Alexander "John" Lackner

April 25, 1939 – March 12, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Alexander "John" Lackner, who left us peacefully at Scarborough General Hospital on March 12, 2025, at the age of 85.

John was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his children Laura (Michael), Heather (Roderick), John (Joanna), Lesley (Matthew), and Christine (David). He was the proud grandfather of Joshua, Penelope, Liberty, Emily, Isla, Lily, Molly, and Sabine.

John is also remembered by his siblings Trudy, Ron, Larry, and Gary, as well as his predeceased brother, Conrad. He will be missed by all who knew him.

John's professional life was marked by his 30 years of dedication as a beloved professor at Durham College. He touched the lives of many students and colleagues alike with his passion for teaching psychology and commitment to fostering knowledge and growth.

Outside of his professional life, John had many interests that brought him joy, including his love of animals, carpentry, fishing, and his cherished Sunday morning newspaper.

A private celebration of life will be held in the summertime, a fitting tribute to his legacy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of Toronto, an organization John held close to his heart.

John will be remembered for his wisdom and unwavering love for his family. His memory will be cherished forever.

James McKinlay

March 6, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James McKinlay, age 72, on March 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born to Harold and Marian McKinlay in Forest, Ontario, James (Jim) was predeceased by his parents and his cherished wife, Susan McKinlay. He leaves behind his beloved children, Dan (married to Katrina) and Jennifer (married to Tyler), who were the pride and joy of his life, as well as his adored grandchildren, Cameron and Leah, who brought him endless joy.

Jim is also survived by his brother, Doug McKinlay (Jean), his brother-in-law, David Macdonald, and numerous nieces and nephews who all held a special place in his heart.

He was an avid golfer and spent the better part of the past 40 years golfing at Spring Lakes Golf Club in Stouffville, where he formed lifelong friendships and was known for his long driving ability. His love for the game was only surpassed by his devotion to his family.

In his earlier years, Jim found immense joy in coaching his children’s youth sports teams, instilling a love of sports and teamwork in them. He was a dedicated father who treasured the many road trips to the Southern U.S., including Alabama, Myrtle Beach, Florida, and Hilton Head, where his family made lasting memories.

Jim took great pride in maintaining a meticulous lawn and a snow-free driveway—no weed or piece of ice was ever safe. He was truly selfless and was always willing to lend a hand at the drop of a pin. Whether it was home renovations or large painting projects, he always insisted on helping out.

Jim will be greatly missed, but his memory will forever be cherished by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Arthur William Best

February 5, 1931 – March 3, 2025

Arthur "Art" William Best passed peacefully in his 95th year. He was the son of the late William Best and Emily Priestly and dear brother to the late Joan Daniels, Dorothy Kent, and William (Billy) Best. He grew up near the grounds of his beloved Leeds United Football Club in England.

Loving father to Stewart, Stephen (Vicki), Brenda (the late Ray), Ian (Eugene), and Eric (the late Roland). During World War II, with his father serving in Burma, Art delivered food on his bike for a local butcher, where he learned his trade as a trainee butcher. He spent weekends cycling across Yorkshire, with Ilkley Moor and Scarborough among his favorite destinations.

In 1952, Art sailed from Liverpool with friends to Canada, working in a logging camp before moving to Toronto in 1953-54. There, he met the love of his life, Sylvia Louise Roberts (1934-1993), an English girl from Bath. They married in 1955 and raised their five children in Scarborough.

Art worked as a butcher at A&P (now Metro) on Kennedy Road in Scarborough until his retirement. He and Sylvia were deeply involved in Scouts Canada, serving as leaders for many years. Art was a gentle soul who loved fishing and sharing a beverage with friends, especially longtime friend Ed Day and his late neighbors, Norm Tyrell and Ernie Rodrigues.

He was a cherished grandfather to Fiona, Diane, Nikki, Bill, Shelby, and Haley, always making sure they had “pocket money” during visits. He was also proud of his 12 great-grandchildren—Tyler, Paige, Lexi, Kylie, Hailey, Hanna, Mya, Ethan, Ashton, Lily, Joshua, and Kaitlyn—as well as his four great-great-grandchildren, Tucker, Mason, Emma, and Lila.

Art leaves behind a loving legacy of family and friends, including dear companion Gwen Duffley, who brought joy into his later years. He will be remembered as a kind and loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed and dearly loved.

Zoltan Duric

June 11, 1946 - March 3, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce that after a long battle with heart disease, Zoltan "Zoli" Duric passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025. He was surrounded by his loving daughters, Linda and Sandra, and his son, Ron, along with the amazing medical staff at Southlake Hospital, who provided exceptional care and unwavering support throughout his courageous struggle.

Zoltan was a remarkable and devoted husband and family man, known for his generosity and kind heart. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Emilie, a large and loving extended family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his brother, Slavko, and nephew, Zoltan, along with their family in Slovenia.

"We will all cherish our memories of time spent with you, Zoli. Our lives are forever enriched by knowing you." Rest peacefully now with Diana as you find your place in Heaven.

Kami Alvin Brown

May 3, 1993 - March 6, 2025

With heavy hearts, yet filled with profound admiration, we announce the passing of Kami Alvin Brown, a man of extraordinary courage and passion, who departed this life on March 6, 2025, at the age of 31. Born on May 3, 1993, Kami embraced life with a vibrant spirit, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Kami was a true adventurer, driven by a deep love for exploration and experience. He found joy in the thrill of sports, particularly football, UFC, and boxing, and relished the excitement of travel, always eager to discover new places and cultures. An avid foodie, he delighted in exploring diverse cuisines and sharing his culinary discoveries with friends and family. His values of truth, integrity, family, friends, and courage were the guiding principles of his life, reflected in his every action.

Kami’s journey took an unexpected turn with a cancer diagnosis, a challenge he faced with unwavering bravery and resilience. His strength and determination were an inspiration to all. Through this difficult time, the unwavering love and support of his wife, Shannon Brown, shone brightly.

Kami and Shannon’s love story is one of profound devotion. They met prior to the pandemic, and their bond deepened as they faced Kami's diagnosis together. Shannon stood courageously by his side, a testament to the enduring power of love and commitment. In a beautiful celebration of their love, they married on October 26, 2024, solidifying their commitment to each other in the face of adversity. Shannon’s unwavering presence, embodying the true meaning of “in sickness and in health,” provided Kami with strength and comfort until his final moments.

Kami is survived by his loving wife, Shannon Brown; his devoted parents, Suzie and Alvin Brown; his cherished siblings, Delante, Mohogany, and Ebony; his beloved grandparents, Inez and Al Sr.; his dear aunts, Sandra, Nadine, Shanty, and Natasha, and uncles, Gareth (Mel), Fabian, Shawn, and Al Jr. He also leaves behind his loving cousins, Dean, Tristan, Joel, Paris, Renee, Candice, and Whitney. Kami was blessed with a large and loving extended family, a village that surrounded him with support and affection throughout his life. He was also blessed with his loving and supportive in-laws, the Stewart family.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the dedicated doctors and nursing staff at Mount Sinai, Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, and Toronto General Hospitals, who provided exceptional care and support throughout Kami's courageous battle. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Gupta, Dr. Ferguson, and Dr. Louis, whose expertise and compassion were instrumental in Kami's fight.

Kami’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. We will remember his infectious laughter, his unwavering loyalty, and his boundless zest for life. His courage in the face of adversity, and the profound love he shared with Shannon, will continue to inspire us all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kami's memory to the Sarcoma Cancer Foundation of Canada to support ongoing research and care.

Kami’s life was a testament to the power of living authentically, embracing adventure, and cherishing the bonds of love and family. We celebrate a life well-lived, a journey marked by courage, and a love story that will forever shine brightly in our memories.

John William Haley

September 17, 1948 – March 4, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John William Haley, age 76, who passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on September 17, 1948, in Newcastle Bridge, New Brunswick, John was the beloved son of the late Charles and Shirley (Harding) Haley. Throughout his life, he demonstrated strength, kindness, and an unwavering love for his family.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Haley (Smith); their sons, Mike (Elise) Haley and Jeff (Miranda) Haley; and his cherished grandchildren, Josh, Andy, Meghan, Katie, and Noah. He will be dearly missed by his brother, Floyd (Sharon) Haley; his sister, Arlene (Brian) Haley Lines; his Aunt Phyllis Aubé; his brother-in-law, Grant (Mary) Smith; and his many nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his siblings: Robert, Harold, Wilfred (Buddy), Edward, Margaret, Roger, Charles Jr., Frank, Shirley, Deborah, Linda, as well as his brother in infancy.

John was a General Foreman at Gen-Auto Shippers for many years.

John’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Lakeridge Health Durham Region Cancer Centre team, the F4 Supportive Care team, and Dr. Gursimran Chandhoke for their compassionate care.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Rossland Park Hall (500 Mayfair Avenue, Oshawa, ON, L1G 2Y2).

In this time of sorrow, we take comfort in knowing that John’s legacy of love, strength, and family will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Janice Klumper

1959 – February 16, 2025

With heavy hearts, the family announces that Janice passed away at Lakeridge Oshawa Hospital on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at the age of 65.

Beloved wife of Brian Klumper and dear mother to Miranda Klumper. Cherished and loved grandmother to Wyatt.
Dearly loved stepmother to Emma Antaya.

Beloved daughter of Patricia Jenkins and the late Albert Jenkins. Loving sister to Pam Mulvagh (Brian) and Carmen Smith (Phil).
Predeceased by her brother Ian Jenkins. Also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Spending time and creating memories with family and friends brought great joy to Janice. She loved to host holiday dinners, share luncheons with friends,
enjoy shopping, baking, and crafting. Her warmth and kindness will be truly missed by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life to honour Janice will be held on April 26, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43,
located at 471 Simcoe St. S, Oshawa, Ontario.

In memory of Janice, please consider a donation to The Denise House Oshawa,
The Canadian Cancer Society, or
The Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Hilda Emma Huehmer (née Pelley)

October 13, 1943 – March 4, 2025

After a long battle with an illness that just didn’t know when to quit, Hilda Emma Huehmer passed on peacefully on March 4, 2025, in Ajax, surrounded by family while being serenaded by Cape Breton fiddle tunes and the melancholic wail of bagpipes.

Born in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Hilda came into this world on October 13, 1943, to Russell and Ruby Pelley. After graduating from Antigonish High School and attending business college in Halifax, she packed up and went away to seek new opportunities as a bookkeeper in Kingston, Ontario. There, she met Juergen “Jerry” Huehmer, who was lucky enough to win her heart. Together, they raised a family on a small farmstead near Sydenham, where Hilda crafted, taught Sunday School, wrangled Cub Scouts, and drove a school bus where she was always surrounded by children. After Jerry’s passing, Hilda moved to Pickering to be closer to family. In Pickering she was active with the local senior’s social groups, where she spent her golden years embracing her love of bingo, and the one-armed bandit.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents Russell and Ruby Pelley, her brother Barry, and her loving husband Juergen “Jerry” Huehmer. She leaves behind her brother Wayne (Carol), daughter Susan (Kevin), sons Robert and Tyler (Marla), grandchildren Emily, Kayla, Natasha, and London, and great-grandson Hunter, along with an extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever cherish her warmth, humor, and adventurous spirit.

Hilda always dreamed of returning to her beloved Nova Scotia, and in true Hilda fashion, her final road trip will take her back home to Antigonish. May the fiddles play, bright lights and chimes of casinos fill the air, the bingo cards always be full, and the road ahead be filled with as many pit stops as she pleases.

In lieu of flowers, consider buying yourself a bingo card, dropping loonies into a slot machine, taking a spontaneous road trip, or crocheting something slightly lopsided in her honor. Hilda wouldn’t have it any other way.

Michael Philip Pepping

February 24, 2025

Obituary for Michael Philip Pepping

Michael Philip Pepping went to his Lord on February 24, 2025, after a two-year battle with leukemia, which he faced with determination and optimism. He was predeceased by his parents, Philip and Agatha Pepping, his stepfather Charley Hance, and his niece Kristen Willis.

Michael leaves behind his children: Patricia (Eric, Erin), Tammy (Edward, Jessica), Cory (Emmaleen), and Sarah (Ruth, Benjamin, Joshua), as well as their mother Christine. He is survived by his siblings: Doris & Dana (Shane, Jordan, Emily, Brent), Joan & Frank, James (Amanda, Joshua, Richard, Jon, Shiela), Pat & Barb (Andrew, Natalie, Angelina, Ryan), and Sheila (Austin, Julia). He is also remembered by Charley’s children, Jill, Beryl, Glen, April, and Robert, along with numerous relatives in Canada and the Netherlands. His special cousin Paula Pepping and close friends Sean Daly and Empress will cherish his memory.

Michael was a talented singer, songwriter, and guitar player, a devout Christian, an avid carver, a keen dresser, and a lover of the open road on his motorcycle. Determined to be his own boss, he started his own painting business at the age of 21, later expanding into renovation work with his company, AEDI Contracting. His work reflected his perfectionism and talent.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Princess Margaret Hospital and Oshawa General Hospital for their care. Special thanks to Paula for her unwavering support over the past two years and to Sean for all he has done for Michael. You are both deeply appreciated and loved.

In Michael’s Memory: Memorial donations may be made to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Alternatively, you may choose to plant flowers or a tree in your yard or take a long motorcycle ride in his honor.

Memorial Service Details:

A memorial service and celebration of life, followed by a reception, will be held on May 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at New Life Church, 33 Olive Ave, Oshawa.

Michael Francis Guirey

August 24, 1954 – February 24, 2025

It is with deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Francis Guirey on Monday, February 24, 2025. Born in Oshawa, Ontario, on August 24, 1954, to Vincent Francis Guirey and Margaret Guirey (née Gladman), Michael lived a life filled with kindness, laughter, and generosity.

Predeceased by his siblings Paul, Vincent, Donna, Margaret, and Christine, Michael leaves behind a legacy of love and friendship. He worked at General Motors for 36 years, making many friends and acquaintances along the way.

Michael found joy in bike riding, traveling to Ireland, and spending time with his family, close friends, and beloved pets. Known for his warm smile, helping hand, and ability to share a laugh, he made the world a better place just by being in it.

Michael will be deeply missed by his lifelong friend Karen Guirey and her partner Bert van Hout of Whitby, Ontario. His memory will live on in the hearts of his daughter, Julie Armstrong (née Guirey), and her husband, Greg Armstrong, of Oshawa, Ontario. He will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.

As per Michael’s wishes, there will be no formal service. His ashes will be scattered in Ireland at a later date by Julie and Greg Armstrong.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Fairview Lodge in Whitby for their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion.

Service Details

Memorial Wishes:
As per Michael’s request, there will be no formal service. His ashes will be scattered in Ireland at a later date.