CME Family Last Post

Our Last Post feature aims to notify colleagues of the passing of a comrade and to publish a short summary of their career and accomplishments to honour those who have served our country who died after 1 January 2000. As we receive news of the death of a member of the CME Family, we post an obituary along with funeral details and family wishes. We have done our best to ensure their completeness, with a focus on each person's service records and notable accomplishments.

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Displaying 1051 - 1100 of 2806

Capt Paul J. Tomelin, BEM, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Captain Paul J. Tomelin, BEM, CD (Ret'd) on 5 March 2016 at age 90 years.

Paul served a varied 29-year career in the Canadian Forces in different Corps but photography was a common thread and his specialization. He will be remembered for his Korean War iconic photograph, “ The Face of War” and his poem "A Veteran's Prayer" that is recited annually at the Retired Sappers' Reunion service at the All Sappers Memorial Park in Vedder Crossing, BC.  Paul served Canada during the Second World War, during the Korean War, with NATO in Germany and was also a proud peacekeeper.

Paul enlisted when the Second World War broke out in Europe and volunteered to serve overseas. He trained in the Infantry but transferred to serve as a stretcher-bearer in Northwest Europe. Here he also gained some early expertise in photography. After the war, Paul was stationed in Dawson Creek, BC for a couple of years and continued to develop his photography skills. When the Dawson Creek installation was closed down, he was posted to Edmonton as a switchboard operator.

When the Korean war broke out, Paul volunteered and was assigned to the 25 Public Relations Unit of 25th Canadian Infantry Brigade.  He deployed overseas following the first contingent of troops, as a Public Relations Photographer, and spent 18 months in Korea as a Sergeant cameraman. Some of Paul's photographs from the Korean War continue to be printed to this day in newspapers and magazines across Canada and around  the world. One of his most famous shots, titled “The Face of War,” depicts the young and bloodied face of Private Heath Mathews of C Company, the Royal Canadian Regiment.

Upon his return to Canada in 1953, the Army announced that Sergeant Tomelin had been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for distinguished service in Korea. Soon after, he was posted to the Prairie Command Public Relations as a photographer. Later that year Paul was selected as one of only two photographers to be sent to England to photograph Canadian activities during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Paul was commissioned and Captain Tomelin served as Transportation Officer with the Canadian Contingent of the United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF) in the Middle East.

Paul retired after 29 years in the service but continued in his public life taking photographs. He was a member of the Central Okanagan Photographic Society in Kelowna, BC for many years.

A Veterans Party will be held at the Legion in Kelowna, BC and a get-together of  family and close friends will be held on Friday, 11 March 2016.{khMay2016}

MWO George Dowling, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Master Warrant Officer George Dowling, CD (Ret’d) on 1 March 2016 at the Southwood Hospice in Calgary the age of 75.

George was born in Halifax and grew up in Middleton, NS.  He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Airforce at the age of 17 and he spent the next 38 years serving his country. George was a Mechanical Systems Technician in the Canadian Military Engineers and served a full career at locations across Canada, in Germany and on United Nations missions.

At George’s request there will be no funeral, but the family will hold a small gathering in Cochrane, AB in the near future. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (www. cancer.ca) or to The Poppy Fund (www.legion.ca). Condolences may be sent to www.choicememorial.com{khMar2016}

Lt Arthur Nelson Lang (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Arthur Nelson Lang (Ret'd) on 27 February 2016 in his 101st year.

Born in Sioux Lookout ON, the family moved to Winnipeg where Art attended high school and the University of Manitoba. After graduating in 1942 in civil engineering he enlisted in the Canadian Army and was assigned to the Royal Canadian Engineers. After 12 weeks of basic officer training at Gordon Head, Victoria, BC, he completed 12 more weeks of Engineer training at A6 CETC (Canadian Engineer Training Centre) at Camp Chilliwack. 

In July 1943, Art was posted to England and continued his training as a reinforcement in preparation for the invasion of Europe. Just prior to the invasion, he was assigned to the 6th Field Company as a supernumerary officer. After the Breakout from the Normandy Bridgehead, Art took a platoon from the 2nd Battalion, RCE and joined the 6th Field Company at Carpiquet. He led the platoon through the rest of the war through France, Belgium, and Holland supporting the 3rd Canadian Division.  Art returned home to Canada in October 1945, meeting his two-year-old son for the first time.

On his return home Art joined the Canadian National Railway and lived and worked across the Prairies in a variety of cities and towns. In 1963 he moved his family to Vancouver where he pursued a new career in sales. Art was interested in literature and the arts. A volunteer at the Vancouver and Burnaby Art Galleries, he also sang with the 411 Choir and joined Brock House and Great Books group.

 A memorial service will be held on 23 April 2016 at 1:30 p.m. at First Memorial, 602 Kingsway, Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan (http://www.cw4wafghan.ca/ ) or The Longhouse Council of Native Ministry, 2595 Franklin St, Vancouver. {khMay16dc} [zpi ]

 

Spr Dennis Joseph Bonnenfant (Ret’d)

We regret to advise the death of Sapper Dennis Joseph Bonnenfant (Ret’d) at the Villa Acadienne in Meteghan, NS on 22 February 2016 at the age of 90 years.

Dennis was a veteran of the Second World War. He served in the Royal Canadian Engineers and saw active service in support of the North Nova Scotia Highlanders.   

Cremation has taken place.  A funeral mass will be held 29 February at 11:00 AM in St. Bernard Church in Clare, NS with burial to follow in the parish cemetery. {dcNov17gd} [zsd, zcc]

Spr Hugh LeRoy Hughson (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Hugh LeRoy Hughson (Ret’d) of Fredericton NB on 21 February 2016 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital at the age of 89 years.

Hugh was born in Upper Keswick NB and served in the Second World War with the Royal Canadian Engineers. After the war, he worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway retiring in 1986 after 43 years of service. He had been a member of the Fredericton Branch #4 of the Royal Canadian Legion since 1946.

There will be no service by request and interment will take place in Douglas Rural Cemetery at a later date. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com. 

Clayton Everett Moss

We regret to advise of the death of Clayton Everett Moss on 24 February 2016 at the Veteran Centre at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, in his 96th year.

Clayton was born in Tracadie, NS. He completed his Grade IX at the Truro school and, in his younger years, worked for the Canadian National Railway as a redcap at the Truro Railway Station. He joined the Royal Canadian Engineers in New Brunswick in 1940 and served in England and fought through Northwest Europe. After returning home after the war in 1945 Clayton moved to Toronto and started to work for Samuel Steel as crane operator.

Clayton was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 344. Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 26 Truro, will conduct a Legion Tribute Service at 5:45 p.m., Friday, 11 March 2016. Following this, Clayton’s family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. at the Mattatal-Varner Funeral Home (55 Young St, Truro) where the funeral service will also be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, 12 March 2016.. Reception will follow. The interment will take place at Robie Street Cemetery.

Donations in Clayton’s memory to Zion United Baptist Church are welcomed. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com. [khMar2016}

We have reprinted an article from the Truro Daily News: Former Truro Solider Continues to Serve His Country

MWO Ronald Johnson Dowker, CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Master Warrant Officer Ronald Johnson Dowker, CD (Ret’d) on 16 February 2016 in his 78th year.

Born in Dauphin, MB, Ron joined the Canadian Forces under the Regular Officer Training Plan in 1957 and started his studies in Civil Engineering. Plans changed after a year, however, and he transferred to the Underwater Weapons Technician trade where he rose to the rank of Petty Officer Second Class by 1966. After serving almost 11 years with the Navy, Ron transferred to the Mapping and Charting Establishment in 1967 as a Sergeant, Topographic Surveyor. He had taken correspondence courses in survey and mapping and was soon qualified to Group 4 by the end of 1968. Field work included Bella Coola, BC in 1968 and the Arctic in 1973.

Ron was promoted to Warrant Officer in 1974 and Master Warrant Officer in 1982. He retired in 1983 - working part time after retirement at the Canadian Forces Map Depot and at Taxation Canada.

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends may pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home, 2370 St. Joseph Blvd., Orleans, ON on Thursday, 25 February 2016 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. In memoriam donations to The University of Ottawa Heart Institute would be appreciated. Condolences may be sent to: www.kellyfh.ca  {khFeb2016}

Spr Warren E. White (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Warren E. White (Ret'd) on 13 February 2016 at the age of 90 years.

Warren was born and raised in Victoria, BC. He was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers. After the war he worked for the Greater Victoria School Board until he retired in 1983. Warren  was a 70-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion Britannia Branch #7 in Victoria. 

Honouring Warren's request, there will be no service. {dcNov2017gd} [zsd, zsp]

Capt John Edgar Akerley (Ret’d) P.Eng

We regret to advise of the death of Captain John Edgar Akerley (Ret’d)  P.Eng on 6 February 2016, suddenly, at his home near Princeton, BC.

Born in 1938 in St. Leonard, NB, John graduated in 1960 as a Chemical Engineer from the Royal Military College in Kingston, ON and Queen's University. His first posting was for two years at the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack, BC, followed by a three-year posting as Second in Command of No. 5 Army Works Company in Quebec City. John then took his release from the Canadian Forces and embarked on a life-long career in project management.

John first worked in Montreal as a construction engineer for Imperial Oil before returning to Quebec for two years as a consultant. He relocated to Vancouver in 1970 but that was only his home base as he spent 20 years on various projects in Africa, including a copper mining complex in the Republic of Congo with two mines, five villages with 35,000 direct dependents, a 100-bed hospital, three primary schools. a secondary school, and a 1000-hectare farm.

John then returned to Vancouver in 1992 and worked on the Rogers Arena project in 1994/95.  Next was the Air Canada Centre in Toronto followed by several years in the Southern United States. In 2003 he 'retired' but that was short-lived as he soon became involved in the design and construction for the South Okanagan Event Centre. This was followed by a two year stint in Algeria for a one billion dollar trade and conference centre and a five-star Meridian Hotel. His latest project was as Project Manager and owner’s representative for "Centre Vidéotron" - the new Quebec City NHL-sized multi-purpose arena.

John was a dedicated and highly respected member of the Princeton community, serving as a volunteer in several organisations, including the Princeton Hospice and Palliative Care Society, the Princeton and District Skills Centre, the Princeton Committee of the South Okanagan Similkameen Community Foundation, and the Princeton Health Care Steering Committee. He was recently elected a Director on the Support Our Health Care Executive. {khMar2016}

WO Joseph Wilfred René Gratton CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Joseph Wilfred René Gratton CD (Ret'd), suddenly, at home on 6 February 2016.

René was born in Verdun, QC in 1953. He graduated from high school in 1971 and joined the Canadian Forces that summer. Rene served with the Canadian Military Engineers for more than 26 years as an Electrical Generator Systems Technician. He served in Canada, from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic Oceans, in Europe and in the Middle East. Proud of his years of service, René retired in 1998.

After retirement René was employed at Wal-Mart for thirteen years and fully retired in 2012.

A service for René will be held on Saturday, at 11:00 a.m. The service will be at St. John’s Anglican Church in Sardis,BC {khFeb2016}[zsd]

Cpl Sean Gregory McClintock, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal Sean Gregory McClintock CD (Ret'd), suddenly at his home, on Tuesday, 2 February 2016, in his 47th year.

Sean enlisted in 1988 and served his country as a Combat Engineer for over 20 years. He served mostly as a member of 1 Combat Engineer Regiment - first in Chilliwack BC and then in Edmonton AB. He was also stationed at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright, AB.

During his service Sean deployed on a number of overseas mission. His decorations demonstrate this extensive deployed service: United Nations Iraq-Kuwait Observer Mission 1991, NATO-Former Yugoslavia Bar 1992, United Nations Protection Force Yugoslavia 1991-95, NATO-Kosovo Bar, Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal, and the South West Asia Service Medal.

Friends will be received at the James L. Pedlar Funeral Home, 1292 Pelham Street, Fonthill , ON on Sunday, 7 February from 7-9 pm with a Legion service taking place at 6:30 pm that evening. The Memorial service to honour Sean's life will take place at the funeral home on Monday, 8 February at 2:00 pm with visitation from 12-2:00 pm.   As a courtesy to the family, please no children.

Donations may be made to Wounded Warriors Foundation Canada or Toronto Sick Children's Hospital. Online condolences may be shared at www.pedlarfuneralhome.ca{khFeb2016}

Capt George Edward Doyle CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Captain George Edward Doyle CD (Ret’d), in his sleep on 1 February 2016 after a short battle with cancer. Born in Dublin, Ireland in 1933, George emigrated to Canada in 1957 and joined the Canadian Army in 1958. He served the Canadian Military Engineers for more than 30 years – mostly as a Field engineer in the Field Squadrons, including a deployment to Cyprus. George served in the ranks in almost every capacity in the field units and achieved the rank of Master Warrant Officer. For his meritorious service George was awarded the Queen’s Jubilee Medal

After completing his basic Sapper training, George was posted to 3 Field Squadron, Chilliwack (1958 - 1960) followed by a three-year tour with 4 Field Squadron in Germany (1960 – 1963). He then returned to 3 Field Squadron, Chilliwack for a long 10-year tour (1963 - 1973). After this tour he moved on to 1 Field Squadron Petawawa, (1973 - 1975). Promotion to Sergeant in 1975 saw him back in Germany with 4 Field Squadron/Combat Engineer Regiment (1975 - 1981) during which time he was promoted to Warrant Officer and then Master Warrant Officer.

In 1981 George was accepted into the Limited Duty Officer/ Commissioning from the Ranks program and spent his first year as a Commissioned Officer in National Defence Headquarters. Following this short tour he was assigned as the Regular Support Staff Officer with 56th Field Squadron in St. Johns, NFL (1982 - 1986). This was followed by a two-year assignment with Base Operations, CFB Chilliwack where he was responsible for Training Co-ordination and management of the Ranges & Training Areas. George retired in 1988.

The family invites friends and colleagues to join them in celebrating George’s life on what would have been his 83rd birthday. A Celebration of Life/Wake, will be held 18 February 2016 at 2 pm to 8 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion# 280, 5661 Vedder Road, Chilliwack, BC. Light supper is provided.

Condolences may be sent to: http://www.wiebeandjeskefh.com/obituaries.cfm {khFeb2016}

 

Capt Harold “Hal” Rudd (Ret’d ) P.Eng

We regret to advise of the death of Captain Harold “Hal” Rudd (Ret’d) P.Eng, peacefully, on Sunday, 31 January 2016 at age 101, at Toronto's Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Harold was a WW II Royal Canadian Engineer veteran with a speciality in Tunnelling.

Harold was born in 1914 on a farm in Guelph Township, ON. He attended the local one-room public school and Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute.  To be able to attend university he worked as a mining labourer at the McIntyre Mine in Timmins and became a trained miner. In 1935 he started his mining engineering program at the University of Toronto with the summers spent working at MacLeod Cockshutt and Little Long Lac gold mines in Geraldton, ON. In 1937, while still an undergraduate university student, Harold became their Chief Underground Surveyor. In 1939, he worked as a mine surveyor at Steep Rock Iron Mines. He graduated as a Mining Engineer in 1940 and was appointed Underground Shift Boss that same year.

Harold enlisted in the Canadian Army with the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1942. After his officer training at Brockville, ON he was assigned as Range Supervisor for the testing and training at the Bren Gun Range in Camp Petawawa, ON. He was sent to England in 1943 and joined No. 2 Tunnelling Company where he contributed his Mining Engineering expertise towards innovative solutions to Military Engineering problems. Projects included defensive and protective works to support combat troops, road construction, development of “FIDO (for fog dispersal at airfields) and the construction of “PLUTO” (the cross-channel pipeline project to deliver fuel to the advancing Allied forces after D-Day). 

Harold was hospitalised with pneumonia in May 1944 and returned to England for recovery. He was assigned  to a drillers’ training detachment in The Isle of Wight  when he recovered. He eventually rejoined the Tunnellers in Belgium in December 1944. In the last stages of the war in May 1945 he was charged with the demolition of the massive German concrete E-boat pens at Ostend, BE that previous heavy aerial bombing had failed to damage.

After the closing down of the Canadian Tunnelling Companies in July 1945 Harold was transfered to the 2nd Field Company RCE for his eventual return to Canada. After demobilization he resumed his professional mining career in Northern Ontario with Macleod Cockshutt Gold Mines.  In 1955 he was appointed General Manager at McLeod and remained in that position until 1967. He was a key advocate for the development of the new Geraldton and District Hospital. Harold moved to Toronto in 1967 and began work for Patino NV Mines with mining operations in Chibougamou, QC. He served as President from 1976-1980.  After retirement, Harold worked as a mining consultant for Watts, Griffis and McOuat.

Harold was a member of The Masonic Temple Geraldton, Kenogamisis Lodge # 656 and was installed as Worshipful Master in both 1958 and 1965.  He was an active volunteer at the Sunnybrook veterans' care facility and was a longtime member of the Canadian Institute of Mining, the Professional Engineers of Ontario and the Royal Canadian Legion, Fort York Branch.

The family will receive friends at The Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles - Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville Avenue) on Tuesday, 9 February 2016 at 1:00 p.m., followed by a reception. Private family interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. {khFeb2016}

Maj William "Bill" James Milhausen, MiD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Major William James Milhausen, MiD (Ret’d), peacefully on 31 January 2016 in his 99th year in Toronto.

A Royal Canadian Engineer veteran of the Second World War, He was co-author of the book: “Yet Another River to Cross” - The Royal Canadian Engineers in the Italian Campaign 1943-1945.” 

Bill was born in Moosejaw, SK and raised in Manitoba. After completing his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering in 1940 he worked for six months as a draftsman with the Surveys Branch of the federal Department of Mines and Natural Resources. In January 1941 he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers (RCE). After his initial training at Petawawa and promotion to Lieutenant, he was posted to the A6 Canadian Engineer Training Centre at Dundurn, SK as an instructor. Bill went overseas to England in March 1942 and embarked for Sicily and Italy in 1943.

Bill was with 1st Canadian Corps Troops at the start of the Italian Campaign and then transferred to 1st Canadian Infantry Division Engineers with 4th Field Company, RCE where he won a Mention in Dispatches. Later in the campaign, he transferred to 3rd Field Company, RCE as Second-in-Command with the rank of Captain. He stayed with that unit for the remainder of the action in Italy and in March 1945 his unit was transferred to the First Canadian Corps in Northwest Europe. Bill joined the Allied advance through Northwest Europe and took part in the liberation of Holland. Bill reports he was the first Canadian to enter Amsterdam when it was liberated in May 1945.  He later led the 3rd Field Squadron home. He was demobilized in Winnipeg in October 1945.

Bill later enlisted in the Militia in 1948 and served for two years as Second-in-Command of the 6th Field Engineer Regiment with the rank of major. In 1946, he began a very successful career in civil engineering. After a successful career in the public domain, he went on to head up an architectural firm that built many of Canada’s educational and financial institution buildings. Bill was a Life Member of the Engineering Institute and a Member and Designated Consulting Engineer of the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario. 

Bill’s first post-war employment was in April 1946 with the Highways Branch of the Manitoba Department of Public Works and he served as Assistant District Engineer for three districts. In 1949 Bill was appointed Executive Assistant to the Deputy Minister of Public Works. In Spring 1950, at the time of the Manitoba Flood, he was District Engineer for the Northwest District. During the flood, his Regiment was called up for active service. Bill was in command of the army units and volunteers that successfully saved the city of St. Boniface. He resigned from the Reserves in the Fall of 1950.

Bill returned to Winnipeg after the Flood and was loaned to the Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) as Assistant Supervisor of Construction for Western Canada. CMHC was heavily involved in Cold War and Korean War-related projects that included the programs of Defence Construction Ltd. at the Armed Forces bases, construction of the Pine Tree Early Warning Radar Line, and the new RCAF base at the Cold Lake. After a year in Winnipeg, he moved to Ottawa as Assistant Chief Engineer with CMHC. In December 1953 Bill was appointed Chief Engineer for CMHC and he held this position for two years during which time he was responsible for hundreds of construction contracts at military installations across Canada and north to the Yukon.

With the Korean War construction program winding down, Bill left CMHC in December 1955 and joined the architectural firm of Marani & Morris in Toronto as an Engineering Associate and responsible for the administration and supervision of projects from tendering to completion. In 1964 he became a partner in Marani Rounthwaite & Dick and eventually was made the Managing Partner - until his retirement in 1984. Bill also served as President of Ardec Consulting Engineers.

Among the buildings with which Bill was associated were: the head offices of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company in Ottawa; London Life in London and Mutual Life in Kitchener; Sheridan College in Oakville and Conestoga College in Kitchener; York Central Hospital at Richmond Hill; Women's College Hospital in Toronto; the Law and Social Science Buildings at Queens' University; the Science Building at the University of New Brunswick; the Osgood Hall Law School of York University; the head office of the Bank of Canada in Ottawa; and GO Train renovations at Union Station, Toronto.

Visitation will take place on Monday, February 8, 2016 at the Jerrett Funeral Home "North York Chapel", 6191 Yonge St. (south of Steeles Ave.) from 1 p.m. until time of service in the chapel at 2 p.m with refreshments to follow. Online condolences can be left at www.jerrettfuneralhometoronto.ca .    {khFeb2016}

Spr Verne E. Thompson (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Verne E. Thompson (Ret’d), peacefully on 22 January 2016 at Northumberland Hills Hospital in Cobourg, ON, in his 92nd year.

Verne was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers.  After the war, he worked for Kraft and General Foods in Cobourg.  He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Cobourg Branch #133, the Camborne Church and friend of the Victoria Retirement Residence.

Visitation will be held at MacCoubrey Funeral Home in Cobourg on 27 January from 7:00 until 9:00 PM and on 28 January from 10:00 until 11:00 AM with a Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 AM.  Interment will be in Cobourg Union Cemetery.  Donations may be made to the MS Society.  Condolences received at www.MacCoubrey.com.  {dcNov2017gd} [zsd, zsp]

CWO Walter “Wally”A.J. Chambers, CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Chief Warrant Officer Walter “Wally” A.J. Chambers, CD (Ret’d) in Kelowna, BC on 19 Jan 2016.

Born in 1936 in Miramichi, NB, Wally served a full career of 33 years in the Canadian Air Force where he was posted in many places across Canada from Sydney, NS to Chilliwack, BC, as well as four years in Baden-Sollingen, GE.  He started his career as Clerk Engineer then transferred to Construction Engineering Procedures Technician. Wally wound up his career as the Chief Warrant Officer/Deputy Chief of Staff Construction Engineering Management in Air Command Headquarters, Winnipeg and retired in 1988. He then worked in Aircom Headquarters (Organization and Esablishment) for a few years as a civilian employee.

A Memorial Service will be held in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cancer Centre for the Southern Interior, 399 Royal Avenue, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 5L3. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com {khJan2016}

Cpl Neil Dugan Atkinson (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal Neil Dugan Atkinson (Ret’d) on 17 January 2016, of Elora, ON in his 85th year.

Neil was a proud WW II veteran who served in the Royal Canadian Engineers.   He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #229 in Elora ON.

Cremation will take place.  Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.  To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.westmountfuneralchapel.com.   {dcJan2017gd} [zpp, zsd, kpp, zcc]

Arthur George Davey

We regret to advise of the death of Arthur George Davey of Bowmanville, ON on 16 January 2016 at Lakeridge Health in Oshawa ON at the age of 94 years.

Art was born in Oshawa. He was a Royal Canadian Engineer veteran of the Second World War, who served in the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division, often in support of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles in Normandy and the Low Countries.

Art was active in the Royal Canadian Legion. He was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #43, Oshawa, ON and Branch # 128, Sydney N.S.

A Memorial Celebration of Art's life was held at the Armstrong Funeral Home in Oshawa on 22 January 2016. Interment with his late wife Mary will be at Mount Lawn Memorial Gardens in Whitby following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by Art's family. {dcDec19WD} {zcc, zsp]

Sgt Brian King, CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Brian King, CD (Ret’d) in Ottawa on 13 January 2016 at the age of 54. Brian served his country for many years as a Combat Engineer - much of his career being with 1 Combat Engineer Regiment in Chilliwack and Edmonton. Brian’s deployments over his career included: UNIKOM (United Nations Iraq – Kuwait Observation Mission) 1991, UNPROFOR (United Nations Protection Force )1992-1993, CFS Alert 1996 and NATO (Former Yougoslavia) 2000-2001.

Brian was first posted to 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER), Chilliwack in 1982 after completing his Sapper basic training. After this tour, in 1985 he moved on to 4 Combat Engineer Regiment in Lahr, Germany for a two-year posting before returning to Chilliwack with the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering (CFSME) (1987 -1990). Staying in Chilliwack, he was posted back to 1 CER for a five-year posting. In 1995 Brian was transferred to a new environment for two years at Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake but then quickly returned to 1 CER, Edmonton for another tour of duty (1997 - 2001). His last posting ‘out West’ was with the Land Forces Western Area Training Centre in Wainwright (2001- 2003) and then it was back to CFSME for four years – but this time at CFB Gagetown. Brian retired from the Regular Force but joined the Primary Reserve and served with 33 Combat Engineer Regiment, Ottawa from 2007 until he retired in 2010.

Family and friends are invited to visit Beechwood Funeral, Cemetery and Cremations Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue (East of Vanier Parkway) on Friday, 22 January 2016 from 10 am until time of Funeral service in the Sacred Space at 12 noon. Interment to follow at Beechwood Cemetery.

In memory of Brian, donations to the Last Post Fund would be greatly appreciated. Tributes may be sent via Lifetimes at www.beechwoodottawa.ca..{khJan2016}

 

 

Joseph "Henri" Deslaurier

We regret to advise of the death of Joseph "Henri" Deslaurier on 11 January 2016 in Rotary Hospice House in Prince George, BC at the age of 89. Henri was a Korean War vet who served with 57th Field Squadron Royal Canadian Engineers.

At Henri's request there will be no service. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the rotary Hospice House  in Henri's memory.{khMay2016}{kpp}

Spr Reginald Bruce Crowe (Ret’d )

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Reginald Bruce Crowe (Ret’d), peacefully, at the Woodstock Hospital on 9 January 2016 in his 93rd year.

Born and raised in Hanover, ON, Reginald was a Royal Canadian Engineer veteran of the Second World War who landed at Normandy with 4th Canadian Armoured Division. As a member of 8th Field Squadron, Royal Canadian Engineers, he supported the Division in the fight through France Belgium and The Netherlands until the defeat of Germany. He participated in major engagements such as Falaise, The Scheldt, The Rhineland and The Rhine and was wounded along the Emden Canal near the Netherlands/German border.

Reginald spent nine months in a Canadian Hospital in England before being repatriated home to Toronto after the war. Unable to return to his old job due to the wounds to his legs, he found a job at Canada Packers and stayed in Toronto where he worked for 39 years before retiring from Canada Packers.

A private time of remembrance will be held by the family. Cremation has taken place. If desired, memorial contributions to Cystic Fibrosis Canada or the Kidney of Canada would be appreciated and arranged through the Brock and Visser Funeral Home, Woodstock, 519-539-0004. Online condolences www.brockandvisser.com.

 

Glenn Sargeant (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Glenn Sargeant on 4 January 2016 in Chilliwack his 87th  year. Glenn was a retired Sapper. There is no service by request. {khJan2016}

L/Cpl Alfred T. Glassel (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Lance Corporal Alfred T. Glassel (Ret’d), peacefully, on 22 December 2015 at the age of 93.

Alfred was born on the family farm near Unity, SK and spent the first 12 years of his life helping his family working that farm.  He left home at 12 to make his own way in the world and worked for various neighbors until he volunteered for the Army in 1938 prior to WWII. He joined the 2nd Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers where he received his training as a Sapper and became an Engineer Mechanic.

Alfred landed at Normandy as part of 2nd Canadian Infantry Division. He fought through France, Holland and Germany and rose to the rank of Lance Corporal. Alfred was demobilized in Canada in November 1945.

Upon his discharge from the Army Al benefitted from his army Motor Mechanic training and worked at various jobs until he wound up running a garage in Ponoka AB. He later moved to Calgary AB where he sold Snap-On tools for a time before starting his own tool company. Retiring in 1980, Al moved to the North Shuswap, BC and spent the next 25 years active in the local Community. In 2005he retired again and moved into Kamloops, BC.

After the war Al was recognized twice by other countries for his wartime contributions. The Netherlands awarded him their Medal of Remembrance for the Liberation of Holland, and France made him a Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour.{khMay2016}

WIlliam Peter "Bill" Fedoruk

We regret to advise of the death of William Peter “Bill” Fedoruk on 21 December 2015 at the age of 97 at Misericordia Place in Winnipeg MB.

Bill was born settled on a homestead in Red Rose MB. He grew up in Red Rose and went to school in Sunny Valley. He was a veteran of the Second World War joining the Army in 1940. He took basic training in Portage la Prairie and was assigned to the Royal Canadian Engineers. This was followed by sapper training in Chilliwack BC where he was a member of Regimental Dance Band #13. During the war, he was stationed in Chilliwack, Vancouver and Victoria. He was demobilized in 1946. After his discharge, he operated a restaurant, then a hardware store with his brother Ted. He retired and lived in Winnipeg. 

Cremation has taken place and a family celebration will take place at a later date. Bill will be buried in Brookside Cemetery. Instead of flowers, donations may be made to The Misericordia Foundation, 99 Cornish Ave., Winnipeg MB.
 

Lt Reginald Frank Meadley

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Reginald Frank Meadley (Ret’d) of Orillia ON at the Orillia Soldiers' Memorial Hospital on 19 December 2015.

Reginald was born in Quebec City QC and graduated from McGill University in 1953 with a Degree in Civil Engineering. He worked in several Ontario communities including Guelph, Oakville, Port Stanley and finally retired as City of Orillia Engineer & Commissioner of Public Works where he worked from 1968 until 1994.  At some point, he served in the Royal Canadian Engineers (Militia).

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Mundell Funeral Home, in Orillia on 7 December from 2:00 until 4:00 PM. The funeral service will be held at St. James' Anglican Church on 28 December at 1:00 PM. Cremation will follow with interment at St. Andrew's - St. James' Cemetery in the spring. If desired, Memorial Donations to St. James' Anglican Church would be appreciated by the family. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.mundellfuneralhome.com. 

Walter Stuckart

We regret to advise of the death of Walter Stuckart on 15 December 2015 at the age of 94 at the Bowcrest Care Centre in Calgary AB.

Walter was born in Calgary and lived here all his life except for the four years he spent in the army during WW II when he served his country in Europe with the Royal Canadian Engineers. After the war he worked forty-one years with the CPR as a machinist.

Memorial Services will be held at St. John Lutheran Church (204 - 6A Street N.E.) on 23 December at 2:00 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends or family so desire, memorial tributes in Walter's honour may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 – 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 , www.heartandstroke.ca.

In living memory of Walter Stuckart, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.{khMay2016}

Cpl Kurtis M. Gaucher (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal Kurtis Gaucher (Ret’d) at home in Edmonton. AB on 18 December 2015 at the age of 33 years.

Cpl Gaucher served with 1 Combat Engineer Regiment from 2007 to 2012 and was a veteran of the Afghanistan War. He deployed with 11 Field Squadron to Kandahar, Afghanistan on Op ATHENA TASK FORCE 3-09. Seriously injured in an IED strike early in the deployment, he suffered the loss of a limb. Kurtis was treated for his injury and started the long road to rehabilitation. He participated in the "Soldier On" program and overcame several complications that arose during his rehabilitation.  He is buried in the Beechwood Cemetery in Edmonton. {dcJan16}

Cpl Donald William “Bill” Muise, CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal Donald William “Bill” Muise, CD (Ret’d) of Brooklyn, Yarmouth Co., NS suddenly at home on 12 December 2015 at age 74.

Born in Yarmouth, Bill started his career with the Royal Canadian Artillery (1958-1971) and then joined the Canadian Military Engineer Family as a Field Engineer. His early postings as a Sapper were to 3 Field Squadron, Chilliwack (1971-1974) and 22 Field Squadron, Gagetown (1974-1978) and he served a full 22 years with postings across Canada and in Germany and tours in Cyprus and Canadian Forces Station Alert.

Upon his retirement from the Canadian Forces, Bill worked at Allwood Products and as a Commissionaire until his health began to deteriorate. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 2181 Yarmouth, with whose choir he sang, as well as volunteering on several committees. He was also a member of the Fourth Degree Msgr. W. E. Young Assembly 1428 (Yarmouth) of the Knights of Columbus.

Visitation will take place from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., Wednesday, 16 December with a Royal Canadian Legion service at 7:30 p.m., followed by prayers at 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m., Thursday, 17 December at Saint Ambrose Cathedral, Yarmouth. Interment will follow in Our Lady of Calvary Cemetery.

Family flowers only, please. Donations in memory of Bill may be made to the Yarmouth Council of the Knights of Columbus, the Yarmouth Site of the Victorian Order of Nurses or to the Salvation Army, Yarmouth. You may sign the online guestbook or leave messages of condolence for the family by visiting www.huskilson.net  {khJan2016}

 

Donald John Gray

We regret to advise of the death of Donald John Gray, peacefully, on 7 December 2015 at the Arborfield and District Health Care Centre in Arborfield MB at the age of 96 years. Don was a WW II Royal Canadian Engineer veteran of 2nd Battallion, Royal Canadian Engineers.

Born in Keyes, MB, Don grew up mostly near Arborfield and worked in the logging and lumber industries for many years with his brothers. He and his brothers all enlisted in the army. Don was 22 when he joined the 2nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Engineers and he served overseas for four years during World War II.

After extensive training in Canada, Don embarked for England at Halifax on 23 August 1940. During the battalion's lengthy stay in the United Kingdom prior to D-Day, they were largely involved in the construction of the camps and infrastructure required for the Canadian Army in England. As well, they were heavily involved in improving and building infrastructure required for England's defence. Notable was the Dunsfold Airport that had to be significantly expanded to both help the defence as well as to support the war effort when it was taken to the continent.

The 2nd Battalion embarked for France on 26 July 1944 and joined the battle in Northwest Europe when it assembled at Carpiquet, FR on 31 July. The battalion was initially involved in the reconstruction of the devastated Carpiquet Airport and the building of the by-pass road around the city of Caen. Supporting the Allied advance, their final challenge in France was the construction of the bridge over the Seine at Rouen. When this was completed by the end of September, the battalion moved rapidly into Antwerp, Belgium. Throughout the Allied advance, 2nd Battalion was heavily involved in the construction of large Bailey Bridges across many of the river obstacles in northern Europe.

When Don returned home from the war he married, bought some farmland and farmed until the mid-1970s when he retired and moved into town.

In recognition of his contributions to the war effort, Don received the Lieutenant Governor’s Military Service Recognition pin. He was also greatly honoured in March 2015 by the Government of France awarding him the National Order of the Legion of Honour at the rank of Knight in recognition of his contribution to the 1944 Battle of France.

A funeral service will be held on 11 December 2015 at the Arborfield Community Hall with internment at the Jordan River Cemetery in Arborfield. 

Spr Kenneth “Ken” Norman Colborn (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Kenneth “Ken” Norman Colborn (Ret’d) at the Southeast Integrated Care Centre, Moosomin, SK on 6 December 2015 at the age of 84 years.

Ken was born and educated in the Pickwell District, southeast of Wawota, SK and was a veteran of the Korean War.  He served for three years with the Royal Canadian Engineers, one year of which was spent in Korea and another in Churchill, MB.  On returning home in 1953, he returned to farming until his retirement in 1993.  Ken was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Wawota Branch #113.  He was Branch president for two years and worked on the Wall of Remembrance, as well as the Wawota Veterans' Park. 

A memorial service will take place at Wawota Town Hall on 11 December 2015.  A private family interment will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens.  Donations may be made to the Moosomin and District Healthcare Foundation or to a charity of one’s choice. 

George Moennich

We regret to advise of the death of George Moennich, peacefully, on Saturday, 28 November 2015 at age 84.

George served with Defence Construction Limited/Canada for more than 20 years. He was originally hired by Defence Construction Limited (DCL) in Germany in the 1970s where he eventually became Branch Manager, overseeing DCL activities for Canadian Forces Europe in Lahr and Baden Solingen. He returned to Canada in the late 1970s as Project Control Officer in Head Office, Ottawa and held a number of operational positions, including a secondment to DND as co-Project Manager of the Ship Repair Unit (Atlantic). He retired as Director of Operations in the mid-1990s. George was a strong supporter of the Canadian Military Engineer Family and was very active with the Military Engineer Association. In retirement he remained actively involved in Defence Construction Canada and Engineer functions until his passing.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the McGarry Memorial Chapel, 176 Route 105 (Exit 28 HWY 5), Wakefield on Sunday, 6 December 2015 from 1:00 p.m. until time of the Memorial Service in the Chapel at 2:30 p.m. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to La Maison des Collines would be appreciated by the family. To donate online: lamaisondescollines.org or P.O. Box 32, La Peche, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0.

Condolences/Tributes/Donations to Hulse, Playfair & McGarry www.hpmcgarry.ca {khDec2015}

MWO William Robert "Bob" Hannah, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Master Warrant Officer William Robert "Bob" Hannah, CD (Retd') of Vernon, BC on 20 November 2015. Born in Manitoba in 1927 and raised in Saskatchewan, he enlisted in the Army at the young age of 16. When his real age was known he was not allowed to go overseas, but he was retained for employment as a Construction/Maintenance person. After the war Bob joined the Permanent Force and he served 25 years with the Canadian Military Engineers as a Construction Engineer. Postings saw him stationed in Chilliwack, BC, Edmonton and Calgary, AB, Fredericton and Gagetown, NB, and with a deployment to Egypt with the United Nations Emergency Force.

When Bob retired from the Canadian Forces in 1973, he moved to Oyama, BC and started up a one-man repair business: “Hannah’s Repairs”. He loved to travel and had visited every country in Western Europe, each of the U.S. states at least once, as well as China, Japan, Hawaii, Tahiti, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and North Africa.  {khFeb2016}

 

LCol R.W. Shurb, CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Colonel R.W. Shurb, CD (Ret’d) on 19 November 2015 at the age of 79, after a courageous battle. Ron served a full career with the Canadian Military Engineers.

Ron enrolled in the Army in 1955 under the Regular Officer Training Plan and started his military training at the Collège militaire royal de Saint-Jean. He joined the Class of 1960 at Royal Military College in Kingston and completed his Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Civil Engineering Engineering in 1961 at the University of Toronto.

Upon completion of his Young Officer training in 1962, Ron was posted to 3 Field Squadron, Chilliwack for a short tour as Troop Commander before being posted to 2 Field Squadron, Gagetown (1962-64). He was then posted to the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering in Chilliwack but was soon deployed to Canadian Base Unit, United Nations Emergency Force, Egypt as Second in Command of the Engineering Company (1965-56).

Upon return to Canada, Ron became Production Officer in the Construction Engineering Section of Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Winnipeg (1966-67). This was another short tour as he was soon posted to Headquarters, CFB Soest, Germany as Engineering Officer with the Construction Engineering Section, This duty was followed by a re-assignment to the Senior Staff Officer Construction Engineering Division of 1 Air Division HQ, Lahr.

Returning to Canada in 1970, Ron was appointed Base Construction Engineering Officer of CFB Bagotville but a year later found him as a student at the Canadian Land Forces Command and Staff College, Kingston. From here Ron was assigned to HQ 1 Combat Group, Calgary in 1972 as Staff Officer 2 Operations/Administration.

Ron then became the Canadian Forces Liaison Officer with the United States Mobility Equipment Research and Development Command, Fort Belvoir, Virginia (1974 -77). Returning to Canada, He was posted to Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering - first with the Mobile Command Headquarters Detachment, Chilliwack (as Staff Officer Field Engineering) and the next year as Officer Commanding Military Engineering Training Squadron.

For his last posting with the Canadian Forces, Ron was posted to National Defence Headquarters in 1980 as Section Head, Directorate Military Engineering Operations in the Director General Military Engineering Operations. Ron retired in 1982 but continued his public service in his second career. He worked on projects like the Urea Formaldehyde Foam Installation Mitigation (UFFI) Project, modernization of the Communications Security Establishment building, and the Y2K project.  He also served a term as President, of the Military Engineer Association of Canada.

A celebration of Ronald's life will be held at Annunciation of the Lord on Friday 27 November at 11:00 a.m., 2414 Ogilvie Rd. followed by a gathering of family and friends in the Parish hall. A full military honour burial will follow at the Military Cemetery of Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Avenue) at 2:00 p.m.

The family requests no flowers. Sympathy donations can be made to the heart and kidney foundations.   {khNov2015}

LCol Melvin Ronald Hunt, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Ronald Hunt, CD (Ret'd) at the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria BC on 17 November 2015 at age 73 after a long battle with kidney disease. Mel served a 23 year military career in the Canadian Forces - first as a Firefighter in the Royal Canadian Air Force and then as a Military Lawyer.

Originally from Toronto, Mel was an orphaned high school drop-out who had a broad experience in life as a construction labourer, heavy equipment operator, truck driver, and boxer before he joined the Canadian Forces in 1960.   After his Royal Canadian Air Force basic training in St. Jean PQ, he served as a firefighter at Penhold AB and Marville, France for four years. While at Penhold he was given the opportunity to complete this high school education. This was to lead to his selection for the University Training Program Men program.

After obtaining an Honours degree in Philosophy from the University of Alberta, Mel served as the Chief Administration Officer at Canadian Forces Station Armstrong before he was selected to pursue a law degree at the University of British Columbia. He articled to the celebrated Victoria counsel, Dermod Owen-Flood (later Mr Justice Owen-Flood of the BC Supreme Court), and graduated from the UBC Law School in 1977.

Mel started his service as a military lawyer in 1978 with the Judge Advocate General’s office at National Defence Headquarters followed by working as the Assistant Judge Advocate General in Victoria BC. Mel retired from the Canadian Forces in 1987 as a Lieutenant Colonel and an expert in military law.

Mel next entered private practice and then joined the firm of Dinning Hunter Jackson Law as associate counsel in 1999. He practised in the criminal courts, as Courts Martial, and in the Federal Courts as well as the British Columbia Supreme Court and the British Columbia Court of Appeal on a wide variety of legal issues including family and personal injury law. He was frequently consulted by other lawyers throughout Canada and retained by current and former members of the Canadian Forces in relation to military grievances, summary trials, human rights and pension matters. Mel was qualified as an expert witness in the British Columbia Supreme Court on military law and military personal matters.

A Celebration of Life service was held on 9 January 2016 at the Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt, Wardroom (1586 Esquimalt Rd., Esquimalt). Memorial donations may be made to Vancouver Island Kidney Patients Association.

Cpl George Makar Podtepa

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal George Makar Podtepa of Edmonton, AB on 10 November 2015, at the age of 44 years. Corporal George Podtepa was born in Dryden, ON. His family moved to Winnipeg, MB in 1976 and he completed his high school education in Rossburn, MB. He worked as an electrician and control systems technician before he joined the Canadian Forces.

After completing his basic training he was stationed in CFB Greenwood from where he deployed on his first tour to Afghanistan. Returning to Greenwood, NS in 2003, he completed his training as an Electrical Distribution Technician. He later returned to Afghanistan for two more tours. On his last tour he assisted  the move of the Canadian base camp from Kabul to Kandahar with 1 Combat Engineer Regiment. In Kandahar he received a severe injury and returned to Canada for treatment.

George was a member of St. Elia Ukrainian Orthodox Church and a member of the Nam Knights Motorcycle Club of Canada, Edmonton Chapter.

Prayers Monday, 16 November at 7:00 p.m. at St. Elia Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 11833 – 66 Street, Edmonton. Funeral Rite will be on Tuesday, 17 November at 10:00 a.m. at St. Elia Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Interment in St. Stephen's Cemetery, 20303 Meridian Street, Edmonton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Elia Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Photos, memories and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com. {khNov2015}

Capt Raymond "Ray" Jodoin, CD (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Captain Raymond 'Ray' Jodoin, CD (Ret'd), peacefully, at the Welland County General Hospital on 5 November 2015 at the age of 68. 

Ray served the first part of his career with the Canadian Military Engineeers as a Field Engineer in 3 Field Squadron, Chilliwack, 4 Field Squadron, Lahr, and 5 ieme Esquadron du Genie du Canada, Valcartier, in succession. Arriving in Valcartier in 1972 as a Master Corporal, he was later promoted to Sergeant and qualified as a Combat Diver Supervisor. After being selected for Commissioning From The Ranks in 1975, Ray served the remainder of his career as an Officer.

Friends are invited to call at the Patterson Funeral Home, 6062 Main St., Niagara Falls, ON for visitation Sunday 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  A Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Monday at 1:00 p.m.  

In memory of Ray, contributions to The ONE Foundation (Walker Family Cancer Centre)   [Greater Niagara General Site, 5546 Portage Road, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X2] would be appreciated by his family. {khFeb2016}

 

Sgt Ronald Ford "Andy" Anderson (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Ronald Ford 'Andy' Anderson (Ret'd) on 3 November 2015 in the Toronto Western Hospital after quietly celebrating his 93rd birthday.  

Ron was born in Toronto. He was a veteran of the Second World War and went overseas to England with the 2nd Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers in June 1941. Ron was an expert with explosives and is said to have trained hundreds of soldiers in demolitions in the days leading up to D-Day.  He attained the rank of sergeant in England and, upon volunteering for service in the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, was accepted as a Platoon Sergeant on the basis of his Sapper skills.  He completed his jump course at Ringway, England in May 1944 and was taken on strength with the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion in September 1944.

As part of the 6th British Airborne Division, Ron and the battalion sailed to Belgium on Christmas Day 1944 and joined the fighting in the closing days of the Battle of the Bulge - the only Canadian unit in that battle. From there, the Battalion was moved to the Netherlands and took part in active patrolling efforts in preparation for the Rhine Crossing.  After a period of rest in England, Ron jumped during Operation VARSITY aimed at establishing a firm bridgehead over the Rhine in Germany.  The battalion then marched eastwards to defend the area around the town of Wismar in an effort to block Soviet troops from continuing too far into the West. The Battalion remained there for several weeks after V-E Day, holding back the Russian Army while processing fleeing civilians, POWs and surrendering German military members.

Following his return from war in June 1945, Ron joined the Toronto Police. He and his partner and lifelong friend, Constable Warren Shaddock, were the first responders to the fire aboard the cruise ship Noronic in the Toronto Harbour on 17 September 1949. The Noronic fire was one of the worst maritime disasters in Canadian history with 119 people killed. Ron jumped into the frigid waters of Lake Ontario amid blazing patches of oil and spend hours rescuing passengers who were jumping from the ship. Ron left the police force after ten years and became a traffic engineer and starting a long and distinguished career with the Township/Borough/City of Scarborough as Executive Assistant to four successive Mayors until he retired in 1986. He was a proud recipient of both the Queen's Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals.

A celebration of Ron's life will be held on Wednesday, 25 May 2016, at 2:00 p.m., at the Royal Canadian Military Institute, 426 University Avenue, Toronto. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ron's memory could be made to:

Robert Land Academy
(for its 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion Museum)
6727 South Chippawa Road
Wellandport, ON L0R 2J0

 

or

Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation
(please designate donation for the TWH Asthma & Airway Centre)
585 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 9Z9 {khNov2015}

 

Read Historica Canada's interview with Andy.

Alger Walter “Al” Martin

We regret to advise of the death of Alger Walter “Al” Martin at Mill Creek Long Term Care Facility in Barrie ON where he had been living for the past five years. Al died on 31 October 2015 at the age of 96 years.

Al was born in Foxmead ON. He served with the Royal Canadian Engineers during the Second World War and was a long time employee at Huronia Regional Centre in Orillia ON. In retirement, he and his wife spent many winters in Florida.

The family will receive friends at the Doolittle Chapel at the Carson Funeral Home on 4 November from 6:00 to 8:30 PM.  A Royal Canadian Legion service will take place at 7:00 PM. Friends may also gather the following day from 1:00 PM before the 2:00 PM funeral service. Interment will take place at St. Andrew's St. James' Cemetery in Orillia. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Al would be appreciated to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.

Cpl Thomas Nade Podor (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the sudden death of Corporal Thomas Nade Podor (Ret'd) of Lions Bay, BC and Stoney Creek, ON at the age of 26 on 29 October 2015.

Nade was a Combat Engineer with 1 Combat Engineer Regiment in Edmonton, AB. During his service he completed specialty training in Explosive Ordnance Disposal and mountaineering training and had deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Nate excelled in soccer and academics. After his retirement, he had recently attained his Open Water Advanced Diver's certification and had been accepted into the Foundations of Engineering Program at Vancouver Island University.

There will be a celebration of Nade's life on Friday, 6 November 2015 at Hollyburn Funeral Home, 1807 Marine Drive, West Vancouver at 1:00 PM. The reception will be held at 3:00 PM at the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch #60:580 18th Street).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Nade's name to Wounded Warriors Canada's PTSD Service Dogs Project. http://woundedwarriors.ca/how-we-help/ptsd-service-dogs/
 

WO Carl Milton Vance, CD (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Carl Milton Vance, CD (Ret’d) on 29 October 2015 at the age of 85. Born in Bancroft, ON, Carl enlisted in the Canadian Army in October 1953. He joined the Army Survey Establishment (ASE) in May 1954 after completing his basic training with the Royal Canadian Engineers.

Carl served his career as a Field Surveyor and Photogrammatist with Army Survey Establishment/ Mapping and Charting Establishment and worked on many different survey and mapping projects across Canada throughout his career. Locations included: Fort Coulonge, Ranger Lake, Sudbury, Skagway/Queen Charlotte Islands, North Bay, North Vancouver Island and Glacier Lake.

Carl was promoted to Sergeant in 1961 and worked that year on the survey party in Montreal and Quebec City as part of the Military Town Plan mapping project. In 1969 he attended the Topographic Computing Course with the US Army Engineers in Fort Belvoir, VA after which he became a Photogrammetry Instructor with the Mapping and Charting Establishment. He was promoted to Warrant Officer in 1970 and served an Exchange Appointment in the United Kingdom with 42 Survey Engineer Regiment, Royal Engineers (1973-75).

After his return to Mapping and Charting Establishment Carl was involved in Operation ARCTIC in 1978 as part of the project to map Canada’s North. He retired from the Canadian Forces in 1980 and returned to Brancroft where he opened an appliance repair service.

Visitors are welcomed to: Capital Funeral Home & Cemetery, 3700 Prince Of Wales Drive, Nepean on Friday, 6 November for a visitation from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Memorial Service will take place in the Chapel at 11 a.m. Inurnment to follow in the Garden of the Apostles. Memorial donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund. Online condolences and sharing memories may be made at www.arbormemorial.ca/en/ capital. {khNov2015}

Winard “Wynn” Kline

We regret to advise of the death of Winard “Wynn” Kline peacefully at the Bethany Care Centre in Cochrane, Alberta on 25 October 2015.  Born in 1921 in Big Valley, AB, he left a drafting program at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology to join the Royal Canadian Engineers and served in WW II from 1940 - 1945.

After the war Wynn began his career in the appliance industry and later, in partnership with his brother Jack and two friends, founded a successful commercial appliance business that served all of Alberta. Wynn frequently shared his detailed recollection of the wartime sapper work that he was engaged in and had particular recollections of the several war-orphans that he and his colleagues looked after for different periods during the war. Service to others and the nurturing of friendships were the central themes of Wynn's life. 

A celebration of Wynn's life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle N.W.), on Sunday, 1 November 2015 at 2:00 p.m.  Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com.  If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Bethany Care Society (Cochrane Care Centre) Telephone: 403-210-4665 www.bethanyseniors.com or to the Poppy Fund, #1, 4539 – 6th Street N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 3Z6, Telephone: (403) 265-6304. In living memory of Wynn Kline, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.

Spr Peter Sven (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Peter Sven (Ret’d) on 20 October 2015 in Vancouver, BC, at age 74 years.  

Peter was born in Copenhagen, Denmark and joined the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1958 with the 7th Intake of the Sapper Apprentice Program. Completed his Grade 12 education with this program, Peter was granted a years leave to take his Senior Matriculation at Chilliwack High School as he wanted to enter the Regular Officer Training Program  to become either an architect or civil engineer. Plans changed and he completed his military service with 3 Field Squadron, Chilliwack and took his release in 1964.

After completion of his military service Peter started employment with RKTG (Robertson, Kolbeins, Teevan & Gallagher) Consulting Engineers as a structural draughtsman.  He worked with RKTG for over 38 years and retired in 2002 as Chief Draughtsman and Senior Partner of the firm. In his retirement Peter became a strong advocate and volunteer for controlling the development of his Dunbar, BC community. He was the expert on ‘all things architectural’ for the Dunbar Vision Implementation Committee and was active in preserving his 1938 Heritage House in Vancouver as well as helping to preserve the nature of his community.

By request, there will be no funeral service. {khNov2015}

Spr Ralph Terris (Ret'd)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Ralph Terris (Ret'd) at the High Crest Nursing Home in Springhill, NS on 18 October 2015 at the age of 93.

Ralph was a WW II Veteran who served with the Royal Canadian Engineers 14th Field Company for three years in England, Italy, Sicily and Holland.  After the war, he was employed for several years with Dominion Coal Company before his employment with Corrections Canada from 1960 - 1985. Ralph was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Springhill NS Branch #017.

Visitation and funeral will take place on 21 October at the A. H. Brown Funeral Home followed by burial in the Hillside Cemetery, Springhill.  Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of one’s choice.  Condolences may be sent by visiting Ralph's online memorial at www.brownsfuneralhome.com or through the funeral home Facebook Page. 

Spr Wilbrod Girard (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Wilbrod Girard (Ret’d) of Girouxville AB at the Sacred Heart Community Health Centre in McLennan AB on 17 October 2015 at the age of 95 years. 

Wilbrod was born in Stadacona QC and at the age of nine, his family moved to the Peace River AB region as first generation homesteaders.  He attended Grouard Residential School until the age of 12 when he went to work for local farmers.  At the age of 16, he started working in lumber camps as a cat skinner as well as a driver trucking loads of lumber.

Wilbrod was a veteran of the Second World War. He enlisted in 1941 and served with the Second Battalion, Royal Canadian Engineers. He trained in Grand Prairie, Saskatoon and Petawawa. He saw action through Northwest Europe and was building a bridge in Belgium when the war ended. He spent another six months in Amsterdam awaiting repatriation to Canada.

Once demobilized, Wilbrod returned to Alberta, filed for a homestead and became the owner of his own farm.  However, he decided to use the road building skills learned in the Army rather than farm.  In the winter months, he worked lumber camps clearing the roads of snow.  In the summer, he would build new roads.  Wilbrod did this for over 20 years, retiring in 1980 to finally return to full-time farming.  He retired in 1983 at the age of 64.  

Wilbrod was a long-time member of the Royal Canadian Legion McLennan Branch #153 and remained actively involved with them carrying the wreath in the Remembrance Day celebrations on many times, including on his final Remembrance Day on 11 November 2014.

A memorial serve will be held on 24 October.  Donations may be made to the Smoky River Palliative Care Societyin Falher AB or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #153 in McLennan. 

 

Neville Bruce Ede

We regret to advise of the death of Neville Bruce Ede in Powell River BC on 5 October 2015 at the age of 85.

Bruce was born in Guildford, England and arrived in Toronto ON in 1953 as a newly graduated civil engineer. He worked in the pulp and paper industry, starting in Manitoba for seven years before moving on to Nanaimo, BC and eventually to Powell River where he worked until his retirement.  

Bruce served in the Canadian Army Reserves with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was also active with the Royal Canadian Army Cadets.  He was active in many community organisations such as his church, boy scouts and girl guides. He served on the Powell River General Hospital Board for ten years and, lastly, headed the New Life Society providing counselling services for addiction.

Bruce was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Powell River BC Branch #164.

There will be no service but the family will host a memorial tea on 10 October. {gdJun2016kh}

Maurice James Drysdale

We regret to advise of the passing of Maurice James Drysdale of Arichat, NS on 2 October 2015 at the Strait Richmond Hospital in Evanston NS at the age of 87 years.

Born in Halifax, Maurice was a veteran of the Second World War where he served in the Merchant Navy from 1944 - 1946. He joined the Canadian Army (Regular) after the war and served with the Royal Canadian Engineers and the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers for 25 years. Maurice served in Germany as well as two tours with the United Nations Emergency Force in Egypt. Maurice was a member of the Canadian Merchant Navy Veteran Association and the Isle Madame Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat.Cremation has taken place. Visitation was held, on 7 October 2015 at the C.H. Boudreau Funeral Home in Arichat. The Funeral Service was held at the Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church in Arichat on Thursday 8 October 2015. A Legion Tribute will also be observed, and a reception will follow at the Legion in Arichat. Burial will be in the Gays River United Church Cemetery in Gays River NS. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Veterans Comfort Fund or a charity of one's choice.

Maxwell Norman Zwicker

We regret to advise of the death of Maxwell Norman Zwicker, peacefully, on 1 October 2015 in Camp Hill Veterans’ Memorial Building, QEII, in Halifax.

Born in Mill Village, NS in 1925, he was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Merchant Navy for 12 years. This was followed by 26 years service in the Army with the Royal Canadian Engineers and then with the Civil Service for 10 years. Maxwell belonged to the Merchant Navy Association and was a member of the Bedford Legion.

Visitation will take place on 10 October at 10 a.m. in St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Halifax. The memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to The Lung Association Nova Scotia. Online condolences may be made at: serenitylindsayfuneralhome.ca   {khFeb2016}

Thomas Albert Shiers

We regret to advise of the death of Thomas Albert Shiers of Three Mile Plains, NS who died peacefully on 29 September 2015 at age 99 at Camp Hill Veterans' Memorial Hospital in Halifax.

Born in Gypsum Mines, NS, Tom left school at a young age to help support his family and followed several careers. He started as a farm labourer and then worked a winter in a northern New Brunswick lumber camp. He worked in other camps and mines and became a welder by trade. Tom enlisted for WW II with the Royal Canadian Engineers and was initially engaged in his welding specialty. Rather than staying in England to train welders, he sought to see action on the Continent. A veteran of D-Day, Tom landed on Juno Beach and fought the way across France and Belgium. He was a Holland Liberator and ended the war in Germany.

When he returned home after the war, Tom became active in the trade union movement. He was president of the Nova Scotia Quarry Workers' Union Local 294 and was an executive member of the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour. He then went to work for the Toronto Newspaper Guild in Ontario but came back to serve as the Executive Secretary of the Nova Scotia Civil Service Commission in its formative years. Tom retired from the Nova Scotia Department of Labour to spend time with family, working his hobby farm, hunting and fishing. He continued to lend his expertise to unions and employee associations across the country and became a councillor for the Municipality of West Hants. Tom was a Master Mason with St. John's Lodge No. 2 in Halifax and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 9 in Windsor.

Everyone is invited to join the family at a graveside service for both Tom and his late wife Kathleen at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, 17 October in Maplewood Cemetery, 1186 King St., Windsor, NS. A reception will follow at the Elmcroft Reception Centre of the funeral home. Donations to St. Thomas Anglican Church, c/o 76 Old Halifax Rd. West, RR2 Windsor, NS B0N 2T0 or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Messages of condolence may be sent by visiting:  www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca or to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., PO Box 981 , Windsor, NS B0N 2T0.

Spr Joseph Anthony “Joe” Baldwin (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of  Sapper Joseph Anthony “Joe” Baldwin (Ret’d), a resident of Miners’ Memorial Manor, on 7 September 2015  at the Northside General Hospital, North Sydney, NS at the age of 85 years.

Joe was born in New Waterford, NS.  He was a veteran of the Second World War who served overseas with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  After the war, he lived in Toronto, ON for many years where he worked as a machinist with Massey Ferguson.

Visitation will be held in the W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, North Sydney from 7:00 – 9:00 PM on 8 September.  A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 AM on 9 September at St. Joseph Church with interment to follow in the in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Sydney.  Donations may be made to St. Joseph Church Improvement Fund or to the Miners’ Memorial Manor. {dcApr17gd}[zsd, zpp]

Sgt Laurie Joseph Robichaud (Ret’d)

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Laurie Joseph Robichaud (Ret’d) at his home in Fredericton, NB on 5 September 2015. Born in 1915, Laurie served with the Royal Canadian Engineers for 21 years as a Field Engineer, attaining the rank of Sergeant before retiring in 1973.

Resting at The S. O. Mehan & Son Funeral Home Ltd., 23 Main Street, St. Stephen, N.B. from where the funeral service will be held on Thursday, 10 September 015 at 2 PM.  Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, 9 September 2015 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. Interment at St. Stephen Rural Cemetery, St. Stephen, NB.

For those who wish, remembrances to a charity of one's choice would be appreciated by the family.  Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.mehanfuneralhome.ca