SAMUEL, Elton Samuel - 26-Nov-1942 - 9-Sep-2024

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Elton, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Elton "Mervin" Samuel died on September 9, 2024 following a decline related to a prolonged illness and complications related to Advanced Alzheimer's disease. Born November 26, 1942 to parents Christina and Vivian in San Juan, Trinidad.

He grew up a shy and quiet boy and had a passion for swimming and boxing. He made a career for himself with boxing in Trinidad under management of his brother Orlando. He loved birds and enjoyed keeping them as pets earning one of his nicknames "Birdie". He had a love for music and dancing and would spend hours compiling playlists and listening to soca, calypso, and gospel. He enjoyed his connections and was always delighted to spend time and chat with family and friends.

Elton migrated to Canada in the 1970's and was introduced to his future wife Jennifer through a mutual friend. They married in 1976 and resided within the Toronto/Scarborough area until 1990 before moving to the Durham Region.

He was a dedicated and hard working employee at WYANT & Wood for over 30 years. After the company closure, he enjoyed maintaining his house and yard and took pride in his gardens and landscaping. He was often seen gardening and weeding the lawn with the company of the family's pet bird on his shoulder.

Elton was a joyful man with a kind heart and infectious laugh. His ability to offer a helping hand or just be there when someone needed him most touched so many of us. His sense of humor and positivity brought joy to even the darkest moments.

He will be lovingly missed by his wife and best friend Jennifer, loving father to Shawn and Samantha(Ronnie). Cherished grandfather to Taylor, Ronan, and Sierra. Honourable brother to Janet, and his late siblings Edris, Carlton 'Orlando', Ethel, Lenox 'Joe', Lloyd, Vernon and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to visit at McEachnie Funeral Home

LEYES, Brian J Leyes - 11 January, 1942 – 17 August, 2024

Passed away peacefully on August 17th, 2024 at the age of 82, with his family and dedicated caregivers at his side. Beloved husband of Sami for nearly 54 years, and loving father to Christian (Emily), Mike (Jen) and Josh (Laura). Special Grandpa to Brady, Myanna, Brody, Colton, Gage, Lola & Paisley. Brian will be deeply missed by the Leyes and Honda families and his many nieces and nephews. Brian was born in Kitchener, Ontario on January 11th, 1942 to Leo and Josephine Leyes (nee Hoffarth). Predeceased by his parents and older brother Paul.

A true entrepreneur, Brian blazed a trail and moved to Oshawa, Ontario in 1962 to open the first pizza stores in the city. Pepi’s Pizza had 5 locations across the Durham Region over the next 20 years and had a large impact on popularizing pizza in the area. Due to ongoing health issues, Brian retired from the pizza business in the early 1980s.

Brian spent his remaining years a dedicated family man, giving back to the community whenever and wherever he could. Whether he was taking his sons on road trips to baseball stadiums across America, hosting countless social gatherings with Sami, or volunteering for the Arthritis Society, and running their charity bingo games, Brian always did right by people, making a positive impact wherever he went.

In his remaining years, Brian moved to the Village of Taunton Mills. Despite his deteriorating physical health, Brian always had a positive outlook and did the absolute best with the hand he was dealt. He continued his passion for business and started managing the General Store at Taunton Mills. His desire to follow his passion and serve people didn’t go unnoticed, as he received the Ontario senior achievement award in 2018. Many thanks to the compassionate and dedicated staff at Taunton Mills for their loving care and support.

In accordance with Brian's wishes, instead of a funeral, a celebration of life will be held at Courtice Funeral Chapel on Saturday, Sept. 7th from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm, with tributes commencing at 2:00 pm. The Chapel is located at 1587 Durham Regional Hwy 2, Courtice, L1E 2R7. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice.

LAING, Chris Laing - Thursday, September 5th, 2024

Passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on September 5, 2024, at the age of 73.
Son of the late James and Edna Laing. Predeceased by his sister Iris. Loving father of James and Ryan. Dear partner of Heather Stymest-Conklin and former spouse of Laura Laing. Cherished uncle of Kevin and Nathan. Chris will be sadly missed by Jade and Jay Stymest, 6 step-grand children as well as his many family, friends, and co-workers.

Chris was truly loved his long-standing career as a Butcher and especially proud of the last 30 + years working at the Great Canadian Meat Company. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed spending his time gardening vegetables.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. at Armstrong Funeral Home (124 King St. E., Oshawa). A Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 1 p.m. . Cremation to follow.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or CAMH.
Online condolences may be shared at www.armstrongfh.ca

BIEMAN, Marvin (Marv) John Bieman - Wednesday, September 4th, 2024

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Lakeridge Health Oshawa.

Marv, in his 89th year, leaves behind his partner of 48 years, Barbara Giacomin. He was predeceased by his former wife, Joan Snyder, mother of five of his children.

Dear father of Leslie Patterson (Paul), Curt (Karen), Gylian Williams (Doug), Jason (Camille), Jennifer Taylor (Corey), Carl and Peter.

Dear grandfather of Andrew (Megan), James, Alex, Megan (Gord), Olivia, Rachel, Ethan, Charlotte, Annabelle, Renée, Jane and Kate. Great-grandfather of Nathan and Evan.

Dear brother of Audry Vollick (Ron). Predeceased by his siblings Marjorie MacMillan (Cliff) and Murray (Sandra).
Marv retired in 1998 after a 15-year career in the private sector followed by 25 years in the federal public service where he specialized as an industry and trade officer. His love of nature and the outdoors manifested in life-long interests that included organic gardening, hiking and a 10-year stint raising sheep on a small holding in Mountain, Ontario. Living abroad in three different countries (US, Poland and South Africa) was always an adventure for Marv but the number one priority in his life was his family. Spending time with them whenever possible, was what made him most happy.

A private family Celebration of Life will take place in the future.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marv can be made to Epilepsy Canada, a condition that affected Marv in his later years (https://www.epilepsy.ca/ways-to-give). Alternatively, donations can be made in his name, to the charity of your choosing. Any donation would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences can be made by visiting armstrongfh.ca.

William (Bill) John Pelky - 24-Jun-1942 - 8-Sep-2024

Bill passed away at home September 8th, 2024. Leaving to mourn his passing is his wife of 23 years, Marnie (nee Severs). Bill leaves behind his sons, Brian, Robin (Sarah), step-daughter Katherine Turner (Justin), grandchildren Mia, Alton and step-grandchildren Owen and Gavin. Bill also leaves behind his mother-in-law Jean Severs and his ex-wife Linda Cameron. He was an Uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Bill was born in Cochrane, Ontario on June 24, 1942. He was the last survivor of 11 children.

Bill will be sadly missed by his comrades at the RCLegion Branch 322, the residents of Birdsall Beach Resort, Hastings, and the many co-workers at the Town of Ajax Works Department.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Ajax & Pickering Palliative Care Team in support of the proposed HOSPICE WHITBY would be greatly appreciated.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future. Details to follow.

Friends and family are invited to visit at McEachnie Funeral Home

Dear Bill,

I said a prayer for you today
And know God must have heard
I felt the answer in my heart
Although I heard no word.

I asked that God be near you
At the start of each new day
To Grant you health and blessings
And friends to share your way.

Love Marnie

Condolences from family and friends

STREZOS, Louis Strezos - July 5, 1946 - September 8, 2024 - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Louis Strezos, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He passed away surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his beloved and treasured wife, Magdalini, with whom he shared 53 years, his cherished children and precious grandchildren; daughter Rena and son-in-law John Trajkovski, and grandson, Jordan; his son, Steve, and grandsons, Matthew and Lucas.

He also leaves behind his dear brother and sister-in-law, John and Litsa, as well as many adored nephews and nieces. Louis is pre-deceased by his father Pavle, his mother Mara and his sister and brother-in-law Vangelia and Petre Vasilevski. May they all be reunited in heaven.

Louis will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His wife, children, and grandchildren were his life, his heart, and his joy. He took immense pleasure in spending time with loved ones, tending to his garden, and fixing things. His infectious smile and unwavering love touched everyone around him. Louis' spirit will remain with us always. May his memory be eternal. We love you to the moon and back.

Forever in our hearts. Visit at McEachnie Funeral Home

WALLS, Colleen Louise Costello Walls - April 4, 1974 - September 8, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Colleen Costello Walls, who left us surrounded by her loving family on September 8th, 2024. Born on April 4, 1974, to James and Lynne Costello, Colleen touched countless lives with her warmth, strength, and boundless love.

Colleen was a devoted mother to Christian (30), Madison (23), and Mia (15), and a cherished grandmother to three beautiful boys: Ryker (6), Taiden (2), and Wade (1 1/2 months). Her love and pride in her family were evident to all who knew her.

In addition to her role as a loving mother and grandmother, Colleen was a dedicated professional, having worked with the Ministry of Corrections with unwavering commitment. Her professional life was just one aspect of a vibrant and fulfilling existence. Colleen was an avid dancer, whose infectious laugh and radiant smile could light up any room.

Her generous spirit extended beyond her family to everyone who entered her life. She was a beloved sister, wife, daughter, and aunt, and her home was always open to those in need of a friend.

Colleen was known for her extraordinary strength and resilience, embodying a spirit that inspired those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May her memory be a blessing and her legacy of love and joy continue to inspire us all. Visit at The Simple Alternative Pickering

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It is with broken hearts that my sister and I announce the final curtain call for our biggest and brightest star, Philip Williams.

On September 8th, 2024, unexpectedly but surrounded by family, we lost an amazing Dad and Zaide, the best big brother and brother-in-law, the funniest uncle and great-uncle, the most caring nephew and cousin, the most loyal and truest friend, the kindest little creature lover and a very talented Actor and Photographer amongst many other things. He was larger than life…too big for just a page, but I shall try.

Phil loved to fish. He used to take us out on his boat when we were kids. We would be bored after an hour, but he was happier than ever to sit out there for what seemed like forever, even when nothing was biting. He taught us everything we know about fishing and even shared his favourite spots on Sparrow Lake with us. He had quite a few.

Golf was another passion of his. He was very proud of the fact that he was the youngest member of the Golf Historical Society of Canada. When you didn’t know what to buy him for his birthday, Golf Town gift cards were a safe bet as he already had way too much tackle and fishing gear. Every year he participated in the Big Swing Annual Charity Golf Tournament to raise funds that help support Canadian entertainment professionals through The AFC.

Our dad was the funniest man we knew but he was very serious about his craft. He was an Actor by profession and by heart. He loved performing, whether it be on a stage, in front of a camera or in a sound booth behind a microphone voicing many of the cartoon characters we know and love. He appeared in the feature films: Tommy Boy, Good Will Hunting, Jason X, and John Q amongst others. Yes, we’re bragging because we know he wouldn’t.

He was humble, down to earth and extremely intelligent, often beating me at Wordle every morning and then Quordle and then Octordle just to hit the trifecta.

If there’s anything my sister and I can agree on it’s that our dad always showed up. He showed up for us every time. Skating practices and competitions, school events, birthdays, small celebrations, big celebrations, at 3am when the anxiety kicked in. He was there. He was there to cheer us on, lend a hand, give advice, celebrate, wipe our tears and most importantly to crack some jokes. He showed up for his family and he showed up for his friends, of which he had many. You could always count on him to show up…sometimes “fashionably late”, but show up nonetheless. He was consistent.

Phil was loved by everyone who knew him, well maybe except for the dog owners who let their dogs off leash to chase his squirrels away. I’m sure they could hear him muttering quietly under his breath …. or maybe not so quietly. He loved nature. He would go to the park almost every day (after Starbucks of course) to feed and talk to his “pets”. He could tell Nacho, Rambo and Patchy apart even though they all looked the same to us. He’d make friends with the chipmunks up north and gained the trust of a cardinal he named “little man." He often sent videos of “little man” eating his peanuts and would tell stories of the bush full of sparrows that would see him coming from down the block, our own Dr. Dolittle!

We could go on and on about how amazing our dad Phil was but if you knew him, you already know.
Go Leafs Go!!

The family will be sitting Shiva on Wednesday September 18 and Thursday September 19 from 6-10 at The Atrium, 650 Queens Quay West and would like to welcome anyone who knew him to come and share their stories of Phil. A celebration of life will follow in the next few weeks with more details to come.

In lieu of flowers, Phil would have loved for people who’d like to make a donation to make it to the Ontario Wildlife Foundation.

Forever in our hearts. Visit at The Simple Alternative Pickering

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SAWATZKY, Margaret Sawatzky - 4-Dec-1930 - 7-Sep-2024

Margaret (Greta) Sawatzky (Mundt) was born on Dec 4th 1930 in Golas Poland and died peacefully at home at the age of 93. Her Father, Edward, died during WW2 in Siberia. In the spring of 1948 her Mother Berta along with sons Ted and Hans and daughters Alma, Margaret and Freida immigrated to Canada.

Margaret married John Sawatzky on June 20th 1953 in Winnipeg Manitoba. They moved to Toronto in 1955 where their daughter Jane was born. Margaret was a gifted seamstress and an excellent cook and loved to share these talents with her family.

Margaret and John were members of Bramalea Baptist Church for many years and were actively involved in many programs. They moved to Ajax in 2010 to be closer to Jane and her family and joined the Ajax Baptist Church. Family and faith have always been the centre of Margaret’s life and kept her strong and happy. She was predeceased by her cherished Husband John along with her Mother Bertha, Father Edward and Step Father Philip, Sister Alma Spenst (Jack), Sister Freida Goertz (Rudy), Brother Ted Mundt (Hilda), Brother in law’s Bill Tasker and Bob Sawatzky (Rob), Nephews Gary Mundt, John Goertz, Dean Sutherland and Gordon Tasker and Niece RoseMarie Caldwell. She will be sadly missed by daughter Jane Mensour and her Husband Brian, Granddaughter Cheryl Robertson and Steve, Grandson Sean Mensour and Megan and Great-grandchildren Ella, Tenley and Blake, Brothers Hans Mundt and Claire and Eddie Mundt and Marilyn, Sister in law Anne Tasker along with many loving Nieces and Nephews. A special thanks to the Ajax Pickering Palliative Care Team, Nurse Kristine and Doctor Pedretti and the VHA PSW’s for their amazing support during the last two months she spent surrounded by her loved ones at home with us.

Visit at McEachnie Funeral Home

LIVESTREAM LINK

If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. as we livestream the funeral service from our Chapel. Please click the following link: https://v2.forever.link/arbormemorial-mceachnie/margaret-sawatzky

Angus (Gus) William Miller passed away at the Extendicare Rouge Valley in Scarborough on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at the age of 91 after an extended fight with Alzheimer's.

He maintained an active lifestyle which included downhill skiing until he was 81. He had to go that year as he could ski for free (over 80). He had lived a full life with multiple interests including the Theater (over 1300 shows), both attending and participating in (Oshawa Little Theatre), gardening, Photography, he also traveled worldwide including Spain, Cuba throughout the US, Beijing, and many others as well as frequent Cruises.

He was an early Associate/Owner of a Shoppers Drug Mart from about 1968, opening one of the first stores outside of Toronto in the Midtown Mall in Oshawa, until he semi-retire around 1988.

The youngest of 5 children born to Rev. William and Elsie Miller. Being the only boy, I’ve been told he got playfully spoiled.

He leaves his children Steve (Michele Barron) Miller, Ken (Doris) Miller, Kelli Miller-Woodcock and stepdaughter Cathy (Brayden) Legere as well as 5 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He will be reunited with his sisters Helen (Dave) Peters, Dell (George) Teeple, Jean (Alan) Furguson, Elsie (Chris) Huffman. Predeceased by his first wife Audrey Miller (Letcher) and his second wife Carol Miller (Ford)

Please join us in Celebrating His Life at Mount Lawn Funeral Home, 21 Garrard Road, Whitby, on Saturday September 21, 2024, Visitation will start at 1:00 p.m., with a Memorial Service starting at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Interment will follow at Mount Lawn Cemetery.

Dad will continue to be remembered of fondly and will always be missed.
Rest in Peace Dad.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Ontario