A life well-lived with no regrets. February 5, 1962 – December 6, 2021
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Jeffrey (Jeff) Witt surrounded by love at his home in Dundas, ON. Jeff fought a heroic battle and lived every day to the best of his abilities, despite a cruel brain cancer diagnosis received in September of 2021. Jeff’s pride and joy were his family, including his adored children and their spouses Jennifer & Kevyn Murray, Jordan & Katelyn Witt and Stacey Witt. His family was expanded in 2007 to include his cherished partner Pamela Mirehouse and her daughters and their spouses Kirsten Brown & Michael Gropp, and Hana & Evan Eckert. In 2016, their beautiful family began to grow even more and now includes much loved grandchildren that called him ‘Papa’ – James Murray, Lillian & Madelyn Witt, and Aubrey & Oscar Gropp. Jeff lived a life supported by his loving parents, Florence and Elden Witt and his dear sisters Katherine Waldron (Harry) & Patricia Baptista (Eddie-2011). Uncle Jeff (UJ) showed that same love and support to his many nieces, nephew and their families. Jeff was close with his cousins and cherished the time he spent with them. Jeff was proud to have been born and raised in Pembroke, ON, where he spent much of his early years with his large extended family, creating joyful and lasting memories. His love of sports also began early on and he became well known for his athletic ability, excelling in hockey, basketball, football, refereeing and more. He graduated in 1985 from Queen’s University with a degree in Applied Science. Jeff was a true engineer at heart and would go on to spend his entire 35 year career at ArcelorMittal Dofasco in Hamilton, ON taking on many different roles. Throughout his career, Jeff had a relentless energy to continuously improve anywhere he went. He leaves behind a legacy of improvement throughout multiple areas of the company, and he also applied these same principles in his daily life. He was known amongst his peers as “Mr. Dofasco” and was truly proud to have worked for this company. He happily retired in late 2020 from his last role as the Coach in the Transformation Office. Jeff was an avid supporter of the Dundas and Hamilton community and volunteered through his work and other organizations. A true lover of food, he was always on the lookout for new restaurants to try, breweries to visit, and attractions to see. He was a regular blood donor and made a personal commitment to giving life to someone else in need, exceeding 75 donations throughout his life. A man of the people, he would run into an old colleague, friend, or former classmate everywhere he went. His active lifestyle kept him busy at home and he was always working to improve his and Pam’s award winning garden. Jeff lived life fully as a leader, traveller, storyteller, family man, and during his journey he touched many lives as a good friend, well respected mentor, and will be missed by many.
Visitation will be held on April 9, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., followed by the celebration of life at 5:00 p.m. at the FlamboroughHills Golf Club, 71 Hwy 52, Copetown, ON. Event details can be found at:
Marie passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2021 in her 91st year. Predeceased by her husband George. She will be missed dearly by her family, friends and neighbours on Chatham Street. Marie worked as an accountant for many years at McGregor Clinic and taught Sunday School at St. John the Evangelist. She had a caring heart, adored her many pets, enjoyed traveling, and loved her plants and garden. Marie was sweet and feisty right until the end. Her friends and family would like to thank the wonderful staff and caregivers at Wentworth Lodge these past few years and especially in her final days. As per Marie’s wishes, there will be no public memorial.
Passed peacefully the morning of December 2nd, in her 87th year, at Juravinski Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. She will be greatly missed by her children: Diane Lassaline (William), Michael McClure (Heather), her grandchildren Samantha, Andrew, Joshua, and Amy. Also survived by her sister Dorothy Sipocz (John), her brother Larry Hayhurst (Joan), and her many cousins, nephews and nieces. Mom’s favourite hymn was Blessed Assurance which continues, “Jesus Is Mine. Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine.” Rest peacefully, Barbara, in the fullness of God’s divine glory and love. There will be a Time of Remembrance held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the Canadian Cancer Society would gratefully accept your donations.
On November 24 Jeanne Ruth Merifield Beck passed away at St. Peter’s Chedoke. Jeanne was the much loved wife of John Spencer Robin Beck (D 2006). She will be missed by her daughters Susan Nelson (John), Constance Rietkoetter and Jody Beck (Rob) and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Kate Eidsvick (Bruce) – Bjorn, Ella and Terje, Robin Perry (Clark) – Diana, Jackson and David, Tom (Sarah) – Liam and Annika, Matthew (Jenna) – Anika and Levi, Seth (Krystal) – Juliet and Claire, Sarah (John) – Avery and Mady, and Alex, Robin and Lindsay. Jeanne was born in Sarnia and spent her early years in Montreal, Calgary and Toronto. She was a graduate of Victoria University in Toronto (BA Hons. – History) and McMaster University (MA and PhD). After graduating from Victoria University, Jeanne and Robin moved to Dundas, Ontario where they raised their family. Jeanne began her career as a reporter for the Dundas Star, and after their children were all in school, she returned to work as an elected School Trustee for the former Dundas and Wentworth County School Boards. After receiving her PhD in history, she became a lecturer for McMaster University, and later an editor for the Ontario Historical Study Series, publishing 33 books on the history of Ontario. One of her greatest pleasures came from researching and writing. She wrote, “To Do and To Endure” The life of Catherine Donnelly, Sister of Service. Jeanne was an avid gardener, and loved music and art. She and Robin enjoyed travelling through Europe, Arizona and Florida and spending their summers at Sand Lake.
A service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, December 11 at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Anglican, 137 Melville Street, Dundas, ON. To attend Jeanne’s Service, you must show proof of double vaccinations and identification. The service will be live streamed as well. To view the livestream please click here
Suddenly at her home on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, in her 59th year. Kym will be missed by her loving partner Rod Clark, and also sadly missed by her siblings; Scott, Heather Spence (Doug), Charlene Oldham (Rob) and Mark Pangowish, and her nephews ; Greg (Carly), Tyler and Jacob. Friends will be received by the family on Wednesday, December 1st from 1 until the Service for Kym at 2 o’clock at the Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas. Cremation has taken place. Please note, proof of full vaccination and identification will need to be shown to attend. Expressions of Sympathy to the Scarborough Health Network or Toronto Humane Society would be appreciated.
