Maria Cassano

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Maria Cassano passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, surrounded by her family at Hillsdale Estates, in her 97th year. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Mario, on May 28, 1988.

Cherished mother of Lee & Bill, Gus & Gabriella (Gabe), Theresa & John, and Frank & Marisa. Beloved nonna of John Paul (Cheri), Robert (Nita), Maria (Brian), Andrea (Chris), Pam (the late Frank), Jennifer (Brion), Jessica (Mike), Enrico (Tonia), Luigi (Lori), Carlo (Lisa), and Marco and their families. Great nonna of Kora, Nyssa, Elaura, Dominic, Matteo, Ethan, and great-great nonna of Beau & Indie. Predeceased by her brothers Antonio, Gino, and Mario. Maria will be lovingly remembered by her many extended family and friends.

Maria was the proud matriarch of her family and lived a long and wonderful life surrounded by the love and support of her family. A strong and determined woman, Maria worked hard and created her own path in life. She loved cooking for her family and friends, always welcoming them into her home with the coffee pot ready. Maria enjoyed tending to her garden, growing tomatoes, vegetables, flowers, and especially roses. She cherished her circle of friends and loved hosting them in her home.

A special thank you to Maria’s companion and caregivers, Ida & Valeri, for their love and support over the years. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the team at Hillsdale Estates for their compassion and care.

Visitation will be held at Armstrong Funeral Home, 124 King Street East, Oshawa, on Friday, January 24th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The Funeral Mass will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 373 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa, on Saturday, January 25th, at 1:00 PM. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery Mausoleum, 355 Taunton Road East, Whitby.

Donations in memory of Maria to Sick Kids Hospital or Holy Cross Parish would be appreciated by the family.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Service Details

Visitation
When: Friday, January 24, 2025, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Armstrong Funeral Home
Address: 124 King Street East, Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 1B6

Funeral Service
When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 1:00 PM
Location: Holy Cross Catholic Church
Address: 373 Simcoe Street South, Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 4J2
Officiant: Fr. Marijan Sisko

Entombment
When: Saturday, January 25, 2025, 2:15 PM
Location: Resurrection Catholic Cemetery Mausoleum
Address: 355 Taunton Road East, Whitby, Ontario, L1R 3L4

David Bernard Down

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

David Bernard Down passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, at the age of 74.

Devoted husband of Pirjo for over 45 years. Loving father of Jeffrey and his wife Tara. Cherished grandfather of Zoey and Camden.

David was a true outdoorsman and loved spending his time fishing, camping, and gardening.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Alina Dranski

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Alina Dranski passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa in her 92nd year. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Zdzislaw Dranski, in 2017.

Alina was the loving sister of the late Czeslaw Borun (Stella) and is survived by her brother-in-law, Kaz Dranski (Halina). She was a cherished Ciocia to Christine Deperasinski (Walter), Stan Borun (Grace), Andrew Dranski (Deanna), Jamie Dranski (Dianne), Jeffery Dranski (Tiffany), Joe Dranski (Heather), and Sue Robb (Rhys). Alina will be lovingly remembered by her many great-nieces, nephews, and their families.

Born in Poland, Alina came to Canada in 1961. She married Zdzislaw “Jim” in 1967 at St. Hedwig’s Church and remained a devoted parishioner of St. Hedwig’s Polish Catholic Church in Oshawa. A proud member of the Ladies Rosary Group, Alina was known for her deep faith and commitment to her community. She drove herself to church every Sunday and often remarked that her car “knew the way and could drive itself to church.” Alina loved her garden and took great pride in her flowers, as well as the time she spent with her family and friends.

Visitation will take place at Armstrong Funeral Home, 124 King Street East, Oshawa, on Monday, January 27th, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with Parish Prayers at 7:45 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Hedwig’s Polish Catholic Church, 411 Olive Avenue, Oshawa, on Tuesday, January 28th, at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 355 Taunton Road East, Whitby.

Donations in memory of Alina to the Ontario Heart & Stroke Foundation or St. Hedwig’s Polish Catholic Church would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Service Details

Visitation
When: Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Armstrong Funeral Home
Address: 124 King Street East, Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 1B6
Parish Prayers will be held in the Chapel at 7:45 PM.

Funeral Service
When: Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 11:00 AM
Location: St. Hedwig’s Polish Catholic Church
Address: 411 Olive Avenue, Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 2P9
Officiant: Fr. Marcin Dzilinski

Interment
When: Tuesday, January 28, 2025
Location: Resurrection Catholic Cemetery
Address: 355 Taunton Road East, Whitby, Ontario

Jamie Shawn Patchett

1965 – January 20, 2025

Jamie Shawn Patchett peacefully passed away on January 20, 2025, at Markham-Stouffville Hospital, at the age of 59, after a short battle with an aggressive cancer.

Beloved husband of Rhonda for 38 wonderful years. Loving father of Jesse, Julian (Carla), and Graham. Dear brother of Lawrence (Gail), Gary (Manon), and Linda (Kevin), and cherished uncle of Ashlea, Bryan, and Chelsea. Predeceased by his parents, Brian and Sheila, Jamie will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Jamie was a dynamic individual who lived life to the fullest. A skilled private aircraft pilot, he combined his passion for flying with his entrepreneurial spirit, successfully running and being a part of multiple business ventures. His love for music was evident in his lifelong dedication as a drummer, performing with several bands over the years and bringing people together through rhythm and melody. He thrived on socializing, and his energy left an unforgettable mark on everyone he met. He was often referred to as “a jack of all trades, master of none!”

Special thanks to the staff of Markham-Stouffville Hospital, especially his niece Ashlea, for their wonderful care and compassion.

Funeral Service Details:
Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Armstrong Funeral Home, located at 124 King Street East, Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 1B6. A Funeral Service will take place on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Armstrong Funeral Home. Officiant Laurie Bodnar-Finney will lead the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Richard Henry Starzynski

June 18, 1948 – January 16, 2025

Richard Henry Starzynski passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, at the age of 76. Born on June 18, 1948, in Oshawa, Ontario, Richard lived a life filled with dedication to those he loved.

He was the cherished son of Henry and Sophie Starzynski and shared a profound and enduring bond with his beloved wife, Helen. Richard was a proud father to Kristen and Colin and found immense joy in being a grandfather to Olivia, Stella, and Talan. He deeply valued the companionship of his brothers—John, Frank, and Henry—and treasured the memories he created with his seven nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

A graduate of Western University with an MBA, Richard built a successful career through hard work and determination. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he found joy in pursuits that brought meaning to his life. A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, Richard’s passion for baseball was contagious. Whether cheering from the stands or reminiscing about iconic games with loved ones, the sport remained a treasured part of his life. Known for his sharp wit and clever humor, Richard had an exceptional talent for crafting jokes and puns that brightened the lives of those around him.

Richard’s warmth and humor left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His legacy endures in the laughter he inspired and the love he so freely shared throughout his journey. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him as they reflect on a life lived with such heart and joy.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Joan Maryann Hubbard (Micallef)

December 17, 1939 - January 14, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Joan Maryann Hubbard, on January 14, 2025, in her 86th year, peacefully at home. Predeceased by her loving daughter Cindy and her grandson Jesse.

Retired for many years from W.L. Smith & Associates, Joan enjoyed her retirement spending time with her beloved spouse John, traveling to visit extended family on the east coast and in Australia, and cherishing moments with her children and grandchildren.

Joan is survived by her loving spouse of 53 years, John. She was a much-loved mother of Michael (Sue), Kelly (Ivan), and stepmother to Terry (Sandi) and Bruce (Judy). Joan was also a cherished mother-in-law to Rob and a devoted sister to Joe (Patricia). She will be fondly remembered by her nieces Joanne, Karen, Joannie, and the late Linda.

Joan will be deeply missed by her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Melissa, Justin (Christie), Jaime, Hailey (Aaron), Sabrina, Taylor, Aiden, Connor, Tyson, Jace, Halle, Harlow, Hudson, and many more. She will also be missed by many dear friends, including her close friend Mary of many years.

A Celebration of Life with refreshments will be held at Armstrong Funeral Home, 124 King Street East, Oshawa, on Saturday, January 25th, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

David "Yaya" Finley

1955 - January 15, 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of David “Yaya” George Finley announce his passing on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the age of 70.

David was born in Sonya, Ontario. He was a retiree of Chrysler Canada, Ajax Plant.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Mavis Finley. He is the much-loved stepfather of Sharon England (Ron) and Victoria Catton (Richard). Cherished grandfather of Chantal, Michelle, Jenna, and Hunter. Beloved great-grandfather of Matthew, Xena, Emberly, Piper, and Kinsley.

David is lovingly remembered by his siblings John, Joy, Nancy, Bonnie, Larry, and Judy.

A faithful friend of Bill W., David achieved over 25 years of continuous sobriety, one day at a time, through the support of his AA family, sponsors, and the 12-step program. He deeply loved his AA community and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Armstrong Funeral Home (124 King St. E., Oshawa). A Funeral Service will take place on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Thomas Galbraith White

[1938] - January 8, 2025

Passed away on January 8, 2025 at his home, at the age of 86.

Beloved husband of Glennis. Loving father of Robert and the late Tracy. Dear brother of Joyce and John of Scotland. Thomas was part of the active service with the British Army, King’s Own Scottish Borderers Regiment (KOSB). He was also a past member of the Oshawa Racing Pigeon Club.

Thomas was known for being a kind man. He and a friend started Disabled Workers of Ontario, to help represent those in need of assistance.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Armstrong Funeral Home (124 King St. E., Oshawa). A Funeral Service will follow in the Chapel at 1:00 p.m.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Beverley Jean Newlands

January 10, 2025

Peacefully passed away on January 10, 2025, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, in her 90th year, with her daughters by her side.

Predeceased by her beloved husband of 65 years, Robert Douglas Newlands, and by her son James Duncan Newlands. Loving mother of Christine Lynn Newlands, Jennifer Denise Newlands-Ritchie (Blake), and Robert Gordon Newlands. Cherished grandmother and great-grandmother of many grandchildren. Beverley will be missed by her sister Donalda Abbot (Bob) and her family.

Beverley was involved with her community by volunteering as a Cub Scout Leader/Akela for numerous years and by fostering many children.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 1-2 p.m. at Armstrong Funeral Home (124 King St. E., Oshawa).

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Online condolences may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.

Service Details

Visitation: Thursday, January 16th, 2025, 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Location: Armstrong Funeral Home

Address: 124 King Street East, Oshawa, Ontario L1H 1B6

Elias Brendan Maloney

December 2, 1937 – January 5, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Elias “Brendan” Maloney at his home on Sunday, January 5, 2025, in his 88th year.

Beloved husband of 49 years to Aileen (nee Ulrich). Loving father of Elaine, Mary, Brian (Allana) and Ian (Amara). Devoted Poppy to Connor, Cole, Blake and Molly. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Gregory and Mary Ellen, his brothers Steven (Edwina) and Brendan (twin to Bernadette) and his sisters Bernadette (Joe), Gertrude (David), Geraldine, Rosalie (Eric), Patsy and Irene. He is survived by his sister Madeline and many nieces and nephews.

Born in Sweet Bay, Bonavista Bay Newfoundland, Brendan served for six years in the Canadian Armed Forces earning several peacekeeping medals. His travels took him to countries as varied as the African Congo and Greenland. A steamfitter by trade, he was a member of UA Local 46.

Brendan was a strong, quiet man who lived selflessly in the service of others, and whose family was the centre of his world. He had a love of learning and would often be found listening to the radio or working outdoors. He loved animals and in retirement was devoted to taking care of the birds and squirrels who frequented his yard.

In keeping with his wishes, a private mass with his immediate family was held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church in Oshawa. Cremation and interment at Resurrection Cemetery to follow.

“Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted”
St. Matthew 5:4

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME.

Service Details

Service: Private Family Service

Location: St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church

Address: 194 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, Ontario L1G 4S9

Officiant: Rev. Marijan Sisko