NOBLE, Gordon William Noble - 13-Feb-1940 - 6-Oct-2024

In Loving Memory of Gordon William Noble (Feb 13, 1940 – Oct 6, 2024). With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Gord Noble, who left us at the age of 84. Renowned for his impeccable timing, sharp wit, and profound love of theatre, he was a master storyteller who could always bring laughter to any occasion.

As a proud father of three (well, most of the time) and a devoted husband to Dianne for 62 wonderful years, Gord’s humor was unparalleled, as was his remarkable ability to fix nearly anything. His advice often came wrapped in sarcasm, yet it was always delivered with love and care.

Gord leaves behind a rich legacy woven with laughter, love, and song—an everlasting testament to the joy he spread to all who knew him. In his leisure time, he immersed himself in the world of theatre. Whether attending performances or taking part in productions, his passion was infectious. He thrived in his profession, attaining every position he aspired to, and his love for literature, particularly British comedy, was a constant source of delight.

Though we mourn the loss of his first son, Stephen, who left this world too soon, Gord is survived by his two remaining children, Tim and Chris, his long-suffering yet loving wife, Dianne, grandchildren Maddison, Bailey, Hudson, Rowan, and great-grandson Kolton, as well as his sisters Carol and Linda. He touched countless lives with his infectious smile and boundless laughter.

Though he has departed from this earthly stage, we take comfort in knowing he’s up there, cracking jokes and advising St. Peter on how things should be run—likely with a tape measure in hand. A private celebration of his life, filled with food, laughter, and stories he would have adored, will be held in a secret location, where we’ll honor his memory in the spirit he would have cherished.

Rest in peace, Dad. If heaven has a stage, we know you’ll be the first to claim it and shine brightly.

Messages of condolence and shared memories can be left for the family by visiting McEachnie Funeral Home - Pickering (Arbor Memorial) 

Douglas (Doug) Paul Dodge, BSA, MSc, PhD - 2-Feb-1938 - 30-Sep-2024

Born: February 2, 1938, Cobourg, Ontario

We sadly announce the peaceful passing of Douglas (Doug) Paul Dodge at 86, in his home in Pickering Village, Ajax, Ontario, on September 30, 2024.

Doug leaves behind his beloved wife, Janet Anne Dodge (née Naylor), and his cherished children: Sarah Dodge, Elizabeth Dodge, and Martha Dodge Zayas. He was a loving grandfather to Alejandro, Sarah Anne, Javier, Margaret, Atlas, and Marcelo. Doug is also survived by his sister Donna Robins and her husband Don, and was predeceased by his sister Marie and brother-in-law Jim Jones. He was brother-in-law to the late Mae and Walter Haass, and fond uncle to many nieces and nephews, including Louise, Don, Karen, James, Marla, and Lynne.

He earned a BSA (OAC), MSc and a PhD (U of G). Doug's career was distinguished by his work with the Ministry of Natural Resources. He played a key role in environmental preservation, particularly in efforts related to the International Joint Commission, the Large River Symposium, and the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission. His significant work included lamprey and zebra mussel control and combating beach head erosion. In later years, Doug consulted on projects for the Duffins and Carruthers Creek watersheds in Ajax.

Doug was also an active community member, serving as Chair of the Ajax Library Board for many years. His faith was central to his life, and he was a dedicated member of Pickering Village United Church, where he served as Clerk of Session, Elder, and sang tenor in the choir—a passion that brought him immense joy.

A devoted environmentalist, Doug enjoyed bird-watching, gardening, and sharing his love of nature with his children and grandchildren. His contributions to his family and community will be remembered with deep love and gratitude.

A service to celebrate Doug's life will take place at Pickering Village United Church on Saturday, October5, 2024, at 2:00 pm, with visitation beginning at 1:00 pm.  A reception, at the church, will follow the service,

In lieu of flowers, donations to Pickering Village United Church or your favourite charity are welcome.

Funeral Home: McEachnie Funeral Home - Pickering (Arbor Memorial) 

"Autumn Rain
Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond that glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn’s rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush;
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die."

PHILLIPS, Stephen James Phillips - 14-Aug-1952 - 1-Oct-2024

Stephen James Phillips passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, at the age of 72. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Cathie, his devoted sons Adam (Sara), Andrew, and Robb (Karen), his brother Greg (Nancy), his cherished grandson Sylas, and his pampered pooch Milly.

From his early days growing up in Don Mills, to his career at Coca-Cola, and subsequently building his own successful temperature monitoring business, Steve will be fondly remembered by the many people he encountered throughout his life.

A man deeply committed to his family and friends, Steve’s passion for life was evident in everything he did. One of his proudest projects was building the family cottage, where he found joy in watching his loved ones spend weekends together—even though his sons jokingly referred to it as a "work camp" while it was being built. While Steve was known for his stubbornness—a trait that, while sometimes challenging, ultimately strengthened the love and respect of those closest to him.

Steve leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love that will be remembered by all who knew him. He was truly a unique character, always ready with an interesting story to tell—whether it was about conspiracy theories or correcting the nightly news. His stories, and the joy he took in sharing them, will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure of hearing them.

A celebration of Steve’s life will take place on November 10, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at McEachnie Funeral Home, 28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax, Ontario, L1T 2Z7.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Steve's memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Condolences may be offered in the Guestbook at www.mceachniefuneral.ca

Those we love we never lose,
 For always they will be,
Loved, remembered, treasured,
Always in our memory.

Leonard Lockyer Howse - 8-Jun-1949 - 30-Sep-2024

Leonard passed away surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, September 30th, 2024 at 75 years of age. Loving husband to Carson for 52 years. Devoted father to Jessie (Cory), Bill and Leonard. Proud Poppy to Kasarah, Jessica (Jess), Eddie (Jill), Teagan (Josh). Great-grandfather to Ava, Jayda, Kamden, Iyla and Mason. Leonard will be greatly missed by his sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Leonard worked as an engineer on the draggers and the oil rigs back home in Newfoundland. After moving to Toronto he worked as small machine mechanic. Not only was he a skilled mechanic, but he was able to pass on his skills to loved ones. He will be greatly missed for his sense of humour and the joy he bestowed on others.

May he rest in peace.

Visit at McEachnie Funeral Home.