Rachelle Gouthro (née Lafrenière)
2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rachelle Gouthro (née Lafrenière) on October 28, 2024. Beloved wife of Michael for sixty-six wonderful years, and devoted mother to her sons Brian (Patti), Francis (Kelley), and Mark (Heidi). Rachelle’s love and laughter will be forever cherished by her five grandchildren, Courtney & Jonathan, Erik & Emily, Brennan (Ben) & Kelly, Stephanie & Nick, and Scott & Mel, and her six great-grandchildren, Julia, Annabelle, Declan, Jack, Ruby, and Violet.

Rachelle was raised in Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan, the youngest of twelve children. She met Michael during a trip from the west to Quebec, and together they raised their family in Oakville, where she excelled as a mother and later as a skilled seamstress. A member of the Catholic Women’s League at St. Dominic Parish, Rachelle was known for her warm hospitality, and her love for cooking, gardening, and connecting with family and friends across Canada.

In retirement, Rachelle and Mike moved to Lindsay, Ontario, where she enjoyed church activities, playing cards, and spending time with loved ones. In her final years, Rachelle resided at Viva Mississauga, receiving loving care from family and forming new friendships.

A Funeral Mass in Rachelle's honor will be held on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Dominic Roman Catholic Church, 2415 Rebecca Street, Oakville, Ontario.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. Rachelle will be remembered for her joie de vivre, her kind heart, and her devotion to family and friends. A toast to you, Rachelle—you will live on in our thoughts, prayers, and memories.

James Walter Johnston
2024

James (Jimmy or Jim) Walter Johnston, born and raised in Oakville, Ontario, passed away in 2024. Jim was a passionate sportsman, enjoying baseball, hockey, fishing, and hunting throughout his youth, and later becoming an avid golfer. After a distinguished 28-year career with the Oakville Fire Department, he retired as Platoon Chief in 1992.

Jim was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Joan Francis Johnston (nee Collins), whom he met while working at the BP Refinery. He was the beloved father of Joanne (Michael), Heather (Paolo), Michael (Leslie), and Andy (predeceased) (Roberta, Yvonne). Jim is survived by his sister, Helen Perrin, and was predeceased by his siblings Ken and Bernice. He was a cherished grandfather to Courtney, Graham, Sydney, Sarah, Parker, Carter, Oscar, Daniel, Charlotte, Lilly, and Braden.

Remembered fondly by nieces, nephews, neighbors, friends from St. Aidan’s Church, the Oakville Fire Department, golfing partners, and friends from his travels, Jim spent his final years at The Kensington Retirement Home, where he formed meaningful connections with both residents and staff.