Brian Cook

August 14, 1957 – December 9, 2024

Brian Cook, of Petawawa, passed away in his 68th year on Monday, December 9th, 2024, after a brief illness at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Mary-Catherine (MC) Cook; son David Cook and his wife Andrea (Boucher); and cherished granddaughter Olivia. He also leaves behind his brother Robert Cook and wife Arvilla; stepchildren Jay Baron (Regina, SK) and Candice Baron (Sonningdale, SK); and step-grandchildren Ashley Powel, Mathew Baron, Reanna Brown, Maelyn Brown, Zoe Brown, Drew Brown, and Abby Brown (all in SK). He will be deeply missed by his loyal companion, Franky.

Brian was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Agnes Cook, and siblings David Cook, Donna Cook, and Dennis Cook.

Brian filled his days with laughter and brought joy to those around him. He loved comedy, science fiction, banana ice cream, country drives, dog walks, and was a devoted Ottawa Senators fan. Music was a constant in his life, and he always had a tune in his head. His warmth and playful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family extends special thanks to the dedicated staff at the Heart Institute ICCU for their exceptional care, compassion, and sensitivity during Brian’s stay.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place without a service. To celebrate Brian’s life, donations may be made to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Basic Funerals.

Rev. Dr. George Langford James

June 3, 1929 – December 5, 2024

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Rev. Dr. George Langford James, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Born in Romney, George grew up in Southwestern Ontario, where his parents, Rev. P.E. (Will) James and Zella James, and older sisters Mary, Ruth, and Marjorie, nurtured his love of music, literature, and devotion to service and community.

George was ordained in the United Church of Canada in 1955 after earning his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor (later Master) of Divinity degrees from Victoria College and Emmanuel College, University of Toronto. His ministry took him to pastoral charges in Saskatchewan and various locations in Ontario. Along with congregational work, George took on leadership roles with the United Church’s National Office, General Council, and Toronto Conference. In 1991, he was honoured by the University of Toronto’s Victoria University with a Doctor of Divinity degree, honoris causa.

In 1966, George met Marilyn Morgan, the Art Editor for Sunday School Publications at United Church House. They married in 1968 and enjoyed 56 years of a loving and like-minded partnership. Together, they shared a love of travel, music, art, friendship, and, most of all, family.

A beloved figure in every community he served, George was known for his thought-provoking sermons, his gift for nurturing leadership, and his commitment to social justice, equality, and inclusivity. His deep appreciation for classical music and love for nature, especially during his time paddling and sailing in Muskoka, were constant sources of inspiration.

George is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; his children, Christine (Sandy Rennie) and Robin (Mara O’Brien-James); grandchildren Zella James (predeceased by grandson Max James), Carolyn and Suzanne Prouse; great-granddaughter Nora; and many loving nieces and nephews. He will be remembered for his warmth, wisdom, kindness, and his contagious love of laughter.

A memorial service to celebrate George’s remarkable life will be held on May 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Bell’s Corners United Church, Ottawa. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Church of Canada Mission and Service Fund, the Alzheimer Society of Canada, or a charity of your choice.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Basic Funerals.

Sonya Fox

June 27, 1930 – December 7, 2024

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of my mom, Sonya Fox, in the early morning of December 7th, 2024, at Castleview Wychwood Tower nursing home. She was born in Toronto on June 27, 1930, and was 94 years old.

Sonya was a loving mother to me, my brother Lloyd Fox, and her husband Saul Fox. She was intelligent, kind, and had a great sense of humor. She was also a passionate golfer and continued playing the sport into her early 80s. She will be deeply missed.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Basic Funerals.

Paul Edward McBride

September 3, 1934 — December 2, 2024

Paul Edward McBride, aged 90, passed away peacefully at the Eden House Care facility in Guelph, Ontario on December 2, 2024. Paul was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his siblings Joe, Anne, and Joan, his children Jim (Pauline), Richard (Debbie), and John, and his grandchildren Justin, Lillian, and Roxy, as well as his great-grandson Mason.

Paul had a long and fulfilling career as a school teacher with the Catholic school board, where he spent 32 years teaching English and physical education to new Canadian students. He was also very active in coaching and refereeing many school sports. After retirement, Paul worked with his brother Joe at McBride Wallace Laurent and Cord LLP for 30 years, running a courier business. His infectious smile and love of telling jokes made him well-liked by everyone.

A memorial funeral service for Paul will be held on December 9, 2024, at Saint Leo’s Parish, located at 277 Royal York Road at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Health Centre.

Our sincerest condolences go out to Paul’s family and friends during this difficult time. May his memory provide comfort and peace. Thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.

Messages of condolence may be shared at Basic Funerals.

Richard Victor Kelley

June 26, 1948 - December 2, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Kelley in the early hours of December 2, 2024, at the General Hospital. Richard Victor Kelley, Esquire, was a poet, storyteller, mental health advocate, and Santa Claus. He touched many lives with his warmth and compassion.

Richard was predeceased by his father, Douglas, his brother David, and his brother-in-law Tom. He is lovingly remembered by his mother Hazel (his biggest advocate), his brother Keith (Danielle), his sister Debbie (Leonard), his nieces, nephew, their children, and his cherished cat, Victor. Richard will also be deeply missed by his best friend of many years, Michael O’Donnell.

A man of deep faith, Richard was devoted to the parishes of All Saints Sandy Hill and St. Margaret’s Vanier. His faith carried him through life’s challenges and joys. Special thanks are extended to the staff at Daybreak Housing, The Royal Ottawa Hospital, and the General Hospital for their compassion and care.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Daybreak Housing or the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health in Richard’s memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Basic Funerals in Ottawa. Online condolences may be shared at this link.

Vilma Rivas

May 25, 1928 - November 22, 2024

Vilma Rivas passed away peacefully on November 22, 2024, at the age of 96. She is now reunited with her husband of 72 years, Salvador, who preceded her in death earlier this year. Vilma will be deeply missed by her daughters, Beatrice Harris (Al Harris) and Lucila Rivas, and her grandchildren Carlos Romero (Natalie Romero), Jennifer Monroy (Francisco Monroy), Kyle Whitney, and Melissa Hunt (Ryan Hunt). She was affectionately known as "Tilina" by her great-grandchildren Tyson, Janelle, Gabriela, Adrian, Mia, Jackson, and Levi.

Born and raised in El Salvador, Vilma later immigrated to Canada with Salvador, where they built a beautiful life together. While she cherished her life in Canada, her heart remained in El Salvador, where she lovingly tended her vibrant gardens filled with flowers, plants, and fruit trees.

Vilma found joy in caring for her family, often expressing her love through the meals she prepared with care and devotion. Her home was a sanctuary of love and generosity, where everyone felt nourished in body and spirit. She adored music and could often be found humming, singing, or dancing to her favorite songs. She especially delighted in showering her great-grandchildren with chocolates, small gifts, and endless affection.

A devout and faithful woman, Vilma’s strength and loyalty were hallmarks of her life. She fiercely protected her family and gave her love unconditionally to all who were fortunate to know her. Her legacy of love, strength, and faith will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Mass in her memory will be held on December 6, 2024, at 1:00 PM at St. Francis Xavier Church, 5650 Mavis Road, Mississauga, ON, L5V 2X5.

To send flowers to the family in memory of Vilma Rivas, please visit the flower store.

Yat Tung "Raymond" Yu

November 26, 1957 - December 1, 2024

Yat Tung "Raymond" Yu, 67, of Ottawa, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, after a courageous battle with illness. Born on November 26, 1957, in Hong Kong, Raymond was known for his persistence, vision, eloquence, and ambition, qualities that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

A graduate of the University of Ottawa, Raymond excelled in a distinguished career in marketing. His sharp insights and innovative strategies earned him widespread respect and a lasting impact on business development. A skilled communicator and eloquent speaker, Raymond built strong and enduring relationships in his professional life.

Raymond was a passionate traveler, exploring countries like the United States, England, France, Spain, Italy, and Japan. His travels enriched his life and conversations with a deep appreciation for global heritage. He remained curious and engaged with the world through his love of current events and news.

In later years, Raymond faced the challenges of an irreversible illness with courage, grace, and positivity, inspiring those around him with his resilience and determination. He cherished his family above all else, leaving behind his devoted wife Elsa, his loving daughters Isabel and Jasmine, his mother Lan, and his brothers Jimmy, Kenneth, and Daniel.

Raymond's legacy of love, strength, perseverance, and integrity will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at basicfunerals.ca.

Denis Richard Tessier

December 17, 1945 - November 29, 2024

Of Rockland, Ontario, Denis Richard Tessier passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2024, at the age of 78. Denis was the beloved spouse of Monique Charest and the son of the late Ubald Tessier and the late Sophrana Boudreault.

He is survived by his children Stéphane (Tammy) and Daniel (Chantal), and stepchildren Jody (Edith), Greg (Natacha), Garry (Annie), and Richard (Mercy). Denis was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren, including Christopher, Natalie, Jeremy, Tatiana, Shawn, Ashley, Cynthia, Jamie, Shane, Sarah, and Kalan, as well as a loving great-grandfather to Reece, Mia-Bella, Skylyn, and Camilla.

Denis will be deeply missed by his extended family, including nephews, nieces, cousins, and many friends. He was predeceased by his brother Rolland and sisters Helen Desjardins, Lucille Mullins, and Lorraine Crête.

As per his wishes, the funeral will be held privately with family. Donations in Denis’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Basic Funerals.