CME Family Last Post

We regret to advise the death of John Foden in Vancouver, BC on 17 June 2014. John was born in England in 1920 and moved to Holbein, SK at the age of five to the farm that would be his home for nearly 70 years.

He was a veteran of WW II serving in the Royal Canadian Engineers, 10^th Field Squadron, 5^th Division from 1941 to 1946. After the war he spent his working life farming and working in the Prince Albert, SK area. Upon his retirement he moved to Vancouver, BC.

No service will be help but a gathering to celebrate John's life will be held on 17 August 17 2014. Condolences may be made to www.mbfunerals.com ^{{gdAug2015kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Master Warrant Officer Phillip Spencer Jones (Ret'd) age 71, of Cape Breton, NS, on 17 June 2014 at the Ottawa General Hospital. Born in Sydney, NS, Spencer joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1961 and retired in 1995 at the rank of Master Warrant Officer.

Friends may call at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Rd., Nepean on Thursday, 3 July 2014 from 3 p.m. until the time of memorial service in the chapel at 4:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kidney Foundation Ontario Branch 1599 Hurontario Street, Suite 201 Mississauga, Ont., L5G 4S1, Tel.: 1-800-387-4474

We regret to advise the death of Lance Corporal Heinrich “Henry” Weibe (Ret’d) of Nipawin, SK on 10 June 2014 at the age of 95 years.

Henry was born in Gouldtown, SK and remained at home to help on the farm until he was nine. He started Gilroy School where he completed Grade 8 when he was 14.  Henry was a veteran of the Second World War.  He joined the Army in 1941 and trained in Camrose, AB, Dundurn, SK and Aldershot, England. He served in the Royal Canadian Engineers with the 8^th Field Squadron from 1941 until 1946 seeing action in Northwest Europe. Henry returned to Canada and was demobilised in 1946. He farmed in the Carrot River, SK area until 1960 when he moved his family to a farm east of White Fox, SK.  He retired at the age of 70 years. Heinrich was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Nipawin Branch #120 from whom he received his 45-year pin in 2011.

A memorial service will be held on 14 June at the Nipawin Legion Hall. Condolences can be made online at info@heritagefuneral.ca or www.heritagefuneral.com. Heinrich is buried in Mabel Hill Memorial Cemetery, Nipawin District, SK. ^{{dcNov2017gd}}

We regret to advise of the death of Lance Corporal Reinhold William “Roy” Weind, MM (Ret’d) peacefully on 6 June 2014 at the George Derby Veteran’s home in Vancouver, BC.

Roy was born in Winnipeg, MB in 1921. During the Second World War, he served in the Royal Canadian Engineers and received the Military Medal for his actions during the battle for the Gothic Line while serving with the 4^th Field Company.

During the night of 31 August 1944, three engineer parties were sent out to create gaps in a minefield in the vicinity of Borgo Santa Maria, Italy.  The operation started some 600 yards ahead of the leading infantry, who had earlier withdrawn from the minefield due to heavy casualties. The gaps penetrated the minefield a further 600 yards into enemy-held territory. The parties worked under artillery fire for two hours suffering casualties before being temporarily withdrawn. Roy stayed with the wounded Infantry and Sappers, prepared a sheltered place in the minefield to make them comfortable and dressed their wounds. When the shelling ceased he went back to work and assisted in completing the task.

Roy returned to Winnipeg after the war and went to work for the Canadian Pacific Railways as a blacksmith in the Winnipeg Yards. He was a Scout leader with the 113 Scout Troop in Winnipeg, Seven Oaks Division for many years. He retired at age 50 to his property on Macara Lake in Ingolf, ON before moving to Vancouver to spend his last 20 years with his grandchildren and family.

Interment will take place on 5 September at 3:15 PM at Brookside Cemetery, 3001 Notre Dame Avenue, Winnipeg. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook Street, Winnipeg. ^{{dcSep2017gd} [zsp ]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Bruce McPhail (Ret’d) of Bracebridge, ON as a result of a motor accident on 5 June 2014.  Bruce was 74 years of age.  His wife Ruth Ann was also killed in the accident.

Bruce grew up in Kitchener, ON and attended Kitchener - Waterloo Collegiate & Vocational School.  He served with the Royal Canadian Engineers 1958 - 1961.  Bruce completed a  tour with the United Nations Emergency Force in Egypt with 1 Middle East Detachment, RCE In 1960 - 61.  After he retired from the Canadian Forces in 1961 he operated his clothing store “McPhails of Muskoka” in Bracebridge.

Bruce served his community for many years as a Rotarian (Paul Harris Fellow); Masonic Lodge Member, Kinsmen, and member of the Town Council Member.   He was a Member of the Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping and was a Founding Member of the Central Ontario Chapter, Barrie, ON.  Bruce was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #161 in Bracebridge.

A celebration of life for Bruce and Ruth Ann will take place at Annie Williams Park in Bracebridge on 21 June from 1:00 to 5:00 PM..  Donations may be made to either the Rotary Club of Bracebridge, where Bruce was a Paul Harris Fellow, or the Bracebridge Legion Branch #161.  ^{{gdMay2019dc} [zdb]}

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal William Owen Roberts Corbett (Ret'd) on 4 June 2014.

Bill was born in Edmonton in 1919 and was a veteran of the Second World War. After working as a golf caddie and as a farm labourer south of Calgary in his teens, Bill enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers and joined the 1^st Battalion RCE in England. That unit became 34^th Field Company and Bill landed with the Company on the British beaches in the area of Arromanches, France on 5 July 1944. He saw action through France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany until the end of the war. After the war, he joined Ford Motor Company and worked with Ford in Calgary and then Edmonton until his retirement.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, 21 June at McClure United Church (13708 - 74 Street NW) In Edmonton with a lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CNIB or the Salvation Army. ^{kh4Sep2015}

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Peter Sutherland Chisholm of Guelph ON on 29 May 2014 at the age of 84 years.

Peter was born in London, Ontario. He studied engineering at the Royal Military College and was commissioned into the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1953. After completing his military service, Peter received a Masters's degree from the University of Toronto and a doctorate from Stanford University in California.  Peter was a Professor of Engineering at the University of Guelph.

Peter was known by his students as ‘smiling Pete’, a holdover from his RMC days.  He was active with the local chapter of the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario (APEO) and Engineers in the Classroom where he brought his joy of teaching and science to classrooms throughout southwestern Ontario. An avid outdoorsman and nature lover, he caught many trout that got bigger with every story told.

A visitation will be held at Wall Custance Funeral Home, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph, from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm on Thursday, June 5th. A funeral service will be held at 4:30 pm on Friday, June 6th at St. James Anglican Church, 86 Glasgow St. North, Guelph. A reception will follow at the reception centre at the Arboretum at the University of Guelph.

We regret to advise of the death of James Lobe, CD (Ret’d) peacefully at the Chilliwack General Hospital on 26 May 2014 at the age of 76.

James served a full career with the Royal Canadian Engineers.

Funeral arrangements by Henderson's Funeral Homes & Crematorium Ltd., Chilliwack, British Columbia.  Donations may be made to the Canadian Forces Base Chilliwack Historical Society.  ^{{gdSep2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Captain Frederick “Mac” McDonald (Ret’d) on 24 May 2014 at his home in London, ON at the age of 97 years.

Mac was born and raised in Emsdale ON and graduated from Victoria College at the University of Toronto in 1939.  He was a veteran of the Second World War, commissioned in April 1941 and served in the United Kingdom and Northwest Europe.

Mac was initially assigned to the 1^st Battalion, Royal Canadian Engineers in England, but in April 1944 was called to lead the newly formed 1^st Landmark Unit, RCE.  Their task was to supplement or provide directional landmarks in the forward battle areas for Allied air forces. The unit had three sections consisting of three sergeants and 19 Sappers, three trucks and a jeep.  Landmarks were to be visible from 10,000 to 15,000 feet and were usually 50 by 100 yards in size. In Holland, they were often submerged shortly after being placed. Mac and his unit were often ahead of the advancing troops and fortunately never suffered a casualty nor fired a shot in anger. The unit was disbanded in May 1945 and Mac returned to the 1^st Battalion with a promotion on discharge.

Returning to Canada, Mac spent three years prospecting throughout the North and then began a successful career in the chemical industry which took him around the globe, including postings in British Guyana, Florida, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Iran and New Jersey.

A private family service will be held in Huntsville at a later date. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Mac are asked to consider their local food bank. ^{{dcJan18gd} [zsp, zkjt]}

We regret to advise of the death of (Joseph) Morris Arnold Gannon at the age of 83. Moe, a long-time resident of Prince George died peacefully on 29 March 2014 while visiting Seoul, South Korea with family. Moe was born in Kirkland Lake, ON in 1931 and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in the early 1950 in the hope of deploying to the Korean War. He served a full career with the Engineers Chilliwack, Gagetown, Germany and Camp Borden. After his retirement in Chilliwack in 1972, he spent a brief time in Kitimat and finally settled in Prince George in 1976. Moe and his wife worked with the Provincial Government until they established their own business. They were both actively involved with St. Mary's Parish and Moe was a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus. Prayers will be held at St. Mary's Church on Friday 11 April at 7:00 p.m. Funeral will be held at St. Mary's Church on Saturday 12 April at 10:30 a.m. Donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul in lieu of flowers.

We regret to advise of the death of Brent Fawcett of Chesterville/Rockland at the Civic Hospital in Ottawa on 21 May 2014. Brent was a long-term member of the Mapping and Charting establishment. Born in 1950 in Winchester, ON   Brent graduated from the Cartographic Technicians programme at Algonquin College in 1971 and began work with the Department of the Environment. In 1977 he transferred to the Mapping and Charting Establishment and served there until he retired from the Public Service in 2003.

Brent served a full career with Mapping and Charting Establishment. Military Map standards and specifications were his forte and he had a good knowledge of photo-mechanical and lithographic reproduction processes. Brent had a thorough knowledge of conventional and computerized draughting procedures and techniques and frequently served in the role of quality assurance inspector.

Brent was active in the Employee Assistance Program since 1987 as EAP Chairman and referral agent and as instructor for EAP courses. In 1992 he received the EAP Long-standing Service Plaque in appreciation of his dedication. He was also a mainstay at the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region since 1981 and was involved in the Brook Lane School (Carleton Board of Education) Off-Site Program. He still found time to be active in minor hockey and amateur boxing, and served as treasurer of the Mappers Club.

In recognition of his dedication and accomplishments, Brent was awarded the Deputy Minister’s Commendation in 1995 for “Outstanding Dedication for Work and Community-Related Involvement”. He also received the United Way/Centraide Ottawa Community Builder Award in 2006 and the Ontario Volunteer Award in 2008 in recognition of over 25 years of volunteer services to the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region.

Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation. A graveside service will be held at Maple Ridge Cemetery in Winchester on Saturday, 19 July 2014, at 11:00 AM. Donations can be made to the Ottawa Distress Centre, PO Box 3457, Station C, Ottawa, ON K1Y 4J6. ^{khOct2016}

We regret to advise of the death of Chief Warrant Officer Harry Poile, MMM, CD (Ret’d) on 17 May 2014 in Chilliwack. Harry served a full career with the Canadian Military Engineers – the highlight being his appointment as 1 Combat Engineer Regiment Regimental Sergeant Major 1990-1992.

Details will be published as they are available.

We regret to advise of the death of Major Norman Henderson, CD (Ret'd) on 8 May 2014 in Vancouver, BC.

Norm served a full career with the Royal Canadian Engineers after graduating from the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering with No 3 Young Officer's Course in 1951. Career highlights include service during the Korean War with 23^rd Field Squadron Sqn RCE, a tour with the Northwest Highway System (Alaskan Highway), United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF I) in Egypt, Commanding Officer of 1 Airborne Field Troop (1955 -56), Mobile Command HQ and Base Operations Officer, Canadian Forces Base Chilliwack.

Norman attended Vancouver Technical College, University of British Columbia (Applied Science, Civil Engineering) and earned a Master of Business Administration at Simon Fraser University. Following his service in the Canadian Forces, he became Executive Director of the Western Canada Summer Games. Later he was a Civil Engineer with BC Gas until his retirement in 1988. He also served as President of the Professional Engineers Association of BC and “Korea Veterans of Canada” ( KVA ) Unit 49, North Vancouver.

Norm will be laid to rest at the West Vancouver Memorial Cemetery. Memorial services will be held at St. Christopher's, 1068 Inglewood Avenue, West Vancouver at 3:00 pm Thursday, 15 May 2014. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Douglas “Doug” Totten, CD (Ret’d) at Aylesford NS on 7 May 2014 aged 73.

Born in Saint John NB, Doug served 30 years as a Firefighter with the Royal Canadian Air Force. He travelled to many places in Canada and Europe with the RCAF and was especially proud of travelling every province in Canada from St. John’s, NL to Victoria, BC. Doug retired in 1990 as a Platoon Chief with 14 Wing Greenwood Fire and Emergency Service. He was a member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #98 Kingston.

A legion tribute service will be conducted by Kingston Branch No. 98 at 2:00 PM on 12 May 2014 in the Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street. Private family interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, Middleton. A reception for family and friends will follow the service in the Kingston Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations in Doug’s memory may be made to SPCA or Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia.

^{kh9Sep2015}

We regret to advise of the death of Charles Russell “Russ” Burrows on 5 May 2014 peacefully at home in Picton, ON at the age of 93 years.

Russ was born in Illinois, USA but moved to Canada at the age of one. He was a veteran of the Second World War who served with the Royal Canadian Engineers. On 19 August 1942, he was involved in Operation JUBILEE, the Dieppe Raid on the French Coast. He was taken prisoner and was marched from camp to camp in France, Germany and Poland remaining a POW until the end of the war in 1945. In 2012 Russ was selected to be the Royal Canadian Engineer Representative on the Royal Canadian Legion Pilgrimage of Remembrance to Dieppe. Russ was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Prince Edward Branch #78 in Picton.

Russ is resting at the Whattam Funeral Home, 33 Main Street in Picton. Funeral service will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 78 in Picton on 8 May at 2:00 PM. Cremation to follow. Donations may be made to the Ontario Heart & Stroke Foundation, Ontario Lung Association or the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #78. ^{{gdMar2017**} [zcc, zpi, zsp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Charles-Émile Marquis at the Quebec Heart and Lung Institute of Laval University in Quebec City, QC on 30 April 2014 at the age of 88 years.

Charles was a civil engineer and businessman in the Quebec City area. He was the first Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of 10 ième Escadron du Génie de campagne in Quebec City and held this appointment for nine years from 1977-1986.

A private funeral service will take place at the Parc Commémoratif  La Souvenance, on 25 May.  Donations may be made to  the Quebec Heart and Lung Institute of Laval University in Quebec City, 2700, chemin des Quatre-Bourgeois, Québec, QC, G1V 0B8. ^{{gdJun2018cb} [zcc, zsp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Lester Charles “Charlie” Billings on 30 April 2014 at Central Okanagan Hospice House, Kelowna, BC at the age of 97.

Charlie was born in Saskatoon, SK and grew up on a farm near Richard, SK. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1940 and was a sapper with Number 1 Road Construction Company throughout the war. He served in Canada, the United Kingdom, and France. It was in France where he suffered a leg injury which impacted him for the remainder of his life. After demobilization Charlie went to work for Henry Birks & Sons in Saskatoon and spent the remainder of his career working for them.

A Service will be held at a later date, in Richard SK. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting  http://www.mem.com/Messages/5950627/76518327/76518338?title=Guest%20Book. ^{gdAug2015}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Gilbert Thomas Hillier (Ret'd) at the Health Science Centre in Conception Harbour NL on Monday 28 April 2014 at the age of 83 years.

Gilbert served in the Royal Canadian Engineers from 1952 until 1955 including a tour in Korea with 4 Field Squadron 1953 - 54.

Gilbert is resting at Conway's Funeral Home, Main Highway, Conception Harbour with visitation on Saturday 3 May from 2 until 9 PM and Sunday 4 May from 2 until 9 PM. A Funeral Mass will take place on Monday 5 May at 10:30 AM from Immaculate Conception Church, Colliers with cremation to follow.  Interment to take place at a later date at the Anglican Cemetery, Lamaline.  Flowers will be gratefully accepted or donations in Gilbert's memory can be made to Daffodil Place. Please visit www.conwaysfuneralhome.ca to sign the memorial guest book or send a message of condolence.   

We regret to advise of the death of Honorary Colonel John Everard Terry (Ret’d) in Sydney NS on 23 April 2014 at age 89. John proudly served as Honorary Colonel of the 45th Field Engineer Squadron in Sydney. He was devoted to his country, his community, his church, and his work. He always spoke highly of colleagues from University College of Cape Breton, Sydney Tar Ponds Clean-Up Inc., Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission, Nova Scotia Eastern Institute of Technology, and Dominion Coal Company Limited.

He enjoyed many lasting friendships through professional and charitable organizations including the Association of Professional Engineers of Nova Scotia, Mining Society of Nova Scotia, Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Military Engineers Association of Canada, Canadian Corps of Commissionaires, Rotary, United Way, and Red Cross.

After his retirement he spent his spare time reading at St. Theresa's parish and volunteering at Ashby Elementary School's breakfast program.

Visitation is at T.W.Curry Parkview Chapel (755 George Street, Sydney) on Monday, 28 April 2014 from 3-5 & 7-9 p.m. Funeral mass will be at St. Theresa's Church at 10 a.m. on 29 April with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please take a friend out for lunch or coffee – John would really love that. If you would like to also make a donation in his memory, please consider the Palliative Care Unit or Cape Breton Cancer Centre of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Lloyd Dempster (Ret’d) on 16 April 2014 at the Timmins and District Hospital in Timmins ON at the age 90 years.

Lloyd was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers. In civilian life, he was a prospector. Lloyd was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #88 in Timmins. 

As per his wishes, there will be no service. ^{{dcFeb18gd} [zsd, zpp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Edwin Henry Kisinger (Ret’d) of Red Deer AB on 14 April 2014 at the age of 92 years.

Edwin was born and raised in the Hilda area of Alberta until 1939 when he joined the Canadian Army and was assigned to the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He served in Canada and the UK in construction related tasks. 

Edwin retuned to Canada in 1946 and settled in Medicine Hat where he worked and raised a family.  He and his wife later moved to Red Deer where he was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #35 for 58 years.

A memorial service will be held at Eventide Funeral Chapel, 4820-45 Street in Red Deer on 25 March at 2:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Edwin’s name may be made directly to the Cancer Center, Red Deer Regional Health Foundation.  ^{{dcApr2018gd}  {zsd, zcc, zpi]}

We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Tom Hoday, CD (Ret'd) on 13 April 2014. Tom was a Fire Prevention Officer at CFB Borden Fire and Emergency Services and was a former Canadian Armed Forces Firefighter. He had a total of 38 years of service to the CAF and DND. Tom enrolled in the Canadian Forces in 1975 with the 8th Canadian Hussars (Princess Louise's) and obtained an occupation transfer to Firefighter in 1979. He retired in 2005 at the Canadian Forces Fire Academy as a Warrant Officer after 30 years of service and joined the Federal Public Service in 2006 with the CFB Borden Fire Department Borden (now RP Ops Det Borden). There will be a Celebration of Life at the CFB Borden Juno Beach Mess (former Rod and Gun), 201 Falaise Rd (Building T-147), on Saturday 3 May 2014 from 13:00 - 16:00 hours. As per Tom's wishes, stories will be shared over a beverage and egg salad sandwiches.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Ivor Lloyd Cawker (Ret’d) at the Eagle Ridge Hospital, Port Coquitlam, BC on 12 April 2014 at the age of 92 years.

Ivor was born in Vancouver of English parents.  He was a veteran of the Second World War who served in the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion In Coquitlam. ^{{dcApr2017gd}[zsd, zcc, zpp, zbd]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Spurgeon S. Conrad (Ret’d) at age 94 on 14 April 2014 in Port Williams, NS.

Spurgeon was born at Broad Cove, Lunenburg County, NS, in 1919. He joined the Canadian Army in 1942 and completed his basic Royal Canadian Engineer training in Yarmouth and his advanced training at Camp Petawawa, ON. Spurgeon went overseas in 1944 and served in England, France, Belgium and Holland. He returned to Halifax in December 1945 and was discharged in 1946 at the rank of Sergeant.

After demobilization Spurgeon was a John Deere Equipment dealer. He was very active in community activities - becoming Chief of the Port Williams Volunteer Fire Department after 19 years of service, Director of the Kings Co. Emergency Measures Organisation, a life member of The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #074, the Lions Cub and other clubs and groups. Among the many awards Sturgeon received was the Provincial Remarkable Citizens Award for volunteer work that was presented by Lieut. Gov. Lloyd Crouse in 1990.

Donations in Spurgeon ‘s memory may be made to St. John’s Anglican Church, Port Williams, or to the charity of your choice.

We regret to advise of the death of (Joseph) Morris Arnold Gannon at the age of 83. Moe, a long-time resident of Prince George died peacefully on 29 March 2014 while visiting Seoul, South Korea with family. Moe was born in Kirkland Lake, ON in 1931 and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in the early 1950 in the hope of deploying to the Korean War. He served a full career with the Engineers Chilliwack, Gagetown, Germany and Camp Borden. After his retirement in Chilliwack in 1972, he spent a brief time in Kitimat and finally settled in Prince George in 1976. Moe and his wife worked with the Provincial Government until they established their own business. They were both actively involved with St. Mary's Parish and Moe was a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus.

Prayers will be held at St. Mary's Church on Friday 11 April at 7:00 p.m. Funeral will be held at St. Mary's Church on Saturday 12 April at 10:30 a.m.  Donations may be made to St. Vincent de Paul in lieu of flowers.

We regret to advise of the death of Master Warrant Officer Alfred Ciavaglia (Ret'd) on 27 March 2014 in Edmonton at the age of 91 years. Alfred enrolled in the Royal Canadian Engineers in July 1942 in Ottawa. He served a full post-war career as an Accounting Clerk - primarily in the Works Companies and Construction Engineering Sections in Ottawa, Petawawa and Edmonton. He remained in the Edmonton area after retirement in 1970 and worked for 15 years with the Alberta government Treasury Department. He was a long-time member of the Sappers Club and Royal Canadian Legion. A visitation will be held at Memories Funeral Home, 13403 St. Albert Trail, Edmonton, AB on Tuesday, 1 April at 9:30 a.m. A funeral service will follow the visitation at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place at Northern Lights Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Alfred's memory may be made directly to the Kipnes Centre for Veterans.

We regret to advise of the death of Edward Michael ‘Mike’ Lazoruk on 24 March 2014 at the Central Peace Hospital in Spirit River, AB at the age of 95 years.

Mike was born in Rycroft, AB and was raised and educated in Rycroft and Spirit River.  He graduated from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in 1940 in Building Construction.  Mike joined the Canadian Army in 1940. He was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers as a surveyor in both the Italian and Northwest European Theatres. He was discharged in 1945.

When Mike returned home from the war, he raised a family, and went into construction.  He opened Rycroft Lumber & Building Supplies and over his life he was involved in the construction of a multitude of schools, churches, and arenas, as well as homes and farm buildings throughout the Central Peace area.  Mike was a Charter and Life Member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #224 in Rycroft.   He also served on Rycroft town council as a councillor for five years and mayor for three years.  In 2005, Mike was awarded the Alberta Centennial Medal in recognition of his accomplishments and commitment to making Alberta a better place.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on 24 May at 1:00 PM at the Rycroft Community Hall.  Interment will follow at Greenway Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to the Rycroft School Lunch Program or to the Rycroft Hall Restoration Fund. ^{{dcmar2018gd}}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Richard “Dick” Gallant on 24 March 2014 at the age of 76.

Dick was a 3^rd Intake Sapper Apprentice in 1954.  He served for five years and was employed in the clerk administration trade with the Regimental Headquarters of 1^st Field Engineer Regiment as well as 2 Field Squadron, both in Camp Chilliwack BC.  After his release from the Army, Dick was employed in Chilliwack as a salesman for a local business.

A private family service will be held. ^{{gdJul2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Ethan Charles Hudson (Ret'd), 93, of East Branch, NB, on 23 March 2014 at the Dr. Georges-L. Dumont University Hospital in Moncton.

Born in South Branch, NB, Ethan enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers in April 1942 and trained in Canada with 23^rd Field Company. His unit embarked for England in July 1943 where they continued their training and employment in England leading up to their participation in the invasion of Europe. Sapper Hudson was a driver and, later, a Motorcycle Dispatch Rider.

Ethan landed in Normandy on 11 July 1944 where his Company was initially tasked with clearing the obstacle created by the city of Caen that had been reduced to rubble. They cleared the way of mines and rubble and then upgraded the roads to support the main British Army route out of Caen. The company then moved through France and on to Belgium, continuing to clear mines, build and maintain roads and provide river crossings.

The Company constructed their first Bailey Bridge over the Orne River then built other bridges in the Caen area as well as providing Stormboat crossings of the Seine River under enemy fire. They then conducted rafting operations to ferry the tanks and infantry personnel across the Seine River before they constructed the Floating Bailey Bridge at Ponte de l' Arche. After the Liberation of France the 23^rd Field Company continued to support the Allied advance into Belgium and Holland. His Company was to achieve noteworthy success on the night of 25/26 September 1944 during Operation BERLIN - the evacuation of Allied Airborne forces by Stormboat from Arnhem after Operation MARKET GARDEN. During this nightime operation they rescued more than 2000 of the encircled force while under heavy enemy fire.

After war's end, Ethan was demobilized and returned to East Branch to follow a career as a farmer and a woodsman. He was a past member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 30, Richibucto.

A Funeral Service will be held on 27 March 2014 at 11:00 am, St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, South Branch. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to any charity would be appreciated by the family.^{kh2016Feb}

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Commander Andre (Andy) Jules Geddes (Ret’d) on 18 March 2014 in Ottawa, at the age of 84. Andy graduated from South Africa Training Ship “General Botha” in 1946 and served on various merchant service vessels as an officer cadet and third officer from 1947-51. He was commissioned in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1951 and served a full career – retiring in 1975 at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Andy then joined the Canadian Coast Guard and retired in 1996 after extensive service as an advisor with the Canadian government delegation to the International Maritime Organization. He then served as a Naval Hydrographer in D Carto 1966-67 and 1971-74. Friends may pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home, Walkley Chapel, 1255 Walkley Road, Ottawa (613-731-1255) on Thursday, 27 March 2014 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, 28 March 2014 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1758 Alta Vista Drive, at 11:00 a.m. Donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation and the Canadian Mission to Seafarers would be appreciated.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Harold Goulding (Ret'd), peacefully, in Gander, NL on 16 March 2014 at the age of 82.

Harold was born and raised in Dark Cove, Gambo, NL.  At the age of 20, he joined the Canadian Army as a member of the Royal Canadian Engineers and served in Korea with 59^th Independent Field Squadron as a Sapper.  Returning to Canada with the unit (now named 4 Field Squadron) he took his release and went to work in Gander. 

Visitation will take place at Stacey's Funeral Home, Gander on 18 and 19 March between 2-4 and 7-9pm.  Funeral service to take place at 2 pm on 20 March at the Salvation Army Citadel, 165 Airport Blvd.

Flowers gratefully accepted or donations may be made to Dr. H. Bliss Murphy Cancer Care Centre or the Central Northeast Health Foundation.  

We regret to advise of the death of John Albert Cook Hayes of Bloomfield, NB at Ridgewood Veteran’s Wing in Saint John, NB on 15 March 2014 at the age of 94 years.

John was born in Bloomfield and was a farmer.  He was a veteran of the Second World War and joined the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1941.  In late 1942, he went to England with the 1^st Field Squadron, 5^th Armoured Division, qualified as Pioneer “C”.  In 1943 he was hospitalized for several months and reassigned to the 30^th Field Company, II Canadian Corps Troops, as a wireless operator until the end of the war.  John served in England, France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.  After the war, John returned to the family farm until his retirement in 1991. He was a long-time member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #28 in Hampton. NB.

Visitation will be held at Reid’s Funeral Home in Hampton on 18 March from 2:00 – 4:00 PM and 6:00 – 8:00 PM with a Legion Tribute at 6:00 PM.  A celebration of John’s life will be held at Christ Church, Bloomfield at 11:00 AM on 19 March. Interment will take place in Christ Church Cemetery, in the spring.  Donations may be made to the Christ Church, Ridgewood Veterans Wing, Dr V.A. Snow Nursing Home Centre or a charity on one’s choice.  ^{{dcNov2017gd}} 

We regret to advise of the death of Chief Warrant Officer John Mallory CD (Ret’d) on 9 March 2014 at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Halifax at age 61. Born in Saskatchewan, John joined the Canadian Forces in 1970 with the Navy as a Signaller. He practised this trade on-board HMCS Restigouche and HMCS Huron before remustering to Structures Technician in 1975 and starting a career with CME. John’s career saw service in many places across Canada and a number of overseas deployments. Postings included CFB Ottawa (1977), CFB Edmonton (1980), CFB Ottawa (1984), CFB Calgary (1988), CFB Chilliwack Detachment Vancouver (1992), CFB Edmonton (1993), CFSU Detachment Belgium (1994) and CFB Halifax (1996). John’s Deployments included: UNEF Ismailia Egypt 1977-78, Cyprus 1984-85 and IRAQ 1991 (Commander Construction Troop and Supervisor Iraq) There will be no visiting hours by personal request. Resting at the Hennessey Cutcliffe Charlottetown Funeral Home from where the funeral service will be held on 15 March at 3:30 p.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel. If so desired contributions in memory of John may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the P.E.I. Humane Society.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Harold Frederick Gilbert (Ret'd) at Cedarcroft Place, Stratford ON, on 6 March 2014 at the age of 90 years.

Born in Stratford, Harold attended Hamlet Public School and Stratford Collegiate. He worked in the stores department of the CNR shops from 1940 until 1943 when he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers and served in England, France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany. Harold returned to the CPR after the war and worked until 1960 when he took a position at Canada Post. Harold retired in 1985.

Harold loved music. Besides being a member of his church choir, he was also a member of the Stratford Concert Choir and the Stratford Men's Choir. He was also a member of the Stratford Lodge # 332 A.F. & A.M., and the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 8 in Stratford.

Services were held at the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron St., Stratford. A reception followed. Public committal took place in Avondale Cemetery on Monday 10 March 2014. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Bible Society, St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. ^{{dcFeb20, wrd} [zsd, zsp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Keith Beal (Ret’d) on 5 March 2014, at the Guelph General Hospital, Guelph ON in his 90^th year.

Keith was a veteran of the Second World War who served in the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Waterloo Branch #530, in Waterloo, ON.

Visitation will take place at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King Street South, Waterloo on 7 March 2:00 – 4:00 pm and 7:00 – 9:00 pm.  A funeral was held on 8 March at the funeral home. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. ^{{dcFeb2017gd} [zsd, zcc, zsp]}

We regret to advise of the death of James “Jim” S. Wrong at the Kemptville District Hospital, Kemptville ON, on 5 March 2014 at the age of 92. 

Jim graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston ON in Civil Engineering in 1944.  He joined the Canadian Army and served with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  After the war, he worked in the construction industry in Canada, the United States, and Europe. 

Jim left his mark at Queen’s University as the originator of the Science ’44 Co-op Programme.  He retired in Kemptville ON and was a member of the Rotary Club.  He was involved with the Rotary Ridiculous Raft Race and was the Coordinator of the Canada Day Parades for many years. 

A Celebration of life will be held at Leslie Hall, 19 Clothier Street West, Kemptville on 14 March.  Donations may be made to the charitable organization of one’s choice.  Condolences/Tributes/Donations may be made at www.mcgarryfamily.ca. ^{{gdSep2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of RCE Band Sergeant Charles Young in Chilliwack on 5 March 2014 at age 94.

Charlie was born in Sunderland, England and began a career as a professional musician touring the British Isles at age 14. He was conscripted in 1938 and initially trained as an infantryman. When it was realized that he excelled as a musician he was transferred to a band and entertained the troops in Europe through the war. Charlie returned to England at wars end and continued entertaining. He and his new wife – already an acclaimed singer/piano player – formed “Forever Young.”

Charlie immigrated to Canada in 1955 and joined the Royal Canadian Engineer Band where he excelled and achieved the highest level of expertise in his two instruments – clarinet and saxophone. He rose to become Band Sergeant-Major. When the RCE Band was disbanded upon Unification Charlie retired and he and Mary formed a quartet. For the next 29 years they entertained in the Harrison Hotel at Harrison Hot Springs, BC. An active Rotarian, he joined the Rotarian Band and Charlie and Mary opened every meeting on the piano.

Charlie Young and his wife Mary were recently remembered at the Chilliwack Arts Centre in October 2013 for their noteworthy musical contributions to the community when a “Tribute Fountain” was dedicated in their honour. See: http://www.cmea-agmc.ca/documents/Charlie_Young_e.pdf  ^{kh9Sep2015}

We regret to advise of the death of Major William (Bill) Moore in his 92^nd year at the Broadmead Lodge in Victoria BC on 26 Feb 2014.

Born in Castor AB, Bill attended the Royal Military College in Kingston (2787) and graduated in 1942. Following, he completed his officer training at the age of 21 with the Royal Canadian Engineers in Chilliwack. After this Chilliwack training, Bill was sent to England for completion of his training and preparation for the invasion of Europe. His wartime service included the campaigns in France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany.

Bill was under training in Petawawa as a volunteer for the Canadian Pacific Brigade at the end of the European war when the decision was made to not deploy the Pacific Force. He was discharged in 1946 and, after a brief period at Queen's University, conducted survey work in Alberta for the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Act. Bill re-entered the military in 1948 and was initially stationed in Whitehorse with the North West Highway System.

In 1950 Bill was transferred to the UK on exchange with the Royal School of Military Engineering. After this tour he was posted to Germany as Second-in-Command of 58^th Independent Field Squadron (RCE). In 1953 the family returned to the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering where he became the Officer Commanding of the Apprentice Training Squadron on promotion to Major in 1954.

In 1957 Bill was appointed Officer Commanding the Works Company in Camp Wainwright AB. In 1960 Bill left the military and took over the farm of his wife’s parents in Grenfell SK where they raised their six children and cared for Hilda's parents. During this time Bill was also very engaged in the Grenfell community, supporting the local Royal Canadian Legion, Cooperative Association and the Regional School Board.

In 1982 they sold the farm and retired to the Victoria area. Bill was very active within the Victoria Branch of the Military Engineer Association of Canada and did volunteer work in the community.

A private memorial service was held for the immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's name may be made to the Broadmead Lodge in Victoria.

We regret to advise of the death of Master Warrant Officer Ross Aubrey Merrill, CD (Ret’d) at Parkland Fredericton Retirement Living Community, Fredericton NB, on 24 February 2014 at the age of 83.

Ross was born in Tay Creek NB but moved to DeWolfe Corner NB where he lived until the age of 16. At this point, he moved to British Columbia to find employment in the logging industry where he worked for the next four years before returning home to New Brunswick. In 1951, he decided to join the Canadian Army as a field engineer in the Royal Canadian Engineers. For the next 26 years, Ross served in Chilliwack, 1 Field Squadron, Petawawa ON and 4 Field Squadron, Germany before taking retirement in 1977 and moving back to New Brunswick. A large and strong man, Ross set various military track and field records in the shot-put and javelin. After his retirement, through the1980s, Ross worked for the New Brunswick Forestry Department supporting private woodlot owners.

Visitations will be at the S.O. Mehan & Son Funeral Home, 23 Main Street, St. Stephen, NB on 8 March. Interment will be at Moores Mills Cemetery, Moores Mills, NB. Donations may be made the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of one's choice. ^{{gdMar2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant John "Jack" Reasbeck (Ret’d) of Espanola on 19 February 2014 at Health Sciences North in Sudbury ON in his 80th year. Jack served in the Canadian Forces for 26 years from 1953 to 1979.

Jack was born in Chapleau QC and enlisted in the Army in 1953 He was under basic training in preparation for deployment overseas for the Korean War when recovery from an accident t required considerable rehabilitation. When he recovered, Jack was sent to Sussex, NB, with the Black Watch Regiment and was stationed there until 1956. The next year he transferred to the Royal Canadian Engineers and was sent to Chilliwack, BC, for his training. His Sapper Career was to be a combination of Field Engineer, Heavy Equipment Operator, and Airborne. In 1958 Jack deployed to the Middle East as part of the UNEF Suez peacekeeping force. He returned to Canada to 1 Field Squadron in Petawawa during which tour he also became Airborne-qualified. Jack then went to Germany with 4 Field Squadron 1967-70.

Upon return to Canada, Jack was posted to the radar base at Falconbridge for a four- year tour. During this tour he was also sent to the eastern Arctic to work on the Northern Airfields project. In 1974 Jack was transferred to CFB North Bay and then took his release at the end of that tour. Jack returned to Espanola and worked for the Town of Espanola until 1985. He and his wife the purchased a store in Whitefish Falls and operated it for 8 years.

Jack was always involved with his community. He served on the Whitefish Falls and Espanola Fire Departments and he was an active member of the Espanola Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 39 holding the title of Service Officer. He served as past president and as chair for many committees for Branch 39. Jack also started the Espanola and Manitoulin Legion Army Cadet Corps in 1980 and assisted with the leadership until 1984. Jack was also an active member of the War Pensioners.

Funeral Mass was held on 22 February at St. Jude’s Church in Espanola. Interment of ashes in the Espanola Cemetery will be at a later date. If so desired, Memorial tributes may be made to St. Jude Memorial Fund or the Espanola Hospital Foundation or the charity of your choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Major Edgar Gilbert, CD (Ret’d) at the hôpital St-Sacrement in Quebec City, QC on 17 February 2014 at the age of 92 years.

Major Gilbert was a former Commanding Officer of 10^ième Escadron du Génie de campagne in Quebec City from 1961 to 1965.

A religious service will be held, in the presence of the ashes, on 8 March at 2:00 pm in the St-Charles Garnier Church in Sillery, QC where the family will receive condolences an hour before the service.  Burial of ashes will be at the Francois-de-Laval Mausoleum in Belmont Cemetery. ^{{gdjul2018dc} [zcc, zsp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Peter Jacques Grisdale (Ret’d) on 13 February 2014 at the West Parry Sound Health Centre in Parry Sound ON at age 94.

Peter was born in Penetanguishene ON. He was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Italian and Northwest European campaigns with the 14^th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers.

Peter was the eldest Métis in the Moon River Métis Council when he received their highest honour: The Order of Métis Nation Veteran Recognition. Peter had established the Veteran’s Memorial Cenotaph in Wood’s Bay to honour the Veterans of the Moon River area. He took a deep interest in the Moon River and Blackstone Harbour areas and conducted educational tours for students working for the Ministry of Natural Resources. Peter also initiated the Deer Feeding Program in the Woods Bay area. Peter was a lifetime member of the Parry Sound Anglers and Hunters, Parry Sound Pistol Club and Ducks Unlimited. In his later years, Peter wrote and published My Life on the Moon River: The Silent Nighthawks of the 14^th Field Company of the R.C.E. 1st Division reporting his life in and around the Moon River area and his experiences as a Sapper.

A celebration of Peter’s life and the honouring of his accomplishments will be in the spring at the Wood’s Bay Cenotaph. 

We regret to advise of the death of Richard John Carrier on 10 February 2014 in Provost, AB at 62 years of age after a brief battle with cancer.

Rick was raised in Prince Albert and attended school there until 1963 when the family relocated to Saskatoon. He continued his education in Saskatoon and, in 1970, wanting to find his way, Rick joined the military. Rick became a Field Engineer after completion of his Basic Sapper training in Chilliwack but, after 10 years in this trade, he decided to re-muster to become an electrician. During his military career Rick was stationed at CFB Chiliwack, CFB Shilo, CFB Moose Jaw, CFB Suffield and, as a final posting, back to CFB Shilo where he retired in August of 1995. Rick and his family chose to make their new home in Killam, AB.

Upon retirement Rick began to work at the Sedgewick Co-op Building Centre. He worked there until 1997 at which time he joined the John Deere Dealership team in Killam as a partsman. 2011 brought the opportunity for advancement in his career as a Parts Manager at the Provost store. He continued to grow with this company until he could no longer physically return to his duties.

Funeral Service is on Saturday, 15 February 2014 at 2:00pm at New Hope Gospel Church in Provost, AB.

We regret to advise of the death of Sven Ivor Edbom peacefully in Winnipeg MB on 7 February 2014 at the age of 96. 

Sven was born in Piney MB and lived there until the onset of World War II, when in June of 1940, he enlisted in the army with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He served overseas in England and continental Europe.

After the war, Sven worked on construction until his early 50s at which time he went to work for Manitoba Hydro in their Maintenance Department.  He worked for them until his retirement at age 65.  Sven was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion St James Branch #4 in Winnipeg as well as the Independent Order of Foresters (IOOF).

A memorial service will be held on 11 February 11at 1:00 p.m., at St. Pierre Bible Fellowship Church, 488 Lavoie Avenue in St. Pierre Jolys MB.

Donation may be made to Deer Lodge, Tower 7: 2109 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB or a charity of one's choice. ^{{gdOct2016kh}} 

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Herbert “Herb” A. Spring (Ret'd) peacefully at Lakeview Manor, Beaverton ON, on 6 February 2014 in his 91^st year. 

Herb was a former resident of Highland Creek, Coboconk and Lindsay ON.  He was a veteran of WW II who served with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  In civilian life, he was a long-time employee of Canada Post. 

There will be a private memorial service later.  Donations may be made to Beacan Presbyterian Church in Beaverton or Melville Presbyterian Church in West Hill ON.  Online condolences may be made at www.parkerfuneralhome.ca. ^{{gdMay2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Lance Corporal David Sneddon Burrows (Ret’d) of Grande Prairie AB on 6 February 2014 at the age of 89 years.

In 1927, his parents emigrated from Scotland with twelve children and settled 20 kilometres east of Grande Prairie AB in Glen Leslie where they purchased farmland. David attended the Somme School from 1931 to 1939 at which time he worked on the family farm.
David was a veteran of the Second World War. He enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers on 14 October 1942 in Grande Prairie. He trained in Edmonton at the Prince of Wales Armouries until December 1942 and was then posted to A6 Canadian Engineer Training Centre in Chilliwack BC. He remained there until September 1943. After posting to Hamilton ON and Camp Debert NS, he sailed for England as part of the 3^rd Canadian Infantry Division Engineers. He landed in Normandy on D-Day and served throughout the Battle of Normandy and into the Low Countries. He was discharged in 1945. David met and married his wife in England. They settled in Grande Prairie and David quickly got a job driving a horse-drawn milk wagon and later at Imperial Motors. They returned to England in 1956, but later divorced. David returned to Grande Prairie. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, 12 February 2014 at 2:00 PM at Oliver’s Funeral Chapel. In memory of David, memorial donations may be made to Grande Prairie Hospice Palliative Care Society (P.O. Box 21215 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6W7). David is buried in the Glen Leslie Cemetery.

A Family Tradition of Service
One of David’s brothers, Alex, served in the Loyal Edmonton Regiment through Sicily and onto the Italian mainland. He was badly wounded at Ortona in December 1943 and returned to Canada in the summer of 1944.

Another brother, George was a gunner. He too was wounded. He spent from September 1944 until April 1945 in hospital re-joining his regiment two weeks before the war’s end. George later served in Korea, leaving the Army in 1959.

A third brother, Hector served in the Italian and Northwest European theatres with the Calgary Tanks.

A fourth brother, Thomas served in the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps during the war. After falling ill in England in 1941, he returned to Canada and served at the Suffield Experimental Station until the end of the war. A fifth brother, Bill, served in the Royal Canadian Navy on both coasts from 1942 until the war ended.
 

We regret to advise of the death of Donald York at home in Petawawa on 2 February 2014 in his 71^st year following a courageous battle with cancer.

Don was a retired Construction Maintenance Technician.

Friends are invited to share their memories of Don with his family during visitation at the MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 296 Isabella Street, Pembroke on Wednesday 2 - 4 and 7 - 9 p.m. A Service to celebrate Don's life will be held on Thursday morning February 6 at 11 o'clock in All Saint's Anglican Church, Petawawa followed by cremation. Spring Interment in All Saint's Anglican Cemetery. In memory of Don, donations to the Renfrew County SPCA would be appreciated.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Dick Poole (Ret'd) in Williams Lake, BC on 2 February 2014.

Dick joined the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1954. After completing his Recruit Training in Chilliwack he served with 1 Field Squadron in Germany (1955-57). On return to Canada, Dick left the military and followed a career with the railway that saw him working in several locations around BC until he settled in Williams Lake.

At request there will be no funeral service. In Memoriam donations can be made to the Hough Memorial Cancer Society (see: HoughMemorial.org/donations/ ).

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper John “Jack” Gray (Ret’d), peacefully, on 30 January 2014, in London, ON, in his 93rd year.

A WW II Royal Canadian Engineer veteran, Jack served with the 2^nd Battalion R.C.E. in the liberation of France, Belgium and Holland. He was an architectural draughtsman when he enlisted in June 1940 with “B” Coy of the 2^nd Battalion Royal Canadian Engineers and was on his way overseas in two months. Until they embarked for France on 26 July 1944, his unit worked In England on a large number of construction and accommodation projects for the Canadian Army.

Upon landing in France the battalion was involved in the reconstruction of the devastated Carpiquet Airport and the building of the by-pass road around the city of Caen. 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.

After the war Jack was a founding partner of the land surveying company, Archibald, Gray and MacKay (AGM) of London. Upon retirement, he devoted much of his time in support of Canadian veterans and in travelling to England, France and Holland to celebrate the major national anniversaries of Liberation in 1994-95 and 2004-05.

Jack was a leader in holding together the veterans of the 2^nd Battalion RCE. He travelled across the country to visit members of the group individually, often when they were too ill or financially unable to attend group events. Despite ailing health, he celebrated the 60th anniversary of D-Day in France in 1944 on Juno Beach with three generations of his family.

Friends will be received by the family from 2 to 4pm and 7 to 8pm on Sunday, 2 February 2014 at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be conducted at Elmwood Avenue Presbyterian Church, 111 Elmwood Avenue, London, on 3 February 2014 at 2pm. Cremation. A legion service under the auspices of Pooley Legion Branch No. 167, Exeter will take place at the funeral home at 6:30pm on 2 February 2014. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson Society, 4500 Blakie Road, Unit 117, London, N6L 1G5 or the Memorial Fund of Elmwood Avenue Presbyterian Church, 111 Elmwood Avenue, London, N6C 1J4.

We regret to advise of the death of Ed John Pyke who passed away at London Health Sciences-University Hospital on 30 January 2014 at the age of 58 years.

A former Combat Engineer and Construction Technician, he was a CE Contracts Inspector at 22 Wing North Bay who dedicated over 30 years working for the Canadian Armed Forces.

A memorial service will be celebrated at the 22 Wing Chapel (29 Sterling Ave) on Friday, 7 February at 12:00 noon. A gathering will follow at the All Ranks (Blue Room) from 1:00 – 4:00 pm. Interment will take place in Glace Bay NS in the summer of 2014. Donations to the London Health Sciences- Transplant Unit would be gratefully appreciated by his family. A Service to celebrate Don's life will be held on Thursday morning February 6 at 11 o'clock in All Saint's Anglican Church, Petawawa followed by cremation. Spring Interment in All Saint's Anglican Cemetery. In memory of Don, donations to the Renfrew County SPCA would be appreciated.