http://www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com/

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

02/26/2026

Ina returned to her heavenly home Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the age of 88. Her devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her and ultimately gave her peace.

Ina was born in Colijnsplaat, Netherlands and was the daughter of the late Karel & Cornelia (nee DeHaze) Brandes.

Reunited with her loving husband, Jan "John" deVries (2018) which she shared 61 years of love and friendship with.

Loving mother of Cora deVries, Carl deVries, (Nancy), the late David deVries (2025) (Christine) and Deborah deVries (Stephen Scott).

Sadly missed by grandchildren, Christopher (Stephanie), Jarod (Susan), Hannah, Eric, Mitchell, Cassidy, Jacob, the late Nicolaas (2007) and Katrina.

Great-grandmother of Valentina.

Dear sister of Peter Brandes (Diane) & Mary Anne Crawford (Gene).

Predeceased by her brother, Adrian Brandes (1990).

Missed by many nieces, nephews & extended family.

Ina arrived in Canada from the Netherlands at the age of 16 with her family, settling in Granton,where she met John in Exeter. Together, they moved to Abbotsford, BC marrying on June 21, 1957. They moved back to Ontario to raise their family in Chapleau, and Sault Ste Marie. Eventually retiring to Chatham.

Ina was an avid knitter and seamstress, creating custom items for all of her family and friends. Her family remember her terrific baking, especially her boterkoek. She was a devoted member of Calvary Reformed Church and enjoyed the friendships she created during her time there. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and church community.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Talbot Manor and the St. Thomas Elgin General for their care and compassion.

The family are to receive friends on Monday, March 2, 2026 at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 11:00 am until a Celebration of Ina's Life at 1:00 pm. Burial to follow in Maple Leaf Cemetery.

In memory of Ina, donation to the Canadian Cancer Society 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

02/26/2026

Ellen Roberts
A resident of Blenheim, Ellen Roberts passed peacefully at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Tuesday February 24, 2026 at the age of 79.

She was the daughter of the late Norman & Marion Vogler (nee Gawne).

Ellen will be remembered by her loving husband, Jim Roberts, recently celebrating their 60th Valentines Day together.

Loving mother of Melissa Roberts & Christina Roberts (Jean-Guy Gourdeau).

Proud grandmother of Meaghan & Kyle Garton.

Daughter-in-law of the late Owen & Dora (nee Gould) Roberts.

Sister-in-law of the late Bill Roberts, Sharon Goetz (the late Sandy), & Thomas Roberts (Diana).

Missed by many nieces & nephews.

Ellen started working at the Southwest Regional Centre at the age of 19 and found her calling. She had many good memories of clients and coworkers, creating especially close friendships with Connie Franklin and Shirley McCorkle.

Our house was the hub for the pack of neighbourhood kids that grew up on Erieau Road in the 70's & 80's. From the coolest outdoor jungle gym, to swimming pool, to Christmas baking, she made sure our house was a fun place to be.

Ellen had a profound love for her dogs and will be fondly missed by her furry companion, Maggie.

She was a dedicated Volunteer with the Victorian Order of Nurses, working in Palliative Care for many years. She enjoyed her time working in the Real Estate business for several years while raising her daughters. Ellen was a voracious reader, always with a book on the go and an avid gardener of fruits and vegetables. Her baking and meals will be deeply missed.

As per Ellen's wishes, cremation has taken place.

In memory of Ellen, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Pet and Wildlife Rescue.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519 676 3451

02/26/2026

DeWael: David James -

A resident of Chatham, David DeWael passed away peacefully with family at his side at Copper Terrace Long Term Care Home on February 24, 2026 at the age of 71.

Born in Chatham, David was the son of the late Cyril DeWael and Barb Benore (née Kirton).

Reunited with loving wife Carrie (née Lumley) DeWael.

Loving father to Jason and Justin DeWael.

Cherished grandpa to Torin.

He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, friends and his best fur friend Buddy.

David was a sports enthusiast always up for watching the Detroit Tigers or the Chicago Blackhawks play. He was an avid Coca-Cola Collector, always finding a hidden gem in the little antique stores. David enjoyed playing bingo with his friends.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair St., Chatham on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm followed by a burial at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

Donations made in memory of David to the Mental Health Network of Chatham-Kent 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

02/26/2026

Maureen (Moe) Francis Pepper (nee Joyce), aged 79, passed away after a courageous battle with debilitating illness on February 20, 2026 at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance surrounded by her loving family. Born May 24, 1946 in Chatham, Ontario, Maureen lived a life marked by resilience, dedication and love. She was a dedicated and loving wife to her beloved husband, Ivan Pepper, for over 50 years, loving mother to daughters Nicole (Luc) Leger of Chatham and Jessica (Jeff) Lee of Ottawa, and grandmother to her treasured granddaughter Cara. Dear sister to Paula (Bill) Wild of London, Ontario, Jill Forgrave of Victoria, British Columbia and aunt to many nieces and nephews. Maureen was predeceased by her parents, Veronica (nee Millen) and Reginald Joyce, and her brother, Patrick Joyce, all of Chatham, Ontario. Maureen was a registered nurse, graduating from St. Mary’s Hospital in Kitchener, Ontario, where she made lifelong friends whom she treasured dearly. Maureen had various roles at Southwestern Regional Centre where she spent the majority of her career. The people Maureen met at SRC were not only colleagues, but dear friends. Her unwavering spirit and gentle presence left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be greatly missed but forever in our hearts.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mary VandenBerg, her PSW and friend for the past six years, as well as her cousin, MaryAnne Bell, who provided great comfort and support over the years. Dr. Donald Hastings was Maureen‘s physician for over twenty years and we are eternally grateful for the care he provided her.

Please join us in celebrating Maureen’s life at a casual gathering at McKinlay Reception Centre at 463 Saint Clair St., Chatham on Saturday, February 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. All family and friends are welcome. Speeches will begin at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Ontario Brain Injury Association.

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

02/26/2026

Rosseel: Mary Louise (née Vandeweghe) -

A resident of Dresden, Mary Louise Rosseel passed away at Copper Terrace Long Term Care on Friday, February 20, 2026 three days after celebrating her 100th birthday.

Born in Dover Township, Mary Louise was the daughter of the late Joseph and Sylvie (née Seynaeve) Vandeweghe.

Beloved wife of 53 years to the late André Rosseel (2003).

Loving mother of Gary Rosseel (BettyAnn Martin) of Brantford and Darlene (Todd) Tetzlaff of Dresden.

Proud Grandmother (Metje) to Rachel (Greg) Blonde, Amanda Tetzlaff (Connor Critchfield) and William (Demetria) Tetzlaff, Matthew Van Hemmen (Kelsey Bailes), Talia Rosseel (Dylan McDonnell), Joshua and Ethan Rosseel.

She was an adoring Great Grandmother to Norah Blonde and Lochlan Tetzlaff.

Predeceased by her sister Cecilia Vannieuwenhuyze (1971).

She will be fondly remembered by her nieces and nephews, extended family and many others who experienced her warmth and sense of humor.

Mary Louise lived a long and full life leaving behind a legacy defined by unwavering devotion, strength and resilience. She is reunited with her beloved husband André whom she met at the Canadian Leaf To***co Company. They lived a humble life together on the farm. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of gardening, reading, listening to her favourite operatic tenors and taking care of her adopted cat “Kit Carson”. She lived a life of faith, attending mass at Blessed Sacrament through most of her adult life while she was able to. In service to her family, she was always there, providing, caring and supporting in whatever way that she could. She leaves behind a family who will forever carry her example of selflessness, kindness and resilience in their hearts.

Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Sunday, March 1, 2026 from 12:00pm until the Memorial Service at 1:00pm. Reception to follow. As per Mary Louise’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Special thanks to the staff at Copper Terrace and previously, Village on the Thames, for their care and compassion. We are so grateful for the support Mom received from Ontario Health at Home and Bayshore Services which allowed her to remain in her home for so many years.

Donations made in memory of Mary Louise to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation or 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

02/24/2026

Hermsen: Henry "Hank" -

It is with great sadness that our family must announce that Hank Hermsen passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on February 22, 2026 at the age of 71.

Born in Chatham, Hank was the son of John and Wilhelmina (née van Wessel) Hermsen.

Beloved husband of 50 years to Joy (July, 2024).

Cherished father to his 3 children Tracey (Chris), John (Stephanie) and Paul (Jana).

Beloved grandfather to 7 grandchildren Austin, Ethan, Liam, Katie, Nicole, Emily, Timothy and Matthew (predeceased).

Dear brother to Francis and his wife Debbie Hermsen of Wallaceburg and Gary and his wife Nancy Hermsen of Blenheim. Hank will be missed by many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

Hank and Joy shared a deep love of crafts and spent countless hours volunteering together at local retirement and nursing homes, generously sharing their talents with residents.

Hank especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren, whether at home or cheering them on at their many sporting events. A skilled fruit and vegetable farmer, he took pride in grafting and crop combinations-knowledge passed down from his parents while growing up on the family farm in Cedar Springs.

Some of the family’s most cherished memories were made across four generations-chopping wood at local woodlots, clearing fallen trees, and sharing conversation in the warmth of the garage.

The family would like to send their sincere thanks to the staff at the Chatham-Kent Hospice for the care that he received.

Family and friends are invited to visitation at McKinlay Funeral Home, 76 Main Street East, Ridgetown, on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

A private family interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Hank can be made on his behalf to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

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

02/23/2026

McDermid: Donna Marie (née Swan) -

A resident of Chatham, Donna McDermid passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Monday, February 16, 2026 at the age of 80.

Born in Niagara on the Lake, Donna was the daughter of the late Leslie "George" Swan (1995) and Helen (née Hicks)(1990) Swan.

Loving mother of George Wm. Rock.

She will be sadly missed by her sister Jeanette Toulouse of Chatham, Ronald Swan of Chatham, Stuart Swan and his wife Leslie of Michigan.

Predeceased by her brother John "Jack" Swan (2020) of Chatham, Dennis R. Swan (2023) of Windsor, Brother-in-law Herman Toulouse (2014) of Chatham and Nephew Edward Toulouse (2010) of Chatham.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home 459 St. Clair St., Chatham on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. A funeral service to be held at the funeral home on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Burial to follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

Donations made in memory of Donna to the Chatham-Kent Hospice or Charity of 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

02/23/2026

Pinese: Ruth (née Hartford) -

A lifelong resident of Shrewsbury, Ruth Pinese passed away peacefully at Riverview Gardens on February 16, 2026, at the age of 66.

Born in Chatham, Ruth was the beloved daughter of the late Wellington and Elnora (née Gifford) Hartford.

Ruth was a devoted and loving mother to McKenzie (Angela) and McKayla Scott, and a proud and adoring grandmother to Edwin Scott, who brought immeasurable joy and light to her life. She will be dearly missed by her siblings: Deb (Al), Basil (Karrie, 2008), John (Renee). Ruth was also a treasured aunt to her many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, each of whom held a very special place in her heart.

In 1986, Ruth graduated from the Developmental Services Worker Program at St. Clair College, Chatham Campus. She began her career at the Southwest Regional Centre, where she served with deep compassion, dedication, and a true gift for caring for others. Ruth’s kindness, patience, and genuine warmth left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched.

Ruth was known for her vibrant personality-kind, caring, and wonderfully quick with a touch of sarcasm that brought laughter to those around her. She had a creative spirit and a passion for all things handmade. Whether she was crocheting, knitting, quilting, crafting dolls, or starting a new project she discovered at the end of someone’s driveway, Ruth found joy in creating beauty with her hands. She loved yard sales and thrifting; always delighted to uncover hidden treasures and share her finds with family and friends.

Her love of gardening was evident in every season, and no road trip was complete without stopping for plants, fresh food, or a charming roadside stand. Ruth embraced life’s simple pleasures and found happiness in nurturing both her garden and the people she loved.

Along with her extended family and many dear friends, all whose lives were enriched by her generous heart and lively spirit, Ruth leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creativity.

Ruth’s memory will be treasured always by those who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Riverview Gardens for the exceptional care and support Ruth received during her time there. Your kindness, patience, and genuine warmth brought her comfort each day and gave our family great peace of mind. We are deeply thankful for the dignity, respect, and love you showed Ruth — your care will always be remembered and sincerely appreciated.

As per Ruth's wishes cremation has taken place.

A celebration of life will be held at the Community of Christ, 9096 Talbot Trail West, Blenheim, this Saturday February 21st, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the service and stay afterward for a time of fellowship and remembrance.

Donations made in memory of Ruth to the War Amps, the March of Dimes or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

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

02/23/2026

Michaelanne Kerrigan
Born in Stratford on April 2, 1964, a resident of Chatham, peacefully passed away with her loving family by her side at Windsor Regional Hospital - Ouellette Campus on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at the age of 61.

She is the loving daughter of John Spears & the late Marian Spears (nee Lingard).

Forever remembered by her husband, Allan Robbins.

Devoted mother of Ashley Kerrigan (Troy Fraser), proud fur-mom of Ginger, and granddog-mother of Dill.

Dear sister of Shandra Spears Bombay.

Daughter-in-law of Melvin & Joyce Robbins.

Sister-in-law of Crystal Robbins & Dwayne Robbins.

Aunt of Shelby.

Bestfriend and soul sister to Heather Mott, her husband Robin Kilidjian and son Ethan.

Michaelanne worked in the Telecommunications industry and her family is very proud of her Graduation from Western University, Brescia College where she earned a. Honours Degree in History and English.

Community service was her passion. She was a generous, dedicated, reliable Volunteer through many organizations. Michaelanne was a proud member of the Board of Directors of the Active Lifestyle Centre. She was honoured to serve her community with the Lions as a member and former President. Michaelanne enjoyed her time with the Adult Basic Literacy Program. She loved to spend her time gardening, and keeping active.

Her caring, funny and kind spirit will forever be missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the doctors and nurses of the Windsor Regional Hospital - Ouellette Campus and the staff of the Trillium Gift of Life. In keeping with Michaelanne's generous spirit, she has donated her organs and tissue to continue to help others.

Family to receive friends on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 10:00 am until a Celebration of Michaelanne's Life at 12:00 pm. Burial to take place at Avondale Cemetery, Stratford on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 1:00 pm.

Funeral Service Livestream

Those in attendance of the visiting are invited to wear purple in memory of Michaelanne.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eyes Right Foundation at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (cheques payable to the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation).

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

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

02/23/2026

Pat Moore
A resident of Chatham, Pat Moore passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the age of 86.

He was the son of the late Richard & Josephine (nee Deneau) Moore.

Lovingly reunited with his wife of 58 years, Betty Jean (nee Ellis, 2020).

Proud father of Kevin Moore & Jason Moore.

Loving grandpa of Max, Vincent, Abigayle, & Katherine.

Predeceased by his siblings, Robert Moore (Mary), Shirley Rankin (Jerry), Elmer Moore, & Eleanor Parkyn (Jim).

Survived by sister-in-law, Marney Moore.

Brother-in-law of David Ellis (Margaret), Mary Baker, Edward Ellis (Donna), John Ellis (Rose), Jim Ellis, & Norman Ellis (Gina).

Missed by many nieces, nephews & extended family.

Pat was passionate about his family and cared deeply for his siblings, aunts uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews from both sides of his family. The bond he created and shared with all brought him joy and was always the hilight of his day. Pat always had a furry best friend at his side, most recently his rescue pet adoption of Prince, who will miss him as much as any pet could. Most of all, Pat loved his grandkids and would go to the ends of the earth for each and everyone of them! After a full and dedicated career, Pat retired from Union Gas as a Certified Engineer. He took great pride in his work and was respected for his knowledge, integrity, and strong work ethic. A lifelong contributor to World Vision, Pat and Betty Jean believed strongly in helping others and making a meaningful difference in the world. Their generosity and compassion extended far beyond their immediate circle. In his leisure time, Pat enjoyed boating — finding peace and joy on the water, where he created many treasured memories with family and friends. His legacy is one of love, dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to those he held dear.

Family to receive friends on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham from 11:30 am until a Celebration of Pat's Life at 1:00 pm. Burial to follow in Bethel Cemetery.

In memory of Pat and in lieu of flowers, donations made to World Vision Canada would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.

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

02/23/2026

https://mckinlayfuneralhome.com/762/Grief-Seminar.html
Do not forget to RSVP to "A Roadmap to Grief" this Thursday at 6:00pm at the McKinlay Reception Centre in Chatham. We look forward to seeing you there!

02/23/2026

Sadler: Catherine Marguerite (née Steines) -

A resident of Chatham, Cathy Sadler passed away peacefully with family at her side at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on February 13, 2026 at the age of 89.

Born in Luxembourg, Cathy was the daughter of the late Joseph and Margaret (née Haag) Steines.

Reunited with loving husband Joseph and son Daniel.

Loving mother to Peggy (Gary) Deschamps and David (Chris) Sadler.

Bomi to Joseph.

Survived by sisters Nelly Darty and Lily Peters.

Gardening was Cathy's passion, you would always find her outside tending to the flowers. She liked to knit and crochet in the winter. Cathy had a sense of humor like no other and loved to laugh. She loved her sweet treats and didn't mind sharing if you were to sit down and have a conversation.

Cathy's wishes were to be cremated.

Donations made in memory of Cathy to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation 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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