Elizabeth Margaret Hunter

February 16, 1947 - February 22, 2025

Elizabeth was never one to make a fuss about herself, so we’re doing it for her. Born in Perthshire, Scotland, she spent her early years in Glasgow before immigrating to Canada in 1952 with her mother and brother. She was only a year old when her father, Dr. George Hunter, passed away in 1948. Her mother, Margaret Weir Hunter (née Scott), was a strong and determined woman who went back to university after his passing before making the courageous decision to start a new life in Canada with her two young children. At just five years old, Elizabeth took her first flight on the journey to Canada, marking the beginning of what would become a lifetime of travel.

They eventually settled in Regina, Saskatchewan, where Margaret built a new life for her family. She instilled in Elizabeth the same resilience and independence, qualities that defined her throughout her life. At 18, Elizabeth set off on her own, working her way east with plans to return to Scotland and search for her roots. But fate had other plans when a stop in Toronto changed everything. While working at the Biltmore Theatre, she met Hans. A year later, they were married, building a life and family together in Toronto.

She was predeceased by her parents, Margaret and Dr. George Hunter, her former husband Hans Gunther Bechtel (with whom she remained good friends), and her granddaughter Kristina Elizabeth Vetter.

Elizabeth is survived by her children and grandchildren: Jennifer Vetter (Peter) and their son Matthew (Kayla); Terry Bechtel (Cristina) and their son Xavier; Karin Staley (Travis) and their children Trenary, Ophelia, and Findley; and Megan Bechtel (Matthew) and children Neil (Samantha), Ray, and Liam. She is also survived by her brother, David Hunter (Linda), and her nieces, Shanda, Tanya, and Kaeling.

Mum was always there, supporting her family. To her grandchildren, she was Gramma, a constant presence who adored them and made sure they always knew how much they were loved. She cherished her friendships and will be deeply missed by those who knew her.

Elizabeth found her vocation later in life, after years of raising her children. She valued education and lifelong learning, returning to school before spending many years working in the travel industry. Later, she looked after her grandchildren and then started working at the very school they attended. She “retired” multiple times—but somehow, Ms. Hunter always ended up back at the job she loved.

She had a sharp wit, a deep love for books and theatre, and an unstoppable urge to travel. With a passport full of stamps, she explored the world, always eager for the next adventure. And despite claiming she was done collecting books, she somehow always found room for more. She also lived in steadfast denial of being a closet royal watcher, despite all the evidence found. But above all, she loved her family.

Elizabeth was unwavering in her care for others, but she was also pragmatic. When her mother’s health declined, she picked up everything and returned to Saskatchewan to care for her, making sure she could remain at home until the end. Years later, when her former husband fell ill, she stepped in once again, acting as his primary caregiver and advocate, ensuring he had the care and support he needed. She was by his side throughout, as their bond endured. Having seen firsthand how much suffering was out of one’s control, she made sure she would face the end on her own terms.

Her final wish was to remain at home, and it was a great honour for her family to drop everything and care for her, just as she had done for so many others over the years. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, at the age of 78.

A heartfelt thank you to the doctors and nurses at Scarborough General Hospital for their excellent care. A special thank you to Dr. Singh, Dr. Brickman, and Nurse Lee, whose kindness and dedication gave us one final Christmas and her birthday together. We are forever grateful.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no service. If you’d like to honour her, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.

Wanda Pyszynski-Leigh (née Jasiek)

April 11, 1935 – March 2, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of our mother, Wanda, on Sunday, March 2, 2025, in her 90th year.

She will be sadly missed by her sons Peter (Kathy) and Andrew (Beth) and by her grandchildren Courtney, Maggie, and Neil.

Ma was born in Germany and immigrated to Canada in 1956, settling in Toronto. We were lucky to have her move closer to us at Hillsdale Estates recently.

Fluent in Polish, German, and English, Ma was caring, strong, and independent, with a wonderful sense of humor.
She loved catching up with family and friends, whether in person or through long phone calls. She always had the company of a cat (or two) and never failed to spoil them.

Ma enjoyed shopping, cooking, crosswords, bingo, and social activities at her church. She also had a passion for travel, with Cuba being one of her favorite destinations.
When we were young, she even took my brother and me on numerous ship voyages to Germany!

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Hillsdale Estates for their support and care of our Mom.

We will miss you, Ma! You will forever be in our hearts. ❤️

Kochamy cię bardzo, Mama ❤️

James Patrick Turner

November 14, 1934 – March 5, 2025

James (Jim) Patrick Turner passed away peacefully in his home in the early morning of March 5, 2025, in his 91st year.

Beloved husband of Molly for nearly 63 beautiful years. Loving father to Jim (Martine), Katherine (Gary), and Christopher (Hilionor).
Cherished grandfather to Jay (Taylor), Katelyn (Daniel), Billy, Matthew, Dana (Evan), Brendan, Holly, and Samantha,
and adored great-grandfather—affectionately known as Big Papa—to Warren and Malcolm.

Jim was born on November 14, 1934, to James and Elspeth Turner and was the second oldest of four children (Joan, Michael, and Leslie, all predeceased).
He began working at Toronto Hydro at the age of 16 and retired on February 28, 1990.

A talented athlete, Jim was invited to a baseball training camp with the Washington Senators organization. However, when his father fell ill,
he made the selfless decision to return home to care for his family. He remained a passionate sports fan, cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays,
Toronto Maple Leafs, Oakland Raiders, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. In his retirement, Jim found great joy in golfing and traveling the world,
proudly supporting Molly in her racing endeavors.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Newcastle Funeral Home from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
The service will begin at 12:00 PM, with refreshments to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Charles H. Best Diabetes Centre,
360 Columbus Road East, Whitby, ON.

“He is Gone” by David Harkins

You can shed tears that he is gone,
Or you can smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.

Kevin Gradwell Bentham

February 25, 1962 – February 28, 2025

In Loving Memory

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kevin Gradwell Bentham, also known as "Little Dog."

Kevin passed peacefully with family by his side on Friday, February 28, 2025, at the age of 63.

Predeceased by his parents, Florence and Douglas Bentham, Kevin is survived by his loving wife of over 20 years, Sharon, and his adored son Patrick, whom he loved deeply. He is also survived by his siblings Wayne (Carolyne), Darlene (Curt), Doug (Gerildine), and Melodie (Bill). Kevin leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, as well as extended family and close friends, including Bob (Bea), Janet (Bill), Diane (John), and David.

Kevin had a deep love for the outdoors, spending every spare moment at his trailer, where he enjoyed watching the sunset with a cold Coors Light in hand. He was known for his kind heart, helping hands, and passion for gardening and cooking.

Kevin was a great man, and he will be sadly missed by all who loved him.

Celebration of Life

Saturday, March 29, 2025
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Ajax Legion Branch 322
111 Hunt St, Ajax, ON L1S 1P3

Orest Joseph Czujko

January 14, 1929 - March 1, 2025

It is with heartfelt gratitude and love that we recognize the life of Orest Joseph Czujko.
Orest passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on March 1, 2025, at the well-lived age of 96.
He shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Iris, and was always surrounded by family and close friends.

Orest was preceded in passing by his cherished wife, Iris, on January 28, 2011. He was the loving father to his predeceased son, Orest Mark (February 11, 2024) (Tracy), and his daughter, Tamara (Mark).
"Jajo" will be forever in the hearts of his four grandchildren, Brooke, Mackenzie, Nick, and Tatiana, as well as his great-grandchildren, Andie and Carter.

An active downhill skier, Orest enjoyed many years on the slopes with Iris, family, and friends. He and Iris also loved the Southern sun and cherished their winter home in Gulfport, Florida.
Fluent in many languages, Orest loved to share stories of his experiences in Ukraine, Austria, Switzerland, Chile, and the USA.

A well-studied man, he enjoyed engaging in conversations about world issues and current events and never shied away from a friendly but competitive game of chess.
He was a key team member in the Hematology Department at Oshawa General Hospital, where he made a lasting impact on colleagues and those he mentored during his 30-year career.

His kindness, inquisitive nature, intellect, and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the 2nd-floor staff at Extendicare Oshawa,
with special appreciation to Alisha Hill for her compassionate and excellent care.

As per Orest’s wishes, a private family reflection and gathering will be held in the spring to celebrate his life and the many ways he touched the hearts of those around him.

Rebecca Elizabeth Renee Rankin

February 27, 1933 - March 2, 2025

Obituary for Rebecca Elizabeth "Renee" Rankin

RANKIN, Rebecca Elizabeth “Renee” (née Milligan) passed peacefully on March 2, 2025, at home while enjoying her favorite oatmeal. She was the beloved wife of the late Art Rankin and a much-loved mother to Carol (Roly), Gary (Rita), and Bill (Lori).

Renee was a cherished grandmother and Nana to Kayli, Brittany, Ashley (Andrew), Jessica (Nicole), Sarah (Sam), Andrew (Lacy), and Catherine (Patrick). She was also a deeply loved great-Nana and Gma to Kinsley, Leah, Mason, Khloe, and Scarlett.

She will be dearly missed by her brothers Fred (the late Violet) and John (Hazel), as well as her brother-in-law George (Ruth). Renee’s kindness, warmth, and love for her family will always be remembered.

Celebration of Life:

Friends and family are invited to gather for a celebration of Renee’s life at Newcastle Funeral Home on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Renee’s honor.

Marty Magee

May 28, 1937 – February 25, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of **Marty Magee**, who passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer and cardiac issues. Surrounded by his loving family and listening to his favorite songs, he left this world as he wished.

Marty leaves behind his devoted wife, **Penny**, his son **John (Monique)**, and his daughter **Amy**. He was a proud grandfather to **Kaitlyn, Kristyn, Abi, and Laura**.

Marty worked in **industrial sales** for over 43 years, proudly owning and operating his own company, **Marpen Sales**.

For nearly 23 years, Marty was a well-loved member of **Wilmot Creek**, where he enjoyed golfing, shuffleboard, and snooker with his many friends. He was also a dedicated member of the **Northern Eagle Campground**, where he and his family made memories for over 33 years. He will be fondly remembered by both the Wilmot and Northern Eagle communities.

Service Details

Celebration of Life:
Sunday, March 9, 2025 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wilmot Creek Wheelhouse
1 Wheelhouse Drive, Newcastle, ON L1B 1B9

Robert John Beaton

September 13, 1954 – February 21, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, **Robert John Beaton**, who lost his short but courageous battle with cancer on February 21, 2025, at the age of 70, surrounded by family.

Even as he faced illness, Rob remained hopeful and strong. Through the pain and sadness, there were still moments of joy, laughter, and cherished tender memories that his family will hold dear forever.

The measure of a truly great man isn’t in fame or material possessions, but in acts of kindness and a life lived in service. Rob embodied this wholeheartedly—his integrity, generosity, and passion touched the lives of many. Known as a man of few words but endless action, he was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether baiting a hook for a grandchild, teaching someone how to drive, or fixing anything that needed repair.

Born in 1954, Rob was a long-time resident of Scarborough, Ontario, and the son of **William and Barbara Beaton**. He was the dearly loved brother of **William (Karen), Bruce (Wendy), John, Gordon (Catherine), and Nancy**. He is survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

In October 1975, Rob married his high school sweetheart, **Anne-Marie (Morin)**, and together they built a beautiful life. They shared two children, **Robert William and Jillian Marie**, and four wonderful grandchildren – **Nathaniel, Allyannah, Kaylah, and Everett** – who were the centre of his world.

Rob was never one for the spotlight, and as per his wishes, he will be remembered privately with close family and friends.

Carol Ann Harley

October 1, 1945 – February 23, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Carol, who left us on February 23, 2025, at the age of 79. She was a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, loving wife, caring sister, and a dear friend to many.

Born in Toronto, Ontario, Carol lived a life filled with kindness, love, and unwavering strength. She dedicated herself to her family, always putting others before herself. Her warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by Grant, her husband of 61 years, her sons, Richard (Doris), Brian (Pamela), Gerald, and granddaughter, Samantha, who will forever hold her love and memories close to their hearts.

Mom, your love will remain with us always, and your legacy will live on in the lives you touched. Rest in peace.

Events & Service Details

Celebration of Life:

Saturday, March 15, 2025

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Linda Louise Bates (née Ruiter)

September 3, 1946 - February 12, 2025

In Loving Memory

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Linda Louise Bates (née Ruiter) on February 12, 2025, at home surrounded by love.

Born in Toronto on September 3, 1946, to the late Coulson and Catherine Ruiter, Linda grew up in Bowmanville, where she met and married her husband of 60 years, William (Bill) Bates.

She was a loving mother to Kevin (Andrew), David (Shanna), and Tracy (Jim), a cherished grandmother to Michael, Katie, Paige, Colton, Brody, and Jackson, and a proud great-grandmother to Violet and Lilly.

Linda was a dear sister to Carol (Orest) and Donald (Carol) and was predeceased by her brother Bill (Linda). She will be sadly missed by many family members and friends.

At Linda’s request, there will be no funeral, but a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event: Beginning February 17, 2025. Orders will begin printing on February 27.

Memories, photos, and condolences may be shared online.