Denning's of Lambton-Middlesex

10/07/2025

Looking for something fun to do on the PA Day?

Bring the kids and join us for a FREE screening of Disney’s Haunted Mansion!

📅 Friday, October 10 (PA Day)
🕐 1:00 PM Start Time
🎟️ FREE Admission for All!
📍Kineto Theatre in Forest Ontario

Snacks and drinks available at the concession.

Everyone welcome at this spooky-good time 👻!

🎥 Free Family Movie Day!
Movie: Disney’s Haunted Mansion 👻
📅 October PA Day
🕐 1:00 PM
🎟️ FREE Admission!
Join us for a spooky-fun adventure the whole family will enjoy!
🍿 Snacks & drinks available at the concession.

10/04/2025

Shirley Jean Cobban

It is with great sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Shirley Jean Cobban (née MacCallum) on Thursday, October 2, 2025. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Laverne (2012), and beloved son, David (1992). She is survived by her cherished sons, Paul and Tom.

Predeceased by her parents, Murray (1965) and Lila (née Carruthers – 1987) MacCallum; brother, Tom MacCallum (2004); sister, Sally (2010), and her husband, Ray Ewbank (1990), and their children, Andy (2022) and Peter (Kathleen) and family (Courtney and Chris); sister, Anne (2011), and her husband, Bill Fennell (2021), and their family: Dick (Gail), sons Chad (Amy and children Grant, Olivia, and Lyle), Garrett (Kayla and child Emmett), and their mother, Robin; Becky (Doug) Elder and their children (William, Kristi, and Thomas); James (1967); and Amos (daughter Savanah); and cousin, Janet Cobban (Tim Cope).

Relatives and friends will be received at Denning Funeral Home, Strathroy, on Sunday, October 5, from 6–8 p.m., and one hour prior to the 2:00 p.m. memorial service held on Monday, October 6, with Rev. Amanda MacMillan officiating. Surrounded by the love of her family, a private interment will be made at Cook’s Cemetery, beside her beloved husband, Laverne, and son, David. Together once more.

Donations to Ronald McDonald House or the charity of your choice are appreciated.

10/04/2025

Jose Furtado Geraldes

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jose Furtado Geraldes on September 28, 2025, at the age of 77.

Jose was a devoted and loving father to Joe (Jenny) Geraldes, Jason Geraldes, and Sandy (Jeffery) Bland. He was a cherished Avô to Emalee (Edan), Koby, Anthony, Nicholas, Alexander, Natalie, Jackson, and Dylan—each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. Jose is predeceased by his brothers Robert (Manuela), and Tony (Natalia), and sisters Fatima (Manuel) Oliveria, and Ines (Durval) Carrita. He is survived by his siblings Angie (Gil) Maiato, Manny (Vincenza), Germaina (Roberto) Silva, and Andre (Anna).

Born in the Azores, Jose immigrated to Canada in 1959, where he built a life rooted in family, laughter, and resilience. He was known for his love of fishing, his infectious sense of humor, and his ability to light up any room with his jokes and playful spirit. Jose truly loved to have a good time, and his warmth and laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have shared in his life.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Denning’s of Strathroy from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

A second visitation will take place on Monday, October 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Denning’s of Strathroy, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at All Saints Catholic Church at 11:00 AM.

In Jose’s memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Online condolences and donations may be made at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com

09/28/2025

Dora Van Oostrom

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Theodora "Dora" Johanna Maria Van Oostrom (Verheul). She was born in Utrecht, the Netherlands on November 19, 1935, and was called into heaven in her 90th year, on September 21, 2025 at Strathroy Memorial General Hospital, surrounded with our love.

She is predeceased by her loving and devoted husband, the late Cornelis “Keith” Van Oostrom (September 14, 2016).

She is the cherished mother of Tony (Rosemary) Van Oostrom of Fenwick, Ontario, Judy (Brian) MacNeil of Winnipeg, MB and Sharon (Otto) Vander Werf of Strathroy, ON, loving Oma to Michael (Rachel), Colin, Daniel and Janine and recent Great-Oma to Daxton. She is godmother to John (Eliza) Verheul of Nieuwegein, the Netherlands.

She is survived by other family in the Netherlands: one sister, Sr.Teresa (Trees) Verheul, Utrecht and two sister in-laws, Ans Verheul, De Meern, and Ria Van Oorschot (Brielle).

She is predeceased by her parents, Theodora (1975) and Johannes (1947) Verheul of Vleuten-De Meern, the Netherlands and most of her 10 brothers and sisters and their spouses:

Jan (Ans) Verheul, Ries (Joke) Verheul, Ria (Geert) Hansen, Annie (Jan) Vermeent, Corrie (Jan) Smienk, Bep (Hein) Wendel, Theo Verheul, Jos Verheul and Kees (Riet) Verheul.

On the Van Oostrom side, she is survived only by one brother in-law, Juul (Truus) Van Oostrom, De Meern, the Netherlands; and several sister in-laws: Sjaan (Jan,) Corrie (Ton), Ina (Piet), Cisca (Gerard) Van Oostrom.

Dora will also be remembered by many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.

Special thanks to the wonderful staff at both Trillium Village and Sprucedale Care Centre for their most excellent care of and compassion for Dora and to the staff at SMGH for helping her and the family navigate her last days. As well, thanks to special friends, in Canada: Fr. John Sharp, Helen Green, Carole Murphy, Pierina Porciello, Eunice Grieve, Deacon Henry Tomaszewski, and early friends, Ben (Matteke) Vanderbrug, Herman (Sjaan) Van Wesenbeeck and Neil (Joke) VanderSchans; and, in the Netherlands: Gerard (Joke) “Blacky” Swart and family, Leidy (Ton) Griffioen, and all friends who have given their friendship and support. We are grateful to Denning’s Funeral Home and All Saint’s Parish for very compassionate and personalized care.

Additionally, our heartfelt gratitude to those who will join us from nearby or who will participate or travel from afar. Special thanks to John Verheul (Nieuwegein, the Netherlands) for providing historical checks and Jaap Boom (Utrecht, the Netherlands) for delivering the eulogy and for representing the Dutch family who cannot attend.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday October 1, at 11:00 a.m. at All Saint’s Roman Catholic Church, Strathroy, ON with Fr. David Johnston, officiating. There will be an hour of visitation directly before the funeral mass at the church and a private graveside Interment to follow. A luncheon reception will be provided by the CWL at the church following the mass.

The service may be viewed through the livestream on Dora’s tribute page on Denning’s website. As well, this website will have a longer obituary.

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Krembil Brain Institute in Toronto (ground breaking brain and other aneurysm research), All Saint’s Church or a charity of your choice. Please consider a donation in lieu of flowers.

Respectfully, and with great gratitude the family request that, if you are feeling unwell, you send a card of condolence in lieu of attending.

Online condolences and donations may be left at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com. Or please address to Dora Van Oostrom sympathy, c/o Sprucedale Care Centre, 96 Kittridge Ave E, Strathroy ON, N7G 2A8

Donations may be made to the Krembil Brain Institute at www.UHNfoundation.ca/tribute

09/26/2025

Tammy Louise Russell

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tammy Louise Russell (née Heckman), in her 67th year. Tammy passed away at Chatham General Hospital on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

Beloved wife of Frank R. Russell. Cherished mother of Stephanie Nicole Russell (Jessi) and Rebecca Lynn Russell. Grandmother to Evan Noah Jackson and Braeden.

Tammy will be deeply missed by her siblings-in-law: John (Wendy) Russell, Mike (Leanne) Russell, Mark (Terry) Russell, Tim (Dawn) Russell, Dave (Lynda) Russell, Jayne (Russell), Bill Denty, Brian (Michelle) Russell, Paul Russell, and Kelly (Robert) Stover. She was a dear niece to Pat Richardson, and will be fondly remembered by her cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was the daughter of Richard and Marion Heckman, and sister to Terri Lynn Stover and Rick Heckman.

Tammy had many dear friends, and our family knows they share in our loss. You are not forgotten, and we feel your grief too.

May she be dancing on a bed of rubies, surrounded by a field of carnations.

As per Tammy's wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Denning’s of Strathroy. Online condolences may be made at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com

09/24/2025

Shirley Kelly

Peacefully at North Lambton Lodge in Forest on Monday, September 22nd, 2025. Shirley Elizabeth Kelly (nee Gauld) of Forest in her 93rd year. Shirley is predeceased by her loving husband William “Bill” Kelly in 2009. Loving Mother to Bill (2020) and Joyce (Hazard)(2019) Kelly, Debbie (Bill) Jamieson and Dianne (2024) and Sheldon (2015) Jackson. Shirley will be fondly remembered by grandchildren Jeremy (Bel), Dusty (Alex), Tarin (Shawn), Naomi and Julie (Scott) and great grandchildren Xavier, Faith, Addison, Kellan, Will and Reed. Shirley will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. A private family service will take place in Forest, Ontario. Arrangements entrusted to DENNING’S OF FOREST. Donations and condolences can be left online at www.forestfuneralhome.com.

09/24/2025

Richard Cornelius Parkinson

It is with great sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of Richard (Dick) Parkinson, in his 90th year, on September 20, 2025, at Sprucedale Care Centre. Beloved and devoted husband to Barbara Parkinson (Hughes) for 64 wonderful years. Loving father of Mary Ann (Rick) and Valerie (Tim). Proud and cherished grandpa to Britt, Josh, Kalli, and Lily. Caring brother to Laura Hudson and Marie Girard, and brother-in-law of Catherine Shaddock. Richard will also be fondly remembered by extended family and many friends. He was predeceased by his brother Herb Parkinson; his parents, Neil and Eva Parkinson; and his brothers-in-law, Doug Girard, Ron Hudson, and Ralph Shaddock.

Richard graduated from Medway High School and went on to study at Ridgetown College of Agriculture and Technology. Throughout his life, he embodied the values of hard work, determination, and dedication. His career path reflected his versatility and commitment, working as a farmer, school bus driver, and real estate agent. He also served with distinction as a Director of Middlesex Mutual Insurance Company for 15 years.

A man who believed in giving back, Richard was a longtime Canadian Blood Services volunteer and recognized donor, as well as an active volunteer with the Ailsa Craig Historical Society.

Faith and community were at the heart of his life. Richard was a devout member of the Ailsa Craig United Church and a loyal member of the Masonic Lodge.

In his leisure time, Richard enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events, reading, and traveling. These simple joys brought him great happiness and created lasting memories with those he loved most.

Richard's life was one of service, love, and quiet strength. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for his unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community. His presence will be deeply missed, and his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Sprucedale Care Centre for their compassionate care to Richard.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the time of the Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. at Denning’s of Strathroy, followed by a private graveside service.

In memory of Richard, donations may be made to Canadian Blood Services.

Online condolences may be left at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com

09/24/2025

Chad Douglas Seed

Chad Douglas Seed passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Castle View Wychwood Towers Long-Term Care Facility in Toronto, ON, at the age of 51.

Chad was born in Calgary, Alberta, on October 31, 1973. He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, April Seed (née Brander), and their beautiful daughter, Lily Seed (16), both of Toronto. He is also survived by his parents, Doug and Sharen Seed; sisters Sherrie McCormack (Steven) and Heather Seed; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harry and Judy Brander; brother-in-law William Brander (Carolyn); nephews Colin, Zachary, Benson, and Blake; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Chad faced numerous health challenges in his later years, yet he consistently demonstrated remarkable inner strength. His wife, April, is commended for her strength of character in supporting Chad and raising their daughter while working full-time. Lily also showed great compassion in helping care for her father.

Cremation has taken place in Toronto.

A visitation will be held at Denning’s of Strathroy, 32 Metcalfe St. W., Strathroy, ON, on September 27, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Strathroy Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be shared at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Denning’s of Strathroy.

09/20/2025

William Stanley Brush

It is with heavy hearts the family announces the peaceful passing of William Stanley Brush on September 18, 2025 at North Lambton Lodge, at the age 86. Beloved husband of Colleen Brush (McGee) of 58 cherished and loving years. Loving father of Becky (Mike) Barnes and Brian Brush (Sue). Proud grandpa Abbie, Joe, Sam, Sadie, Madison (Darcy), McKenna, Riley, Parker, and Rhys. Great-grandpa Kash. Special Papa to Holton and Chloe.

Bill is survived by his sister Donna Packet and sister-in-law Gayle. Predeceased by his parents Russell and Isla, his brother Roy Brush and brother-in-law late Ernie Packet.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m. at DENNING’S OF FOREST. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 22, 2025 at 10a.m. at the Forest United Church. Interment to follow at Beechwood Cemetery. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Forest United Church or the North Lambton Lodge Auxiliary.

09/19/2025

MacQueen, Mary Olive

Mary – Mary Olive (Tull) MacQueen of Strathroy (formerly of Woodstock, ON) went to be with her Saviour on September 17, 2025, in her 92nd year. Beloved wife of Melvin MacQueen for 69 cherished years. Mother of two sons, Robbin (Jennifer) of Cambridge, ON, and Shawn of Airdrie, AB. Grandmother of Daron of London, Michael, Brittany, Madeline, and Ryan of Cambridge, ON, and Shannon (Rick), Harley (Nick), and Justin of Airdrie, AB. Proud great-grandmother of Dominic and Sophia.

Also survived by her brother Neil Tull (Betty) of Aylmer, ON, and several sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews from Nova Scotia to California.

Born at Christina in Middlesex Caradoc Township to Fred and Marie Tull, she moved to Woodstock in 1942 and attended school there, graduating from W.C.I. in 1954. She and her husband, Mel, lived in Woodstock (with a short time in Corner Brook, NFLD) for 52 years before moving to Strathroy, ON, in 2008. While in Woodstock, Mary was very involved with her church, Berean Bible (now The Rock), singing, leading in Pioneer Girls, women’s groups, Sunday School, etc.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1pm-2pm, September 21, 2025 at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY. A Funeral Service will follow at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Laurie & Rich Weiandt in Zambia with SIM, Harvesters Baptist Church of Delaware, ON, Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, or a charity of one’s choice. God bless.

09/19/2025

Roger Keith Sutherland

Roger Sutherland, a lifelong resident of Forest, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. A man of quiet strength and enduring devotion, Roger was the beloved husband of 65 years to Diane, with whom he built a life rich in love and gentle moments together.

Roger was the devoted father of Roger, who passed in infancy; Tuesday (Charlie), who went before him; and his surviving children, Scott (Karen), Lisa (Alex), and Sarah (Jason), who remain to honour his memory. He was an extremely proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him great joy. Roger was a cherished brother-in-law to Pat (late Jack), Linda (John), and Cathy (late Henry). He was predeceased by his parents, Alex and Lloy Sutherland, as well as his parents-in-law, Joy and Gordon MacGregor.

Roger’s roots ran deep in the Forest community. He began his career in the early 1950s with People's Telephone of Forest. He made his early living climbing poles, repairing lines, and installing telephones in homes across town. It was on one of those service calls that Roger met Diane, as he installed her family’s very first telephone, a meeting that sparked a lifelong love. Roger retired after 40 years of dedicated service as manager of People's Telephone.

Roger’s passions were plentiful and enduring. He was a skilled builder and flyer of radio-controlled airplanes and a proud member of the Forest Lakeside Flyers flying club. In his younger days, he loved stock car racing and spent many weekends working with the pit crew at Harewood Acres and Mosport. Roger celebrated his 90th birthday in style by driving the track in a bright red Ferrari.

His deep love of the outdoors began in his youth. He spent his time waterskiing and paddling his Peterborough cedar strip canoe at the family cottage in Richmond Park, Port Franks — a cottage built by his parents in the 1950s, a place he would later share with his children and grandchildren. In later years, he could most often be found on the cottage’s screened porch, feeding the chipmunks and watching the birds, content with the quiet rhythms of a simple life.

Roger gave back to the community he loved, serving two terms on Forest Town Council, participating in the Forest Garden Club, and supporting Camp Huron in Bayfield — a cherished summer destination for many of his grandchildren. He also helped operate Steamers Coffee House in Forest, alongside his wife Diane and their daughter Sarah, providing a welcoming place for the community to gather.

“He comes as a guest to the feast of existence, and knows that what matters is not how much he inherits but how he behaves at the feast, and what people remember and love him for.” — Boris Pasternak, To Friends East and West

Roger was a man of few words but great knowledge — the kind of man who listened carefully, worked quietly, and always knew how to fix what was broken. What people remembered and loved him for was not what he said, but how he showed up to the feast: steady, wise, and reflective.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his steadfast devotion to his wife Diane, love of wildlife, 3 o'clock coffee time, a tin of mints, and a video camera in his hand, documenting cherished family moments, a glimpse of life through his eyes.

A public visitation will be held on Monday, September 22, 2025, from 10am-11:30am, at Denning’s of Forest.

A private family service and private interment will follow at a later time.
Cremation has taken place.

Donations in Roger’s memory may be made to the Forest Lakeside Flyers. The Funeral Home will be accepting cheques only for donations.

Online condolences may be shared at www.forestfuneralhome.com

09/19/2025

In Loving Memory of Robert John (Bob) Vollick
15 June 1952 – 10 September 2025

With truly great sadness in our hearts, the family of Robert John (Bob) Vollick announces his passing on 10 September 2025, at the age of 73, after battling Parkinson's Disease for over 22 years.

Bob was the cherished husband and high school sweetheart of Margaret Vollick (née Hensen). They married in 1972… now almost 53 years together.

Bob was the dedicated and truly proud father and father-in-law of Matthew Vollick and his fiancée Brianne Cibulka, Nathan and Lena (née Luis) Vollick, and Kathryn and Ron Minten; dearest Grandpa of Mayla, Cullen, and Wynne Vollick, Roman Vollick, Leyna (née Minten) and her husband Carter De Groot, Mikaela, Ainsley, Jeremiah, Caleb, Victoria, Nicole, Danae, Lauryn, and Jonah Minten. Bob was the youngest in his own family and will be truly missed by his brother and sister-in-law Fred and Eileen Vollick; his sisters, Margaret Brandenburg, Carolyn MacDonald, and Velda Brady; and all of their families. He was a dear friend and brother-in-law to Elaine (née Schieck) Hensen, Paul and Debby (née Holmes) Hensen, Arnold Hensen, Patricia (née Hensen) Buuck, and Michael Hensen. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Mary (née Zweng) Vollick; his sister, Rose Marie; and brothers-in-law John Hensen, Willem Brandenburg, Robert MacDonald,William Brady, and David Buuck. Uncle Bobbie will be greatly missed by many nieces and nephews.

Throughout his entire life, Bob was a hard worker who loved to build and create—whether it was his work in construction for almost 30 years, building the family home in Coldstream, or all his woodworking and DIY projects… all of Dad's projects seemed to fill his greatest desire: to provide for the family he loved so much.

He always enjoyed being active with hobbies over the years like tennis, squash, skiing, and badminton. Bob loved the feeling of the freedom of the wind—mostly sailing on Lake Huron at Ipperwash or Kettle Point on our Hobie Cat but also riding on his motorcycle or sitting on our back deck enjoying a cool, gentle breeze in the shade.

Bob was optimistic, generous, and fair-minded. With his peaceful and kind-hearted manner, he rarely spoke a harsh word about or towards anyone. Bob had a great sense of humour and had a laugh that was contagious and lit up the whole room. He had a fun, youthful, and mischievous spirit, and he will be truly missed.

Cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Bob's life will take place on Saturday, 20 September 2025, at 11 a.m. until 2:00p.m. where words of remembrance will be shared at 12:00p.m. at Denning’s Strathroy.

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario, Diabetes Canada, or the Alzheimer Society.

Online condolences and donations may be made at strathroyfuneralhome.com.