Sebastiana Ruscica

July 27, 1931 - December 11, 2024

In Loving Memory

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Sebastiana Ruscica, on December 11, 2024.

Sebastiana was born in Pachino, Sicily, on July 27, 1931, to parents Sebastiano Di Rosa and Rosa Petralito. Despite the hardship of losing her father at a very young age during World War II, she grew up with resilience and determination. As a young teenager, she attended school to learn a trade and became an accomplished seamstress to provide financial support to her mother and siblings.

In July 1951, Sebastiana immigrated to Canada, turning 20 years old as the ship sailed to Pier 21 in Halifax. She initially settled in Montreal, where she lived for two years before moving to Toronto. She often expressed her gratitude for coming to what she described as the "glorious and beautiful country of Canada." She is now reunited in heaven with her beloved parents and her son, Tony.

Sebastiana was the loving Mama of Carmela, Ann (Rob) King, Tony (deceased), and Sam. She was the proud and beloved Nonna of Darryl (Sarah) and Brent (Yvonne) and the adoring Bis Nonna of Ryan, Hailey, and Reggie.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff at Fairview Lodge for their excellent care and unwavering support.

Sebastiana was blessed with a beautiful heart and a kind soul. People were immediately drawn to her goodness and simply adored her.

Mama, we are going to miss you. You will always be loved and cherished. We will hold you close in our hearts always and forever. Rest in eternal peace.

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

Peter Salpistis

23 November, 1941 – 14 January, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Salpistis, who peacefully left us on January 14, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving family.

Peter leaves behind his beloved wife, Claudette, his devoted daughter, Betty Ann, son-in-law, Robert, his grandchildren, Julia and Michael, grandchild-in-law, Alex, and his cherished great-granddaughters, Ava and Aria. Peter was born on November 23, 1941, in Patras, Greece, and was the eldest brother to his siblings, Angelo (deceased), Angela (Kiki), and Helen.

Peter came to Canada with just a suitcase and very little money, where he met Claudette and immediately fell in love. Together, they built a life that lasted 63 years. Peter was known for wearing his heart on his sleeve. His genuine concern for others was evident in everything he did, especially for his wife and family. He had a passion for music, birds, soccer, dancing, cooking, and spending time at the race track. Above all, his greatest joy came from being with his family, especially with his granddaughter Julia and great-granddaughters Ava and Aria, who always brought a smile to his face.

Peter’s generosity and devotion will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. We say goodbye to a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle. Rest in peace, Peter.

"You left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, and though we cannot see you, you are always by our side."

Funeral Details:
Visitation: Mount Lawn Funeral Home
Event Times: 23 January, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Chapel Service: Mount Lawn Funeral Home
Event Times: 23 January, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Entombment: Mount Lawn Funeral Home
Event Times: 23 January, 2025 | 2:15 PM – 2:30 PM

Donations:
In lieu of flowers, donations in Peter’s name to the Lakeridge Health Foundation - Cancer Care Unit would be greatly appreciated. (See "Donations" tab to donate.)

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

William "Jamie" James Winter

1 November, 1969 – 16 January, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William "Jamie" James Winter on January 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at Lakeridge Health Oshawa.

Jamie was born on November 1, 1969, to loving parents Margaret and Warren in Scarborough, Ontario. He is dearly missed by his father Warren (Linda), his siblings Rhiannon (Keith) and Freddy, and his niece Carys. Jamie will also be missed by his beloved cats Felix, Dickson, and Jax, as well as by his cherished friends Jimmy, Wendy, Mark, Andrea, and his long-term care team.

He is predeceased by his mother Margaret and his grandparents Fred and Mary. Jamie’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Jamie was an avid sports fan, a die-hard Cleveland Browns and Toronto Maple Leafs supporter, and he loved playing sports such as baseball and touch football during his adult years. He treasured the time he spent at the family cottage in the Kawarthas and carried fond memories of cooking and baking with his Nan, with his favorite dishes being shortbread cookies and cheesecake.

Despite facing challenges due to injury, Jamie approached life with incredible persistence, charisma, and a love for people. He was social and outgoing, always supporting those he cared for, and he will be remembered for his dedication to family and friends.

Donations:
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Rick Hansen Foundation in honour of Jamie are greatly appreciated. The family extends their gratitude to everyone for their support during this difficult time and to Jamie's care providers for their compassionate assistance.

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

Lodge Allen Steven Byk

July 26, 1966 - January 7, 2025

In Loving Memory, Lodge Allen Steven Byk passed away on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, at the age of 58.

Lodge was born on July 26, 1966, to loving parents Kathleen (predeceased) and Walter Byk. He is predeceased by his brother, Paul, and is survived by his sister, April (Mike). He is also survived by his uncle, Steve. Lodge will be dearly missed by his beloved cat, Mia.

Lodge was passionate about technology and computers. Early in his career, he taught CAD/CAM at Durham College and later established his own consulting business. Lodge enjoyed camping, skiing, and spending time with his friends. His enthusiasm for life and technology will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

The family deeply appreciates your support during this time of loss.

Funeral Details

Interment:
Mount Lawn Cemetery
Date & Time: Monday, January 27, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

Dorothy Mae Murphy

6 September, 1935 – 13 January, 2025

Dorothy Mae Murphy passed away peacefully in her home on January 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Springhill, Nova Scotia, on September 6, 1935, Dorothy moved to Ontario in the late 1950s, where she remained until her passing. She was the daughter of the late George and Marion Hunter.

Dorothy was the oldest child in her family and will be deeply missed by her sisters Margaret and Phyllis. She was predeceased by her brothers Ross and Richard. Dorothy was also predeceased by her loving husband Clarence, with whom she shared a beautiful life.

Dorothy was a devoted mother to six children: Raymond (Bonnie) and their children, Flora (Michael) and their children, Donald (Dora) and their children, George (predeceased) and his children, David (predeceased, with Jeanette) and their children, and Kimberley (Ralph) and their children. She was truly blessed to be a grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother to many children, all of whom will carry on her legacy of love and kindness.

Dorothy was a kind-hearted and gentle soul who deeply loved her family. Her warmth, unconditional love, and wisdom left a lasting impression on everyone who had the honor of knowing her. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Services:

• Visitation: Friday, January 17, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
• Funeral Service: Friday, January 17, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Burial: Friday, January 17, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM
• Reception: Friday, January 17, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
• Location: Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, 21 Garrard Road, Whitby, ON L1N 3K4

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.

"We are so grateful for the years we shared, the lessons you taught us, and the unconditional love you gave all of us so freely. Your legacy will live on in the countless lives you touched, in the barriers you broke, and in our hearts, always. Rest in peace, Nana." – Amanda Maine

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

Linda Semenko

31 December, 1947 – 11 January, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Linda Semenko announces her peaceful passing at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on Saturday, January 11, 2025, in her 77th year, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Linda was a joy to all who knew her—likeable, lovable, and fun. She respected everyone for who they were and gave her unconditional love without expectations. Her warm spirit, generosity, and ability to make everyone around her feel loved will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

Linda is now at rest, reunited with her beloved parents, Anna and Roy Zillon. She was deeply loved by her son Dean (Ornella), daughter Debbie, and grandchildren Myles, Dakota, and Dax. Though Dean offered for Linda to live with him and Ornella in Cambridge, Linda chose to stay in Oshawa, where she enjoyed her life surrounded by her cherished sister Bev (Keith), as well as her aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, who brought her so much happiness and fulfillment over the years.

Respecting Linda’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no formal service will be held. Her family takes comfort in knowing that Linda is no longer in pain and has found peace.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to Linda’s joyful life and fulfilled her days with love and care.

"God Bless. Love, Dean (Ornella), Debbie, Myles, Dakota, and Dax."

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

Diane Lyn Legere

20 December, 1955 – 13 January, 2025

Diane Lyn Legere passed away unexpectedly in the comfort of her home on Monday, January 13, 2025, at the age of 69. Diane was the beloved wife of Martin Anger for 22 years. She was a loving mother to Angela Legere, Lori Lynn Legere (Barry), April Siegel, Peggy Oliver (Robert), Ron McNutt, and Martin Anger (Jennifer).

Diane was cherished as a Nana/Nanny to Brianna, Robert, Michael, Kay, Justin, Leah, and Faith; and as a great-grandmother to Hudson, Jayce, and Theodore. She will also be fondly remembered by her extended family and many friends.

Diane had a vibrant love for life and brought joy and happiness to those around her. Her warm smile, fun-loving spirit, and love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Services:

• Visitation: Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• Funeral Service: Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• Location: Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, 21 Garrard Road, Whitby, ON L1N 3K4
• Cremation: Cremation will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Durham Region would be appreciated by the family.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

“Our sincere condolences to all family members. We will always remember Diane fondly. She loved life and was always happy and full of fun! RIP Diane.” – Carol & Jim McIntosh

Dorothy Hooper

4 November, 1924 – 13 January, 2025

Pictured here is Dorothy celebrating her 100th birthday—a glorious memory and one to be cherished. The last 100 years have been all the better because Dorothy was part of them.

Dorothy was born in Tyrone, Ontario, to Charles and Vera Johnston. She was a daughter, wife, mother, mother-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend. She fulfilled these roles with love and care.

Anyone who knew Dorothy knew of her love for art, interior design, and fashion—her favourite magazine was Vogue! She was a free thinker with a thirst for learning and eagerly expanded her knowledge on a variety of subjects throughout her life. Dorothy loved to read, and when her eyesight weakened, she found joy in books on tape. Her wonderful sense of humour and infectious “joie de vivre” brought joy to all who knew her. Dorothy always joked that her epitaph should read one of her favourite sayings, “What’s for you will never go around you!”

Dorothy spent 69 wonderful years with the love of her life, Stan, who predeceased her 10 years ago. Their life together was a beautiful example of a loving partnership and deep friendship.

Dorothy was a devoted mother, whose children meant the world to her. She is predeceased by her daughter Lynette Ogilvie and is survived by Lou-Anne Hooper and her husband Robert Fox, whom Dorothy considered more like a son than a son-in-law. Dorothy also had a large, extended family, including siblings, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Dorothy was a beautiful person, both inside and out. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers: Please consider making a donation to the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

Robert Kenneth Mills

August 24, 1940 - January 12, 2025

Robert Kenneth Mills passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025, at the age of 84, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa. Born to his loving parents William and Helen in Moncton, New Brunswick, Robert lived a full and joyful life.

Robert leaves behind his son Jim (Tammy), his beloved grandchildren Jessica (Dakota), Brodie (Bri), and Abigail, as well as his cherished great-grandchildren Alexys and Karsen. He is predeceased by the love of his life, Lorraine, with whom he shared 57 wonderful years of marriage.

Known for his love of classic cars, Robert could often be found at local car shows showcasing his prized vehicles. When not at car shows, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, whether at the local Coffee Time or at family gatherings. Robert worked with dedication at Gen-Auto Shippers for 32.5 years before retiring at the age of 55. His family and friends will forever remember his kind and welcoming nature.

Service Details

Interment: Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Lawn Cemetery, 21 Garrard Road, Whitby.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Lung Health Foundation in Robert’s memory.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

In Loving Memory

Robert will forever be remembered for his warm smile, his passion for classic cars, and his love for family. Though he is gone, his spirit and the joy he brought to those around him will remain in our hearts forever.

Nicole Letitia Gaspar

April 12, 1990 - January 11, 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Nicole Gaspar announces her passing at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the age of 34. Nicole was the beloved daughter of Malle and Jaime, and a loving sister to Adam Coombs (Nikki) and Neil. Cherished aunt of Charlie, Blake, and Griffin. Predeceased by her grandparents Vilma and Heino Mihkelson, and Angelina and Jaime Gaspar. She will also be deeply missed by her aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Critical Care Unit staff at Lakeridge Health Oshawa for their compassionate care, and to Sunrise Developmental Support Services for the joy they brought to Nicole’s life.

Service Details

Memorial Visitation: Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery, 21 Garrard Road, Whitby.

Memorial Service: Monday, January 20, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

Reception: Monday, January 20, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Sunrise Developmental Support Services would be appreciated by the family.

Post-Funeral Details

The family extends their deepest gratitude to all those who attended the services and shared their memories of Nicole. Your love and support have been a great source of comfort during this time of loss.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.

In Loving Memory

A million times we’ve missed you, a million times we’ve cried. If love could have saved you, you never would have died. Things we feel most deeply are the hardest things to say. Our dearest one, we have loved you in a very special way.

Your gentle face and patient smile, with sadness we recall. You had a kindly word for each and died beloved by all. You are not forgotten, loved one, nor will you ever be. As long as life and memory last, we will remember thee.