Orct, John Larry

It is with immense sadness and a profound sense of loss that our family announces the unexpected and sudden passing of John Larry Orct, at the age of 59, on Wednesday November 2, 2022.

John deeply loved and lived for his family. He will be eternally reunited with his father, Lloyd. He was a beloved son to Ann and will be forever loved and cherished by his sister Barb (Gord) and brother William (Milena). John was a very proud and devoted uncle to his four nephews Lloyd, Matthew (fiance Lisa), Brandon and Ryan who will forever feel his absence in their lives. John was the loving nephew of Nick (deceased) and Mary Jurilj and John and Gail Orct. His kindness will be fondly remembered by his cousins, extended family and close friends.

While growing up, John found that he loved what his parents did for a living and also chose to follow the path to farming. Even though he never worked 9am to 5pm and was always on “stand by”, he could never imagine a life worthwhile doing anything else. He remained a motivated and passionate Farmer up until the day before his passing.

Visitations will take place at Turner Family Funeral Home Ltd, 53 Main St., Dundas, ON, (905) 628-6412 on Monday, November 7, 2022 from 6 to 9 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at 10 a.m. at St. Augustine’s Parish, 58 Sydenham St. Dundas. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 620 Governor’s Rd. E., Paris.

THOSE WE LOVE
DON’T GO AWAY,
THEY WALK BESIDE US EVERYDAY.

UNSEEN, UNHEARD,
BUT ALWAYS NEAR,
SO LOVED, SO MISSED,
SO VERY DEAR

Pope, Brent Anthony

With a heavy heart we announce the passing of Brent Anthony Pope of Copetown/ Hamilton, Ontario. Brent was a Professional hockey player with an International resume. He was a sought-after defender on both sides of the Atlantic, and he became a well-respected player and coach for a number of Super league clubs in the UK. This included the Nottingham Panthers, London Knights and the Cardiff Devils. After his retirement from the sport, he went onto sports management, becoming Managing Director at the Cardiff Devils.

A man of many talents, Brent’s rich, infectious and enthusiastic voice enabled him to enjoy a successful career as a highly acclaimed sports commentator, working for the BBC at the Turin, Vancouver and Sochi Olympic Winter games. Brent went on to work directly for the Olympics as a commentator for the Rio de Janeiro summer and Paralympic games as well the Winter Olympic and Paralympic winter games in PyeongChang.

Brent passed on the 1st of November after a short, but courageous battle with cancer at the age of 49. He leaves behind his loving wife Fegie, 3-year-old son Arthur and 8-month-old daughter Felicisima, Mother Ann, Father Dan (passed 2016), brother Dan, sister Tracey, brother-in-law Alan, niece Gwen, and nephew Aidan.

For those wishing to pay last respects to Brent, there will be a graveside service on Friday, November 11, 2022 at 1p.m. at Mt. Zion Cemetery, Copetown. A  Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, November 13, 2022 from 2-4pm at the Copetown Community Centre, 1950 Governor’s Rd, Copetown.

Hood, Eleanor “June” (nee Hildreth)

Passed away peacefully at St. Peters Hospital on October 31, 2022 in her 80th year. Beloved wife of Larry for over 57 years. Loving mother to Jennifer (Larry – predeceased), Tracy (Dave), Alison (Bill – predeceased), Brad (Tricia). Caring Nana of 9 grandchildren. June was a member and organist at Orkney Church of the Nazarene for many years. Friends and family are invited to Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main St. Dundas, on Sunday, November 6th from 2-4p.m. & 7-9p.m. and again on Monday, November 7th at 10a.m. until the Service at 11a.m. Interment to follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery. Thank you to the staff at St. Peter’s Hospital for their excellent care and compassion. Donations can be made, in memory, to the Alzheimer Society or St. Peter’s Hospital.

Howard, D. Joan

May 6, 1931 – October 30, 2022

Our Matriarch has passed. Joan Howard was born in Hamilton to Mae and Jim Wagstaffe, older sister to Jim, Doug, Paul and Mike. She quickly came to know deep pride in her family’s legacy, the Wagstaffe Jams Factory at the corner of Gage Avenue and Maplewood.

She married Norm Howard, always supportive of his years attaining degrees in education, from Normal School to ultimately obtaining his Masters, this through evening and summer courses. A life long learner, Mum became a highly accomplished seamstress and homemaker. A wonderful cook. She hosted beautiful receptions for Dad’s teaching staffs. A gardener, alongside Dad.

And she was our Mum. Carolyn Westoby (Gord, deceased), Craig Howard (Joanne), Beth Genovese (John), and Barb Warner (Dean) became the family. Each grew to be a good person. Grandchildren arrived. Kevin (Caroline) and Jenny (Dave); Julia (Kayla) and Cory; Phil and Tyler. And Great Grandchildren! Brayden, Aaron, Zachary and Anna. For them, Mum was G.G. They delighted in her caramel corn, brownies and Belgium cookies.

Mum was a dedicated community volunteer, most notably at Wentworth Lodge and in the MUMC Pharmacy, Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Clinic and Travel Medicine Clinic. She delivered Meals-on-Wheels to Dundas residents when in her eighties.

Mum was very proud of her 91 years. And that the colour of her red hair was all her own! She lived well informed and independently in her beautiful condominium. The family communicator, she assured that we knew what was happening in each home. Illness sent her to hospital in September. She passed on October 30, 2022, at Amica, Dundas. At her request, there will be no visitation or service. We wish you peace, Mum.

Donations to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or the Heart & Stroke Foundation in Mum’s memory would be deeply appreciated by the family.

McCarthy, Jackie “Jack” Leroy

Passed away at peace with his family by his side on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 in his 90th year. Shirley, his wife of 67 years, loved that man so much. He will remain in her heart forever. Jack will be loved and missed by his daughter Jacqui Kynast (Randy), his sons Larry (Carrie) and John (Annette) and Brian Smith who was like a son to him; his grandchildren Kellie, Samantha (Rob MacDonald), Tawnya, Laura and Emma; as well as his 7 great-grandchildren and his sister Pat Slade. Jack was predeceased by his many brothers and sisters. Jack was a volunteer firefighter at the Greensville Fire Department and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #36 in Dundas. He spent 43 years of dedicated employment at Red-D-Mix Concrete but the love and happiness in his life were his family. Special thanks to all the staff at Amica Dundas for their care and compassion. Friends will be received by the family on Wednesday, November 9th from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Jack’s Service at 11:00 a.m. at Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas. Cremation has taken place. A private interment will be held with family present.

Strecker, William A.

1936-2022

Bill died surrounded by his family at home on October 22, 2022.  Dearly missed by his beloved wife, Carolyn, two cherished sons, William (Liz), Stefan (Jackie) and three adored grandchildren Brooke, Maddox and Kole.  He revelled in all their accomplishments, both small and large.  Bill was extremely proud of Stefan and William for their scholastic success and their accomplishments in Baseball and Hockey.  They travelled many miles together for their sports both in Canada and the United States.  Family was his pride and joy.

Bill was a treasured “brother” to Norm and Lori, Grant (deceased) and Elizabeth.  He had close bonds with kin, especially his cousin Lorraine and her family.

Bill was born in Beausejour, Manitoba on a prairie farm where he spent his early formative years.  He had a strong affinity for his birthplace and often visited relatives and friends.  He was drawn to the vast, panoramic wheat fields and endless blue skies – his sunny Manitoba.  Another favourite place was Sand Bay, Quebec where he relished the simple pleasures of boating, fishing on the Ottawa River and the sandy beach.  There the soft touch of nature was a calm amid towering pines, giant rocks and dense forest.

Bill had a keen sense of humour as well as a generosity of spirit.  His wit sparked much laughter, sometimes groans with his puns and one liners.  Laughter was good medicine, not only for living in the moment but also for easing health challenges.

Bill had many interests and talents, especially native culture, folk and western music, art, theatre and sports.  He coached baseball for many years with his loyal friend Joe.  The Dodgers, National League West, was his favourite team.

Bill leaves a legacy of devotion, generosity and kindness.  Also, the motto “family first” was heartily embraced.  Love of family defined and animated him.  He was a gentleman and a gentle man – simply the best who was loved beyond measure.

Despite heroic efforts, Bill’s cancer cure was never reached.  Heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful family physician, Dr. James Williams and his care team – Angela, Kirsten and Stephanie.  They gave many years of exceptional expertise and compassion.

Also, much praise to three oncologists, Dr. Gudelis, Dr. Hotte and Dr. Lukka for their unwavering commitment and insight.

Much respect to our pharmacist, Dipak Mistry and his team, Jennifer, Karen and Ingrid for their valuable advise and support.

To our faithful family, friends and neighbours, many, many thanks for their encouragement and good times.  Earlene, Karen and Mike, Sharon and Dan were with us every step of the journey.

To honour Bill, a celebration of life will be held at the Brewer’s Blackbird Kitchen and Brewery, 375 Wilson St. E, Ancaster, on Saturday, November 26, 2022 from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.  Family and friends are welcome.

In Bill’s memory, share a random act of kindness.

Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Diabetes Canada or Kidney Foundation of Canada.