Denning's of Lambton-Middlesex

09/12/2025

Douglas Edward Langs
December 12, 1942 – August 18, 2025

It is with heartfelt sadness that we share the passing of Douglas Langs, who died peacefully at home on August 18, 2025. Doug was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who touched the lives of many with his kindness, warmth, and unwavering love.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy Langs; his children, Valerie (Langs) Wise (Rob), Kevin Langs (Sue Moran), Sarah Fergusson (JC Nisbet), and Jim Fergusson (Jaime Ducharme). Doug was a proud and loving grandfather to Tara (Spencer), Courtney (Scott), Sedona, Sawyer, Madison, and Sawyer, as well as a cherished great-grandfather to Delilah, Olive, and Sonny.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, September 14, from 1 to 4 p.m., with words of remembrance taking place at 2:30p.m., at the Strathroy Portuguese Canadian Club. Messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations to Parkinson Canada are appreciated.

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Doug Langs was born and raised on the family dairy farm in Cambridge, Ontario, the son of Thomas and Mildred Langs and younger brother of Robert Langs. He was a visionary entrepreneur and a man of many passions. In 1968, he founded Langs Bus Lines in Strathroy, Ontario with just four buses, and through hard work and determination, he grew the company into a thriving operation with hundreds of vehicles and employees. By the 1980s, his highway coaches could be seen across North America, proudly serving the tour industry. During that same era, the famous “Mystery Tours” often landed at Doug’s legendary party barn—a place filled with jukeboxes, gas station collectibles, and good times that became as memorable as the trips themselves. In the late 1980s, Doug also found and married his soulmate, Nancy, with whom he shared countless adventures and cherished memories.

In the 1990s, Doug discovered a new passion in racehorses, which, like him, achieved greatness—winning across the continent and even setting world records. In the early 2000s, his love for speed carried him across the ocean in high-horsepower boats, and his adventurous spirit even took him “almost” to space aboard the Concorde. Coupled with his playful love for pinball, Doug lived a life full of drive, excitement, and achievement. Few have accomplished so much, and even fewer have inspired as many along the way. Doug will be dearly missed, remembered as both a mentor and an inspiration to many.

09/12/2025

Connie Steven

Steven, Mrs. Constance Ann “Connie” (of Warwick Village and Sarnia, Ontario) Passed away peacefully at Bluewater Health-CEEH on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.

Predeceased by her husband Ivan Steven (2013). Loving mother of Ken Steven (2020) (Christine), Ann Rankin (Dave 2021), and Marie Bradley (John).

Dear grandmother of Shaun (Kailey), Daniel (Lee-Ann), Kim (Colin), Matt (Amanda), and Eric. Dear Great-grandmother of Alina.

A visitation will be held at Denning’s Funeral Chapel, 9 James Street South, Forest, Ontario, on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

A Private graveside service will be held at Beechwood Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are entrusted with Denning’s Funeral Home.

Donations in Connie's memory may be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice, Sarnia.

09/10/2025

On September 6th, we had the privilege of hosting our Centennial Celebration with our community friends, families, and supporters, which marked a century of serving with care and compassion. Together we reflected, laughed, and honoured the legacy that Basil Denning began in 1925.

We are currently working on a video that will capture the highlights of the day as best as possible. Please keep an eye out for its release soon.

For now, we want to take a moment to thank the many people who not only helped make this event possible but who also ensured it truly recognized our past while inspiring us for the future:

• The Professional Car Society, with special thanks to Mary Catherine, Larry, and Walt

• The Black Widow’s Car Club, with a special nod to their members and the joy they brought with them

• The Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc for their unwavering support and accommodation every time we reached out for help

• The Strathroy Lions Club, for their tasty food and for being a shining example of the strength, resilience, and joy that make this community so special

• Randy Grey, whose music and energy set the perfect tone for our celebration

• Sue Clarke, Mayor of Adelaide Metcalfe

• Colin Grantham, Mayor of Strathroy-Caradoc

• Brian Ropp, Warden of Middlesex County

• Steve Pinsonneault, M.P.P. for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex

• Lianne Rood, M.P. for Middlesex—Lambton

• Lambton County Museum, for generously providing the horse-drawn ambulance that beautifully connected us to history

• Our family, every single one of you, for the endless love, encouragement, and support you continue to give

• Our friend Rob Vanderweetering, for making sure the old building looked its best for the event.

•Nick Haberer of Haberer Interment Services for helping create our special gift for Uncle Al

• The Denning’s Centennial Celebration Committee, for countless hours of planning and dedication

• The entire Denning team, who went above and beyond to ensure that every detail reflected the level of service and care we are proud to be known for

• And to our community—wow. We were truly humbled by the overwhelming turnout. Your presence reminds us of the importance of our work and how, if our duties are done with care, it keeps our community connected to us in meaningful and lasting ways.

• Finally, to those who have gone before us, every individual we have served, loved, and learned from. They all remain ever-present in our hearts and in the very walls of our halls. Your memory is the foundation of our work, and we carry you with us into the next century.

09/10/2025

Judy Erskine

Peacefully, on August 25, 2025, Judy Erskine passed away at University Hospital in London, in her 75th year. Judy was the devoted wife of the late John Erskine (2024), with whom she shared 52 cherished years. She was a loving and proud mother of Sara Erskine (Colin Hughes) and Kari Fuller (Jason). She was a devoted grandmother to Sydney and Jessica. Judy is survived by many friends and extended family.

Judy was predeceased by her husband John Erskine (2024), her father Maurice Needham (1978), and her mother Ethel Needham (née Vanner) (2010).

Judy was an avid knitter and crocheter, always ready with a baby blanket for anyone expecting a child. She devoted her time to her family and was always there for others.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life for friends and family will be held at Denning’s of Strathroy on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

In memory of Judy, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

09/09/2025

In Loving Memory of
James Langford Hutchinson
March 31, 1943 – August 28, 2025

Jim passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family and in accordance with his wishes, on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the age of 82.

Beloved husband and companion of Joyce Hutchinson for 61 years. Devoted father of Debbie, Bobbie, Ashlee, and Dan (Kathy).

Special grandpa to Cassandra, Shay, Miguel, Zoey, Cassidy and Haley.

Best friend and loyal companion to Roxi.

Jim and Joyce opened their home to many foster children over the years to give them a safe place to call home.

Son of the late Arthur and the late Evelyn Hutchinson. Brother of Raymond (Cathy), and predeceased by siblings Gordon (Shirley), Bruce (Joanne), Glen, Eric, and Sandra.

Son-in-law of the late Roy and the late Estelle, and brother-in-law of Doug (Lynda), the late Ron (Esther), Marilyn (Ric), and the late Wilbert (the late Joyce).

Special friend of Maureen and Nelson, John Pari and family, Jen Trudell and family and Stewart and Kim Burns. Jim will be deeply missed by his aunt Ruth (Bob) Galloway and Jean (Howard) Clarke, as well as many many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jim was a hardworking family man with a wonderful sense of humour. Throughout the years, he faced numerous health challenges with remarkable resilience, but this final battle proved too great to overcome. He put many miles on his scooter each day and will be fondly remembered by the Parkhill community as the “Scooter Man,” with his sidekick, Roxi.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Olmstead and staff, all the specialists who cared for Jim over the years, and to Dr. Thomas for granting Jim’s final wish.

Friends and family will gather for a Celebration of Jim’s life on Sunday September 21, 2025, at the Parkhill Leisure Club (176 Broadway Street, Parkhill, Ontario) from 1:00pm-4:00pm

In memory of Jim, donations may be made to the Parkhill Optimist Club, where they will be used to support the children with special medical needs of Parkhill.
Please mail cheques to Parkhill Optomist Club, P.O. Box 373, Parkhill Ontario N0M 2K0

09/09/2025

James Roy Scott

With love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the peaceful passing of James Roy Scott on September 6, 2025, in his 98th year.
Loving husband and dance partner of Audrey for 71 years. He will be fondly remembered by his six daughters and their families: Kathy (Rick) Allen, Karen (Ken) Kingdon, Kim (Alex) Boris, Kerry (Dale) Fisher, Konnie (Dave) Maxfield, and Karla (Dave) Crocker.

Jim was proud of his 17 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his granddaughter Marissa Boris and his siblings Jean, Lois, Ken, and Barb.

Jim will be missed by his many friends at the Country Music Jamborees and Tim Hortons.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Country Manor and Strathroy Hospital for their compassionate care.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
A funeral service will take place on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with interment to follow at Ravenswood Cemetery. A lunch will be hosted at the Forest Golf Club and Inn Banquet Hall following the interment.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ravenswood Cemetery by cheque to the funeral home, or a charity of choice.

Online condolences may be shared at www.forestfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Denning’s of Forest.

09/06/2025

09/06/2025

Dennings Centennial Celebration! 10-4, car show, food, entertainment, kids zone!

09/06/2025

Things are coming together at the Denning's Centennial Celebration! Come for a visit 10-4, small ceremony at 2 pm, see some amazing vehicles and learn about the history of the funeral service. Lots to do for kids and adults, thank you Strathroy for 100 years of placing your trust in us. The Denning Family.

09/06/2025

Marion Christena Skinner

Peacefully, at Strathmere Lodge on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, Marion Christena Skinner (McLean) of Strathroy at the age of 88. Predeceased by her husband Bill in 1993. Loving remembered by her sons, Maurice (Barb), Duncan (Carol) and Andy Skinner. Dear grandma of Kelly (Ken) Kelly, Brad (Ashley) Skinner and great grandma of Hunter and Brooklyn.

Dear sister of John (late Mary) McLean, Margaret Jean (late Gene) McDonald and Annie Elizabeth (late Chuck) McLean. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her brothers George, Donald and Archie.

Marion loved to knit and donated many blankets to the hospital and many other worthy causes. She loved her vegetable garden and spent hours caring for her plants. She loved her family and had a down-to earth lifestyle. There weren't many Christmases that didn't include her famous caramel corn. She was a proud member of the North Caradoc community and will be remembered by her neighbours and friends.

A private family graveside service will take place and a public Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday October 11, from 2:00pm - 4:00pm at Caradoc Sands. The Skinner family would like to thank the Doctors and Nurses at One South at Strathroy Hospital for their care and compassion for mom, as well as Strathmere Lodge, in particular the staff on Sydenham Meadows who made mom's last bit of time comfortable and peaceful.

If desired, memorial contributions to the Strathmere Lodge Ladies Auxiliary would be appreciated as your expression of sympathy.

09/05/2025

Tina Van Dyk

In His right time, the Lord, her Saviour, took to Himself; our loving Mother, Oma, and Great-Oma, Tina Van Dyk (nee DeRuiter), on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the age of 93. Predeceased by her Husband, Henk Van Dyk (2006).

Deeply loved by her children, Rob and Ann Van Dyk, Elisabeth and Gord Wong, Ingrid and the late Michael Travassos (2025), Paul and Laurie Van Dyk, Mark Van Dyk and Amanda Muma, Steve Van Dyk and Vanessa Tulk, and Tessa Van Dyk.

Proud Oma of Devon and Erik Van Dyk, Carmen Wong, Zachary Travassos and Bailey Lee, Natasha and Jake Rowell, Brandon and Andrew Van Dyk, Austin Van Dyk, and Seth and Hannah Van Dyk, and Great-Oma of LaNiyah and Niyarah Bruce, and, Henry and Hudson Van Dyk, Emma and Gabriella.

Cherished sister and sister-in-law of the late Herman (2017) and Ricki DeRuiter, Frank and Freda DeRuiter, the late Joanne (2012) and Dick (2003) Kirkpatrick, and Elisabeth DeRuiter. And beloved “Tante Tinie” of many nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her parents Albertus (1981) and Jeltje DeRuiter (1991).

Mom has always been a constant in our lives- there to provide unconditional support. Mom could be very stubborn, and would like to think she was always right-even when she wasn’t. She was very easy going and would talk to everyone, and was able to laugh at herself. Mom was extremely honest and would never hold a grudge-always encouraging us to “step over it”.

Mom had an adventurous spirit, becoming an entrepreneur with Dad-opening Strathroy Print & Litho in 1967, where she worked as the bookkeeper. Mom loved organizing trips every summer-travelling across Canada and the United States. She introduced camping at Killbear Park to the grandkids, spent endless summers at the town pool ensuring her kids and grandkids knew how to swim. Oma never missed a hockey game, soccer practice, dance recital or basketball tournament.

Mom always made a “gezellig” atmosphere-hosting family gatherings and cooking our favourite Nasi Goreng. We all grew up with Nivea cream on our faces, and hagelslag sandwiches.

We wish to extend our special thanks and gratitude to Barb Thyssen, Bernie Johnstone, Kathy Eagleson, the Klinker boys - Jeff and Chris, Jessica Pranger, SE Health - Iryna and Bridgett, ParaMed Home Health - Kim, Community Paramedics from Middlesex-London Paramedic Services - Cindy, Meals on Wheels, Dr David Sanders, Dr Tim MacDonald, Dr Nuala Marshall and the staff at Sprucedale Care Centre - Maple Gardens, for their compassion and care.

To celebrate Tina’s life, visitation will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 2 pm to 5 pm at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY, 32 Metcalfe Street West, Strathroy, where the funeral will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025 at 11 a.m. Interment following at the Strathroy Cemetery.

Mom, your love, guidance, and warm spirit will remain in our hearts forever. You were the best Oma ever. We are grateful for the precious memories you left behind and we will celebrate your beautiful life always.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Strathroy Lions Club towards their fundraising efforts to purchase a Dog Guide.