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.

Frank Mitchell Armstrong

Frank Mitchell Armstrong

Passed March 22, 2025

Chapter 17 - Kenora

Frank Mitchell Armstrong passed away peacefully at Pinecrest Home in Kenora on March 22, 2025, in his 88th year. He is survived…

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It is with sorrow that we advise of the passing of Frank M. ARMSTRONG, Sergeant (retired) OPP badge No. 2167 in Kenora on March 22, 2025. Frank was 87 years old.

Frank Mitchell Armstrong passed away peacefully at Pinecrest Home in Kenora on March 22, 2025, in his 88th year.

He is survived by his children Michael Armstrong (Suzanne Brittain) of Huntsville, Timothy Armstrong of Burks Falls, Terry Armstrong (Tina) of Thunder Bay and Daphne Armstrong (Paul Valenta) of Kenora. He leaves seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Frank was born on the family farm in Edwardsburg Twp, in Grenville County, Ontario on May 3, 1937, the youngest child of James and Dora Armstrong, He was predeceased by his brother George Armstrong and his sisters Elizabeth Greer and Anna Wallace.

Frank was independent from a very young age. He was raised by his maternal grandfather (Henry Armstrong) until he was 15 years old when he left the farm to make his way in the world. He worked while attending business school then took a job in the linen mills in Cornwall as a bookkeeper. He quickly decided it wasn’t the job for him and left to work in construction, on the Saint Lawrence Seaway and then on hydro-electric dams in Labrador.

After his marriage to Lyla Burchill, in 1956, Frank went to work at the Kemptville Agricultural College. While working at the College became friends with an OPP Constable who encouraged Frank to consider policing.

In 1962 Frank joined the Ontario Provincial Police a job he seemed to be destined for, he worked as a patrol officer, detective, and supervisor. He served in Gananoque, Burks Falls, Pickle Lake, and Minaki (Wabaseemoong) detachments before retiring as the officer in charge, Sergeant, at Vermillion Bay detachment. After his retirement from the OPP, Frank worked as a Provincial Prosecutor in Kenora District which involved flying to many remote locations across Northwestern Ontario. His love of law enforcement and the justice system influenced three of his children to follow his in his footsteps. Frank was as proud of his children as they were of him as a father. He instilled a strong work ethic and sense of right and wrong in all his children.

Frank held himself and others to a high standard, and at times he could be brutally honest but he also had compassion for others and was never malicious. Many people he worked with or dealt with on the wrong side of the law would say he was always fair and honest with them.

Apart from work Frank was devoted to fitness, competing in marathons and running until he was in his 70’s. He played baseball and was a avid Toronto Blue Jays fan. He enjoyed camping, canoeing and fishing and coached minor hockey.

In retirement Frank used to love going to Mexico, rent an apartment and travel to small towns and villages getting to know the locals and their customs. He wasn’t one for big resorts or sitting still on a beach.

Our heartfelt thanks to Rob Bergman and the entire team of nurses, support workers, doctors and staff at Pinecrest Home for the care and attention. Frank’s challenges and restlessness over the past three years were minimized as there was always a smile for him and even an ear for his singing.

A service for the family will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers donations to the Alzheimer Society of Canada would be appreciated.

Celebration of life

Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre 429 2nd Street South, Kenora, ON P9N 1G7

A service for the family will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers

Alzheimer Society of Kenora/Rainy River Districts, 618 9th Street North, Kenora, ON P9N 2S9

Condolences

Daphne Armstrong and Family, 351 Airport Road, Kenora, ON P9N 0A3

Policing Career Highlights

  • In 1962 Frank joined the Ontario Provincial Police a job he seemed to be destined for, he worked as a patrol officer, detective, and supervisor. He served in Gananoque, Burks Falls, Pickle Lake, and Minaki (Wabaseemoong) detachments before retiring as the officer in charge, Sergeant, at Vermillion Bay detachment.

Family & loved ones

  • He is survived by his children Michael Armstrong (Suzanne Brittain) of Huntsville, Timothy Armstrong of Burks Falls, Terry Armstrong (Tina) of Thunder Bay and Daphne Armstrong (Paul Valenta) of Kenora. He leaves seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Timeline

  • Passed away

    March 22, 2025
  • Celebration of life

    Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre 429 2nd Street South, Kenora, ON P9N 1G7

    Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre 429 2nd Street South, Kenora, ON P9N 1G7 • A service for the family will be held in the spring.

  • Tribute shared

    March 1, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Roger Armand Morel

Roger Armand Morel

May 22, 1941 – February 27, 2025

Chapter 11 - Cornwall

At the Woodland Villa Nursing Home in Long Sault on Thursday, February 27, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, Roger Morel of…

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It is with sadness that we advise of the passing of Roger Morel, at the age of 83

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.

Celebration of life

Marsden McLaughlin Funeral Home Williamsburg

At Roger’s request there will be no funeral service. Inurnment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Morrisburg.

In lieu of flowers

Donations to the Ottawa Heart Institute or the Queensway-Carleton Hospital would be gratefully acknowledged by the family

Condolences

Online condolences may be made through the Funeral Home www.marsdenmclaughlin.com

Send condolences

Family & loved ones

  • 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.

Timeline

  • Born

    May 22, 1941
  • Passed away

    February 27, 2025

    Age 83

  • Celebration of life

    Marsden McLaughlin Funeral Home Williamsburg

    Marsden McLaughlin Funeral Home Williamsburg • At Roger’s request there will be no funeral service. Inurnment will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Morrisburg.

  • Tribute shared

    February 28, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Joseph Donald Gerard (Doc) O’Connor

Joseph Donald Gerard (Doc) O’Connor

Passed February 15, 2025

Chapter 18 - Orillia

Don O’Connor, 72, passed away on February 15th in his hometown of Orillia, Ontario, after a courageous battle with leukemia. His strength…

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It is with sadness that we inform you of the passing of Joseph Donald Gerard O'Connor, affectionately known to all as Doc. Doc passed away on February 15th, 2025 after a courageous battle with leukemia.. He was 72 years old.

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.

Visitation

Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia ON

A celebration of life will be held at Carson Funeral Home on Thursday March 6th, 2025 1-4pm. Located at 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia- 705-326-3595. Sharing of memories will take place at 3pm

Celebration of life

Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia ON

A celebration of life will be held at Carson Funeral Home on Thursday March 6th, 2025 1-4pm. Located at 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia- 705-326-3595. Sharing of memories will take place at 3pm

In lieu of flowers

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society or the OPP Youth Foundation.

Condolences

Online Condolences can be shared on the Tribute Wall of the Funeral Home

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • 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.

Family & loved ones

  • 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.

Timeline

  • Passed away

    February 15, 2025
  • Visitation

    Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia ON

    Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia ON • A celebration of life will be held at Carson Funeral Home on Thursday March 6th, 2025 1-4pm. Located at 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia- 705-326-3595. Sharing of memories will take place at 3pm

  • Celebration of life

    Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia ON

    Carson Funeral Home 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia ON • A celebration of life will be held at Carson Funeral Home on Thursday March 6th, 2025 1-4pm. Located at 54 Coldwater Street East Orillia- 705-326-3595. Sharing of memories will take place at 3pm

  • Tribute shared

    February 28, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Donna Gardner

Donna Gardner

Passed February 12, 2025

Chapter 11 - Ottawa

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

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

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.

Visitation

Pilon Funeral Home, Arnprior, Ontario

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

Celebration of life

Pilon Funeral Home, Arnprior, Ontario

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

In lieu of flowers

Ruddy Shenkman Hospice in Kanata

Family & loved ones

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

Timeline

  • Passed away

    February 12, 2025
  • Visitation

    Pilon Funeral Home, Arnprior, Ontario

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

  • Celebration of life

    Pilon Funeral Home, Arnprior, Ontario

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

  • Tribute shared

    February 28, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Ronald Clifford Rudy

Ronald Clifford Rudy

Passed February 10, 2025

Chapter 2 - London

Born in Woodstock, Ontario, to the late Dorothy (Webb) Hutchison and Clifford Rudy.Survived by his true love and best friend, Donna (McGregor)…

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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Senior Constable Ronald Clifford Rudy, on the 10th day of February, 2025, at Stratford General Hospital. He was 85 years old

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.

Visitation

February 13, 2025 • 10:00 am @ Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock

Relatives & friends will be received in the Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock on Thursday, February 13, 2025 form 10-12pm followed by the funeral service at 12:30pm. Reception to follow in the Tavistock Men's Club Hall. Spring interment in North Embro Cemetery.

Celebration of life

February 13, 2025 • 12:30 pm @ Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock

Reception to follow his funeral in the Tavistock Men's Club Hall.

In lieu of flowers

Expression of sympathy, Parkinson's Research Canada or Stratford General Hospital Palliative Care program

Condolences

Donna Rudy, 31 Holley Av Box 591, Tavistock, N0B 2R0

Policing Career Highlights

  • 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.

Family & loved ones

  • 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.

Timeline

  • Passed away

    February 10, 2025
  • Visitation

    February 13, 2025 • 10:00 am @ Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock

    Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock • Relatives & friends will be received in the Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock on Thursday, February 13, 2025 form 10-12pm followed by the funeral service at 12:30pm. Reception to follow in the Tavistock Men's Club Hall. Spring interment in North Embro Cemetery.

  • Celebration of life

    February 13, 2025 • 12:30 pm @ Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock

    Francis Funeral Home, 77 Woodstock St. N, Tavistock • Reception to follow his funeral in the Tavistock Men's Club Hall.

  • Tribute shared

    February 28, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Peter Edward Connors

Peter Edward Connors

September 30, 1943 – February 10, 2025

Chapter 16 - Thunder Bay

On February 10, 2025, Peter Edward Connors, age 81, of Kakabeka Falls, was reunited with the love of his life. He embarked…

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Associate Member Peter Connors passed away on February 10, 2025, Peter was 81 years old

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.

Visitation

Northwest Funeral Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON

Celebration of life

February 19, 2025 • 11:00 am @ St. Dominic's Church - 130 Redwood Ave., Thunder Bay, On

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, On

Condolences

Condolences may be made online through the Funeral Home

Send condolences

Policing Career Highlights

  • Associate and Life member of 16 Chapter Thunder Bay. Peter moved from Ottawa to Kakabeka Falls in 1965 and shortly after became a member of the OPP and posted to Kakabeka Falls Detachment. In 1978 he joined the Thunder Bay Police Service where he worked until his retirement in 2001. 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.

Family & loved ones

  • 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.

Timeline

  • Born

    September 30, 1943
  • Passed away

    February 10, 2025

    Age 81

  • Visitation

    Northwest Funeral Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON

    Northwest Funeral Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON

  • Celebration of life

    February 19, 2025 • 11:00 am @ St. Dominic's Church - 130 Redwood Ave., Thunder Bay, On

    St. Dominic's Church - 130 Redwood Ave., Thunder Bay, On • 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, On

  • Tribute shared

    February 28, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Ronald Albert Golden

Ronald Albert Golden

Passed January 25, 2025

Chapter 13 - Sudbury

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Ronald (Ron) Albert Golden. He passed away on January 24, 2025…

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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.

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.

In lieu of flowers

Family has requested in lieu of flowers, memorial donations to: Mindemoya Hospital Auxiliary Inc. - P.O. Box 284, Mindemoya, ON

Condolences

Karen Lische and Family
74 MacLennan Drive
Skead, ON

Policing Career Highlights

  • 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.

Family & loved ones

  • 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.

Timeline

  • Passed away

    January 25, 2025
  • Visitation

    In honour of Ron’s wishes, there will not be a service.

  • Celebration of life

    In honour of Ron’s wishes, there will not be a service.

  • Tribute shared

    February 27, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Bruce Tilbury

Bruce Tilbury

February 16, 1934 – January 23, 2025

Chapter 16 - Thunder Bay

Bruce passed away at the young age of 90 years on January 23, 2025, peacefully with family by his side. Born in…

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Bruce Tilbury was a Life member of 16 Chapter Thunder Bay. He was 90 years old when he passed away.

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.

Visitation

Northwest Funerl Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON P7C 5G8

A private family Celebration will be held at a later date.

Celebration of life

Northwest Funerl Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON P7C 5G8

A private family Celebration will be held at a later date.

Policing Career Highlights

  • Bruce began his career in 1962 as a Cadet and was posted to Port Arthur Detachemnt. In 1963 Bruce was transferred to Manitouwadge and in 1972 to Schreiber. Seeking a career change Bruce left the OPP in 1978 and Joined Ontario Hydro in Thunder Bay as a Security Investigator retiring in 1992.

Family & loved ones

  • Bruce was predeceased by his Wife Dorothy and is survived by his children Marilyn (Rick) Donaldson, Diane (Ruben) Camelino, John (julie) Tilbury, 4 Grandchildren and 4 greatchildren.

Timeline

  • Born

    February 16, 1934
  • Passed away

    January 23, 2025

    Age 90

  • Visitation

    Northwest Funerl Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON P7C 5G8

    Northwest Funerl Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON P7C 5G8 • A private family Celebration will be held at a later date.

  • Celebration of life

    Northwest Funerl Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON P7C 5G8

    Northwest Funerl Alternative, 428 Balmoral St., Thunder Bay ON P7C 5G8 • A private family Celebration will be held at a later date.

  • Tribute shared

    February 27, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau

Brent Mikstas

Brent Mikstas

Passed January 22, 2025

Chapter 5 - Toronto

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Brent Peter Mikstas at the age of 73. He passed…

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It is with sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Brent at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener. Brent had been vacationing in Cuba when he became ill and was admitted to a local hospital before being medevac'd back to Canada on Jan 18th. But sadly, passed with his daughter and close friends by his side on Jan 22. He was 73 years old.

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.

In lieu of flowers

Your Local SPCA or charity of your choice.

Condolences

Karyn and George Hebblethwaite via email to oppdad@gmail.com

Policing Career Highlights

  • 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

Family & loved ones

  • 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.

Timeline

  • Passed away

    January 22, 2025
  • Visitation

    A private cremation has taken place. A Celebration of life is anticipated in the spring.

  • Celebration of life

    A private cremation has taken place. A Celebration of life is anticipated in the spring.

  • Tribute shared

    February 27, 2026

    Submitted by Robert Cousineau