Riverside Funeral Home Inc.

10/09/2025

Floyd William Herman

After courageously facing the recent news of a devastating diagnosis, Floyd William Herman of Blyth, Ontario, passed away peacefully in the comfort of The Bender House, Huron Hospice, Central Huron. Floyd knew this was where he wanted to spend his final days—surrounded by compassionate care, kindness, and the feeling of home.

Floyd is survived by his soulmate, Elizabeth “Liz” Ann (Johnson) Herman, with whom he had just joyfully celebrated 48 years of marriage. He was the proud and loving Daddio of three daughters, who, along with his son-in-laws, brought him immense pride and joy: Laura Herman (Michael Bedard), Carly Turford (Joseph Turford), and Alexandra “AK” Herman (Matthew Glousher). Floyd’s most cherished title was “Papa” to his adored grandchildren—Lola and Lars Turford, and Harrison Bedard—who lit up his life with love and laughter. Above all else, Floyd considered his family and faith to be his greatest blessings in life.

He will be lovingly remembered as “Big Brother” by his sister Carol Beth “CB” (Herman) Pappin and brother-in-law Bruce Pappin, and as a brother-in-law to Moira (Watts) Herman. On the Johnson side of the family, Floyd was delighted to be part of the legendary “Out-law Group” and will be fondly remembered by Lyle & Bernice Johnson, Lowell Johnson, Glenys Johnson, and Michael Johnson & Arlene, along with many nieces and nephews who will forever treasure memories of their “cool Uncle Floyd.”

Floyd was predeceased by his parents Harold & Bessie Herman, brother Larry Herman, in-laws Earl & Lorraine Johnson, brother-in-law Robert Johnson, and sisters-in-law Joyce Johnson and Gloria Johnson.

Born and raised in Delhi, Ontario, Floyd grew up on the family farm, working in the to***co fields and attending a one-room schoolhouse before graduating from Delhi High School. Exceptionally bright, he skipped two grades and at just 16 headed to York University. After briefly considering retail, Floyd applied “for the heck of it” to teachers’ college—a choice that became the foundation of his life’s work.

That “heck of it” blossomed into a remarkable career with the Huron County and Avon Maitland District School Boards, beginning at Grey Central in Ethel, where fate stepped in and introduced him to Liz. From then on, their story was written together. Over the decades, Floyd served as a Teacher, Principal, and Ombudsman, known as an educator extraordinaire. His passion was simple yet profound: to help kids. He was an unwavering advocate for every child he taught, encouraging kindness, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams. Countless former students will fondly recall their favourite “Mr. Herman” story—and perhaps even a favourite song they once sang with him.

Never one to sit still, Papa Floyd wore many hats throughout his life: restaurant server, Huron County correspondent for CBC Radio, Choir Director & Organist at Blyth United Church, Chief Storyteller at Cowbell Brewing, Wedding Officiant, Bartender at Blyth Festival, and more. Each role reflected his love of people and his gift for leaving a lasting impression.

Deeply community-minded, Floyd gave freely of his time and voice—whether emceeing a local fundraiser, acting in community theatre, or championing Huron County as one of its most genuine ambassadors. His presence, wit, and warmth made him unforgettable.

Floyd leaves behind a legacy of laughter, music, storytelling, kindness, and a life lived in service of family, students, and community.

Our family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Floyd's very special family physician, Dr Loretta Seevaratnam, whose compassion and dedication meant so much over the years. Deep gratitude is also extended to the incredible staff at Clinton Public Hospital and the unbelievably caring nurses and team at Bender House – Huron Hospice. Their kindness and gentle presence brought comfort not only to Floyd but to all of our family. The honour guard farewell at the hospice was nothing short of perfection – a touching and dignified moment that we as a family will treasure forever.

Following Floyd’s wishes—and yes, he made sure to have the last word—a private family cemetery interment will be held at Blyth Union Cemetery. A Celebration of Life for all those who knew and loved Floyd will then take place at the Blyth Festival Theatre Friday October 24, 2025 from 2:00–5:00 p.m., because where else would we celebrate Floyd but on a stage, with stories, laughter, and plenty of applause.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Floyd would be greatly appreciated to the Blyth Festival Theatre, Bender House Huron Hospice, or Clinton Public Hospital Foundation.

“Life is not always fair, so keep your head up, chin down, get over it and move ahead with a smile on your face and never ever give up” F.W.H.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

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10/07/2025

Fred Haight

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of William Frederic Haight, (known as Fred), devoted husband to Denise Duhamel, step dad to Simon Evans, Debbie Stefan, Joanne Bynoe, Joe Dietrich. Grand dad to seven wonderful grandchildren. Fondly remembered by extended family and friends.

Fred passed away peacefully at Parkwood Mennonite Home in Waterloo with his wife by his side. He is now in his heavenly home with the ever lasting love of Jesus Christ.

Fred was blessed with a long life of 87 years, and many adventures including flying small planes at 17 years old. Most importantly, Fred loved his many dogs and pet horses, with Barney being his favourite horse who took Fred to school every day. Fred was a hard worker, always enjoyed a construction challenge, including running his home renovation business.

Fred and Vivian Evans (deceased 1994) raised their son Simon in Kitchener.

Fred will always be remembered as a man of faith, kindness, persistence, godliness and brotherly love. Never hesitating to help a neighbour in need. Fred was an advocate and volunteered with Lethbridge, Alberta Police Service, with Victim Services Unit for 5 years.

In keeping with Fred's wishes, cremation has taken place.

Fred’s remains will be laid to rest at the family plot in Manitoba.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to the food bank of your choice would be greatly appreciated.

Please send donation cheques to Box 340, Brussels ON N0G 1H0

Condolences may be left at riversidefunerlahome.ca

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09/24/2025

Murray Dennis Funeral Service

09/23/2025

Ruth Isabel McArter

Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 22nd, 2025, at Huronlea Home for the Aged in her 97th year.

Loving wife to Ron Huether for 18 years and Gerald McArter for 41 years.

Mom to Doug Huether, Greg (Dinny) Huether.

Grandma to Bill (Angel) Huether, Annie Burgers, Gregory (Mandi) Huether.

Great grandma to 14 great grandchildren.

Great great grandma to 3 great great grandchildren.

Sister to Jean Marshall.

Missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Predeceased by Eloise (Gerry) Stephenson, Doris Woodward, Margaret Cooper, Edith Gardner, Jim Jewell, Bob Jewell, Teddy Jewell, Mary Beth Darlington.

Ruth was a very loving and caring mom and grandma. She enjoyed going to church and singing in the choir and later singing along at Huronlea. She was an avid baseball player and enjoyed watching the games up town in Brussels and on TV. Ruth liked to knit and paint and she fed her grandkids voortmans cookies and tang and they loved her for it. Ruth always wanted to look her best and didn’t leave the house with out her lipstick on. Her gentle, kind nature will be missed.

Friends and family are invited to Riverside Funeral Home Brussels Chapel for visitation on Monday, September 29th from 1-2 pm with funeral service to follow at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy donations to the Brussels United Church or the Alzheimer’s society of Huron Perth would be appreciated. Please send donation cheques to Box 340 Brussels. ON N0G 1H0.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

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09/20/2025

Murray Allan Dennis

With family by his side, Murray A. Dennis, passed away peacefully at Huronlea Home for the Aged on Thursday, September 18th at the age of 95 after a long and accomplished life.

Loving and caring husband of the late Olene (Godkin) Dennis (January 2025), they were true partners who thoroughly enjoyed cash crop farming, family gatherings, their bountiful garden, travelling the world and the road of life together for 68 years.

Devoted Dad to Steven Dennis & Judy Simpson, Peggy & John Wakabayashi, Laura Forbes and Elaine Grosvenor.

Cherished Grandpa to Natalie and Adrienne Wakabayashi, Danny & Lori-Anne Forbes, Adam Forbes, Kevin Grosvenor and Rachel Grosvenor. Loving Grandbear to great granddaughters, Elsie and Leena Forbes.

Inspiring and beloved patriarch of the Dennis family, Uncle Murray will be sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Predeceased by his eight siblings and their spouses: Elsie McSpadden (Samuel), Florence Wood (Gordon), Grace Wilbee (Kenneth), Helen Sims (Allan), Eleanor Dennis, Ruth Rowe (Wesley), Don Dennis (Esther), and Grant Dennis (Joanne). Predeceased by his parents Porter and Mary (Machan) Dennis.

Murray lived for 95+ years in his grandparents’ home, in which he was born. He and Olene happily raised their family, and contentedly grew old together. With his thoughtful son, Steve, working alongside him, Murray eagerly went to work each day, and was passionate about farming as evidenced by combining the last crop of corn one day before his 91st birthday. He cared deeply about tending the soil, and took pride in their crops — always aiming for straight rows on clean, stone-free fields. He’ll be missed as a local historian who could readily recall the former property owners and families of many McKillop Township farms. He never lost his love of being with family or children, acquiring knowledge, sharing insights with others, or dancing with Olene.

Visitation will take place at Riverside Funeral Home Brussels Chapel on Tuesday, September 23rd from 2-4 & 7-9 pm and Wednesday, September 24th from 10-11 am with funeral service at 11 am, and interment in Brussels Cemetery to follow.

If desired, donations may be made payable to the Seaforth District Food Bank or Winthrop United Church, and would be appreciated. Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca or sent to Riverside Funeral Home: Box 340, Brussels, ON, N0G 1H0

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08/26/2025

Russell John Lockwood

Passed away peacefully at Wingham & District Hospital on Sunday August 24th in his 83rd year.

Loving husband to the late Bonnie Lockwood (Adams) and wife Joyce Lockwood (Wagler) for 32 years.

Stepdad to Jason Cook.

Brother to Margaret Hogg.

Predeceased by parents Stan and Winifred Lockwood, and brother Ken Lockwood.

Missed by many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place.

A come and go celebration of Russell’s life will take place at the Wroxeter Hall on Saturday September 6th from 2-4 pm.

I lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy donations to the North Huron Food Bank would be appreciated.

Condolences may be left at www.riversidefuneralhome.ca

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08/04/2025

Marinus Willem Bakker

Marinus Willem Bakker passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025 at Southbridge Care Home in Goderich at the age of 82.

Marinus Bakker will be sadly missed by his wife of 53 years Margaret Bakker of Auburn. They raised an amazing family and together they built their family farm. Loving father of Karen (predeceased – June 2025) and Michael Stephens of Caledonia, Ruth Anne and Michael Brown of Ajax, and Michael and Courtney Bakker of Clarkson. Cherished grandfather to Neale and Connor Stephens, Mikayla and Travis Brown, and Reid and Morgan Bakker. He was a brother to Aantje and Tom Robinson, brother in law to Barb Bakker, Helen and Fred Gnuechtel, Janet and Ray Beldmen, as well as being an uncle to many nieces and nephews.

He will be welcomed to his heavenly home by his daughter Karen Bakker-Stephens, parents Rimmer and Gerritje Bakker, brother Teade Bakker, sister Eefje MacLean, nephew Steve MacLean and parents in law Albert and Gerda Postma.

In 1950, the Bakker family immigrated to Canada from the Netherlands. Marinus was a young boy of 7 with no English skills and attended the neighbourhood one room school. At the age of 9, his father tragically and suddenly passed away due to an accident leaving his Mother and four children under 12 to work the family farm. He had to grow up quickly and learned about drought and rain, feast and famine. He experienced the good and the bad, the happy and the sad, and the challenges that farming brings.

Marinus had a love of the land, he was a life time farmer and advocate for the agriculture industry by being involved in a number of agriculture organizations. He was a member of the Huron County Federation of Agriculture, was president for two years and enjoyed attending many OFA conventions in Toronto. In 2017 he was presented the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture and the Community’ award by the Huron County Federation of Agriculture. He was also the president of the Ontario White Bean Growers and was instrumental in the merger between the dry bean and coloured bean boards. While he was a member of the white bean board, he had the opportunity to travel to England on a trade mission, promoting Canadian edible beans. He was the chair of the research committee, as well as bean board representative to Farm &Food Care Ontario. After his term with the edible bean board, Marinus became a director for Huron County Grain Farmers and a member of Huron County Soil and Crop committee. Outside of agriculture, he was a Charter member of the Auburn and District Lion Club and enjoyed making and serving pancakes at their monthly breakfasts. For a number of years he was a trustee for Knox United Church in Auburn, prior to its closing.

We invite you to visit with family and friends on August 8, at Londesborough United Church from 10am to 11am. Funeral Service to commence at 11am. Internment in the Balls Cemetery, Auburn. Please join us via livestream at https://www.facebook.com/RiversideFuneralHomeInc.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to the Auburn and District Lions Club or Londesborough United Church would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Please send donation cheques to Box 199 Blyth N0M 1H0.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

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08/04/2025

Bodie Craig

David Bodie Craig, a loving husband, proud father and grandfather, and lifelong farmer, passed away peacefully on August 2nd, 2025 at the age of 91.

Bodie was a devoted husband to Ollie (née Wilson) for 64 years. He was an adoring father to Paul and Kim, and doting grandfather to Emily Craig and Manda Craig. Sue Craig and Shannon Foster felt loved like daughters, and he had a close relationship with his brother-in-law Murray Kane.

Bodie is predeceased by his parents David and Anne Craig, Ollie’s parents Russell and Amanda Wilson, and his cherished siblings Joye Kane and Don (Marilyn) Craig. He will be missed by his cousins and his nieces and nephews.

Born and raised on the land he would come to cherish and care for his entire life, Bodie had farming in his blood and family in his heart. He was a man of quiet strength and steady hands, who found joy in early mornings, well-tended fields, and the rhythm of the seasons. Whether on his tractor or walking the land, Bodie was deeply connected to the earth and took great pride in the life he built from it.

Known for his soft heart and gentle spirit, Bodie was kind to everyone he met and had no enemies. Just like the people in his life, pets and animals sensed his calm tenderness and gladly gave him their trust and love. His warmth, patience, and unshakeable humility left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.

Above all, Bodie was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband to Ollie with whom he shared 64 years of partnership, laughter, and steadfast support. Together they built a home rooted in love, hard work, and tradition. He was a guiding light to his children and grandchildren, always ready with a story, a helping hand, or a lesson in compassion and perseverance. Bodie and Ollie danced beautifully for years and sang in the Blyth United Church Choir each and every Sunday. This love of music and dance they passed on to their family.

Bodie spent his last day doing what he loved most—caring for the land, where he took his last breath after a very happy day.

Bodie leaves behind a legacy of integrity, kindness, and deep love. His boots may now be empty, but his footsteps will remain forever in our hearts and across the fields he called home.

Friends and family are invited to the Blyth United Church on Friday, August 8th for visitation from 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, August 9th for visitation one hour prior to the Funeral Service at 2 p.m.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneral home.ca.

Please join us via livestream at https://www.facebook.com/RiversideFuneralHomeInc

Interment will follow at a later date in Blyth Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Blyth United Church or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.

Please send donation cheques to Box 199 Blyth N0M 1H0.

View Bodie Craig's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

06/30/2025

Lillian Evelyn Appleby

Appleby: Lillian Evelyn nee Armstrong

Passed away peacefully at Huronview Home for the Aged in Clinton on June 29th in her 91st year.

Beloved wife to the late Lloyd (2010) for 57 years.

Loving mom of Larry & Deb Appleby of Wingham, and Lori & Kevin Masterson of London.

Adored Grandma to Alicia & David Pennal of Japan, Brittany & Brendan Thebeau of Wingham, and Trinity Masterson of London.

Great grandma to Braxton and Brooklynn Thebeau, and Sawyer and Oliver Pennal.

Sister to Della Veen of Kincardine, George & Lois Armstrong of Kitchener, Nelson & Terry Armstrong of London, Tom & Joyce Rooney of Wallaceburg, and sister-in-law to Don Appleby of Lucan.

Predeceased by sister Loreena & David Cunningham, Mary Lee Rooney, brother Steve Rooney, in-laws John Veen, Sharon Appleby, Bill Appleby, Marguerite & John Peckitt, and Thelma & Ken Johnston.

Special aunt and dear friend to many.

Lillian was a lifelong farmer who milked cows, ploughed fields, and could keep up to any of the guys. She loved playing cards and going out to dances. She was a kind and caring person. She could serve up a meal for 4 or 40 people and made it look easy. Her pies were legendary. She was always cooking for her neighbours and loved to entertain. Lil and Lloyd would spend many Saturday nights at the Rubber Boot. After her farming days were done, Lillian enjoyed walking around Blyth with her good friends. Mostly, she loved spending time with her family. We will miss her genuine kindness.

Friends and family are invited to Riverside Funeral Home Blyth Chapel on Friday July 4th for visitation from 10am-12pm with Funeral Service to follow.

Please join us via livestream at https://www.facebook.com/RiversideFuneralHomeInc

Interment in Blyth Union Cemetery.

Alex Jebson officiating.

In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy, donations to the Activities Department at Huronview would be appreciated.

Donations may be sent to Box 199 Blyth N0M 1H0.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

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06/27/2025

Dawna Marie White

Passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Alexandra & Marine Hospital in Goderich on June 25th in her 87th year.

Loving wife to Ken for 68 years.

Proud mom to Randy & Donna White, Danny & Allison White, Gail White & Mike Thomas, and Gloria & George Coulter.

Adoring grandma to Nicole & Mark Olson, Matt & Kim White, Natalie White, Meaghan & Tyler Hamilton, Morgan & Josh Buys, Crystal McCallum, Jodi & Darryl Houston, Rob & Steph Semple, Phillip Coulter & Frank Lee, and Whitney Coulter.

Great grandma to Lyla and Claira Olson, Alexander and Danika White, Noel Hamilton, Bryce and Avery Buys, Kaleigh and Bridget McCallum, Emmett Houston, and Harvey Semple.

Sister to Marsha Ahuja.

Sister-in-law to Mae Moffat and Jane White.

Missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Predeceased by parents Harold & Ruby, in-laws Jack & Mary, sister June (Wilf) Haylow, brother John Moffat and in-laws Clarence White, Ross White, Fern & Dave Craven and Doris & Ken Fischer.

Dawna was passionate about her family; she loved to have them all together. She always made sure there was lots of food (cookies especially) and that no one ever went hungry. In fact, she made it her mission to deliver cookies to neighbours and kids just to see their smile. She was full of unconditional love and kindness which showed in her time at Wingham High school as a special needs EA helping kids navigate tough times. She loved her career as a Nurse paying special attention to the elderly, always lending an ear to make them feel heard. She enjoyed helping at the Brussels United Church, baking pies and chatting with the ladies. Dawn loved spending time with Ken going for drives and visiting. She taught anyone she met to be kind and met them with a warm hello and conversation. We will miss her big smile.

Friends and family are invited to Riverside Funeral Home Brussels Chapel on Wednesday, July 2nd for visitation from 6-9pm.

Funeral service will take place Thursday July 3rd at 12 noon with interment at Brussels Cemetery and reception following at the Brussels Legion.

In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy donations to the Brussels United Church or Alexandra Marine & General Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.

Cards of sympathy may be sent to Box 378 Brussels N0G 1H0.

Donations may be sent to Box 340 Brussels N0G 1H0.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

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06/25/2025

Jonathan James Scott

Jon Scott passed away on June 21, 2025, in his 55th year. He was the beloved daddy of Leia Scott. He will be dearly missed by sisters Deb (Mark) Sholdice of Blyth and Kim (John) Hulley of Goderich, and his nieces Sarrah Sholdice, McKenna (Cori) White, Taylor Hulley (Drew), Ally Hulley (Kyle), nephew Sam (Gwen) Sholdice and great-nephews Carter and Asher White. He will be missed by his aunt, Judi Lava. He will be remembered by Leia’s mother, Lindsay Courtney. Jon was predeceased by his parents, Don and Brenda Scott, grandparents Laurie and Dorothy Scott and Louis and Pauline De Riviere.

Jon lived for his daughter Leia - she was his sun and moon. He was a man of few words but had a big heart and was generous with his time and energy for friends and family. He loved to fix things and would spend many hours restoring anything from dump finds to classic cars and trucks.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family service will be held.

Interment in Blyth Union Cemetery.

Donations to Adopt-A-Pet Rescue Lucknow would be appreciated.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

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06/23/2025

Joyce Marilyn Harman

Joyce Harman passed away suddenly on April 1, 2025, at the Seaforth Community Hospital. She was 82. Joyce had very recently moved into Huronlea in Brussels but spent most of her life on the family farm on the 3rd of Morris.

Joyce is survived and deeply missed by her niece Juanita Lamb. She was predeceased by her parents William and Irene Harman; her aunt, Edith Warwick; her sister Mary Lamb; and her nephew, Bradley Lamb. She is remembered by her brother-in-law Clifford Lamb, her niece-in-law Iris Lamb, her grandnieces Arwen and Arya and her grandnephew Théoden. She is also survived by an extended family including many cousins, several who along with her close friends, have been so generous and instrumental in supporting her care in recent years.

After attending Browntown school and F.E. Madill Secondary School in Wingham, Joyce trained at Mothercraft’s Well-Baby Nurse College in Toronto. This training and her early days in accepting referrals from Mothercraft’s registry launched her career as a private duty nanny. She independently established a practice offering recurring short and medium-term childcare support to many prestigious families in Toronto often travelling abroad with them to provide her services. She remained in touch with many of those families and children over the years; as well as, the friends she made during her Mothercraft training.

When she decided to return to Brussels, she become a full-time nanny locally until her retirement. Joyce loved to garden and quilt and was very active at Knox Presbyterian Church, Bluevale until her health began to deteriorate. The challenges she experienced in her mobility would eventually be diagnosed as Parkinson’s disease. Despite many serious health issues and lengthy hospitalizations over the years, Joyce continued to stubbornly battle back so she could return home to the farm.

For Juanita and Brad growing up, she was the quintessential “fun aunt”. She would often use the breaks between her nanny gigs to shepherd them around the greater Toronto area to various activities and attractions.

Honouring Joyce’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there was no service. Arrangements were handled by Riverside Funeral Home, Brussels.

All are welcome to join Juanita at the family farm (41566 Cardiff Road, Brussels) for a time of fellowship on August 9, 2025, between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered through memorial donations to the Wingham and District Hospital Foundation or Parkinson Canada.

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