Obituaries & Condolences

HILTZ, Robert Maxwell “Bob”…

Bob Hiltz passed away peacefully in London, Ontario, on April 9th, 2024, in his 62nd year. Beloved father to Sarah Hiltz and Jessica Hiltz (Aaron Croft). Loving grandfather of Jordyn Michelle Savannah Hiltz, Trixie G. Croft, Kaeleb William Nicholas Croft, and Quinton Theodore Kerwin Croft. Dear friend and former husband of Sherry Hiltz. Dear brother of Dirk Hiltz, Rick Hiltz, Randy Hiltz (Mary-Theresa Hiltz), Perry Hiltz (Anita Hiltz) and Uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Kerwin and Karola Hiltz, and his sister Jude Zutz.

Bob’s love of music was a central focus of his life from early adulthood. He was a supporting member of many Chatham-Kent bands and artists, including his eldest daughter Sarah Hiltz, New Wine, Eileen O’Toole, Two Tonnes of Fun, Julie Ross, The Tom Lockwood Band, the Chatham-Kent Mountaineers, Mike Gorman, and many other groups his daughters can’t recall the names of.

Aside from performing, Bob also worked at Frank’s Music Centre with Steve Eyres for many years, eventually taking over Eyrespace Studio to help capture the original music of countless CK bands and artists. Often most comfortable in a behind-the-scenes role, Bob encouraged local artists young-and-old to pursue their craft and turn their creative dreams into realities. He was generous to a fault with his time, energy, and resources, and he remained an active member of the Chatham-Kent music community as long as his health allowed.

Above all, Bob cherished his family. As a young father, he would sing his daughters to sleep at bedtime. His love for his grandchildren was profound and unwavering and he was a guiding light in their lives. Bob’s legacy will live on in the beautiful memories he created with his loved ones and the positive impact he had on his community.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Bob may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Celebration of life will be held at Satellite Restaurant in Chatham, Ontario on Sunday, April 21st at 4pm. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

McGARRITY, Christiane…

It is with great sadness to announce the peaceful passing of Christiane McGarrity on April 4th, 2024. She was a loving grandmother, mother, daughter, sister, friend and cousin. Remembered by her daughter Sarah (Neil), sons Lance (Katya), and Mark, and grandchildren Janelle, Tatyana, Sophie, Zoey, and Hannah. Best friend of Tammy Schiestel. Missed by siblings Rachel (Wes), Roxanne (John), Chris (Edith), Mark, Carl (Joanne), Gerry (Amanda). Chris is joining her daughter Katie, mother Charlotte and father Jeremie in the warm embrace of God. Chris was a fun loving, joyous, and sometimes stubborn person and she will be greatly missed by all those who have had the chance to meet and love her. In her memory, donations may be made to Huron Hospice, 37857 Huron Road, Clinton, ON N0M 1L0. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

HOLECEK, Francis “Frank”

Francis Holecek passed away peacefully at peopleCare in London, Ontario, the 1st of April, 2024, in his 81st year. Frank will be so dearly missed by the entire Sullivan and Deyell family, he became an honorary family member and was called Grandpa Frank by all. His life long friends from Niagara Falls, where Frank was born on Christmas Day, will also miss him. He is predeceased by his father Peter Holecek, mother Mary (Horacek) Holecek and sister Vlasta Holecek, and his wife Janine Gadek. Frank worked as a customs agent for many years, helping grow the company. Living his adult life in London, Ontario, he loved gardening, photography, traveling, fishing, cooking and especially his desserts. In his late years he was known as the quiet observer in the long term care home he was in, with dementia. We are so very thankful for all of Grandpa Frank’s teachings and blessings, and for all of our memories and pictures. Frank, you are so very missed. We love you. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Frank may be made to Diabetes Canada. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex Inc. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

KEMP, Shirley…

Shirley Joan Kemp (nee Whitlock) passed away peacefully surrounded by her family in London, Ontario, on March 13^th, 2024, in her 91^st year.  Predeceased by her husband John Douglas Kemp (1980) and her brother Leonard Whitlock (2011). Shirley will be missed by her children Richard Kemp (Margaret Anne White), Dianne Mather and Alan Kemp (Barbara Mancuso) all of London. Loving grandmother to Chad Kemp (Michelle), Charity Moniz (Kevin), Shelby Kemp (Angie), Nick Mather (Cora), Nathan Mather (Danielle), Brynn Kemp (Jeff), Brenton Kemp (Whitney), Lukas Kemp, Sam Kemp, Krystal McNaughton, Devon McNaughton, and Dustin McNaughton (Angie). Cherished great-grandmother of Adyson, Kole, Cooper, Emersyn, Aubrey, Maverick, Donelle, Hazel, Jack, Myla, Dallas, Autumn, Allie, Abby, Bryson, Trinity, Selena, Skylar, and Graydon.

With a career spanning 30 years with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Shirley dedicated herself to serving her community with unwavering dedication and integrity. Beyond her professional life, Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished moments watching her grandchildren play hockey, baseball, soccer and figure skating. Her greatest source of happiness came from the time spent with her family, whose laughter filled her heart with immeasurable joy. Shirley will also be remembered for her culinary talents, particularly her renowned angel food cake and turkey stuffing which brought comfort and delight to countless gatherings. She also had the most beautiful penmanship with her cursive writing adorning many a birthday and christmas card.  Shirley’s warm smile, generous spirit, and loving nature will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ziada, the nurses and PSW’s on the 5^th floor cardiac unit at University Hospital and Glendale Crossing for their care and compassion.  As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Shirley may be made to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners or a charity of your choosing.  Cremation and private family interment has taken place. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, March 28^th, 2024, at Boler Mountain, 689 Griffith Street, London, ON, from 2-6pm.  Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

WAWRZYNIAK, Andrzej…

Andrzej passed away suddenly at University Hospital, London, Ontario, on March 17th, 2024, in his 67th year. Andrzej will be missed by his wife Danuta. Dear father of Ola and Tomek. Loving brother of Grazyna and Malgosia. He joins his granddaughter Ashley and his parents Eugene and Helena in heaven.

Andrzej’s life was a testament to his vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to his passions. He found solace and joy on the tennis court, in the tranquil waters of the swimming pool, in the gym and soccer field. Yet, amidst these pursuits, his greatest joy stemmed from the cherished moments spent with his beloved daughter, whom he adored beyond measure. Andrzej was not only a loving and caring father and husband but also a pillar of strength within his community and his work mates, known as “Omega” and renowned for his hard work and generosity. His presence will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever remain in our hearts.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Andrzej may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Humane Society London & Middlesex, or a charity of your choosing. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. As per his wishes, a private family celebration of life will take place at a later date. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

BRYCE, Donna

Suddenly, as a result of a stroke, Donna Marie Bryce (nee Park) passed away in her 86th year. Predeceased by her son Dale. Survived by the love of her life David (Dusty), her children Dean Bryce, Dawn Bryce-Smith (Mike), Joanna Bryce (nee DeVincenzo), her grandkids Ryli, Kodi, David, Jeremy, and her sister Doris Murray (nee Park). Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be at Wesley Knox United Church, 91 Askin St, London, on Thursday, March 14^th, 2024 from 10:30 am followed by service at 11:00 am and reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wesley Knox United Church. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

ADAMS, Diane…

Diane passed away bravely and peacefully at St. Joseph’s Hospice on Monday, March 4th, 2024, in her 69th year. Beloved sister of Hilda (Adams) Craig, Bill Adams, and Linda (Rob) Dutton. Predeceased by her brother-in-law Bruno Lafond. We are comforted in knowing she is reunited with our mother (2002) and father (1967). She will also be dearly missed by nephews Jeff Craig, Chris (Dallas) Adams and nieces Sara Dutton, Emily (Zac) Rendell and Heather (Rob) Nicolau.

We carry many fond memories of Diane that will forever remain in our hearts. Her zest for life garnered many cherished friends. We wish to thank the nurses and staff at St. Joseph’s Hospice for their compassion and comfort during Diane’s last days. In keeping with Diane’s wishes, cremation has taken place and funeral services will not be held. For those who wish to make a donation in Diane’s name please consider your favorite charity or St. Joseph’s Hospice. Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

FISCHER, Heidi…

October 22, 1937 – February 26, 2024

Heidi Fischer, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully in London, Ontario, on February 26, 2024, at the age of 86.

Born in Altdoebern, Germany on October 22, 1937, Heidi embarked on a journey of adventure and resilience. In her early twenties she set her sights on Hollywood, but destiny led her to Toronto/Mississauga where she built a beautiful life filled with love and purpose.

Heidi’s greatest joy was her family. She married Norman Fischer in May of 1962 and together they had two children, Norman Fischer Jr. and Barbara VanBunderen. She cherished them and their spouses Barbara Wallner and Mark VanBunderen dearly. She also adored her grandchildren, Liam, Sophia, Lexi and Jamie, who brought immeasurable joy into her life. Although far in distance, forever close to her heart were her siblings, Addi and Brigitte Barz, Sabina and Kurt Schlenther and Matthes Barz and Gabi Greinert.

An accomplished artist, Heidi’s creativity knew no bounds. Many of her pieces of work can be found on the walls of friends and family or in her beautiful handmade cards. Her culinary skills are still remembered by her children, and her passion for gardening brought beauty to those around her.

What defined Heidi most was her strong faith and boundless generosity. She touched countless lives and always showed genuine compassion for those who needed it the most. Her legacy of giving will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Heidi Fischer’s light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends in the cherished memories she created. Though she may have left this world, her spirit will forever live on in the presence of her precious Lord and Saviour Jesus.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. As per Heidi’s wishes, there will be no funeral service or visitation. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Heidi are asked to consider The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex, 519-858-2467. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com

LEECH, Lawrence Barrie

With sadness and love, we announce the passing of Barrie on February 28, 2024, at the age of 85, in London Ontario.  He passed peacefully with family by his side, and is free to run with his border collies once again.

Barrie was a devoted husband, father, brother, Papa, coach and friend.  He won nine Canadian handball championships between 1963-1975, was inducted into the Canadian Handball Hall of Fame in 2010, and was also a varsity basketball and football athlete.  He was an avid dog lover, sports lover, reader, and golfer, and was a respected school principal with the Toronto District School Board. Barrie will be sorely missed by his loving wife Chris, daughters Raewyn (Sean) and Tara (Kevin), sister Deborah Gibson (Scott), and grandchildren Paige, Nina, Nolan, Troy, Bryce and Callum.  It brings us comfort knowing he will be welcomed by, and reunited with, his beloved border collies Godfrey, Barkley, Bailey, Cody, and most recently Finn.

The family would like to thank the wonderful medical team at Victoria Hospital, London, for their care and compassion.  As per Barrie’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Barrie’s memory may be made to the OVC Pet Trust University of Guelph, or Covenant House Toronto. Cremation London & Middlesex entrusted with arrangements, 519-858-2467.

BOND, Christopher Michael…

Christopher Michael Bond passed away suddenly in Sarnia, Ontario, the 21st of February, 2024, in his 67th year. Predeceased by his parents Barry and Joan, and his sister Jayne. Chris is survived by his daughter Ashlea, and sisters Anne, Colleen, Carolyn and Mary Lou. Free from suffering, may he rest in peace. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com