James Kenneth Bidmead

June 12, 1948 – December 12, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Bidmead on December 12, 2024, at the age of 76.
James will be deeply missed by his loving wife Bonnie Bidmead (Hawke). He leaves behind his children Tina (Gareth Taylor) and Corey (Larissa Mair),
and grandchildren Lauren, Rhys, and Devan.

Born on June 12, 1948, in Orillia to late parents Don and Ena of Moonstone, James was the beloved brother of his late sisters Brenda (Gord Wilson),
Carol (Stephen Caldwell), and Donna (Jan Nielsen). Raised in the Coldwater area, James met his only love, Bonnie, causing trouble together at the local bowling alley
or driving around in one of James’ cars. Married on October 5, 1968, they recently celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. They moved to Barrie and raised their family.

James worked in various industries, including York Trading, General Tire, General Electric, Alloy Wheels, Pillsbury, and Muskoka Transport.
Life threw James a few curveballs, including a fall from a ladder over 30 years ago that required knee surgery. During his recovery, he completed his GED.
In 2021, James survived an aneurysm and a subsequent stroke, leaving him wheelchair-bound, but his humor and positive outlook endured.

James was a dedicated family man who instilled core values in his children: work hard, have fun, provide for your family, but cherish time and memories above all.
A lover of coffee, donuts, and baked goods, James kept several local coffee shops in business over the years. His perfectly combed hair was a Christmas tradition,
much to the amusement of his grandchildren, who loved giving him a playful mohawk in the pool.

James will be remembered for his warm heart, steadfast dedication to his family, and infectious sense of humor.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to honor James’ memory and the impact he had on those who loved him.

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

David John Ferguson

January 11, 1936 – December 13, 2024

With great sadness, the family announces the passing of David John Ferguson. Dave was a devoted husband to Joan, father to Karen (Mike) and Sandra (Lawrence),
and grandfather to Tanisha and Hollis.

Dave was born in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, to William John Ferguson, originally of County Tyrone in what is now Northern Ireland,
and Mabel Emily Thompson, originally of Muskoka, Ontario. He was predeceased by his five elder sisters.

Dave grew up on his family homestead east of Swift Current. He spent Grades 1-8 in a one-room country schoolhouse and attended Swift Current CI for high school
(class of ’54). In 1958, Dave graduated with great distinction from the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in engineering physics.
After three years in the oil business, Dave returned to university for courses in business administration.

While working for Saskatchewan Power in Regina, he met and married Joan (Johnston). Seeking challenge and change, Dave and the family moved to Toronto,
and he and Joan resided in Etobicoke for more than 50 years. In 1991, Dave retired from the Ontario public service and subsequently pursued independent interests,
including travels to China and Europe, the study of languages such as Mandarin and Italian, writing a book on management, and devoting time and energy to his family.
In 2022, Dave’s health began a slow decline, and he ultimately entered palliative care in early December 2024.

Dave was dearly loved by his family, along with many friends across cultures and generations. They will all miss Dave for his quiet brand of loving kindness,
his prairie pragmatism, his zest for adventure, and his love of a good party.

The family would like to thank St. Joseph’s Health Centre, including the staff of the Lake House Palliative Care Centre.
Special thanks to Gen Kelsang Togden and Mike Lukacko for their care of Dave in body and spirit during his last days.

At Dave’s request, there will be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, please consider remembering him with a donation to a charity of your choice.

“We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.”

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

Huguette Marie Charlebois

July 7, 1955 – December 16, 2024

We inform you of the death of Mrs. Huguette Marie Charlebois. She passed away at Montfort Hospital, accompanied by her loved ones, on December 16, 2024.

She is the wife of Guy Charlebois and the mother of Mélanie (Michael Schibler) and Marie (Marc Perrier), as well as a good friend to Patrick Charlebois.
She is also the loving grandmother of Émilie-Rose and Zachari.

Huguette leaves behind her siblings Nicole and Denis, her nephews and nieces, as well as other relatives and friends.

Your expressions of sympathy can be made in the form of donations to the
Crohn’s and Colitis Canada Foundation or the
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.

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

Velmore Eugene Baker

September 4, 1939 – December 22, 2024

It is with profound sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of Velmore Eugene Baker in his 85th year.
Velmore was a caring, devoted husband predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years, Myrtus (Piercey) Baker, whom he lost in 2023.
He was a proud, loving, and protective Dad to his daughters and a kind, patient grandfather known as "Poppy" or "Pop" to his grandchildren.
Also lovingly known as "Brud" by his siblings.

Velmore was also predeceased by his parents, Isaiah and Blanche (Guy) Baker; his in-laws, Hayward and Janet (Green) Piercey;
his two infant children, Velmore and Douglas; and his siblings Edmund (Elma), Guy (Penny), and Merrilyn (Clarence).

He is survived by his two daughters, Denise Baker Bobetic (Mike) and Donna Sykes; his six grandchildren, Tammy Wilson (Kortnee), Andrew Tamblyn (Megan),
Michael Baker Bobetic, Douglas Baker Bobetic, Justin Chaytor, and James Colbourne; and his two great-grandchildren, Maycee Wilson and Ainsley Tamblyn.
Also survived by his brother Merrill Baker (Annette) and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Velmore was a proud Newfoundlander who loved the outdoors. Even though he resided in Scarborough for most of his married life,
he always kept "home" in his heart. Fishing and hunting came naturally to him. He loved card games, campfires at his trailer with his family,
and long walks with his dog. Velmore had a passion for fixing and working on everything from outboard motors to cars.
A jack-of-all-trades, he enjoyed helping others and often extended a helping hand to strangers.

Velmore's sense of humor kept him humble. He loved music, reading, talking politics, and enjoying a good cup of coffee with a crossword puzzle.
He worked in Buchans Mines in his early years, eventually retiring from Canada Wire and Cable as an Extruder Operator and Union Steward for the UEW.
Even after retirement, he stayed active, working as a custodian at Pharmasave and a machine shop, stripping and waxing floors.

The family would like to thank the many Personal Support Workers, staff nurses, and doctors at Midland Gardens Care Community who cared for "Baker"
during his eight years of residency, and the doctors and staff at Michael Garron Hospital for his end-of-life care.

After cremation, Velmore has requested no service. Memorial contributions can be made to the
Michael Garron Hospital Mental Health Unit or the Alzheimer's Society of Canada.

Frank McMonagle

December 31, 1939 – December 9, 2024

It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that the family of Frank McMonagle announce his passing on December 9th, 2024, just shy of his 85th birthday. He is survived by Cathie, his wife of 43 years; his son, Frank; his daughter-in-law, Suzy; and his cherished grandchildren, Brandon and Emily.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Frank settled in Mississauga 60 years ago, where he raised the family that loved him beyond words. He was a hardworking, intelligent, and straightforward person who was never afraid to express his opinion while remaining respectful of others.

Frank had a soft spot for his grandchildren, sister-in-law Agnes, and his nieces and nephew. Known for his Scottish humor, he never missed a chance to tease or share a funny moment. A rock-solid individual, Frank’s reliability and positive spirit made him a good role model who led by example.

Frank loved travel, live entertainment, movies, and bowling. He was competitive, always aiming to win, and brought joy to all who knew him. We will miss his kindness, humor, and the lessons he imparted throughout his life.

Celebration of Life: A celebration of Frank’s life will take place in early Spring, where family and friends can come together to share memories and honor his legacy. Details will be announced at a later date.

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

Robert Thomson

August 28, 1941 – December 10, 2024

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Robert (Bob) Thomson at Wellbrook Place Long Term Care Home on December 10, 2024. Bob was born in Port Colborne on August 28, 1941.

Beloved husband for 61 years to Doreen (Nettle). Loving father to Darren and the late Daryl. He will be dearly missed by his grandson, Eric Thomson.

As per Bob's wishes, there will be no visitation. A private family service will be held.

If desired, donations may be made to SickKids Hospital in Toronto, Ontario.

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

Pauline Helen Kowalczyk

February 18, 1931 – December 13, 2024

Pauline peacefully passed away on December 13, 2024, at the age of 93, with her granddaughter Haley (Fletcher) by her side.

Pauline took great pride in her career as a safety supervisor, a role she held until her retirement at age 60. She also worked as a waitress at the Orchard Family Restaurant, where she won the affection of staff, owners, and customers alike.

Known for her bold personality, Pauline left unforgettable memories, including sneaking strippers into her workplace for her boss’s birthday and passionately standing up for her employees. She was a force to be reckoned with.

A skilled knitter, Pauline lovingly crafted blankets for her family and donated many to local hospitals. She was also a proud and caring grandmother who shared a special, unbreakable bond with her youngest granddaughter, Haley.

Pauline is survived by her granddaughters Haley (Clint) and Niki, and her son-in-law Glenn (Debbie). She is now reunited with her beloved daughter Debbie, after eight years apart, watching over her family with love.

Celebration of Life: A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring, Pauline’s favorite time of year. The date will be announced at a later time by her granddaughter.

The family invites you to honor Pauline’s memory by paying it forward with a kind word to a stranger and keeping your traveling spirit alive.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the CNIB in Pauline’s memory would be greatly appreciated.

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

Doreen Elizabeth Joy Masson

August 13, 1942 – December 14, 2024

Doreen Elizabeth Joy (Masson) passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14th, 2024, with her daughter and grandson by her side.

Doreen was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in August 1942. Her father, Harold Masson, proudly served with the RCAF during WWII, and her mother, Elizabeth (Betty) Masson, was the only child of Irish immigrants. Eighteen months later, her sister Ann was born, starting a lifelong bond filled with shared adventures, family milestones, and travel.

Doreen married Leonard Joy in 1968 and together they raised their family in Calgary, AB. She was a dedicated employee of Shoppers Drug Mart TD Square from 1979 until her retirement in 2009. She then moved to Barrie, ON, to be closer to family and her grandchildren.

Doreen is survived by her sister Ann Masson (Calgary, AB) and brother Jim Masson (Donna) of Pilot Mound, MB. She leaves behind her children: Deborah (Joe), Keith (Leeanne), and Cindy (Mohan), as well as eight grandchildren: Raelynn, Brad, Kaylin, Taryn, Carlyn, Aidan, Vail, and Torin.

She found joy in supporting her grandchildren’s activities, including soccer, football, ringette, swim meets, and wrestling tournaments. Diagnosed with macular degeneration, Doreen was an active member of her local CNIB senior group, enjoying day trips and weekly bowling outings.

Celebration of Life: A private ceremony will be held later in the year with immediate family, as per Doreen’s wishes.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the CNIB in Doreen’s memory are greatly appreciated.

The family invites you to try Doreen’s beloved Gingersnap Cookies, a Christmas favorite:

3/4 cup butter (room temp), 1 cup white sugar, 1 egg, 4 tbsp molasses, 2 cups flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp baking soda, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp cloves, 2 tsp ginger.
Mix butter, sugar, and egg. Add dry ingredients. Form into 1-inch balls. Roll in sugar and bake at 350°F for 8 minutes.

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