Services & Obituaries

MCROBERTS, R. Wayne

1943-2024

It is with heavy hearts and extreme sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of R. ‘Wayne’ McRoberts, in his 82nd year, on May 12, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Wayne is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 62 years Wendy (Griffith), their daughter Lee Butler, their daughter Jody McRoberts and her husband Dave Landrey and Grandsons Aaren and Ethan Butler.  Wayne was predeceased by his son Jeffrey Wayne (1964), his parents Clarence & Sabra McRoberts and his sister Donna McFadden (Lou).  He will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews and great friends.

Wayne was an incredible hardworking family man, doing anything his family wanted.  You didn’t mention to him anything about wanting something or needing something done because he wouldn’t rest until that request had been taken care of.

After many successful and enjoyable years at Parnell Foods Wayne began a second career with the London Police Service where he was respected by all and worked until he officially retired in 2006.  Since that time Wayne and Wendy had great retirement years, taking many, many trips and enjoying the incredible oasis of their backyard where they entertained  family and friends.  Everyone was welcome.

Wayne was truly the most loving man you could ever meet and expressed to everyone, family or friend how much they meant to him, but none more so than that of his grandsons Aaren and Ethan, they were his world and the memories that Poppa made with them, and all that were close to him, will be cherished forever.

Our family wants to thank the wonderful University Hospital 9th floor Orthopedics PSW and Nursing staff team for the care and support that they showed not only to Wayne, but to all of us during the past few weeks.

Family and friends are welcomed to visitation on Friday, May 17, 2024, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service will be held in the chapel at 1:00 pm, with interment in Woodland Cemetery, London.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Wayne may be made to the Humane Society London & Middlesex or Salthaven Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre or to a charity of your choice and would be appreciated by the family.  Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McLAGAN, Ruthanne…

Mary Ruthanne McLagan (nee Dyer) of London passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Friday, May 10, 2024. Beloved wife of Ken McLagan. Adored mom of Karyn (Ryan) and Kaitlyn (Alex). She is survived by her brother Dennis (Gladys) and several nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brother Doug Dyer (Wendy).

Ruthanne was at peace knowing that she had been given time to talk to and be with family and friends since her initial diagnosis last summer. She was in comfort as her soul was freed from her failing body. She touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. We will all take time to grieve her passing, but we’ll also find solace in remembering what a remarkable woman she was.

Thank you to the oncology and palliative care staff and all the doctors and nurses who were a part of her care team at LHSC’s Victoria Hospital. A special thank you to Dr. Sanatani, Dr. Malik, and Dr. Mai.

Cremation has taken place. A public celebration of Ruthanne’s life will be held at Calvary United Church, 290 Ridout Street South, London, on Sunday, May 19th, 2024, at 2 pm. Reverend Kerry Stover will be officiating. A private interment will take place at Oakland Cemetery, Glencoe, at a later date. In place of flowers, please consider donating to the Canadian Cancer Society for colorectal cancer. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

PRICE, David “Dave”…

After a short illness, David “Dave” Price passed away at Victoria Hospital, London on Friday, May 10, 2024 in his 73rd year. Beloved son of the late Dr. Ivan Price and the late Helen (nee Fraser) Price. Cherished brother of Dr. Nancy Price-Munn and her husband Dr. Barry Munn of Nanoose Bay, BC and Debbie Marshall and her husband Ron of Mount Brydges. Predeceased by his brother Stuart Price. Loving uncle of Brendan (Nadia), Rhiannon (Cody), Stuart (Mary) and Tracy. Dave will also be missed by his cousins, great-nephews and great-nieces.

Cremation has taken place and a private interment will take place in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. In Dave’s memory, sympathy donations may be made to the London Food Bank, 926 Leathorne Street, London, ON N5Z 3M5. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

LUDTKE, Eva

In her 80th year, Eva passed away peacefully on May 3, 2024 at McGarrell Place, London. Predeceased by Al, her cherished husband of 33 years, Eva’s indomitable spirit lives on through her children, Marie and Joe, who were her pride and joy, and her brother Joseph. She was a loving grandmother to Kevin, Natasha, Joshua, Anna, and Kristen.

After emigrating from Hungary as a teenager, Eva worked in the family’s restaurant, as a bank teller, and in retail as well as providing care to families in the community.

Eva found joy in life’s pleasures — from the vibrant colours of blooming flowers to the sparkle of jewellery to the timeless allure of classic movies. Her appreciation for beauty and elegance was reflected in every aspect of her life.

Her entombment will be at St. Peter’s Mausoleum, where she will be reunited with Al and her parents, Joseph and Anna.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, Canadian Red Cross, or Arthritis Society Canada would honour her legacy.

Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

McLACHLAN, Barbara “Barb”…

Barb McLachlan passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital London, Ontario, the evening of April 30th, 2024 in her 77th year. Loving wife of Jim McLachlan for 57 years. Barb will be missed by her children Jamie McLachan (Kathy) of Toronto and Norman McLachlan of England. Beloved grandma of Charlotte, James, Frances and Lily. Dear sister of Shirley Bradish. Predeceased by her brother Gerald Johnson. Barb will also be missed by many nieces and nephews.

Barb enjoyed her winter escapes to Portugal with her husband. Whether engaged in a social game of bridge or delving into the pages of a captivating book, Barb enjoyed the company of her friends or some quiet time reading alone. As a dedicated volunteer, Barb would offer her time and compassion at the Dialysis unit of Victoria Hospital, London. Above all, her love for her family was unwavering and profound, leaving a legacy of warmth and affection that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 1:30-3:30pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Barb may be made to the Terry Fox Foundation or the London Food Bank. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Dr. James Adam Bain, a distinguished anesthesiologist and family man, sadly and unexpectedly passed away on April 29, 2024, at the age of 89.  Father, Grandfather, friend, brother and husband, Jim was born on July 6, 1934, in Listowel, Ontario, the beloved son of Jack and Ella Bain.

Just days before his passing, Jim was enjoying his regular round of golf with his friends, a testament to his enduring vitality and zest for life. He is survived by his brother John, his sister Barb, his wife Halina, his former wife Valerie, his children Adam (Michelle), Laura (Mark), Kyle, and Jason (Sarah), his adored grandchildren, Alex, Taylor, Johanna, Richard, James, Kennedy, Drew, and Katelin as well as an uncle to his many nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by his sisters Lois and Agnes.

Jim’s journey in medicine began with his graduation from the UWO School of Medicine in 1959.  Anesthesiology quickly became his passion, and over the span of his 45-year career, he served as a mentor, colleague, and teacher to many aspiring medical professionals.  In 1973, Jim’s dedication to the study of anesthesiology and patient care led to the invention of the Bain Breathing Circuit, a revolutionary device that has been in use in operating rooms worldwide ever since.

Despite his many professional achievements, Jim was incredibly humble and down to earth. His infectious sense of humor and quick wit endeared him to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Whether at the Hunt Club with his friends, among his fellow Harvey Club members, or surrounded by his cherished family, Jim’s warmth and kindness touched the lives of countless individuals.

Jim’s passions extended beyond medicine; he also had a strong love of equestrian riding, contemporary art, and modern architecture.  Despite his success in the medical field, he often joked that he should have pursued a career as an architect.  This passion culminated in his design of a mid-century family home that was built in 1967.  A connoisseur of inexpensive (cheap) wine, Jim found joy in life’s simple pleasures, but his greatest happiness came from hosting the family gatherings at the farm where many lasting memories were created.

Dr. Jim Bain lived a full life.  While his accomplishments were many, it was his remarkable modesty and genuine kindness that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the life of a man whose humility and warmth touched the lives of countless individuals. Rest in peace, Dad, knowing that we all shared a lot of laughs we just wish we could have shared a few more.

A private family internment will be held with a celebration of life to follow at a future date. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

GAISBAUER, Konrad

Peacefully at Earls Court Village, London on Sunday, April 28, 2024, Konrad passed away in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of the late Wilma Gaisbauer (2010). Dear father of Harold Vogel and his wife Gladys of London, Cheryl McLeod and her husband Ken of London, Sandra Gilbert and her husband Alan of Lucan and Rebecca Chabassol and the late Len of Windsor. Predeceased by his daughter Wendy Melanson and his son in law Neri. Konrad was loved and will be deeply missed by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date at The New Apostolic Church where Konrad was a long-time member. Konrad will be laid to rest in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, London. The family would like to thank the staff of Earls Court Village for the kind, compassionate and warm care he received. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

WRIGHT, Dorothy June…

Dorothy June Wright, born February 13, 1925, of London, Ontario died peacefully in her sleep in her 100th year on April 30, 2024. Predeceased by her loving husband George Henry Wright (1993). She will be sorely missed by her brother Ron Stinchcombe (Jayne), sister Dian Pringle, and sister-in-law Eleanore Stinchcombe. She will also be fondly remembered by several nieces and nephews as well as Bev and Hugh Palser who loved and cared for her as an extended member of their family.

Dorothy maintained a positive “keep looking up” attitude throughout her entire life. She always found beauty in the world around her and captured it, using one of her many talents, as an artist. Her canvas and china paintings will be treasured. Dorothy was a longstanding member of Byron United Church where she was a faithful part of the meat pie making group and always looked forward to her after church fellowship luncheons. She was an avid animal lover who also enjoyed playing Bridge and entertaining her many friends. As a 70-year resident of Byron, Dorothy was fortunate to have amazing and watchful neighbours: Nancy Leingang, Jeff Corfield, and Manfred Meissner. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Thank you to Dr. Hooper and staff of the Ivey Institute, St. Joseph Hospital London, Ontario and to Dr. Mario Elia for many years of excellent care. Also, thank you to the staff at People Care Oak Crossing for the exceptional care shown to Dorothy as a resident there in her final years.

There will be no funeral. Cremation and interment have taken place. If so desired, donations may be made to your local humane society or Byron United Church.  Arrangements entrusted to A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MATHEWS, Charlene…

Charlene Mathews passed away peacefully with her family by her side at St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital at the age of 51. Charlene was the loving and cherished mom of KJ, Aliah and Khloe. Beloved daughter of Simone and the late Joseph Sharrow. Dear sister of Warren Sharrow.

Charlene worked in the medical field throughout her career, ending at Victoria Hospital in London. She took great passion in the work she did and truly enjoyed the time spent with her many wonderful colleagues. She had a love for the beach, specifically Port Stanley. Charlene had an adventurous spirit and loved going on fun day trips. Her family was her everything, and she was a superb mother. Charlene was truly an angel on earth and will be missed by all who knew her.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Charlene’s life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Chessman, Rosa ‘Jeanette’

Passed away peacefully at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, Strathroy on Friday, April 26, 2024, Jeanette Chessman of Ipperwash Beach in her 95th year. Beloved wife of the late John “Jack” Chessman for 51 years. Predeceased by her parents Wilfred and Louise Hamilton and sister Lola Zigar, daughter Judy (1976), grandson Jay (2019). Dear mother of Jon L. Chessman (Fernanda) of San Miguel Mexico, Joel B. Chessman (Cheryl) of Little River, Nova Scotia and Christine L. Chessman of London, Ontario. Loving grandmother to 5 grandchildren, Laura, Julie, Judy and James. Loving great grandma to 8 great grandchildren, Jade, Emily, Mason, Sarah, Alexa, Carson, Jaelyn, Alyxandria. Loving great-great grandmother of 3, Tyler, Charlotte and Olivia. Dear aunt to Craig & Chyleen Tomalty of Colorado Springs, Colorado. Sister in law to Gerald Chessman of London, Ontario. Dear cousin of Wayne and Wendy McRoberts. The family is thankful for her two special angels Marg Abbey & the late Gail McCann (2023). Many thanks as well to PSW’s, VON and Watford Quality Care. Friends and family are invited to visitation on Friday, May 3, 2024, from 12:00 – 2:00 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 2:00 pm. Interment in Woodland, Cemetery As expression of sympathy, in memory of Jeanette donations may be made to the Dialysis Unit through London Health Sciences Foundation and the Canadian Cancer Society (Sarnia). Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com