Blanche Bernice Bishop

March 27, 1927 – March 18, 2025

Born in Whitby, Bernice was the third of five children—Warren, Madeline, Bernice, Lorraine and Lloyd—who grew up on Perry Street during the Great Depression of the 1930s.

During WWII, Bernice worked at the Ajax munition factory. Shortly after the war’s end, she met her own war hero when Alex Bishop returned home from Europe. Their love story began when Alex spotted Bernice in a downtown Whitby restaurant while working in the area installing electrical infrastructure.

Married in early 1947, Bernice and Alex built their life together and eventually purchased a home on Lee Avenue in Whitby. There, they raised four daughters: Jennifer, Lorna, Brenda, and Valerie. Bernice was a devoted mother and homemaker, who also enjoyed baking—especially her beloved apple pies. Her large vegetable garden produced pickled beets and homemade chili sauce for year-round use. She filled her home with vibrant flowers and warmth.

As her children grew and started their own families, Bernice embraced new joys. She and Alex regularly walked through Lynde Shores Conservation Area, enjoying nature and feeding the birds. After Alex passed in 2006, Bernice found comfort in the company of her “Mall Friends,” walking the Oshawa Centre and spending hours in conversation at the food court.

Known for her charming expressions—“Feel like a nickel,” “Full as a little red wagon,” and “Full as a tick”—Bernice brought smiles wherever she went. She was happiest when surrounded by family. Her home was filled with photos of her loved ones, and her grandchildren affectionately called her “Pocket Gran” for her big personality in a small frame.

Bernice’s legacy lives on through her 8 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, each a source of great pride and joy in her life.

Visitation will take place on Monday, March 24, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Oshawa Funeral Home, 847 King Street West, Oshawa. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 25 at 1:30 p.m., followed by interment at Mount Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery in Whitby. A reception will follow at Oshawa Funeral Home.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Oshawa Funeral Home.

David Allan Brooks

August 4, 1928 - February 26, 2025

Following a life well lived, we announce the passing of David Allan Brooks, otherwise known as Al or Allan, on February 26, 2025.

Allan was the son of Morley and Irma Brooks (Cooper) and was predeceased by his wife Betty Barbara Brooks (Emorey); his partner Joan Davidson; sisters Ruth Lewis (Paul), Lois Rowe (Foster), and Marion Gallinger (Paul); and brother Glen Brooks (Beverly).

He enjoyed building things, the hunting camp (which he was instrumental in creating and maintaining), snowmobiling, and a good party. His years in and around the construction business, including working with Brooks Construction and Oshawa Equipment Rentals, served him well.

Allan played a key role in many projects in Oshawa and surrounding areas, including additions to the Oshawa Hospital (now Lakeridge Health) in 1960, major renovations to the Oshawa Times building, a nine-bay garage and shop in Huntsville, and the creation of a press pit in Oshawa for Houdaille Industries.

Always a creative thinker with a strong work ethic, Allan could find a way to make anything work. He was a good friend, a good listener, and always willing to lend a helping hand. While he did not suffer fools easily, he had a great sense of humor and a kind heart.

Allan is survived by his five children: Terry Prentice (Rick) of Port Perry, Doug Brooks (Laura) of Courtice, Don Brooks (Debbie) of Apsley, Lynn Georgeff (Jim) of Newmarket, and Janice Turner of Wasaga Beach; as well as his step-son Rob Davidson (Cathy) of Port Perry. He also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

At a recent doctor’s visit, when asked about his life, Al remarked, “I am tired, but I am 96, have five kids, and not one of them is a dud.” He was a devoted family man and will be sorely missed by all.

In his 96 years, he rarely complained, loved to be busy and creatively productive, always had a joke ready, and enjoyed a good dessert. The only things he really disliked were chicken, telephone solicitors, and lazy people!

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Barnes Memorial Funeral Home, 5295 Thickson Rd. North, Whitby, Ontario. Family and friends are invited to visit anytime between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to share memories and stories.

In memory of Allan, donations to the CNIB Guide Dog Program would be appreciated.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Barnes Memorial Funeral Home.

Myrna Martin

July 4, 1939 - February 8, 2025

Myrna Martin passed away peacefully at the age of 85. An obituary is not available at this time.

Family and friends are welcome to share their thoughts and memories on the Tribute Wall.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Milestone Monument.

Margaret Ann Matthews

February 9, 2025

Margaret Ann Matthews passed away peacefully in Windsor, Ontario, at the age of 90...

A private service will be held for the family.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Reid Funeral Home.

Leslie Emmett Jarvis

2025

Leslie Emmett Jarvis passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025, in Toronto...

Arrangements handled by Affordable Burials and Cremations, Toronto, ON.

Memories and condolences may be shared at here.

Mervyn Surtees

1930 - 2025

Private arrangements have been entrusted to Kennedy Funeral Home Ltd. Mervyn will be remembered fondly by his loved ones and friends...

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Kennedy Funeral Home.

Marina Prpic

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Marina Prpic passed away on January 9, 2025. No further funeral details are available at this time. Arrangements have been entrusted to Smith's Funeral Home.