provincial Police, where Darryl was honoured to work with so many officers whom he respected. He served at several detachments in southwestern Ontario before spending the last 15 years at Bracebridge.

After retirement, and a fun second career as a long-distance trucker, Darryl embraced his love of road trips, travelling extensively with Catherine throughout North America until they settled in Brighton, Ontario, where he enjoyed gardening, woodworking, and volunteering. It is here he set down roots, enjoying many precious friendships.

Darryl leaves his wife and soulmate Catherine, and his adored kittens Mason and Max. Darryl is also survived by his brothers Darwyn (Jean) and Graydon (Bev) and his sister-in-law Joanne Glass. He is predeceased by his parents and his brothers Gary and Terry.

Per Darryl’s wishes, there will be no service. In his words, “I spent 30 years dispersing crowds. I’m not inclined to be part of one.”

Bill Downey Loved to tell Jokes and Stories. Whether it was to his family, his cousins, his friends, his children’s friends, or his many coffee group friends over the years. His greatest joy was making others laugh, no matter the subject, he could always have a joke ready to make you smile.

We are extremely saddened to announce that he told his last jokes and stories on Thursday June 5th, 2025. Even with pneumonia deeply affecting his breathing, he still held court in his hospital bed and entertained the staff that looked after him, those that visited him, and ultimately his family. It is bittersweet, but we were all so lucky to be able to hear those last few jokes and say our final goodbye’s. We are so happy and blessed that he was able still make others laugh, even with his final breaths. It is exactly what he wanted.

William Downey was the son of Bernice and William Downey. Born in Toronto and then moving up to North Bay for the remainder of his childhood and young adult life. Of his many accomplishments during his Ime in North Bay, he was a beloved Boy Scout troop master, as well as a volunteer with the NORAD Emergency Services. He also spent years as an Auxiliary Police Officer with the North Bay detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police.

He studied and worked as a draftsman at Ontario Hydro where he met the love of his life Sylvia. They were inseparable after that. Their love only grew more and more each day. He then fell in love with Sylvia’s family and then extended family. They married and moved to Peterborough where he worked for General Electric as a Nuclear draftsman and raised his own family. He was an immensely proud grandfather of three amazing young men: Miller, Mitchell and Jacob.

Bill also loved immensely his “Sisters” Marlene “McGlynn” Brown and Joan Short. They were his partners in crime for his whole life. He then also fell in love with their spouses, as well as their families.

He retired and then volunteered at Civic Hospital, was a sides person at numerous Anglican churches. He was a trustee at the Peterborough naval club and continued to volunteer at the OPP, all while being an avid Ham radio enthusiast.

So, to everyone who bent an ear and shared a laugh, Thank you. You made his dark days brighter, and his great days even better. He will be sadly missed by his Family and friends. Hopefully he has gotten past Saint Peters gate and not still trying to tell one more joke before entering heaven.

Celebration of Life service will be held at Comstock-Kaye Life Celebration Centre, 356 Rubidge Street, Peterborough on Saturday, October 11 at 1:00 pm, with a reception to follow.

Passed away peacefully surrounded by family.

Ben is now reunited with his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Lou (2024), his parents William and Georgette, as well as his sister Doris.

Ben is survived by his two children, Bill and Lesley Kareem (Wael). Beloved Papa of Ryan, Rose, Laith, Fadi, Zane and as well by his beloved sister-in-law, Ruth Anne Piette.

Ben was a proud member of the Ontario Provincial Police, serving Essex County and Pelee Island for over 30 years.

Ben was a member of the Essex Legion Branch 201 as well as being an active member of the Ontario Provincial Police Veterans Association.

Ben was an avid reader and a fan of the Tigers, Blue Jays, and Maple Leafs. He enjoyed relaxing on his patio, overseeing his lawn and garden, barbequing and especially spending time with his grandchildren.

Ben will be missed by his family and his many friends.

A resident of Chatham, Brian Byatt passed away peacefully with family at his side at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on May 5, 2025 at the age of 81.

Born in Victoria BC, Brian was the son of the late John and Bette (née Beeton) Byatt.

Beloved husband of 57 years to Elizabeth (née Fluvian) Byatt.

Loving father to Karyn (Jeffery) Byatt-Millington.

Adored pa to Ryan Millington.

Brother to Ann Shambleau (née Byatt).

Predeceased by siblings Robert Byatt and Patricia Byatt.

In keeping with Brian’s wishes a private family burial will take place at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Brian to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at  McKinlay Funeral Home

Adrian is reunited with his wife Vera. Adrian is survived by his stepchildren Mark (Danielle) Caskenette, and Benjamin (Christine) Caskenette, his step-grandchildren Seth, Kyra-Rose, Ella and Adisin. He will be missed by his dear friend of 14 years Lee-Anne Condi.

Adrian was a devoted member of St. Agnes Catholic Church and lived a life guided by faith, compassion, and service. He was a member of Serra Club of Kitchener-Waterloo, Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, Waterloo Knights of Columbus, the 404 Wing Association, and the OPP Auxiliary Police and a friend to the Carmel of St. Joseph (St. Agatha, ON), the Monastery of the Carmel of St. Joseph (Armstrong, BC) and Lisaard House.

Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 75 Bluevale St. N., Waterloo, on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.  Cremation will follow and a private family interment will be held at Parkview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to St. Agnes Catholic Church or to the Food Bank may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone. A part of us went with you, the day God took you home. It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Joseph Gerald Gilligan, who departed this life on April 28, 2025, at the age of 88. He was surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home. Son of the late Joseph and of the late Margaret (née Rimes). Gerry was the beloved husband of the late Aline (née Colbourne). Loving and proud father of Tania, Stacey (Andre), and Theresa (Lucas). Predeceased by his son Carey (Val). He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Matthew (Kayla), Cortney (Brittany), Shannon (Jean-Michel), Mackenzie (Ashley), John (Taylor), Brooke (Quintin), Leeland (Gem), Erika (Quinn), Jaxon (Carissa), Zach, Luca, his great-grandchildren Lawson, Emmit, Wyllow, Caspen, Melody, Raelyn, Olivia, Dexter, Noah, and his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Dear brother of Mark, and Lillian Jamieson (late Barry). Predeceased by his brothers James (Eleanor), Bernard, Bartley (Lynn) and friend Murielle Binette.

Gerry was born in Mattawa and loved his younger years on the family farm. He began his career with the Ontario Provincial Police on April 1st, 1958, in Ottawa, Ontario. He moved to Temagami in 1963 to continue with the OPP. Aline joined him in 1967 after their fairytale wedding. They started their married life in Temagami, where they enjoyed their days together, especially on the lake. The OPP brought them to Sturgeon Falls in 1971 where he settled and lived a long loving life. He enjoyed his last few years in his police career as a Staff Seargent with the Warren OPP. Once retired, Gerry spent many years working alongside his son, Carey, cutting trees and removing tree stumps. Gerry was a beloved and well-known member of the community, remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to helping others. He gave his time selflessly, delivering Meals on Wheels, coaching youth hockey for many years, and volunteering at his children’s and grandchildren’s elementary school — just a few examples of the many ways he enriched the lives of those around him. His legacy of service, warmth, and compassion lives on in the countless people whose lives he touched. He was a dedicated Catholic devoted to his faith and a member of the Our Lady of Sorrows Parish for over 50 years.

Gerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. Above all, he loved to spend time with his family. He was incredibly proud and adored all of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gerry was a patient, loving man who demonstrated caring, calmness and love every day of his life.

To our sweet Dad, thank you for being so much to so many of us and thank you especially for loving us for all of our lives. Your love will live on forever in our memories and hearts.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the incredible supportive team from Ontario Health at Home, especially the wonderful PSWs and the team at Dr. Vandal’s office.

The family will receive friends at the Theoret-Bourgeois Funeral Home, Sturgeon Falls for visitation on Thursday May 1, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Mass of Chirstian burial will be held on Friday May 2, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Sturgeon Falls. A celebration of life will be held at the Golden Age Club following the funeral mass. Funeral arrangements in care of the Theoret-Bourgeois Funeral Home, Sturgeon Falls. Donations to the Canadian Chron’s and Colitis Society or the Canadian Heart and Stroke would be greatly appreciated.