Aurora Funeral Services Inc.

Aurora Funeral Services Inc. My name is Kayla Keffer. I am a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer since 2014.

You may have seen me in the community as a Funeral Director in the past, but my husband David and I have decided to start our own Funeral Service Facility.

Oscar ObergMay 2, 1938- February 25, 2026Oscar Oberg, 87, of Dryden, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026.Oscar w...
03/02/2026

Oscar Oberg
May 2, 1938- February 25, 2026

Oscar Oberg, 87, of Dryden, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026.

Oscar was born on May 2, 1938. He built a life rooted in hard work, devotion to family, and deep appreciation for friendship and adventure. He spent many dedicated years working for Avenor at the pulp and paper mill, where he was known for his strong work ethic and steady presence.

Oscar was predeceased by his parents, Anton and Esther, and his sister Louise.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Judy Oberg; his son Mike Oberg (Angie); and his daughter Lori Denzler (Roland Denzler). He was a cherished grandfather to Marlies (Carm), Kara, Jordan (Mackenzie), and Carly, and a proud great-grandfather to Kaelyn and Luca. He is also survived by his sister Sandy. Nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his family.

For 20 years, Oscar and Judy enjoyed spending their winters travelling. They enjoyed tropical winter vacations to Acapulco for over a decade. Eventually, they found their winter homes in both Arizona and Southern California. These years were filled with sunshine, friendship, and treasured memories with family and friends.

Oscar will be remembered for his dedication to his family and friends, his quick wit, and the warmth he brought to those around him. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the DRHC Oncology Department, P.O. Box 3003, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z6, or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/oscar-oberg

Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Well said Chris! I second that thank you to all our first responders, police and volunteers. 🙌
02/27/2026

Well said Chris! I second that thank you to all our first responders, police and volunteers. 🙌

Today as I was travelling some roads that honestly should probably have been avoided, I was reminded of something about this profession.

In funeral service, you do not get the luxury of choosing only the good roads.

When a family is grieving and a service is scheduled, when a burial must take place, when a transfer needs to be made, the road conditions do not change the responsibility. Snow, ice, mud, darkness, long highways between communities. You go. Because someone is depending on you.

It caused me to think about the men and women who do this every single day long before we arrive on a scene.

Police officers. Firefighters. Paramedics. Tow operators. Volunteer emergency responders in rural communities. They answer the call regardless of the hour, the weather, or the road conditions. Many times they step into situations knowing there is risk involved. They go anyway.

Here in Alberta, especially in communities like Whitecourt and Drayton Valley where highways and rural roads are simply part of life, that commitment matters. Distances are long. Conditions can change quickly. Yet when the call comes, first responders roll out without hesitation.

I also want to acknowledge those who serve quietly in the funeral profession. On the days when the highways are glare ice. On the mornings when the snowplows have not yet made it through. On the evenings when visibility is low and common sense might say stay home. We move forward because a family is gathering. A casket must be present. A burial time has been set. Grief does not reschedule itself for better weather.

Today is just a simple reminder of the dedication it takes from so many professions to serve our communities well.

To every first responder.
To every volunteer.
To every funeral professional travelling difficult roads to care for families.

Thank you for answering the call, no matter the conditions.

From all of us at Affordable Cremation & Funeral Services, we see you and we appreciate you.

02/27/2026

Shannon Wogenstahl is PACE’s Executive Director. She provides leadership and works closely with partners and the community to strengthen business support across Northwestern Ontario.

Michelle Raine is PACE’s Program Coordinator. She supports program delivery and helps ensure business owners have access to the tools and resources they need to move forward.

Hope Raine is a Business Analyst at PACE. She works directly with entrepreneurs on business planning, financials, and loan applications, helping turn ideas into actionable plans.

Kristi Darrah is PACE’s Administrative Assistant. She’s often the first point of contact and helps keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Come see us at 61 King Street Unit 5 in Dryden

Gary CaseJuly 15, 1941 - February 22, 2026The family of William Gary Case (Gary) is saddened to announce his passing on ...
02/25/2026

Gary Case
July 15, 1941 - February 22, 2026

The family of William Gary Case (Gary) is saddened to announce his passing on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at the Dryden Regional Health Centre at the age of 84.

Gary will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Mary; children Michelle (Marcel) and Shaun (Lesley); grandchildren Devin (Olivia), Alyssa, Alexa (Dustin) and Darci (Jarryd).

He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Muriel Case and by his infant brother Gregory.

Gary was born at the Misericordia Hospital in Winnipeg and moved to Dryden early in his childhood. He attended public school and high school in Dryden. After a brief stint at the University of Manitoba and trying various career paths, he finally discovered his passion was for teaching. He spent a majority of his career teaching grade 7 and 8 in the ‘portables’ alongside Mr. Bolton at Barclay School. In about 1984, he transferred to Pinewood School and he finished up his career at Sprucedale.

He dabbled in politics, serving on the town council as a councillor for three terms. After retirement he worked part time as a Customs Officer at the Dryden Regional Airport.

Gary was an avid golfer until he injured his shoulder. The highlight of his golfing days was getting a hole in one during the Men’s Open – even if it was on the wrong day so he didn’t win the truck!

He enjoyed travelling with Mary throughout Canada, the US and Mexico, often travelling with friends. He and Mary became members of the Go Getters and he loved playing cards, playing and calling Bingo and working at the Sunday Pancake Breakfasts. He remained active at the Go Getters up to his final hospital stay.

The family would like to thank the incredible nurses at the Dryden Regional Health Centre who made Dad’s stay there so much easier. As he would have said “Merci beaucoup!”.

He will be fondly remembered for his sense of humour and his love of music and his family.

As per Gary’s wishes cremation has taken place and a Come & Go Tea will take place on March 21, 2026 at the Dryden Go-Getters from 1-3pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dryden Go-Getters, 84 St Charles St. Dryden, ON P8N 1L3, or through Aurora Funeral Service, 304 Kennedy Rd., Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/gary-case-2026

Wilson ThomasDecember 27, 1945 – February 22, 2026It is with great sadness that the family of Wilson Thomas announces hi...
02/25/2026

Wilson Thomas
December 27, 1945 – February 22, 2026

It is with great sadness that the family of Wilson Thomas announces his peaceful passing on February 22, 2026 at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, at the age of 80, with his family by his side.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 51 years Venus. Son Jamie (Crystal) and 4 grandchildren. Daughter Shawna (Wayne) Anderson and 2 grandchildren Rebecca and Marcus. Sister Venus (Frank) Squires of Kings Point Newfoundland.

He is pre-deceased by his son Stephen. Both parents Andrew/Jack and Sadie. Sister Beulah. Brothers Phil and Shawn.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Happy Go Lucky Seniors Centre in Vermilion Bay (23 Main Street) on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 1:30pm with Pastor Jake Letkeman officiating.

Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 2300 Yonge St., Suite 1200, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4, or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/wilson-thomas-2026

Jean Marie JONES (nee DAVIDSON)April 4, 1956 – February 3, 2026Jean Marie Jones (nee Davidson) passed away peacefully on...
02/12/2026

Jean Marie JONES (nee DAVIDSON)
April 4, 1956 – February 3, 2026

Jean Marie Jones (nee Davidson) passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, at the Dryden District Regional Hospital, at the age of 59 years.

Jean was born in Dryden, Ontario where she spent much of her life and built lasting connections within her community. She was a warm, social and generous person who found great joy in being with others. Jean loved baking, crafting, and playing bingo, but above all, she cherished time spent socializing with friends and family. She was known for her thoughtfulness-never forgetting a birthday or anniversary-and for the genuine care she showed to everyone in her life. Her husband (Carl) loved testing her sense of humour, Jean always had a comeback.

Jean will be lovingly remembered by her husband Carl Jones, her sons Jason (Susan) Oster and Jamie (Amy) Oster and Carl’s daughter Joanne (Carman). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Ethan (Dakota), Noah and William. She is also survived by her siblings: Shearl Bailey, Helen Hatch, Mae (Roy) McComb, Gwen (Jim) Bradley, Rick (Kelly) Davidson, and Karen (Pat) McGinn, along with many extended family members

She was predeceased by her parents Geraldine and Leonard Davidson, by her first husband Terry Oster, her brothers Don and Ron Davidson, along with other extended family members.

In Jeans’ later years, she formed many meaningful friendships at Princess Court, and she will be missed by the special friends she made there.

The family would like to thank the Dryden Hospital, Dr Lewis and the wonderful nurses for the care she received in her final days. Also thank you very much to the Staff at Princess Court for Jeans’ care while being a resident there.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will take place in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a Charity of Choice through Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/jean-jones-feb-2026

Murray Lionel Johnson, Sr. July 25, 1940 – February 8, 2026Murray Lionel Johnson passed away peacefully on Sunday, Febru...
02/10/2026

Murray Lionel Johnson, Sr.
July 25, 1940 – February 8, 2026

Murray Lionel Johnson passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Dryden Regional Health Centre with his wife by his side. The following was written by him:

I was born at home on July 25,1940. My mother was Grace Johnson (Locking) and my father was Murray Johnson. I had very loving parents. I was born with uncontrolable tremors in my hands. This kept me from doing many things. In 1957 I was a Jr. Ranger. I was to go to Sioux Lookout where we stayed overnight, then we were flown to Gold Pines. That was where the Lands and Forest base was. They were just closing it and moving it to Ear Falls. They had set up tents with plywood bottoms and canvas tops that were to be our living quarters. They moved an old work shop from Gold Pines to be a kitchen where we had a cook. Dick Tressleman was our supervisor. In summer 1958, I went back as a Ranger. In the fall 1958, I got on with the Department of Public Works. My job was to drive the Tradesmen from one job to another. They were building the police station and Department of Highways garage in Ear Falls and the Department of Highways garage in Red Lake and remodeling the police station in Red Lake. They were also working on the Jail in Kenora. I worked this job until the spring of 1959 when I went back to the Land and Forest in Ear Falls. Then I was stationed at Forestry Point in Red Lake. I also worked at the Department of Highways and Griffith Mine. In 1961 the Department of Highways started rebuilding the highway from Madsen to Red Lake and Harry’s Corner to Cochenour. Then they started heading south on Highway 105. At that time they had their own construction and paving equipment. They had made it to Ear Falls. Then other contractors started raising heck, so they shut the job down. I was lucky to have worked with those experienced men, like Charlie Keach. The only thing I couldn’t do was keep up with the partying. Some other jobs I did was working at International Nickle in Thompson, Manitoba and cutting right of way from Fort Frances to Atikokan. Around 1978 I started selling Arctic Cat snow machines in Ear Falls in my back yard. Then I opened a shop in Red Lake and sold Arctic Cat snow machines and Kawasaki and Honda Motorcycles. I moved back to Ear Falls and was an agent for Motorways for 12 years. I sold that business and went into building cabins on remote lakes. In my 50+ years in Ear Falls, I dealt with 99% good people. I never wanted to be a”Big Shot” in the community. With my tremors, I had to avoid some things I would have liked to participate in, but didn’t. It was fun to sit back and watch the ones that tried to be “Big Shots”. I was always one that believed in doing what you want. Life is too short. As Stan Leschuk once said to me, ‘Johnson, even though you have failed at times, you just got up and went at it that much harder’. In 1985 I went on a trip to Arizona to visit a brother. I traveled around a bit going to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas and to California to see the ‘Spruce Goose’ airplane and the Queen Mary. Then I had decided to travel north to British Columbia and then home, but instead decided to go back to Florence, Arizona to visit with my brother some more. That is where I met my wife Donna. That is when my life changed. After a short engagement, we got married. That is 40+ years ago.
In 2002, I was diagnosed with a bacteria in my lungs. This has no cure. In 2016, I was diagnosed with a blood precancer called smoldering myeloma. With these two illnesses my health has gradually deteriorated until the fall of 2025 when I became weak and couldn’t do the things I loved to do.

I want to thank George and Bev Kupper for his help and their friendship. Also I want to thank Keith, Richard and Vic Robinson for work they passed onto me. Also to Margarete Kalin (Boojum Research) for the employment. Also, Joan & Ron Moses for their friendship.

I was predeceased by my mother Grace Johnson (Locking) (1894-1981), my father Murray Johnson (1888-1956), stepbrothers, Angus Johnson (1920), Donald Johnson (1922-1928) and Floyd Johnson (1923-1998) his wife Peggy (1934-2015) all of Hamilton and North Dakota, my step sister Irene Findley, step-brothers Maurice, LaVern, Ronald and Wallace Findley, nephew Brian Findley and my brother Donald Johnson (1932-2022).

I am survived by my wife Donna, my sister-in-law Virginia Johnson, nephew Andrew Johnson and grandson Murray Johnson.

A special thank you to Dr. Doiron and Dr. Bester and the MAID program.

As per Murray’s wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no service. Interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the The Dryden Regional Health Centre - Hospice, P.O. Box 3003, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z6 or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/murray-johnson-sr

Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3 Dryden, ON P8N 3G2.

Carolyn Margaret Pearson nĂ©e SmithApril 9, 1947 – February 2, 2026Born April 9, 1947 to Fredrick and Betty Smith in Selk...
02/05/2026

Carolyn Margaret Pearson née Smith
April 9, 1947 – February 2, 2026
Born April 9, 1947 to Fredrick and Betty Smith in Selkirk, MB

Carol is survived by her husband of 56 years Carl Pearson, son Vance (Wendy), daughter Vicki (John), grandchildren Cody and Kalli Pearson and Keith and Evan Hutchison, brother Richard (Mary) of Calgary, AB, sister in law Daveena Bessason of Winnipeg, MB, nieces Dawn and Jamie, and nephews David, Trent and Darren.

She is predeceased by her parents Fredrick and Betty Smith, infant son Keith Pearson and brother Kenneth Smith.

Carol loved spending time with her family and most specially time with her grandchildren. Some of her favorite times were spent on the golf course and got a hole in one at the Ear Falls golf course. Some of the families’ favorite memories were made together on Wapisi at the families houseboat and fishing. She was an avid curler for years in both women’s and mixed leagues. She also enjoyed her time helping out the Ear Falls legion ladies. She loved boating down to Camping Lake and out on Lac Seul for beaching days with friends. She also loved her time traveling with Carl in Canada and to Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, Cuba and Dominican.

She is also remembered by special friends Jackie and Gary, Betsy and John, Corrie and Liz and Rusty.

As per Carolyn’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, 2300 Yonge Street, Suite 1200, Box 2414, Toronto, ON M4P 1E4 or Canadian Diabetes Association, 1400-522 University Avenue, Toronto, ON M5G 2R5 or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/carolyn-m-pearson

Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Beverley “Gaazhoos” Napish"Pee-maa Sabi-ina-Seek" Thunder BirdSunrise: February 29, 1944 ~ Sunset: January 21, 2026It is...
01/23/2026

Beverley “Gaazhoos” Napish
"Pee-maa Sabi-ina-Seek" Thunder Bird
Sunrise: February 29, 1944 ~ Sunset: January 21, 2026

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Beverley Napish, who was deeply loved and will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

In her quiet moments, she enjoyed playing cards, solitaire, and loved bingo. She especially loved spending time with her family and took great joy in visits from her great-grandchildren.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Marjorie and son Rocco(Suzi Q); grandson Ivan(Ange), and by her grandchildren Maddox, Mason, Marlene & Jerome, Natasha & children, and Beverley & children , as well as her great-granddaughters Lex ”my white baby”, Isla and Margot.

She will also be dearly missed by her brothers Harry Pitchenese and Daniel Pitchenese, and her sisters Julie Pitchenese and Isabel, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Harry Pitchenese and Mary Ann Fobister; her brothers Albert, Leonard, Peter, Jack, and sons; Wayne, Dean, Howard, and Wilfred Jr.; her sisters Elsie and Margaret; and her grandson Eli.

She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A Wake will be held beginning on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11 a.m., in Beverley's home, at 1183 Ojibway Dr. Migisi Sahgaigan, ON

A Traditional Funeral Service will follow on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 11 a.m. Interment to take place in the Migisi Sahgaigan Cemetery.

** Please do not bring flowers, as per tradition **

Memorial donations may be made to the Second Chance Pet Network, Box 343 Dryden, ON P8N 2Z1 or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be posted at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/beverley-napish

Ronald Kevin Kelly “Red Sky” Shkoo-GiizhigSunrise: October 7, 1961 ~ Sunset: January 20th, 2026In Loving Memory of Ronal...
01/22/2026

Ronald Kevin Kelly “Red Sky” Shkoo-Giizhig
Sunrise: October 7, 1961 ~ Sunset: January 20th, 2026

In Loving Memory of Ronald Kevin Kelly, Born October 7, 1961. Ron began his journey home at the age of 64 surrounded by Friends and Family at DRHC on January 20th, 2026.

Ron, aka “Scron” is remembered as an incredibly wonderful husband, father, uncle and friend who was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. He was a carpenter most of his life and took pride in the work he accomplished in multiple first nation communities as well as parts of western Canada. He loved to fish and would take any opportunity to be out on the water.

Ron is predeceased by his loving wife Karon Hourie-Kelly, his beautiful mother Catherine Kelly and his inspirational grandfather Patrick Kelly that he often credited for his passion for carpentry.

Ron is survived by his children Pamela (Paul) and Kevin (Tyla), whom he loved more than anything in this world, brothers Marshall, Kenny and Clarence and his bonus brother Gary, nephews Justin, Trenton (Jamee), Matthew and Shaun (Jeanette), nieces Randi (Adam), Madison and Crystal as well as many extended family members including his cherished first wife Lee-Anne. He was so proud of all of you.

A wake will take place at the Eagle Lake Community Hall on Tuesday, January 27th at 1PM. Service will be held on Wednesday, January 28th at 11AM conducted by Chief Bill Petiquan. Interment will follow taking place in Eagle River Cemetery. Friends and Family are warmly welcomed back to the Hall for a Feast in Ron’s memory.

The Family would like to say Miigwetch to the wonderful community of Migisi Sahgaigan, Chief and Council as well as the Health Centre for so much love and continued support during this difficult time, Chief Bill Petiquan and Wabauskang First Nation for all the assistance they have provided. A special Thanks to Dr Bester and Nurse Alyssa as well as DRHC for all the care and compassion you provided not only Ron, but the family as well.

Memorial donations may be made to the DRHC Oncology Dept., P.O. Box 3003, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z6 or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be posted at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/ronald-kelly-2026

Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

Dr. Mark WhittakerMarch 14, 1957 – January 14, 2026Mark Edward Whittaker, age 68, passed away suddenly but peacefully on...
01/22/2026

Dr. Mark Whittaker
March 14, 1957 – January 14, 2026

Mark Edward Whittaker, age 68, passed away suddenly but peacefully on January 14, 2026, at the Dryden Regional Health Centre.

Mark was born in New Westminster, British Columbia, and raised in Fredericton, New Brunswick. As a teenager, his family moved to Winnipeg, a city that would remain an important part of his life. He later moved to Guelph, Ontario, to pursue his master’s degree, before returning to Winnipeg where he worked as a researcher at the University of Manitoba Medical College. During this time, Bev was working nearby at the Health Sciences Centre, and it was there that their lives came together.

Inspired to further serve others, Mark entered medical school in 1985, and in 1986 married Bev. After completing his residency, Mark and Bev moved to Dryden in 1991 with their two young sons. Mark went on to serve the Dryden community as a dedicated family physician for more than 30 years. He was deeply respected by his patients and colleagues for his compassion, steady presence, and commitment to care. In 2022 Mark retired after a long and fulfilling medical career, leaving behind a legacy of service and kindness.
In retirement, Mark embraced life to the fullest, travelling widely and sharing his love of scuba diving with Bev. These adventures brought him great joy and many cherished memories.

Mark was predeceased by his father, Dennis, and his mother, Barbra. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Bev; his sons Kevin and Colin; his brother Roger (Beth); his sister Christina (Ted); and his nieces Lauren (Ehren) and Heather.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced. Mark will be remembered for his kindness, his dedication to his community, and his ability to balance a serious profession with a warm heart and a wry sense of humour.

Memorial donations may be made to the Second Chance Pet Network, Box 343, Dryden, ON P8N 2Z1, or Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Foundation - Northern Cancer Research, 980 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 6V4 or through Aurora Funeral Service, 304 Kennedy Rd., Site 202, Comp 39, RR3, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2.

Condolences may be posted at https://aurorafuneralservices.ca/obituaries/mark-whittaker

Bruce “Butch” LindgrenMay 19, 1949 – December 26,2025It is with sadness that the family of Bruce “Butch” Lindgren announ...
01/17/2026

Bruce “Butch” Lindgren
May 19, 1949 – December 26,2025

It is with sadness that the family of Bruce “Butch” Lindgren announce his passing at the age of 76 after many years of complicated health issues. Butch passed away peacefully surrounded by his family in the ICU at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Centre on December 26, 2025.

Butch is lovingly remembered by his wife Elaine, son Stephen Lindgren (Eileen), step-daughters Dana Pajerski (Jan), Krista Chambers (Jeremy) and Marne Samsal (Jay), his cherished grandchildren; Lincoln Lindgren, Matti, Kristian and Leon Pajerski, Beckett and Mailey Chambers and Brynn and Briar Samsal. Also surviving Butch are his sisters, Judy West MiddleKamp (Bob) and Pat Wiest (Ken) plus many nieces and nephews, mother-in-law Svea Kadolph, brothers-in-law Larry (Deannie), Terry (Millie) and Bruce Kadolph. Butch was predeceased by his parents Gordon and Peggy Lindgren and father-in-law Roy Kadolph.

Butch will be greatly missed by his many good friends who he often kept in contact with and his ‘Brothers from anotha Motha’ as the saying goes, Charlie (Barb) and Louis (Eryn -deceased) Roussin and Millie Pinette.

Butch was born in the old Dryden Red Cross Hospital when life was less complicated. Being the youngest and the only son, his sisters say that he was spoiled. He was often with a group of friends riding bikes, swimming, raiding gardens and just having fun. High School days were about the socialization with a splash of academics. He was known for being an instigator, prankster and driving a fast ‘muscle’ car. Butch worked at a few jobs like Dryden Paper Mill, delivering gasoline to tourist camps for Con Sveinson and proudly managing the Old Dryden House. Butch married his first wife in 1978 and they moved to Lethbridge, AB. Butch answered an ad in the paper which launched his 40 year career with Monarch Life, North American Life and finally Manulife as an Insurance Salesman/Investment and Financial Planner. He retired in 2018 as a Five Star Master Builder due to poor health. His career afforded him many wonderful opportunities to travel all over the world through the years and many treasured friendships and client relationships. Butch could start a conversation with anyone and had a fabulous sense of humour which got him out of trouble on more than one occasion. This carried on, particularly in the hospitals where his humour lightened many a serious situation. In the late 80’s, Butch moved his career and family back to Dryden and met his second wife Elaine in the late 90’s, they married in 2006. In 2009 a serious snowmachine accident triggered a host of health problems over the following years. The last two being the most challenging. Despite his poor health, he always said, “There are others out there who are worse off than me.” He was still able to make it to Monday night Poker with ‘The Boys’ no matter how rough his day was and they made sure he could attend. Butch also loved nothing more than to spoil his grand kids, bring smiles to their faces and attending their sports games. Most precious times were the FaceTime visits, especially with grandson Lincoln.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Stephen Viherjoki for his care over the years, Dr. A. Boake for his compassion and professionalism, Dr. LaFerrier, Dr. Watson, Dr. Silverberg and Dr. Rizc. A very special thank you to the compassionate and caring dialysis nurses at the Lake of the Woods Hospital and Renal Unit of the TBRHC. Also, to our many friends who assisted with driving Butch to treatment in Kenora and our many friends who lent a hand to help with things he no longer could do. A really big thank you to his dear friend Gary Joseph.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the early summer of 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Dryden Regional Health Services Foundation– Dialysis Unit, P.O. Box 3003, Dryden, Ontario, P8N 2Z6 or online to Dryden Regional Health Services Foundation www.drhsf.com or through Aurora Funeral Services.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.aurorafuneralservices.ca

Arrangements entrusted to Aurora Funeral Services, 304 Kennedy Road, Site 202, RR3, Comp 39, Dryden, ON P8N 3G2

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304 Kennedy Road
Dryden, ON
P8N2X4

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