With deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Mervyn Wesley Delmage at his home on February 7, 2026, at the age of 80. His departure comes just two years after the loss of his beloved partner of close to 40 years, Joan (nee Richardson/James), who passed away on December 16, 2023.
Born on March 22, 1945, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Mervyn was raised in Hartney, Manitoba by his parents, Ross and Myrtle (nee Thomas). He was predeceased by his sister Sheila Hamilton (July 16, 2023) and his previous partner Beverly Delmage (nee Bekkering/Nichols), who passed on December 16, 2012.
Mervyn retired from long-haul, cross-continent truck driving several years ago but never stopped moving. Right up until his passing, he was always on the go, helping others. Friends and neighbors could always count on Mervyn—whether it was mowing lawns, shoveling snow, lending a hand with odd jobs, giving rides, or sharing breakfast. He was generous with his time and talents, always ready to assist those in need.
Both Mervyn and Joan were known for their wicked sense of humor and their gift of gab. What might begin as a brief conversation often turned into an epic exchange, making everyone feel like part of their extended family—a circle of friends spread across the United States and Canada.
Mervyn is survived by his children and grandchildren: Kenneth Delmage and wife Ariel (Benjamin), Angela Delmage and husband Bob (Katie & Jakob), Mark Bekkering and wife Adele (Francesca, Christian, & Erika), Tom James (Chantal, Michael, Lilah, & Grayson), Tim James (Lucas, Carolina, Christopher, & Melissa), Troy Barnes (Alexis, Calleigh, & Maddy), and Tracy Barnes (Mikayla & Teo). He is also survived by his nephew Wes Hamilton, nieces Valerie, Cheryl, & Carol, and their extended families.
A Celebration of Life for Mervyn will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. on April 11, 2026, at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #43, 471 Simcoe St. South, Oshawa, Ontario.
Mervyn’s legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of his family and friends.
Born on March 22, 1945, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Mervyn was raised in Hartney, Manitoba by his parents, Ross and Myrtle (nee Thomas). He was predeceased by his sister Sheila Hamilton (July 16, 2023) and his previous partner Beverly Delmage (nee Bekkering/Nichols), who passed on December 16, 2012.
Mervyn retired from long-haul, cross-continent truck driving several years ago but never stopped moving. Right up until his passing, he was always on the go, helping others. Friends and neighbors could always count on Mervyn—whether it was mowing lawns, shoveling snow, lending a hand with odd jobs, giving rides, or sharing breakfast. He was generous with his time and talents, always ready to assist those in need.
Both Mervyn and Joan were known for their wicked sense of humor and their gift of gab. What might begin as a brief conversation often turned into an epic exchange, making everyone feel like part of their extended family—a circle of friends spread across the United States and Canada.
Mervyn is survived by his children and grandchildren: Kenneth Delmage and wife Ariel (Benjamin), Angela Delmage and husband Bob (Katie & Jakob), Mark Bekkering and wife Adele (Francesca, Christian, & Erika), Tom James (Chantal, Michael, Lilah, & Grayson), Tim James (Lucas, Carolina, Christopher, & Melissa), Troy Barnes (Alexis, Calleigh, & Maddy), and Tracy Barnes (Mikayla & Teo). He is also survived by his nephew Wes Hamilton, nieces Valerie, Cheryl, & Carol, and their extended families.
A Celebration of Life for Mervyn will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. on April 11, 2026, at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #43, 471 Simcoe St. South, Oshawa, Ontario.
Mervyn’s legacy of kindness, humor, and generosity will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of his family and friends.
