William Richard Bates

September 24, 1940 - March 29, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Richard Bates Jr. (Bill) on March 29, 2025. Born and raised in Bowmanville, Ontario, Bill entered the world on September 24th, 1940, to William Sr. and Malvena (Millie) Bates.

Bill spent most of his life in Bowmanville, where he met and married the love of his life, Linda. Their nearly 60 years of marriage were filled with love and partnership, and Bill deeply mourned her recent passing just six weeks before his own.

He was a devoted father to Kevin (Andrew), David (Shanna), and Tracy (Jim); a proud grandfather to Michael, Katie, Paige, Colton, Brody, and Jackson; and a beloved great-grandfather to Violet and Lilly. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister Lydia (Hank) of Calgary and was predeceased by sisters Reva and Wilma.

Bill will be sadly missed by extended family and many friends whose lives he touched with warmth, humour, and quiet strength. At Bill’s request, there will be no formal funeral, but a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In remembrance of Bill, and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 178 Poppy Fund.

Goodbye Dad. We know living without Mom was of no interest to you. Now and always together. We love you both.

Ronald Joseph Thomas

March 7, 1942 – April 1, 2025

After a lengthy illness, Ron passed away peacefully among his family at Oak Ridges Hospice, Port Perry, on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the age of 83.

Beloved husband of Betty (Elizabeth, née Vibert). Loving dad to Roanne (Troy) and Brad (predeceased). Cherished Gramps to Willa and Gwyneth. Survived by his brother Ray (Debbie). Fondly remembered by his extended family, including many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Also survived by a special sister-in-law, Verna, and Betty’s dear sister-in-law, Roselyn. Son of the late Casey and Fran Thomas.

Before retiring, Ron had a successful career in the construction industry, which took him to places such as Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia. Despite his easygoing nature, he always encouraged his children and grandchildren to pursue higher education and was immensely proud of their accomplishments.

In retirement, Ron and Betty enjoyed traveling both abroad and within Canada. Ron was an avid golfer, loved reading the newspaper, and spent many hours solving math puzzles. He was also a devoted fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Ron’s dry sense of humor, kind and quiet presence, and wise advice will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

At his request, private arrangements have been entrusted to Newcastle Funeral Home.

If desired, donations in Ron's memory may be made to the non-profit Advocacy Centre for the Elderly at www.acelaw.ca or to Oak Ridges Hospice at https://www.oakridgeshospice.com/donatetoorh.

Jean A. Langsford

June 22, 1937 - March 14, 2025

Jean A. Langsford was an amazing lady; she could be tough when she had to be, but she was also incredibly kind and generous. She loved all of her children and grandchildren, but most of all, she had a soft spot for her great-grandkids—ALL 9 of them. She will be deeply missed by both her family and many friends.

Jean had a wide circle of friends on both sides of the border. She is survived by her 98-year-old sister, Mary Moquin, her aunt Meryle Flagg, and many cousins and nephews. She was loved by so many and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.

Jean's legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Robert Francis Atkinson

April 11, 1939 – March 22, 2025

Robert (Bob) Francis Atkinson passed away peacefully at Lakeridge Health Bowmanville on Saturday, March 22, 2025, just a few weeks shy of his 86th birthday.

A devoted husband to Marlene for nearly 64 years, Bob was an inspiration to his children Belinda (Kevin), Brian (Jenifer), and the late Roberta (Randy). He was a proud and loving Papa to grandchildren Crystal, Zachary (Erica), Grace, and Elly. The family takes comfort in knowing that Bob is now with his granddaughter Crystal, who passed away in infancy in 1985. "Papa" is finally with her now.

On March 10th, Bob marked 47 years of sobriety—an extraordinary milestone that reflected his strength and dedication. His Hampton New Life Group will remember him for his wisdom, humour, quiet support, and steady guidance.

Bob had a way of leaving lasting impressions with few words. He was a listener, an observer, and a man of sharp wit and soft strength. His mischievous blue eyes and subtle sarcasm were unforgettable. His legacy is one of integrity, humility, and love. The family invites all who knew Bob to honour him by enjoying a slice of Black Forest Cake on his birthday—no candles necessary, as he wouldn’t want a fuss.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Port Whitby Marina, Avalon Lounge, 301 Watson Street West, Whitby. A Celebration of Life will follow from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Durham or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Kelli Jean Faris

April 21, 1970 - March 6, 2025

In Loving Memory

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Kelli as the result of a tragic fire in Bowmanville on March 6th, 2025.

Predeceased by her father Ivan and mother Joan (Glenn).

Lovingly remembered by her children Alex and Kara (Jake), her granddaughter Olivia, her brother Glen (Julie) and sister Dae (Bob), her stepbrother Scott, her nieces Amanda, Ashleigh and Jaq (Ben) and her nephew Justin. Will also be missed by her great nieces and nephew.

A Celebration of Kelli’s life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #178, 109 King Street East, in Bowmanville on Friday April 4th, 2025 from 1pm-5pm.

A donation in Kelli’s memory can be made to an animal protection agency of your choice.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kelli, please visit our floral store.

Events

Celebration of Life:
Friday, April 4, 2025 at 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 178
109 King St. E.
Bowmanville, ON L1C 1K8

Elizabeth Marie Bourque

January 7, 1947 - March 13, 2025

BOURQUE, Elizabeth Marie “Betty” passed peacefully at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on March 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Betty was a beloved mother to Paula (Al “Put” LeBlanc) and cherished “Mere” to Alyer and Paige (Joel). She will be missed by her step-great-granddaughter Adelaide and was excited for the arrival of her first great-granddaughter from Paige and Joel. Betty was much loved by her siblings: Joe (Bertha), the late Laura Leblanc, the late Dona Tippett (Roy), and the late Odile (Andy). She was also a dear aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Betty will be remembered for her love of music and her delight in singing. She always wished a Happy Mother’s Day and a Happy Father’s Day, as she played the role of two parents. Betty will be forever loved and greatly missed.

Friends and family are invited to gather for a celebration of life on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Oshawa Legion - Branch 44 (471 Simcoe St. S., Oshawa) from 12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m.

If so desired, memorial donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation in Betty’s name.

Events

• Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event: Orders begin printing on March 28

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth, please visit our floral store.

Janice Marie Kanters

January 2, 1953 - March 13, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Janice Kanters, age 72, on Thursday, March 13, 2025, peacefully with her family by her side. Janice was a devoted wife and mother who touched the lives of all who knew her with unwavering kindness and strength. She will be deeply missed by her husband Randy of 49 years and her children Melanie (Shaun), Aaron (Stacey), and Mia, her beloved dog. Janice is survived by 4 brothers, 5 sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Events

• Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event: Orders begin printing on March 28

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Janice, please visit our floral store.

Josephus Theodorus Huinink

March 20, 1932 - March 14, 2025

Joe Huinink told his last story and cracked his final joke at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on March 14, 2025, surrounded by love and his devoted family.

Joe, the longest-living Huinink at almost 93, was predeceased by his parents, eight siblings, countless friends, and his beloved wife of 61 years, Ceacilia. He immigrated to Canada from Holland in 1956 and built a life rooted in resilience, ingenuity, and generosity.

A genuine and eternally optimistic man, Joe was known for his curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a "do-it-yourself" attitude. He mastered electrical work, plumbing, automotive repair, bricklaying, welding, and more—never needing to "call a guy" because he was the guy. He was always willing to lend a hand, whether to family, friends, or a stranger in need.

Joe took great pride in his work as a 3CS Engineer at Houdaille and Darlington OPG. His respect for nature was evident in his commitment to sustainability, living by the principles of the 7Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle, redesign, remake, rearrange, and reimagine. His inventive mind led him to create unique projects, including a bike with skis, a bird comfort station, a steam whistle doorbell, and a chicken egg incubator.

Joe’s legacy lives on through his daughters Debbie, Audrey, Lorraine, and Jennifer, along with their spouses Dan, Darren, Kirk, and Pierre. He was a beloved grandfather to Sarah (Derrick), Adam (Mallory), Sam (Stephanie), Madison (Jonathan), Kayleigh (Danny), Matt (Dan), and Mitchell, and a proud great-grandfather to Grayson and Brooks. He will be dearly missed by his card partners and nieces, Marg (Theo), Marlene, Betty (Steve), and Diane.

The family extends their gratitude to Dr. Harvey Williams for his dedication and to the kind staff at Lynde Creek Retirement Home, where Joe’s later years were filled with warmth and care.

Joe was a fiercely proud Canadian, always giving more than he took from the country that gave him so much. He traveled coast to coast with his beloved brother Benny and embodied the spirit of "Joe Canada." Elbows up!

Visitation

Visitation will be held at Newcastle Funeral Home (386 Mill St S, Newcastle, ON) on:

• Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Friday, March 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Funeral Service & Reception

A funeral service will follow at Newcastle Funeral Home on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM. A reception with cheers, beers, and shared stories will take place immediately after.

Albert Sigurd Helgason

August 21, 1943 - February 27, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Albert Sigurd Helgason, who passed away peacefully at 7:11 PM on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the age of 81. He was surrounded by family and friends at Ed's House Hospice Centre in Cobourg, Ontario.

Al is survived by his daughter, Colleen (partner Julian); sister-in-law, Lynda; nephew, Gunnar Bryan (partner Kimmi); and niece, Jennifer (partner Jackson). He was predeceased by his father, Sigurd; mother, Joleen; and brother, Gunnar.

Born on August 21, 1943, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Al attended Kelvin High School and later graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science in 1964 and a Bachelor of Education in 1967.

He dedicated 33 years to teaching, beginning in Dominion City - Emerson, followed by a brief tenure in St. James at John Taylor Collegiate, and ultimately concluding his career in Transcona - Springfield, teaching at John W. Gunn, Springfield Collegiate, and Springfield Jr. High.

Al retired in 1998 and embraced his passion for golf, playing throughout the summer in Winnipeg and spending three months every winter golfing in Florida. From 1998-2002, he cherished time traveling with his father, Sigurd, creating lasting memories.

In 2015, Al moved to Ontario to be closer to his daughter Colleen and brother Gunnar. He made his home in Cobourg, where he continued to enjoy golf at Dalewood and became an active member of Cobourg Legion #133, playing darts and sharing wonderful years with teammates and friends.

Albert will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his family, friends, former colleagues, and students.

An online memory and photo-sharing event in Al’s honor will take place on March 13, 2025, with tribute book orders beginning on March 23, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Albert’s memory by planting a tree or by sending flowers through the Floral Store.

Penny Caroline Smith

October 11, 1948 - March 9, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Penny Smith (née Wedgbury) on March 9, 2025, after a brief but complicated battle with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She passed away surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love.

Born in England, Penny moved to Canada as a young girl and built a life filled with love, purpose, and community. She was a devoted wife to Barry, a loving mother to Aynsley, and a doting nanny to Bennett and Logan.

Penny had a passion for working and volunteering within the nonprofit sector. She served as Program Director at Oshawa Senior Citizens and later at the YWCA, making a lasting impact. As Executive Director at Information Oshawa, WindReach Farm, and CARD, she was known for her strong leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her community. Never one to shy away from tough decisions, Penny led with both clarity and heart, leaving a lasting legacy in the lives of many.

Known for her infectious laugh, signature eye roll, and “shooting from the hip” honesty, Penny was a fiercely loyal friend with a generous heart. Adventurous and fearless, she traveled solo to Singapore to meet her first grandson and loved creating special moments for her family—whether cooking Sunday roasts or cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays and Maple Leafs.

Penny’s love for her family was boundless, and her spirit will live on in the cherished memories she leaves behind. In her honor, her loved ones have chosen to see every blue jay as a reminder of her presence, love, and spirit.

Penny is survived by her husband, Barry; daughter, Aynsley; daughter-in-law, Katelyn; grandchildren, Bennett and Logan; and many dear friends and family.

As per Penny’s wishes, there will be no public service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Community Association for Riders with Disabilities (CARD), an organization close to her heart.

"Even though you're no longer here, the love you shared with us endures—a cherished reminder of your presence in our lives."

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Community Association for Riders with Disabilities.