Memoriams
** from the website of Al Shipley**
George Stewart
Passed away Sunday, January 12th, 2020 at Highview Residences. Loving husband of Janet (2012). Father of Dr. Dan Stewart (Karen) and Shelley Oliver (Roland). Dear "Grandpi" of Emily and Hillary. Loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Thomas (Scottie) and Bella (Buntie) Stewart; and siblings: Emily, May, Betty and Tom. Born on May 30, 1928, George attended Lord Roberts School and Beal Tech Secondary School. George began his career as a junior draftsman at Pumps & Softeners Limited. He quickly rose in the ranks and was transferred to Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Regina, Montreal and finally back home to London in 1969. He retired from P&S in 1986 as vice president of manufacturing and as a director. He was the founder and general manager of the London Small Business Centre from 1986 to 1995. On September 22, 1995, the building was renamed the George Stewart Small Business Centre and he was credited with being a "world leader in business creation and entrepreneurial development". George became a small business consultant for the Government of Canada and travelled extensively to Hong Kong, China, Thailand and the Philippines. Respected in business and as an educator, he was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations including the London Business Hall of Fame (1993) and was Canadian Business Incubator Manager of the Year (1993). George was an active member of the Rotary Club of London and was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. He loved to volunteer for charitable events such as the London Sports Celebrity Dinner, Rotary Rummage Sale, Easter Seals, Camp Woodeden, Tim Horton Children's Foundation and The Salvation Army, to name a few. George was a dedicated student, completing his BA (1972), MA (1976), CMA (1984), and BMus (2004). His passion for the trombone began in high school and he played well into his 80s with numerous bands including the London Police Boys Band, Beal Tech Concert Band, Stu Thompson Band, Martin Boundy, Ted Pudney Band, Bobby Downs Orchestra, Bill Sheary Big Band, Geriatric Gentlemen of Jazz, The Music Makers, The London All-Stars Big Band, London Jazz Orchestra, Prime Time Big Band, Moonliters Big Band and many more. George enjoyed the many summers at Keivi Island on Lorimer Lake near Parry Sound and the good times we shared with brother Tom Stewart's family, the Dafoe family and the Johnson family. George was dedicated, caring, generous and had a great sense of humour. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. He lived by the motto: "Do Good and Keep on Doing It", and that is his legacy. Thank you and eternal gratitude to the front-line staff at Highview Residences. You are part of our family and are friends forever. Thank you to Dr. Dana Moore and Dr. Margrieta Edels for their care and support. A Celebration of Life will be conducted at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 1:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. George would appreciate any charitable donations to be directed to the Alzheimer Society London and Middlesex, Easter Seals Ontario or The Salvation Army.
John Carrothers
John Carrothers, a retired staff member from Facilities Management died on May 22, 2019 at the age of 88. When he retired from Western in 1994, John had 34 years of service at Western.
For 63 years, John was the caring and beloved husband of Doreen. The best dad ever to Suzanne (Rudy) Zimmer of Calgary, and Stuart (Paula) Carrothers of Burlington. Proud Pappy to Andrew and Liam Zimmer of Calgary and Regan and Aidan Carrothers of Burlington. Son of the late George and Edna and brother to the late Jean Schroeder and the late Charles Carrothers. Brother-in-law to Cathy (late Don) Burgess of London. Uncle to Diane (Paul) White of Calgary and Paul Burgess of London, Shaun (Mari) Burgess of London, Kevin (Adrienne) Burgess of Grimsby, Sarah McMichael of London and Emily (Matt) Sereda of London. Great Uncle to Jesse (Krista) White of Calgary and Rachel (Joel) Pippus of Calgary, Lyla and Adalyn Burgess of London, Evan and Brielle Burgess of Grimsby, Olivia and Sydney McMichael of London and Hazel, Beatrice, Finn and Otis Sereda of London. Great, great Uncle to Bennett and Rueben Pippus of Calgary.
Cousin to Dorothy Henry, Mary Ellen Harrison, Amelia Vincent all of Strathroy and Danny Skinner of Appin. John was a generous and kind man who was always willing to give his time to help anyone in need. He never put himself first, even when feeling so unwell during the past six months. He had endless empathy and cared about others unconditionally. Throughout his life, he was an industrious fellow, who loved to tinker with machines and renovate houses. At the young age of 85, he could often be found at his 121 year old grandparents' home "re-wiring the old place to bring it up to code", as he put it. John was a curious and creative person who loved to solve problems. He enjoyed building sailboats, one of which he sailed on Fanshawe Lake, and re-building Model A Ford cars. Right up to the end, John was an accomplished story teller with a quick wit and a priceless sense of humour. John developed a love of music that lasted throughout his lifetime. At age thirteen, he joined the London Police Boys Band as a tuba player. At fourteen years of age, he put a down payment on a new string bass. He was a member of numerous bands, namely The London Moose Boys Band, Technical School Concert Band, The Red Cap Band, Tomato Soup Band, and the Mocha Shrine Concert Band. During the era of live dance bands, he played string bass with Benny Goodfellow and the Londonaires, Johnny Brennan Orchestra and Ron Brown Orchestra to name only a few.
John had a knack for Science and Math which led him to become a Master Electrician. Years later, he graduated with a B.A. Degree from Western University and he worked there for 33 years as the Works Project Supervisor. John was an honorary life member of the London Musicians' Association, local 279. He was a member of Temple Lodge 597, and a member of the Mocha Shriners. John was a loving husband who rarely disagreed with his wife and when he did, he kept it to himself. He was a great dad who you could always rely on for a ride, a hug, encouragement and advice. Pappy adored his grandchildren and was always interested in what they were up to. He celebrated all aspects of their lives, no matter how great or small. John will be missed immensely but he will also be remembered affectionately. Cremation has taken place. Friends and family will be received at the EVANS FUNERAL HOME, 648 Hamilton Road, on May 30, from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. A private Masonic service will be held at 6:30pm. A family graveside service will be held at Dorchester Union Cemetery at 11:00am on May 31. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Canadian Blood Services and Shriner's Hospitals for Children. Online condolences can be expressed at www.evansfh.ca tree will be planted, by the Evans Funeral Home.
Bob(Doc) Livingston
LIVINGSTON, William Robert - Died peacefully at University Hospital on January 31, 2019. Husband to Marilyn (Lewington) Livingston for 64 years. Father to Jacqueline Lannigan (Ken), Cindy Livingston (Ralph). Grandfather to Adam Lannigan. Brother-in-law to Gord Lewington. Predeceased by his brother John Livingston and his sister-in- law Audrey. Bob will be missed by his nieces and nephews. Bob "Doc" was an accomplished musician and played bass with the Johnny Downs band at the Stork Club in Port Stanley. In his later years, he played with the band the Music Makers and practised faithfully every Thursday morning. Thank you to the staff at the Emergency Department and General Medicine at University Hospital. Cremation has taken place and is entrusted to FIRST CALL CREMATION SERVICE . A private family interment to take place in the spring of 2019.
Ronald Webb
Ron died on Friday, April 19th, 2019 at University Hospital in his 80th year. Ron was born in Woodstock but grew up in London, attending South Secondary School and UWO. Ron was the beloved husband of Susan (Secord) for 51 years, proud and loving father of sons Jason (Holly Hrytzay) and Alan (Christine Leu) and adoring Poppy for his cherished granddaughters Ellie and Agnes who brought him such joy. Ron is survived by his brothers David (Bonnie), Randy (Sherry), predeceased by brother Paul (Linda); survived by brothers-in-law Stephen (Wendy) Secord, Michael (Pat) Secord, sister-in-law Marilyn (Ken deceased) Douglas and many nieces and nephews. Ron’s entrepreneurial interests led him from General Motors Head Office in Oshawa to owning a car dealership in Cobourg, then starting up a manufacturing company Spartan Plastics back in London, followed by executive positions with CVD Diamond, London Venture Group and London Tech Alliance. In retirement, Ron spent time on his favourite hobby – golfing. Ron was an avid golfer who enjoyed playing golf for many years at Sunningdale Golf Club and was an active member as Past President and Senior Masters’ convenor. Ron was also an excellent bowler with many trophies to his credit. As well, Ron was a talented musician who began playing alto sax at age 10 with the London Police Boys Band. In 2008, Ron organized a reunion for the band bringing musicians from across the country. With his interest in music, Ron co-founded the Encore Concert Band 25 years ago with talented conductor Phil Murphy and then went on to play in the Mocha Shrine Band.
Along with his many achievements and talents, Ron will be remembered for his great sense of humour, cheerful personality and strong work ethic but most of all for his love of family. Cremation has taken place. There will be a Celebration of Life for Ron on Saturday, May 11th from 2 to 4 pm at Sunningdale Golf Club on Sunningdale Road. Private interment will be at a later date. Those wishing to make a donation in Ron’s memory are asked to consider the Parkinson’s Society or a charity of your choice.
Phil Sparling
Teacher. musician, husband, father, grandfather, poet. Born June 8, 1922, in Goderich, Ont. Died Oct. 21 in London, Ont., of a pneumonia-related infection, aged 88.
Phil Sparling was the son of roving CN station master Roy Sparling and Iris Warnock. Self-taught on the saxophone, Phil left home in Clinton, Ont., at 16 to play in a bar in Windsor, Ont.
Phil wanted to be an air force mechanic during the war, but bad eyes and mechanical ineptitude put a stop to that. Seeing a "Musicians Wanted" sign, he eventually played sax with the RCAF Streamliners, a band so good it played on the same bill as Glenn Miller in London. This was one of nearly 1,000 troop entertainment gigs the band played in Britain and on the continent between 1943 and 1946. He would never return to England. "Why would I? The last time I was there someone tried to kill me."
Just before he went overseas, Phil married Margaret Elaine Nichols, whom he had met at a dance hall in Port Stanley, Ont. Their marriage lasted 68 years and 11 days.
Back home after the war, Phil completed high school on the veterans' education plan, graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 1951 and taught high-school French and Latin in Strathroy, Ont., where he wrote the town high school's song. With their two children - Jill and Andy - in tow, Phil and Elaine moved to London, Ont.
Ex-students remember attending "toga parties" - learning Latin in Roman garb was more fun. Phil directed the musical Finian's Rainbow at London Central Secondary School, and led the glee club. Students getting the right answer in French class were frequently rewarded with free rides on the teacher's rolling chair.
After the war, Phil's Friday and Saturday nights for the next 30 years were taken up playing saxophone and clarinet in bands. There was also a stint on oboe in the London Symphony Orchestra. For many years at the Western Fair in London, Phil was hired by touring performers to play the grandstand shows.
Phil was stubborn. In the 1970s, he pursued a master's degree with a thesis on the 16th-century French author François Rabelais. When he got to the thesis interview, he decided the board's request for changes was ill-informed, and he just wasn't going to change it. That was the last we heard of his plan for a postgraduate degree.
In July, Phil gave up smoking after 70 years. It was a surprise to all of us who grew up hearing that it was quitting that would kill him. He saved every penny he would have spent on cigarettes so he could split some Christmas cash among his kids and grandkids.
Near the end, breathing only through a tube and unable to talk, he was asked by a nurse if he was really ready to die. Phil's response, with a twinkle in his eye, was a slashing motion across his throat. We all had a good laugh at that. "What a way to go!" he had written earlier, flashing a jaunty wave.
Doug Keenan (D.R.)
Passed away very suddenly Saturday, August 4, 2012 at the age of 67. Son of Jean Keenan & the late Dr. Hugh Keenan of Sarnia, brother of Anne Wilson (Toronto), the late Don Keenan, Joan Keenan Campbell (Michigan), and Judy Hurst (Cambridge); much loved uncle of Julie & Michael Wilson, Morgan, James & Marina Campbell, and Derek & Jeremy Hurst. Doug's life revolved around music - as an accomplished jazz musician, arranger, composer, teacher, and music publication expert. A memorial concert (featuring some of Doug's original jazz music) and celebration of his life will be held in late August. As expressions of sympathy, contributions to the Intensive Care Unit of London University Hospital (or the charity of your choice) would be appreciated.
Tributes
The local music scene is mourning the loss of a gifted local musician Doug Keenan. Doug passed away from undetermined medical complications on Saturday August 4th.
Doug's career can be traced in large part to his beginning student days at Canadian Music Associates here in London in the 1970's when he was a significant participant in that private music school's endeavours.
He played in the school's Big Band ensembles on trumpet. Like many of the top students at the school, Doug eventually expanded his musical interests on the local scene. These opportunities for these select players were concerts, local dance bands, London's Western Fair, Ice Capades and Theatre London.
Doug not only was a astute trumpet player but was also an gifted music orchestrator. To the end of his days he was actively involved in the local picture in every aspect of the music scene performing, composing and orchestrating.
He will always be remembered for his many creative talents, sense of humour and easy manner.
He will be deeply missed by his many friends and colleagues.
Bob Martin - teacher Canadian Music Associates
Dick Butterwick
BUTTERWICK, Richard Francis "Dick" - a lifelong resident of St. Thomas, died in his 84th year on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2014, at Valleyview Home, surrounded by his family. The son of Harold Gilbert "Red" Butterwick and Thelma Evelyn (Mulvaney) Butterwick, he was born June 3, 1931, in St. Thomas where he attended Myrtle Street Public School and St. Thomas Collegiate Institute. He is survived by his wife of near 64 years Marion June (Smith) Butterwick, his eternal companion, and children Shelley Butterwick, Mark Butterwick, Todd (Laurine) Butterwick, Drew (Ardath) Butterwick and Cory (Cathy) Butterwick, all of St. Thomas. Also survived by grandchildren Katie (Steve) Plumb of London, Mason Butterwick of St. Thomas; Dr. Derek (Dr. Jaana Kastikainen) Butterwick of Vancouver, B.C., Marcie Butterwick of London, Kelsey Butterwick (fiancé Jeff Bradley) of Port Stanley; Paige Butterwick of St. Thomas, Caverly (Nathan) Smith of Halifax, N.S., Jesse Butterwick of St. Thomas; Sarah (Jamal) Butterwick Charles of Toronto, Brooke (Greg) Snowsell of St. Thomas; and great-grandchildren Jack Plumb; Isla Butterwick; Ash O’Connor, Charlie Butterwick, Cameron and Rose Smith; Jaylen and Jace Butterwick Charles, Griffin Snowsell. He was a special grandfather to Jamie (Melissa) MacQueen and Kaden Simard. A brother, Garth Butterwick, also survives. In his youth he enjoyed playing basketball and won an Ontario championship with the St. Thomas Orioles. Growing up he became an accomplished snooker and poker player. He took up golf as an adult and, later, curling. He had been a member of St. Thomas Public Golf Club, Belmont Golf Club, St. Thomas Curling Club. He retired in 1993 as general manager - product acceptance from Canadian Timken Ltd. where he worked for 43 years. He was an engineering technician and held certification from the University of Connecticut. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings in the St. Thomas Ward/Branch and the London Stake/District for more than 50 years. Growing up with a trumpet in his hands, he played in several stage bands and combos beginning in his early teens. For many years, he performed at the Stork Club in Port Stanley with the Len Langley Orchestra and enjoyed meeting the headliner stars that shared the stage there. He was a long-serving secretary/treasurer of Local 633, American Federation of Musicians. His love of family, especially young children, and music carried him through his years and was reflected in his quality of life. He will be sadly missed by all those who enjoyed his company, his sense of humour and his music. Resting at WILLIAMS FUNERAL HOME , 45 Elgin St., St. Thomas, for visitation from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 22, 2014. Funeral service at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2014, at The Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints, 430 Elm St., St. Thomas. Interment at Elmdale Memorial Park. Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, or charity of choice.
Mac Cameron
CAMERON, Malcolm (Mac) - of Strathroy, Ontario, on Dec. 27, 2014. Loving husband of Estelle (Piché); dear father of David and his wife Catherine Wooden of Strathroy, and Nancy and her husband Rick Vincent of Kelowna, British Columbia; proud grandfather of Terri Cameron (Bernie Ugolini) of Milton, Steve Cameron (Jacki Masse) of London, and Scott and Luke Vincent of Kelowna, B.C.; great-grandfather of Austin and Alyssa Cameron. Predeceased by his parents Earl (1959) and Cora (1981) Cameron. Mac was born in Sudbury on October 20, 1930. He attended Espanola High School and Queen's University in Kingston. He was a teacher and vice-principal at Strathroy District Collegiate Institute, principal at North Middlesex District High School, and principal at Glencoe District High School. He was a life member of the Strathocha Shrine Club and an avid musician who received his gold card from the London Musicians Association. He played saxophone and clarinet in many London and area orchestras, and in later years formed his own band, The Music Makers. Visitation will be at DENNING BROS. FUNERAL HOME , Strathroy, on Wednesday, December 31, 2014 from 2-5 p.m. According to Mac's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Cremation will take place, with interment of ashes in a private family service at Strathroy Cemetery. Donations may be made in Mac's memory to the Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Foundation, the Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Auxiliary, or the charity of your choice.
Ken Lane
LANE, Kenneth "Ken" - 1922 - 2015. Surrounded by his loving family at his home, on Wednesday, May 6 2015, Ken passed away in his 93rd year.Beloved husband of Betty (Margaret Elizabeth Rothnie) for over 69 years, and dear father of Daniel Lane and his wife Judy (London) and Kerry Shellard (England). Loved by his grandchildren, Katie, Krista (Matt), Daniel and Craig. Predeceased by his brothers Frank and Richard, and his son-in-law Robert Shellard. Born in London, Ontario to parents Lily and Dick Lane, Ken's passion was playing the trumpet, and during his time in the Royal Canadian Navy band in Shelbourne, NS he met his best friend and wife Betty. They returned to London, Ont. to raise their two children. Taking a job in the car shops with the Canadian National Railway, he became an artful carpenter and later built most of the home they lived in for over 60 years. He joined the London Free Press in 1960 where he stayed until retirement. Ken continued to play the trumpet in dancehalls across Ontario until his seventies, including the Stork Club in Port Stanley, Wonderland and the 401, and was first trumpet in the Johnny Downs Orchestra for many years. He was known for his humor, devotion to his family and kept us laughing even in his last days. We will miss him very much. A heartfelt thank you to the VON palliative care team, Dr. J MacLean and the CCAC for all their support, compassion and care. At Ken's request cremation has taken place, with no visitation or formal funeral. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society of London, 435 Windermere Rd, London, ON N5X 2T1. Cremation and Interment at Woodland Cemetery, London. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs can be shared
Greg Jackson
JACKSON, Greg Peacefully at Victoria Hospital, London on Thursday, October 4, 2018, Gregory Thomas Jackson of London age 81. Beloved husband of 60 years of the late Janice Jackson. Loving father of Scott Jackson and his wife April. Also fondly remembered by his niece Cheryl. Son of the late Lorna and Thomas Jackson and brother of Monte and the late Lowell, all of Guelph. A very good athlete, he enjoyed several sports including golf, tennis, baseball and hockey. He loved the outdoors especially working in the yard. Greg was a past master of The Tuscan Lodge #195, a past Grand Lodge officer and a long time member of the Mocha Shrine. Greg enjoyed playing the trumpet and played in four different bands in London. He is retired from London Life Insurance Company. Visitation on Wednesday, October 10 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Harris Funeral Home, 220 St. James Street at Richmond, London. A memorial service will be conducted at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 280 St. James Street at Wellington, London on Thursday, October 11, 2018 at 11 a.m. A Masonic Service under the auspices of Tuscan Lodge No. 195 A.F. & A.M. will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. Private interment at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations can be made to Shriner's Hospital for Children or a charity of your choice.