Henry Ranald Middlebrook

March 27, 1944 - November 16, 2024

Henry Middlebrook of South River, Ontario, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital on Saturday, November 16, 2024, in his 81st year.

Born on March 27, 1944, in Parry Sound, Henry was the seventh son of Velmore (née Wolfe) and Roy Middlebrook. He is predeceased by his siblings Neville, Ken, Abe, Ralph, and George, and survived by Hilt, Wayne, Gary, Nellie, and Barb.

Henry married Patricia Gail Soper on April 13, 1963, in Sprucedale, Ontario. Together they had three children: Debbie, Kevin, and Shelley “Kevin Ladd.” Their family grew to include seven grandchildren: Dustin, Cody “Corrissa née Huxtable,” Harper, Bridgett, Tygh, Kiran, and Anya, and two great-grandchildren: Odin and Lillian.

Henry cherished country life, his favorite song being “Thank God I’m a Country Boy” by John Denver, often bringing him to the dance floor. He enjoyed hobby farming, raising animals, and training horses to pull wagons and sleighs, which he used to delight family and friends on trails he created.

Hunting seasons with family and friends were a highlight of Henry's life, filled with stories about “the big one that got away.” As his health declined, he found solace in nature, observing wildlife on his property.

Known for his intelligence, practical advice, storytelling, and sense of humor, Henry’s presence lit up every room. He was a practical joker and a steadfast source of wisdom and support.

Henry’s cremation has taken place at Forest Lawn Crematorium, with arrangements entrusted to Opatovsky Funeral Home Moore Chapel. A celebration of life will be held in the new year. Donations in his memory may be made to an organization of your choice.

Murray Wayne Collard

December 21, 1949 - November 11, 2024

Passed away suddenly at the age of 74, on Monday, November 11, 2024, at his home in Magnetawan, Ontario. Murray was born December 21, 1949, at Leamington Hospital, to the late Eunice and Lyle Collard.

Murray was the beloved husband and partner to Fay for 40 years. He was the cherished father to his four children: Rich Collard (Cindy), Tammy Zack (Darryl), Connie Waites (Todd), and David Freeland (Dawn). Murray was also the loving grandfather to Crystal Sisco (Riley), Nick Collard (Brittany), Merissa Bouillon (Andre), Kaily Mailhot (Will), Brandyn Waites (Regan), Shailyn Klemens (Joel), Ben and Will Freeland, and Reggie Mills. He was the proud great-grandfather to Laken and Haven Sisco, Braylynn and Nicholas Jr. Collard, Noah and Lauren Mailhot, Zack and Summer Bouillon, and Aria Waites.

He is survived by his siblings Raymond Collard (Linda), Larry Collard, Howard Collard (Marilyn), Wayne Collard (Lisa), Garry Collard, Brian Collard (Shelley), Diane Anthony (Bill), Butch Collard (Sue), Debrah Fisher (Kevin), and Melvin Collard. Murray was predeceased by siblings Gerald Collard, James Collard, and Ralph Collard.

In addition to his success as a fisherman, Murray achieved many prestigious recognitions during his career, including the Robert Graham Award and Fisherman of the Year. He served as a board member of The OCFA, The Wheatley Harbour Authority, and was an organizer of The Wheatley Fish Festival.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Opatovsky Funeral Home-Dempster Chapel in Burk’s Falls. A private burial ceremony will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Almaguin Community Hatchery Program, which was a significant part of Murray’s retirement. If desired, cheques can be sent to Almaguin Community Hatchery Program, Box 980, Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0, or an e-transfer can be sent to treasurer@almaguinhatchery.com.

June Frances Pearson

2024

Passed away peacefully at Cassellholme in North Bay on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in her 94th year. June is predeceased by her parents Carl and Ellen (nee Harrison) Pearson, as well as her sister and brother-in-law Norma (Jim) Martin.

June will be sadly missed by her friends. Arrangements are entrusted to Opatovsky Funeral Home – Moore Chapel. A graveside service will be held at Strong Cemetery on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

If desired, donations to Almaguin Pet Rescue or Cassellholme would be gratefully acknowledged as expressions of sympathy.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Opatovsky Funeral Home – Moore Chapel.