Kathleen Duncan

December 16, 2024

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Kathleen Duncan on December 16, 2024, just shy of her 90th birthday. Wife of the late Norman Duncan, she was the beloved mother of Fiona (Grant) and Lynne (Ray), cherished grandmother to six grandchildren, and adored great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren. Kathleen lived independently until the end, with a little help from her loved ones.

She is now dancing with Dad. Mum was one of the strongest, bravest, and kindest humans to grace this planet. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

At Mum's request, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, her immediate family will honor her life with a private celebration in her memory.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED
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Gérard Daniel Parent

Date of Passing: December 10, 2024

The family announces with great sorrow the passing of Gérard Daniel Parent at Sunnybrook Hospital on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the age of 71 years.

Beloved son of the late Roméo and Blanche (Phillips) Parent. Dearest brother of Denise Parent (Jean), Roger Parent (Laura, predeceased), Gisele Forget (Raymond), Jean-Guy Parent (Linda), George Parent (Linda), Claire Palmer, and Denis Parent (Suzette). He was predeceased by his brother Jacques Parent (Lucie) and his sister Anne Hill (Ross). Gérard is also survived by many nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends from Toronto, Iroquois Falls, and Sudbury. He also leaves behind his precious cat Dee Jay, who brought him joy, friendship, and love.

Gérard will be remembered for the many connections he made during his long career at Amway, the Ministry of Health, and at Centres d’Accueil Héritage de Toronto, where he served as Executive Director.

A man of great faith, dedication, and generosity, Gérard earned his Bachelor of Musical Arts from Western University in London. An accomplished musician, he shared his talents on the piano and organ at church celebrations, family gatherings, and in numerous concerts with his friend Lorraine St-Onge.

Gérard also volunteered on the boards of several organizations, committees, and charities in the Toronto area. He had a big heart and touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

The family extends their gratitude to the medical team at Sunnybrook Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion for Gérard.

Visitation will take place at Paroisse du Sacré-Coeur, 381 Sherbourne Street, Toronto, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 1 PM, followed by a church service at 2 PM.

A funeral will also occur on January 11, 2025, at 11 AM at Paroisse St. Jacques, 46 Côté Blvd, Hanmer, with a burial in the spring in Iroquois Falls, ON.

In memory of Gérard, please consider making a donation to Les Centres d’Accueil Héritage de Toronto, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, or any other charity of your choice.

« Music and love are the wings of the soul” – Hector Berlioz

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Linsey A. Bell

Date of Passing: December 17, 2024

Linsey A. Bell peacefully passed away on December 17, 2024, at the age of 59. She was predeceased by her father, Ian Bell, and brother, Steven Bell. Linsey is survived by her loving husband, John Doherty; children, Andrew Brie and Katherine (Ryan) Brie; granddaughter, Ruby Davis; and her mother, Irene Bell. Her memory lives on with all who knew and loved her.

A Wake will be held at The Kingston House on Sunday, December 29, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Food, beer, and wine will be served. For directions, visit The Kingston House.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Food Banks Canada in memory of Linsey Bell.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Ronald Walter Barnes

Date of Passing: December 16, 2024

Ronald Walter Barnes (Ron) peacefully passed away at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital on Monday, December 16, 2024. Beloved by family and friends, he leaves behind cherished memories that will be treasured by all who knew him.

Ron will be remembered for his warm heart, quiet strength, and the kindness he shared with everyone around him. His passing marks the end of a life filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections.

Rest in peace, Ron. You will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Gilles Arseneault

May 1955 – December 14, 2024

The family of Gilles Arseneault is sad to announce his departure from this realm on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the age of 69.

Born in Dalhousie, New Brunswick, Gilles was the son of Léon Arseneault and Annie Bella Arseneault (née Lapointe). He is mourned by his brother Jacques Arseneault (Toronto), his sisters Lorraine Bean (Toronto), Estelle Arseneault (Gatineau), and Monique Arseneault (Moncton), as well as several nephews and nieces. His youngest sister, Sylvie, predeceased him earlier this year.

Remembered as a feisty advocate for his classmates at the then-new high school Aux Quatre Vents in Dalhousie, Gilles pursued political science at Université de Moncton, cultivating a deep interest in revolutionary ideas. He later completed an apprenticeship as a carpenter, working extensively in high-rise construction. In collaboration with his friend Brian Milani, Gilles became a demolition expert and innovator in revaluing architectural remnants, often transforming them into colorful and imaginative animal representations.

Gilles’ artistic passion brought comfort during the years following a massive head injury that eventually led to his passing. A frequent visitor to the ROM, he created numerous works on paper, plywood, and canvas, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and resilience.

In a moment of confidence, Gilles shared that, at the time of his injury, he had faced a choice to live or die and had chosen to survive for a bonus of years. He saw dying as an adventure that was inevitable and has now arrived. His family weeps at his departure but rejoices in the end of his suffering.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Gary Soper

May 19, 1949 – December 13, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Gary on December 13, 2024, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, surrounded by his loving family.

Gary was a family man who cherished every moment spent with his children and loved ones. He took immense pride in being a loving father, mentor, and friend.

Gary leaves behind his ex-wife who was also his best friend Gail Soper (Jim), and his children; Crystal (Nikki) and Clayton, along with his grandchildren; Austin and Kris. He will also be missed by his family out West, Pam and Paul (Robin), and grandchildren; Morgan, Brooke, and Brandon.

A man of many passions, Gary was a proud member of the HR Hunt Camp for 35 years, sharing his love of the outdoors with those around him. When not in the woods, he enjoyed his time on the golf course, embracing his love for the game or watching the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Lakeridge Health Oshawa for their care and compassion, and to the friends and family who have been a source of strength and support during this challenging time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, an organization that held special meaning to him.

A celebration of life will be planned for the new year.

Gary will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his passion for life, and the countless memories he created with all who knew him. He will be dearly missed.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Robert (Bob) Widdicombe

July 10, 1930 - December 7, 2024

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Widdicombe. Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, on July 10th, 1930, he was raised in St. Catharines, Ontario, and studied Economics at the University of Toronto, graduating in 1954. On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, he passed away peacefully, with Christian at his side, at St. Michael’s Hospital in downtown Toronto, at the age of 94.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Roland and Margaret Widdicombe; his wife, Maralyn Widdicombe (nee Woodley); his son, Peter Widdicombe; and his sister, Jean Brammell.

He leaves to mourn his partner, Christian Marjollet; daughter, Ann (Ian) McLeod, of Nova Scotia; and son, Eric Widdicombe, of Montreal. He is also fondly remembered by his grandchildren: Sarah McLeod, Adam McLeod, and Noah Widdicombe.

Bob's wish was to be cremated, and no service will be held. A tribute to his life will take place at a later date.

Heartfelt thanks to the staff at St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit, especially Brigitte, Michael, Christina, and Shawak, for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s honour to the Alzheimer Society of Toronto or the Toronto Humane Society would be greatly appreciated, as he was a lifelong animal lover.

He will be sadly missed.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

David Henry Bower

February 4, 1933 – December 11, 2024

David Henry Bower, 91, born on February 4, 1933, in Essex, England, passed away peacefully into the presence of his Savior on December 11, 2024, in Bowmanville, ON. David was a deeply beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Marjorie Bower; brother-in-law Ronald Rice; and great-nephew Shaun Coulter, David leaves behind his wife of 64 years, Marilyn Bower, and three sons: Keith (Laurel) Bower, Jeff Bower (fiancée Gessica Haase), and Doug (Tanya) Bower. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Ashley, Findley, Scotia, Tess, and Georgia, as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

David was a man of unwavering faith in God, which he shared with everyone around him. An active member of his church community, he served as a Sunday school teacher, choir member, and church greeter. David also enjoyed a long career with the printing company R L Crain and was passionate about soccer and the Boston Bruins.

The impact David had on those privileged to know him was profound and everlasting. His kind and loving spirit will remain in our hearts forever.

Matthew 25:23
"His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’"

A Celebration of Life service will be held in the New Year, with details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society of Ontario would be appreciated.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Patrick Francis Smith

1957 - 2024

It is with heavy and broken hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of our most beloved father, grandfather, and brother Patrick Francis Smith.

Patrick will be forever missed by his loving and cherished daughters Lyndsay (Wes) and Tara, and his seven adored grandchildren: Mercades Smith, Maurice Smith, Mackenzie Neil, Parker Neil, Maliyah Smith, Kenadie Neil, and Meadow Smith. He is the loving son of the late Patrick A. Smith and the late Bernice Elizabeth (Miller) Smith. Brother of Michael (Paula), Bobby (Marilyn), Elizabeth, Teresa, Adrienne, and Bonnie Smith. Patrick is the uncle of Patrick, Joseph, Gregory, Cassandra, Emily, and Megan and the great-uncle of Nadia, Felicity, Leiya, Ava, Luca, Stella, Liam, Eli, and newborn baby Evie. He will also be missed by his ex-wife and friend Karen Vivian.

A longtime employee of GM in Oshawa, Patrick was grateful for retirement so as to spend more time at the gym, gardening, cottaging, and most importantly, spending every possible moment attending to and playing with his grandchildren. He will be much missed by many friends and relatives. We are grateful for all the love, support, and kind words being offered on the loss of this most kind and generous man.

If you would like to make a donation in honour of Patrick, please do so to the charity of your choice.

Visitation:

5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Thursday, December 12, 2024
De Stefano Funeral Home
1289 Keith Ross Drive
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
905-440-3595

Funeral Service:

11:00 am
Friday, December 13, 2024
De Stefano Funeral Home Chapel
1289 Keith Ross Drive
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
905-440-3595

For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to view via Livestream by CLICKING HERE just prior to 11:00 am on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Deborah Mae Cake

December 10, 2024

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Debbie. Mother to Lindsey, Tammy, and Kimberly, with whom she is now reunited. Cherished nanny to Dylan, Rylan, and Jacob.

Our mom loved gardening, bingo, her dogs, Jesse and Rosie, and was very creative when it came to arts and crafts, working on many projects in her home. She was always collecting things and making them beautiful again. She especially loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. We have many fond memories of spending time up north at our grandmother's and our aunt's homes with our cousins.

We will cherish the time we had.

Forever in our hearts.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.