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McKinlay Funeral Homes Ltd., 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham, ON (2026)

04/15/2026

It is common to have early arrivers in anticipation of a busy visitation.

04/14/2026

Mary Anne (MAD) DeBruyn (Strybosch)

October 2, 1958 - April 14, 2026

With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Anne of Blenheim, at Riverview Gardens, Chatham after a long affliction with Alzheimer’s disease. Born in London, ON, she was predeceased by her parents John and Lena Strybosch (Aarts). She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, John DeBruyn, her children Paul (Angie) McNamara, Marla (Chris) L’Ecuyer, Britney (Chris) Goudy, Brady DeBruyn, and her seven grandchildren Mary, Timothy, Leah, Nathan, Wilhelmine, Sloane, and Walter. Loving sister to Martin (Joyce), the late Bill (Sheila), Wilhelmine (Kevin), the late John (Sue), the late Dorothy and Peter (Nikole) and aunt and great aunt to many! And cat mom to all.

Mary Anne had a big heart, enjoyed time with family and friends and offered a helping hand or a warm smile to anyone she met. She was always looking for an event to attend and a friend to join her. Music was her passion. She danced with so much energy and life at every chance she got. She listened to music, played music, wrote music - it called to her! She travelled near and far to watch live music of all genres. She served as the pianist at St. Mary’s church in Blenheim for 35 years and she enjoyed playing for the congregation, adding an extra beat or pep wherever she could. Mary Anne worked in the insurance industry as a claims adjuster and she was proud of her work and what she accomplished professionally.

Many thanks to all the staff at Riverview Gardens, especially Fourth floor east, who cared so much for Mary Anne over the past five years. And to John, who’s unconditional love and care kept Mary Anne home as long as possible.

She will be missed dearly, especially on the dance floor, but we are grateful that she is at peace and free.

Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent or Canadian Cancer Society.

As per Mary Anne’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at the McKinlay Funeral Home in Blenheim on Thursday, April 16th from 2-4pm and 6-8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Church, in Blenheim on Friday, April 17th at 11am. Private family interment to follow at Evergreen Cemetery. Following the service there will be a reception with lunch at St. Mary’s hall.

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519-676-3451

04/14/2026

Larkin: Timothy Hugh -

A resident of Ridgetown, Tim Larkin passed away at home on April 12, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born in Sioux Lookout, Ontario, Timothy was the son of the late Martin and Mona (née Dewey) Larkin.

Beloved husband of 53 years to Rosemary, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and devotion.

Father of Melanie, Aaron, Matthew (Becky), Adam (Jennifer), Ethan (Anita), and Emily, and predeceased by his daughter Meredith.

Grandfather to Bryden, Brynn, Cohen, Ayden, Madison, Elizabeth, Maxon, Carson, Spencer, Owen, and Calum; family was what brought him great pride and joy.

He served his community with dedication as a Constable with the Ontario Provincial Police for 30 years, spending his career stationed in Ridgetown.

An afternoon visitation period for friends and family will take place on Thursday April 16th, 2026 at McKinlay Funeral Home at 76 Main Street East in Ridgetown beginning at 2:00pm to 4:00pm along with an evening visitation from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Friday April 17th,2026 at St. Michael's Catholic Church at 26 George Street in Ridgetown starting at 11:00am.

Donations made in memory of Tim to St. Michael's Church would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141

04/14/2026

Seliga: Joyce Ann (née Secord) -

Joyce passed away peacefully on April 12th, 2026. Born November 11, 1942, she was predeceased by her mother Margaret (Balmer) (2007), her father Percy Secord (1943), her stepfather Earle Galbraith (1989), and her brother-in-law Camiel (2018).

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Paul; her sons John (Lucie) and Tom (Karen); and her cherished grandchildren Hannah Risdon (Tom), Jonathan, Cloe (Nick), Logan (Courtney), and Brayden (Miranda), along with her great-grandchildren Jack and Scottie Risdon.

Joyce is also fondly remembered by her siblings Dorothy Whalls (George) and Gerald Secord (Heather); her brother-in-law Joe (Betty); her sisters-in-law Margaret Seliga and Mary Lenover (Dave); as well as her step-siblings, especially her dear step-sister Ruth Ann, and many nieces and nephews.

Joyce devoted many years as treasurer of the CWL. She had a love for cooking, baking, and dancing, and found her greatest joy in time spent with her family.

Cremation has taken place, with a private family interment to follow at a later date.

Donations made in memory of Joyce to the Chatham Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141

04/09/2026

Katherine “Kit” Margaret Cooper (née Leach), aged 51 years, 35 weeks and 5 days, passed away on Tuesday, April 7th, after a courageous battle with cancer. She departed peacefully at Chatham-Kent Hospice surrounded by her beloved husband, Peter, and cherished children, Dakota and Sydney.

Born on July 31st, 1974, Kit made every day count, and touched the lives of those around her with her warmth, huge smile, contagious laugh and sass. Despite facing the challenges of her illness, she remained a beautiful and caring mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend to everyone she knew. Throughout her life, she lived well, laughed often and loved deeply.

Kit is survived by her loving family, including her husband, Peter Cooper, son, Dakota Cooper, daughter, Sydney Cooper, mother, Josephine Leach(née Gilbert), father, Robert Leach, brother, Christopher Leach (Joscelynne) - nieces Celynne & Carysse, nephew Thomas, Mother-in-law, Lucie McTavish, Father-in-law, John McTavish, Sister-in-law, Michelle Michaud (Jason) - nephew Thomas and niece Brooke, Sisters-in-law, Shannon Sturdevant - nephew Blaine, niece Brynn, Jennifer Land (Greg), Brother-in-law, Jim McTavish (Celina), her dear cousin, Dawn Rice, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends she considered family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, including her wonderful customers from McDonald’s, with whom she loved sharing a story and a smile to start their morning.

Kit’s family invites you to offer condolences and honour her life at a visitation held at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Sunday, April 12th from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. A celebration of Kit's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society in Kit's honour.

May Kit rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and may she be remembered for the love, joy and light she brought into the lives of others.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

04/09/2026

James Joseph “Jim” Frederick

February 28, 1954 – April 2, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Joseph “Jim” Frederick, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on April 2, 2026, at the age of 72.

Born on February 28, 1954, in Chatham, Ontario, Jim built a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and a deep love for his family. He dedicated much of his career to Frederick Transport, where he began as a driver and, through unwavering determination and commitment, rose to become Vice President of Fleet Maintenance. He later continued his work as Vice President of Maintenance with CMAC Transportation, working alongside his longtime friend and self-described brother, Dave Christie (Judy Christie). Jim took immense pride in his work and valued the many relationships he built throughout his career.

Jim had a true passion for the open road. He loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycles, spending countless hours on rides with his buddies, and connecting with others through Harley chapters. Traveling, visiting friends, and sharing in those moments brought him great joy.

Above all, Jim was a devoted husband, father, and family man. He was always there for his wife and children—steady, dependable, and full of quiet strength. His love and support were constant, and his presence will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Louisa “Snooker” Frederick; his son, Mathew Frederick (Alexandria Demaria); and his daughter, Sara Frederick (Adam Chatterton). He is also survived by his brother, Scott Frederick (Dianne Frederick), as well as his many brothers- and sisters-in-law, and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and George.

Jim will be remembered for his kind heart, his unwavering dedication to his family, his dogs, and his love of the road. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 12:00pm until 3:00pm.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many family members and friends who supported them during this time. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

04/07/2026

Konstantinos Babalis

January 20th,1930 – April 6th, 2026

It is with deep sorrow and love that we announce the passing of our beloved Father, Konstantinos “Gus” Babalis, on April 6th, 2026, at the age of 96. Surrounded by his family, he passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lasting legacy of strength, wisdom, devotion, and cherished memories.

Born in Kallipefki, Mount Olympus, Greece on January 20th, 1930, Gus devoted his life wholeheartedly to those he loved most. He served as the foundation of our family—a constant source of guidance and support whose care and selflessness left a lasting imprint across generations. Gus immigrated to Canada in 1956 to Leamington, Ontario. During this time, he worked in the farm fields and worked as a waiter in the local restaurants. Gus went back to Greece in 1963 where he met and married Maria. Once back in Canada, Gus founded the Venus De Milo Restaurant in Blenheim. From there, he opened the Venus De Milo Steak House in Chatham and finished his career running the Saxony Diner. His customers followed him faithfully just for his talents of infamous soups and coconut cream pies. Gus was always a very happy soul and always wanted to make everyone laugh at his jokes. Gus and his wife enjoyed many trips to Greece in the summers and seemed to get younger and younger every year he came back, hence living a full life now to the age of 96.

Gus is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Maria, his three children, Anna (Brian Goldoni), Lo**ta Babalis, James Babalis (Viki), grandchildren, Margarita (Jason Missiaen), Vickie (Adriano Corsini), Tony Kiriakopoulos (Carman), Alexander Goldoni (Marina), great-grandchildren Lucca, Adriana, Massimo, Mia, Joseph and Mathew, and dearly loved by many nephews, nieces, and friends who cherished him deeply and enjoyed many laughs and stories with him. He was predeceased by his parents Dimitrios (1981) and Anna (1992), sister Stamatia Babalis, and brothers Nikos Babalis (Asimina) and Athanasios Babalis. Survived by his sister Marika (Kosta Liovas) and sister-in-law Georgia Babalis.

To those who knew him, Gus was more than a husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather. The values he instilled, the traditions he upheld, and the stories he shared will continue to be carried forward by those he held dear. Gus was instrumental in being the pioneer of bringing his entire family to Canada, where he aimed for a better life.

Family and friends are invited to honor his life at a visitation held in St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church, 816 Grand Ave E, Chatham, ON, on Wednesday from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. with Father George Papazoglou officiating. Interment to follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Nektarios Greek Orthodox Church. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040

04/07/2026

Another great year inspiring the youth of today with World of Choices! Thank you to Junior Achievement Southwestern Ontario for a great day!

04/02/2026

Victoria Lynn LaMarsh

Victoria was the daughter of William LaMarsh Sr. and his wife, Ethel (Woolven). She was the beloved mother of Laura Brownlee, Samuel LaMarsh, and son-in-law James Gerow; grandmother to Ashlie (Torin) Blackwell; and devoted guardian to many cherished feline companions. She is survived by sister Gilberte (Val) Cofell, and was predeceased by two brothers, William Jr. (Helen) LaMarsh and Donald (Joanne) LaMarsh, and sister Patricia (Gary) Hoffman. She was also a dear aunt to 10 nieces and nephews.

She was a warm soul, with a comforting presence and an unfailingly sharp sense of humor. Her generosity and willingness to help were never measured by what she had, but by what she gave. She loved sitting with a good book and a cup of tea or coffee, had a deep passion for Christmas, and took quiet joy in feeding local strays and wildlife. She will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Cremation has taken place and the family will remember her privately.

Donations in memory of Victoria to The Salvation Army Chatham-Kent Ministries would be appreciated by the family.

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

04/02/2026

Delmar Lorne Brown (1943-2026)

A resident of Chatham, Delmar Lorne Brown passed away peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on April 1, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born in Chatham, Delmar was the son of the late Delmer Arlington Brown and Evelyn Muriel Brown (nee Brooks), and brother to the late William Brown.

Beloved husband to Mirtha Brown for 29 years. Loving father to Kim, Todd (Gabriela), Gus (Claudia), and Matt (Nicole). Proud Grandpa to Ashley, Silvy Anne, Nicholas, Katelyn, Emilia, Luka, Bernardo, Jose-Ramon, and Alexis. Cherished great-grandpa to Ty, Kyrie, Piper, and Leo. He will be deeply missed by his wife, his family, and his beloved pet Rusty.

Delmar was a man of humour, grit, faith, and heart. He loved playful banter and was always ready with a quick-witted reply. He was always smiling, always willing to lend a hand, and never left the house without making sure he was dressed properly just in case he happened to run into the president. He had a love for flat caps, a passion for cars, especially the long ones, and a deep appreciation for life’s adventures.

He began his working career at the Southwest Regional Centre, later worked at International Harvester (Navistar), and eventually at Crown Cork & Seal, where he retired in 2006 after 27 years. Outside of work, Delmar loved construction, a trade he learned from his father. He was a home builder in every sense of the word, both literally and as the centre of a family he cherished beyond belief.

An avid traveller, Delmar loved setting out in search of the great unknown. He enjoyed many trips throughout South America and the Caribbean. Though he did not speak Spanish, he always found a way to connect with people, share a laugh, and learn about their culture. He was a fighter who did not know what giving up looked like, and he lived with the belief that if life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. In many ways, he was the most imperfect perfect man.

Above all, Delmar was a lover of Christ, a devoted Christian, and a God-fearing man whose faith carried him through life and now welcomes him home. He was the centre of many universes, and his presence will be felt forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Chatham-Kent Hospice for their care, compassion, and kindness during Delmar’s time there. Donations made in memory of Delmar to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated.

Visitation will be held at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair St., Chatham, on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the same location on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.

McKinlay Funeral Home
459 St. Clair Street, Chatham
519-351-2040

03/31/2026

Davidson: Devon Michelle -

It is with deep sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of Devon Michelle Davidson, age 45, of Ridgetown.

Devon was the beloved daughter of John and Roxanne Davidson, and a cherished sister to Jason (Kat Eddy) Davidson and Sharon (Chris Anderson) Davidson.

She was a proud and loving aunt to Kyler (Laura) Davidson, Spencer Davidson, Hunter Davidson, Isaac Pirinen, Lola Anderson, and Avery Anderson, and a devoted great-aunt to Everleigh and Emma Davidson.

Devon was a graduate of George Brown College in Hospitality and Leisure, as well as St. Clair College, where she earned her Developmental Services Worker diploma. She was a gentle and compassionate soul, with a remarkable ability to understand and accept people just as they were.

Devon had a gift for bringing joy to any room, with her contagious laughter and wonderfully unique sense of humor. She found happiness in life’s simple and unexpected moments, often treasuring small keepsakes along the way. Her love for animals was profound, and she felt most at peace surrounded by nature—whether at the lake, in the bush or gathered around a bonfire with those she loved.

Devon will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday April 4th, 2026 at Erie St. United Church, 7 Erie Street North, Ridgetown, Ontario, at 11:00 a.m.

Family and friends are also warmly invited to continue sharing memories at Sharon’s home for a bonfire gathering on Saturday at 2:00 p.m., 23 Ebenezer St., Ridgetown.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Devon’s memory may be made to Feral to Forever Cat Rescue or to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141

03/30/2026

YOULTON: Robert Terence -

A resident of Ridgetown, Terry Youlton passed away at the Riverview Gardens on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the age of 89.

Born in London, Terry was the son of the late Robert and Eva (née King) Youlton and grew up in Bothwell and Glencoe.

Beloved husband to Mary Jane Youlton (née MacDougall).

Loving father of Rick Youlton (Joanne), Kathy Rae (Don), the late Peggy LaRoche (1992) and the late Doug Youlton (1983).

Proud Grandpa to Kelly, Leslie and Lindsay; Tamara, Carly, Brad, Samuel and Brenna; Tyler, Brent, Natasha and Shawn.

Great-Grandpa to Mia and Keira; and Tsering; Lucas, Jakob, Charlotte, Mattea and Ari; Cooper and Callie; Jace, Jayden, Tyson, Grayson, Cole and Palmer.

Predeceased by his siblings Barbara Humphrey (late Bill), Shirley Davis (late Larry) and Gordon Youlton (late Helen).

Also missed by many friends and extended family.

Terry left an enduring impression on everyone he met and a legacy that we all can envy and aspire towards. His first love was Mary Jane, his beloved "Red" whom he met and married while they both attended college in Guelph. But a close second was his work, which took on many forms. The Rotary motto of "Service Above Self" was his driving force. He served in Rotary for over 50 years and was a highly recognized leader and tireless worker on projects, both local and around the world. He served as District Governor with Rotary International in 1997/98. He was a successful entrepreneur, starting his own company in 1961 with a loan from his grandmother’s milk fund and building a business that was known across the industry for its consistency at being a leading-edge, customer-driven, successful dealership. He was a man of faith and did far more than sit in a pew at the churches he was a member of in Ridgetown and Sauble Beach. He sat on and chaired many church boards, he led annual events like the Pancake Supper or the popular Turkey Dinners, and he did whatever was necessary to benefit the church and its congregation. Terry also loved to sing and dance and was a founding member and proud performer in Ridge Players for many years. And last but certainly not least he was a very proud, loving and active father and grandfather creating memories with and for his family that will stay with them forever.

Terry was a very generous person - with his time, his money and his love. It went hand in hand with his constant drive to help, especially to those less fortunate or in need. He did not however “suffer fools” very well. Honesty was also a significant principle for Terry - his word was his bond and you always knew where you stood with Terry. He was decisive, confident and stubborn at times - which would explain why he so often took the lead on projects rather than sit back to do what he was told. His many accomplishments and awards exemplify the extraordinary role model he was to us all.

As per Terry's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 11:00am. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street Chatham from 12:00pm - 4:00pm. Private family interment at Greenwood Cemetery to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations made in memory of Terry to the Alzheimer Society, Diabetes Canada, Rotary International, the Church of the Advent, Ridgetown or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040

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