JAMIESON, Kenneth, CPO.ET, 2890 / LCdr (L), O-36212, RCN (served 01 Mar 1937 - 01 Jul 1970)  (11 Oct 1919 - 31 Dec 2006) - Dad said he could not bear to hear "Auld Lang Syne" this year. He slipped away shortly before midnight, New Year's Eve, listening to the strains of the Celtic Lullabies he loved so well. Our beloved father did not cross the bar willingly and his last words were " Oh s..t!" Those of us who knew him, knew that those words meant things were not going according to plan. Ken was predeceased by his beloved wife, Pat in 1986. He is survived by his daughter, Betty (Laurie) Spears; son, Ron (Bobbi); five grandchildren, Lori, Jeff, Alison Spears, Patti Crighton and David Jamieson; 10 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren, and special friend Joan. A native Victorian, Ken joined the navy as a boy seaman in 1937, retiring as a Lieutenant Commander in 1969. He saw duty in the North Atlantic in WWII, and served on many ships and establishments during his 32 year career. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, January 6th, at 1:00 pm at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Belmont Park. Interment at Hatley Park. Reception to follow at 2635 Crystal View Drive. In lieu of flowers, Ken requested donations to Victoria Hospice.  Home is the sailor, home from the sea, And the hunter home from the hill. Stand Easy, Dad (Victoria Times Colonist 04 Jan 2007)

HMCS IROQUOIS - Appointed to Iroquois 03 May 1948 as a WT (L), RCN

HMCS NOOTKA - Served in Nootka in 1954 as a Lt (L), RCN

JACK, James (Jim), C1PT, RCN / C.A.F. - of Burnaby, BC. Born 16 Apr 1923  Died 20 Mar 2010

JOHNSON, Douglas Lawrence (Johno), P1ER, RCN - passed away February 23, 2010. Born in Edmonton, Alberta on April 30, 1926. Lovingly remembered by his wife Florence of 56 years, daughter Shirley Johnson and spouse Grant MacPherson. Survived by three sisters Hazel, and Louella in Edmonton, Almeda in Lakewood, WA. Predeceased by son Brent Johnson. Douglas was in the Royal Canadian Navy as a P1 ER and worked for 20 years for Canada Post and was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 56 years. He also played in the Victoria Commercial Hockey League for several years. No service or flowers by request. (Victoria Times Colonist 26 Feb 2010)

JOHNSON, Robert Anton, C2WS, 8258-E, RCN / C.A.F. (served 26 Jan 1949 - 16 Nov 1969) - On September 2, 2010, Bob," with loving family at his side, passed away very peacefully into the Lord's care, at his home on Denman Island. Robert was born in Leroy, Saskatchewan, on Groundhog Day, February 2nd, 1927. Bob revered all of his family and friends; and they all adored him. He was a fine husband, father, grand & great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He loved visiting folks, and often proclaimed that there are good people everywhere". A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 23rd, at 2pm, with a reception to follow, at Denman Island United Church. (Victoria Times Colonist 15 Sep 2010)

HMCS ANTIGONISH

WILLIAMS, Milton Clare, LS, RCN / C.A.F. (served 1956-1969) - Age 79, Midville Branch, Lunenburg Co., passed away on Monday, September 24, 2018 in South Shore Regional Hospital, Bridgewater. Born in Yarmouth Township, Ontario, he was a son of the late Verne and Olga (Oake) Williams. Surviving are his wife, Judy (Mailman) Williams; daughters, Donna, Robin and Teena; sons, Ricky (Violet), Stephen (Lorraine) and Stuart (Cassandra); sisters, Eileen (Bill) and Michelle (Glenn); grandchildren, Éja, Tyron, Trevor, Samantha, Tess, Lucas, Seth, Jayden, Brooke, Destanie, Alisha, Shawn, Jessica, Kaitlyn, Stephanie; many great grandchildren. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by son, Robert; sister, Shirley; brothers, Doug, Ed and Gary. There will be no visitation by personal request. The Admiral Desmond Piers Naval Association will hold a public tribute service 11 a.m., Saturday, September 29th in Sweeny’s Funeral Home, 35 York Street, Bridgewater, with Chaplain Alvin Westgate presiding. No flowers please, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia. 

MAURO, Isabel May, (nee McDonald), Telegrapher, WRCNS - Peacefully, at Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario, on August 22, 2018, four days before her 96th birthday, after a valiant struggle following surgery resulting from a fall at home. Cherished companion and beloved wife of 58 years of Rudolph (Rudy) Mauro. Lovingly remembered by her nephew, Grant Lake, his spouse, Betty Woodhouse, and grand-nephews Ian and Kevin Lake. Predeceased by her sister, Ruth Lake. Born in North Bay in 1922, Isabel received her early education there, attended North Bay Normal School and was a graduate of the University of Toronto. She taught school in North Bay and nearby communities before attending business school and switching careers. She served in the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service (WRENS) from 1942 until 1945, entering university upon discharge from the service. Isabel's first passion was flowers, but she loved golf in her youth and was proud of the trophy she won. She was an avid bridge player, accomplished rug hooker and a keen investor. A tireless reader and newspaper clipper of living and health subjects, she loved crosswords and helped her husband complete ones that stumped him. She loved the outdoors and going on pleasure drives, with regular stops at Tim Hortons. She accompanied her husband on his outdoor adventures, including retracing, in Labrador, the routes of early explorers. As a trained typist, Isabel helped Rudy, before he discovered computers, with his manuscripts and magazine work. In 1994, she painstakingly typed the draft of his memorial book of North Bay and area Royal Canadian Air Force airmen who gave their lives in the Second World War. Raised in the United Church, Isabel had an intensely private and abiding faith in her God. In her latter years, she found solace from her membership in the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association of Canada. Isabel completed her Wren training at Galt, Ontario, and St. Hyacinthe, Quebec, and was posted to Esquimalt Naval Station in Victoria, B.C. As a wireless telegrapher, she was specially trained to intercept high speed encrypted Japanese radio messages in Morse Code (Kata Kana). In her own words, she believed she was selected for the job because she was a trained elementary school teacher before enlistment. She and her classmates knew from the typewriters they worked with that they would be doing intelligence-related work. There were a dozen or so Wrens in Isabel's group and they were billeted in new barracks at Esquimalt. They signed the Official Secrets Act and were reminded daily never to speak to anyone about what they did. They worked in shifts, mostly at night. The work location was secret and they were transported there after dark in canvas-covered trucks (Gordon Head, site of the secret wireless station, is to-day a seaside neighbourhood in the greater Victoria neighbourhood of Saanich). One of Isabel's recollections was a topic of conversation in her group about a nearby laundry operated by middle-aged Japanese. The Wrens had their everyday white shirts laundered there. Could the owner be a spy? In 2016, Isabel was honoured by the United Kingdom government for her contribution during the Second World War, when she was presented with the Bletchley Commemorative Badge and certificate, awarded to veterans of the Government Code and Cypher School (GC&CS) at Bletchley Park and its outstations, including Gordon Head. To quote from the official record, GC&CS regularly penetrated the secret communications of the Axis powers. Bletchley Park, a Victorian Mansion in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, was the top-secret home of the WWII codebreakers. In 2005, Isabel's unique collection of personal service memorabilia, including the training copy of her Kata Kana keyboard, was chosen for display to mark the Year of the Veteran at the Military Communications and Electronics Museum in Kingston, Ontario. The collection is now a permanent holding of the museum. Isabel's husband and family members extend their sincerest thanks to doctors, nurses and support staff of the Acute Care and Palliative Care wards of Victoria Hospital in London. At Isabel's request, there was a private cremation with no funeral service. Her ashes will be placed in the McDonald family plot at Union Cemetery in North Bay.13297114

Telegrapher Isabel McDonald monitored coded Japanese broadcasts in Second World War

Fred Langan Special to The Globe and Mail Published October 5, 2018

During the Second World War, Isabel McDonald decoded encrypted enemy communications in Canada at a Pacific Coast outpost of Bletchley Park, the famed code-breaking station in Britain. Rather than fielding German messages, the listening post at Gordon Head, part of Saanich, a suburb of Victoria, was established to intercept Japanese radio traffic. Ms. McDonald, who took the surname Mauro when she married after the war, died recently, just four days shy of her 96th birthday.

"As a wireless telegrapher, she was specially trained to intercept high-speed encrypted Japanese radio messages in Morse Code,” her husband, Rudy Mauro, said. “She believed she was selected for the job because she was a trained elementary school teacher before enlistment. She and her classmates knew from the typewriters they worked with that they would be doing intelligence-related work.”

Like their counterparts at Bletchley Park, the dozen members of the Women’s Royal Canadian Navy Service who worked at the Gordon Head facility signed the Official Secrets Act.

"They were reminded daily never to speak to anyone about what they did. They worked in shifts, mostly at night. The work location was secret, and they were transported there after dark in canvas-covered trucks,” Mr. Mauro said. His wife told him many stories about her time there during the war.

The facility at Gordon Head, known as a special-wireless station, opened in June, 1940. It was fully operational when Japan entered the war the following year after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The messages that Ms. McDonald and her colleagues captured and decoded there were valuable not only for their content, but also because they allowed the Royal Canadian Navy to identify the broadcasts’ points of origin.

One of the most dramatic periods at the Gordon Head facility was when Japanese forces occupied two of Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, from 1942 to 1943, and were driven out by a joint American-Canadian force.

"Canada’s West Coast was an operational theatre during the war, especially when Japanese forces were as close as they were when they were occupying the Aleutian Islands,” says Steve Harris, chief historian of the Department of National Defence. “There was a need for secure communications to allied ships, as well as reading enemy traffic.”

Ms. McDonald left the Navy in December, 1945, and the Gordon Head facility closed in 1946. The building now stands on a corner of the campus of the University of Victoria. In 2005, her collection of personal service memorabilia, including the training manual for her Kana keyboard – which translates Japanese characters into Roman letters – was chosen for display to mark the Year of the Veteran at the Military Communications and Electronics Museum in Kingston. Her collection is now a permanent part of the museum.

“Isabel was trained to read the special Kana Morse symbols that constituted the Japanese naval radio language,” said Annette Gillis, curator of the museum, by e-mail. "The Station was a part of an extensive network whose efforts in code-breaking and other forms of radio intelligence made a major contribution to the successful outcome of the war. It monitored foreign diplomatic and other radio transmissions, and, most importantly, those of the Japanese Navy. This activity provided both direction-finding information and intercepted messages, first to the Royal Navy and later to the United States Navy primarily, as well as to Canadian Naval Service Headquarters.”

Ms. McDonald was deeply affected by the war, in particular, the death of two first cousins who joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). She helped her husband write a history of RCAF airmen from the North Bay area who died during the war, and she wrote profiles of her cousins.

Isabel May McDonald was born in North Bay, Ont., on Aug. 26, 1922. Her father, George, was a prosperous hardware merchant and her mother, the former Edna Milne, came from a family that owned the Milne Lumber Co. in Northern Ontario. Isabel went to King George Public School in North Bay and graduated from Normal School, the old name for a teacher’s college.

She taught school for a short while in Kiosk and Cache Bay, two remote Northern Ontario towns. She then attended business college, where she learned touch typing, which was an essential skill for her wartime work. In 1942 she joined the Women’s Royal Canadian Navy Service (WRCNS, whose members were known informally as Wrens) and trained in Galt, Ont., and Saint-Hyacinthe, Que., before being posted to the secret outpost in British Columbia.

After the war, she returned to Ontario, studying at the University of Toronto as a war veteran. After her graduation, she worked for many years at the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) and lived in Uranium City, Sask., and Vancouver. She and her husband lived in various places in Ontario before returning to her hometown, North Bay, where she lived for the rest of her life.

She and her husband shared an interest in history. They spent time visiting graveyards in southern Ontario looking for information on the Milne and McDonald families for her family tree.

Mr. Mauro also had a deep connection to Northern Ontario: He was born in Callander, Ont., the birthplace of the Dionne quintuplets, where his father was a railway telegrapher with the CNR.

The couple once made a trip to Labrador to retrace the route of early explorers. Ms. Mauro was a keen bridge player and investor, and had many hobbies. For her work at Gordon Head, she received a Bletchley Commemorative Badge in 2016.

Ms. McDonald, who died at a hospital in London, Ont., on Aug. 22, leaves her husband, Rudy, and her nephew, Grant Lake, and his family. She was predeceased by her sister, Ruth Lake.

Portrait of Isabel McDonald          Isabel McDonald (far left) in teletype room at Gordon Head  (photo credits: Military Communications and Electronics Museum Archive  / The Globe and Mail)

Wrens Crossed the Bar Index

STAROSTIC, George (Bull) (25 Dec 1922 - 02 Oct 2018) - It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of George Starostic, also known to many as “Bull” on October 2, 2018 at St. Catharines General Hospital at the age of 95. Survived by his beloved wife Jean for 71 years and daughter Penny (Bruce) Sandercock. Loving grandfather to Lindsay (Mike) Warchala and Ashley (Ted Stones) Sandercock and great-grandfather to Julian and Jeremy Warchala. “Bull” was a WWII Navy Vet as well as a bus operator for 37 years who was known and respected by many people throughout the community. In keeping with George’s wishes, cremation and a private interment will take place. Donations to War Amps, Niagara Falls Humane Society or Tender Wishes Foundation would be appreciated.

STEVENSON, C. Stanton (Stan) (26 Aug 1931 - 28 Sep 2018) - Stan was the devoted husband of Louise Dawson, father of Geoff (Jan) of Kelowna, Jim of Calgary, Joe of Canmore, Julie of Seattle and David (Alessandra) of Ottawa; step-father to Scott Dawson of Victoria, Reed Dawson (Sandy) of Toronto. He was the proud grandfather of Jamie and Jessi, Roz and Chase, Jonathan and Kevin, Jimmy and Jasmine and Emma and Dylan. Stan was predeceased by his parents Norma (Cassady) and Carl Stanton Stevenson Sr. and his sister Jean. He is survived by his brother John. He was educated at Upper Canada College, Princeton University, Trinity College, the University of Toronto Faculty of Law and Osgoode Hall. During school breaks, he worked first at mining camps in British Columbia and Northern Ontario. Later he did summer stints in the reserves of both the American and Canadian Navy. Stan practiced law as a partner or associate of Owen, Dickey Stevenson (Barrie), Ivey and Dowler, Stevenson, Evans and Polishuk (London), Blake Cassels & Graydon (Toronto) and Ontario Hydro (Assistant Secretary). Stan's specialties were construction, engineering and municipal law. He received his Queen's Counsel appointment in 1974. He was an enthusiastic instructor in the Law Society's Bar Admission Course and the University of Waterloo Construction Management Program, as well as the mentor of many articling students who have since distinguished themselves. Over the years, he served as Chair of the London Motor Club, Children's Hospital of Western Ontario, Metropolitan Toronto Boys and Girls Club and was an active member of the Kiwanis Club in several cities. Always civic minded, he was happy to be involved in and to lend his expertise to various local planning and development issues. He was an ardent farmer and cottager and especially adept canoeist but his greatest joy was always his family. Friends who would wish to raise a toast to a life well-lived are invited to do so October 21st from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Simple Alternative, 275 Lesmill Road, North York. In Stan's memory, donations may be made to Mood Disorders Association of Ontario or to North York General Hospital Foundation. (Toronto Star 01 Oct 2018)

SULLIVAN, Cyril Douglas - 71, of 15 Kennedy Dr., Dartmouth, died Sunday at the Dartmouth General Hospital. Born in Halifax, he was a son of Francis and Evelyn (Sullivan) Sullivan. Prior to his retirement, he was a stationary engineer with Industrial Estates Ltd., Dartmouth. During the Second World War he served with the Royal Canadian Navy from 1939 to 1945 which included convoy duties from Halifax and Newfoundland to England. He was a past member of the Buffalo Club of Dartmouth, Indpendent Order of Foresters and the Nova Scotia Atlantic Salmon Association. He is survived by his wife, the former Annie-Mae White; a son Barry and daughter Sharon, both at home; two brothers, James and Albert, both at Halifax; a sister, Mrs. Winnie Charlton of Lower Sackville. He was predeceased by a son Patrick, two brothers, Murray and Jack; three sisters, Hilda, Mary and Evelyn. The body is at J. Albert Walker and Sons Funeral Home, Dartmouth. Funeral will be 9 a.m. Tuesday from St. Thomas More Church, with burial to follow at Mount Harmon Cemetery. (Halifax Mail-Star 19 Aug 1985)

MELANSON, Laurie S., AB.FC, C.A.F. (1948-2018) - 70 years of age, of Amherst, passed away peacefully at the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre on Friday, October 5, 2018 after a long battle cancer. Born in Amherst, he was a son of the late Arthur & Anita (Lirette) Melanson. Laurie was a well-known rock drummer locally in the 1960's. Laurie was a proud veteran of the RCN, having served as ABFC on HMCS Margaree and Restigouche. He was always proud of his 9 siblings and his parents who both served in WWII. Laurie is survived by his son Ken (Calgary). He is also survived by his siblings Richard, Halifax; Sylvia (Bob) Harrison, Halifax; Lorraine (Paul) Martell, Halifax; Margaret (Lawrence) Baker, Bedford; Gerald (Kathy), Lakeside; Patrick (Celia), Shelburne; Anita, Amherst, Denise (Dexter) Henwood, Dartmouth; Andrew (Janice), Amherst. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Furlong-Jones Funeral Home, 70 Church St., Amherst, NS, (902-667-8777). No visitation by request. A graveside service will be held at the St. Charles- Nativity Cemetery on Monday, October 22, 2018 at 11 a.m. Reception to follow at Furlong-Jones Funeral Home. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, V.O.N. or the Palliative Care.

HMCS MARGAREE, HMCS RESTIGOUCHE

OUTHET, Roy Leslie, Sto PO - Born in Ottawa, ON on August 7, 1919 - Died in Edmonton, AB on December 7, 2005. Roy was in the Royal Canadian Navy on convoy duty in World War II. Roy is survived by his wife Dorcas, two sons: David (Rosemary), Ian (Crystal); and daughter Helen (Brian) Buchkowsky, four grandchildren: Willie, Bobby, Daniel and Jean. In accordance with Roy's wishes, there will be no funeral service. A reception for family and friends will be held at a later date. (Edmonton Journal 09 Dec 2005)

Photo of Sto PO Roy Outhet

HMCS KIRLAND LAKE - Commissioning crew

GRAVES, Harold, P1CR, RCN - Born 1923. Date of passing unknown

HMCS GIVENCHY, HMCS PREVOST, HMCS STAR, HMCS UGANDA, HMCS MALPEQUE

WATSON, William Norman (Bill), RCN (served 1953-1958) - Korean Veteran Peacefully passed away at the Ottawa Hospital General Campus on Thursday, June 24, 2010, William Norman (Bill) in his 76th year. Born November 11, 1934. Loving father to Neal (Shannon Havard) and Kenneth. Cherished Grandpa Bill to Mackenzie and Harper. Dear brother to Shirley, Florida and Jack (Jean), Toronto. Private family memorial. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Ottawa Hospital Foundation - 6NW (Nursing Unit) would be much appreciated. The family wishes to express profound gratitude to the doctors and nurses, ward 6NW for their care and compassion during Bill's final illness. Ready, Aye, Ready (Ottawa Citizen 28 Jun 2010)

HMCS HURON - Served in Huron during her 3rd Korean War tour

PILLON, Austin Norman (Ozzie) - Born November 07, 1924, Windsor, ON.  Aged 81 years. Passed away peacefully with his family present on May 28, 2006, at Windsor Regional Hospital Met Campus. Beloved husband of 60 years to Doris. Loving father of Austin & Terry, Edith & Bob Taylor, James & Julie, Mary & Mike McAuley, Terry & Denise, Nancy & Frank Renaud, Patricia & Kelly, Mark, Karen & Brad Brindley. Proud grampa (papa) to 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren Predeceased by his brothers Tony, Lorne, Elmer, and his sister Ruth. Brother-in-law to Dorothy Pillon, Louis Larsh, and Teddy and Muriel TerMeer. Ozzie served in the Royal Canadian Navy during WWII and retired from Chrylser in 1977. He has been the caretaker for Girl Guides of Canada's Camp Bryerswood for 14 years. At his request, there will be no visitation or service. Cremation has taken place and his ashes will be interred at Victoria Memorial Gardens. In kindness, donations to the Girl Guides of Canada, 5760 Malden Road, Windsor, Ontario N9H 1S2 would be appreciated by the family. A tree will be planted in memory of Ozzie in the Sutton Heritage Forest. A dedication service will be held Sunday, September 24, 2006. All are welcome. Across the years I will walk with you in deep green forests, on shores of sand, and when our time on earth is through in heaven too, you will have my hand (Windsor Star 30 May 2006)

Portrait of Seaman Pillon

HMCS THORLOCK

COGDON, David, Commodore, RCN / CAF (25 Nov 1947 - 06 Oct 2018) - We, the broken-hearted kids of David Cogdon, are sad to announce that the most important man in our lives left this earth on October 6th at the age of 70. Also feeling our pain is his loving wife and best friend, Jane Campana.

Born on November 25, 1947 in Toronto, Dad grew up in cities across Canada and in Tokyo with his Naval Officer Dad Noel (Nibs) Cogdon, Mom Marion and sisters Donella and Ann. Throughout his youth he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball, riding his motorcycle through the streets of Japan and cherished his summers at the family cottage in Muskoka.

Dad was a proud graduate of the Royal Military College (RMC) Class of ’70. His time at RMC was the beginning of an accomplished career in the Canadian Navy and also the start of many important lifelong friendships. Looking back, Dad would say being Commanding Officer of HMCS Cowichan, HMCS Athabaskan and the 5th Destroyer Squadron were his most memorable positions. In senior roles with the Department of National Defence, Dad served as the Director General of Information during the Oka Crisis and also as Director General of Military Plans and Operations during the Somalia operation. Dad’s final role before he retired as a Commodore was Chief of Staff of the Canadian Navy.

Following his military career, Dad spent five years as the Director General of Public Affairs for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and then seven years as the Executive Director of the Aerospace and Defence Human Resources Partnership. He also volunteered for more than 25 years with the Nova Scotia International Tattoo, committed his time to the Last Post Fund and played music to raise money for the Nova Scotia Special Olympics.

We, his kids Deanna and Michael, did not know the strict military officer that we’ve heard stories about. The man we knew played the oldies as part of Frank’s All-Star Amateur Band on weekends. The man we knew loved biting ice cream off wooden spoons. The man we knew loved all things Star Wars with a particular fondness for Yoda. The man we knew was passionate about feng shui, Chinese and Western astrology and created astrological natal charts for each of his grandkids. The man we knew collected silver coins like a pirate. The man we knew discovered a love of emojis at 70. The man we knew asked us the same question and gave us the same answer almost every time we talked – “You know what guys?” “What Dad?” “I love you.”

We will be forever grateful for how Dad opened his arms and welcomed our spouses, Sheldon Miller and Alison Snow, to the family. Our children Sara, Addison, Myer, Sam, Louie and CeCe were so very lucky to have him as their cherished Gumpa. Dad found a special love when he met Jane five years ago. She made him a skater. He made her a skier. Together they traveled Ireland, biked France, did the Caldera hike in Santorini (Greek Islands) and visited Skellig Michael. They never walked anywhere without holding hands. Jane’s family Cheryl, Stu, Liz and Alexander meant a lot to Dad. Also special to Dad was his 99-year-old aunt Joan Cogdon and the friendship he shared with our Mom, Anne Cogdon.

All of this happened way too fast but we are incredibly thankful for our recent family trip to Japan and the time we had together over the last few months continuing to make special memories. You know what Dad? We love you.

Please join us for a stand-up reception to share stories and celebrate his life on Sunday, October 14 from 2:00-4:00pm at the Wardroom Ballroom at Stadacona (2648 Lorne Terrace – enter via Gottingen Street, photo ID required). In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Canadian Association for Disabled Skiing or the Last Post Fund.

HMCS OTTAWA

HMCS SKEENA

HMCS PROTECTEUR - Served in PROTECTEUR in 1974 as Lt (N), CommO

HMCS CHIGNECTO - Served in CHIGNECTO 1974 - 1975 as Lt (N), XO

HMCS IROQUOIS - Served in IROQUOIS in 1977 as LCdr, CbtO

HMCS THUNDER - Commanding Officer in 1978

HMCS COWICHAN - Served as CO.  dated unknown

HMCS ATHABASKAN - 8th Commanding Officer

COMMANDER 5TH CANADIAN DESTROYER SQUADRON

MORGAN, Ernest (Ernie), LS.RP / Cdr, RCN / C.A.F. - crossed the bar (passed away) in Sidney, B.C. on September 28, 2018. He leaves behind his daughter Dory (Rolando); son John (Yunhee); three grandchildren - Katarina, Natasha and Joshua; one sister; two brothers; and a hoard of good friends and acquaintances. He is predeceased by his wife (Sally), his mother, father, two brothers and three sisters. Ernie was born in Willingdon (a small village in central Alberta). At the age of 18 he joined the Royal Canadian Navy and spent his entire younger and middle years in this service (35 years). Ernie loved the sea. He loved the navy and where it took him. He joined as an ordinary seaman, was commissioned from the "lower decks" and eventually reached the rank of commander. As part of his commissioning plan he attended the University of Victoria where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Honors Physics. Ernie left the Service in 1995 and retired to a life in Sidney. Ernie enjoyed many activities. In his younger years he was a hockey player, a football player and a rugby player. In his retirement years he worked at minor construction in the Sidney area. For 5 years he was a volunteer at the Broadmead Lodge (Royal Oak) where he provided companionship to some of our veterans. For 15 years he was a member of PEMO/SAR (Search and Rescue) and was involved in numerous ground searches. He was a member of the Glen Meadows Curling Association/ Masters League and for a spell was the leagues president. Ernie has put out to sea for the last time. He will be missed but not forgotten. Ernie did not wish to have a service or celebration of life. He said he celebrated life with family and friends every day that he lived. Another place, another time. Crossing the Bar Alfred Lord Tennyson - 1809 to 1892 Sunset and evening star, and one clear call from me! And may there be no moaning of the bar, when I put out to sea, But such a tide as moving seems asleep, too full for sound and foam, When that which drew from out the boundless deep, turns again - home. Twilight and evening bell, and after that the dark! And may there be no sadness of farewell, when I embark; For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place, the flood may bear me far, I hope to see my Pilot face to face, when I have crossed the bar. (Victoria Times Colonist 12 Oct 2018)

HMCS SAGUENAY

HMCS QU'APPELLE

HMCS ST CROIX

HMCS PROVIDER - Served in PROVIDER as XO

HMCS KOOTENAY - Served in KOOTENAY in 1980 - 1981 as LCdr, XO

HMCS ALGONQUIN

IRVING, Kenneth Colin - Age 78 of Bridgewater formerly of Halifax, passed away October 5, 2018 in South Shore regional Hospital. Born in Dunnville, Ont., he was a son of the late Dick and Rena (Mehlenbacher) Irving. He was a member of the RCN for five years. Ken was employed with Northern Industry and W. Eric Whebby Ltd. After retirement, Ken worked part-time as an accountant with a local daycare which he thoroughly enjoyed. He also was an active member of his Condo Board and Forest Point Road Association. Ken enjoyed spending time at the cottage, hockey season and a good game of cards. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his brother, Ralph. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Gladys (Ryan); daughter, Karen, Vancouver, B.C.; son, Colin, Halifax; grandchildren, Olivia, Hayden; sister, Darlene Walker, Victoria, B.C.; as well as several nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place under the care of Atlantic Funeral Home, 6552 Bayers Rd., Halifax. A private service will be held at a later date. (The Halifax Chronicle-Herald 13 Oct 2018)

WALLINGHAM, Robert (Bob), Sto 1c, RCNVR (1924-2018) - Age 94, previously spending 56 years in Spryfield and most recently of Bedford, passed away peacefully at Camp Hill Hospital on Tuesday, October 9th, 2018. Born in Port Hammond, BC, Bob was a son of the late Rosa (Little) and John Wallingham. At the young age of 16, Bob was employed as a Millhand at the Hammond Cedar Company in BC, then at 19 joined the R.C.N.V.R. and after three years of service; received an honourable discharge as a Stoker 1. In early 1946, Bob became employed with the Queen’s Harbour Master and retired 43 years later, proudly leaving his career behind, as Chief Engineering Superintendent. During Bob’s early career, he found himself on the opposite coast, where he met a lovely lady from Newfoundland. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Dorcas “Dot” nee Pearce; daughters, Julie (Gordon Flemming), Bedford NS, Donna (Craig Archambault), Surrey BC; sons, Robert (Martha) Beaver Bank NS and Gregory, Victoria BC, and sister, Shirley Tocher, Maple Ridge BC, as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Bob was predeceased by four sons, Gary, Richard, William, and just recently, David, all of Halifax; and brother Richard, YK. Bob enjoyed his early retirement years puttering around the yard keeping his lawn and gardens so immaculate that passerby’s would stop and complement him. During the colder months, Bob was mastering winemaking, including an Ice Wine. At age 84, Bob and Dot decided a move to condo living and settled in Bedford. Although he missed his yard and wine making, it wasn’t long before he was playing Bridge and Cribbage with other residents. He awaited the newspaper every morning so he could do the Crytoquote and Sudoku, and always left the crossword puzzle for Dot. Bob also enjoyed playing Hearts, Bridge and Solitaire on his computer. In keeping with Bob’s wishes, there will be no visitation. A private service for family, extended family and church family will be held on Saturday, October 13 in Emmanuel Anglican Church at 2pm; Rev. Michelle Bull officiating. (Halifax Today 11 Oct 2018)

SMITH, William Clayton (Bill), CPO1, RCN / C.A.F. (30 Jul 1926 - 07 Oct 2018) - 92 of Tatamagouche, passed away peacefully at the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow on Sunday, October 7, 2018. Bill resided at the Sutherland-Harris Memorial Veterans Unit for the last 6 months where he received wonderful care by the staff. Born in Campbellton, N.B., the son of the late William H. and Florence M. (Allen) Smith. Siblings included guy, Alfred, Murray, Joyce, Pearl, Jean and Shirley. Bill enjoyed a rewarding career in the navy and got to visit every country in the world except China. He was an avid reader, especially books about the navy. Bill ended his career with the position of Chief Petty Officer first Class. Bill is survived by his wife, Thelma (Miller, Hunt) smith of Tatamagouche; son, Glenn, Halifax; Greg, Wentworth; daughter, Anne (Jim) Aitchison, Wentworth; several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Eva Marie (Hubley). As with Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private celebration of Bill’s life will take place at a later date. Memorial donations to Sunny Brae Cemetery would be appreciated. Arrangements have been entrusted to Coulter’s Funeral Home, Tatamagouche. 

DRUSKEE, Donald John, MarEng, C.A.F. - It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of our brother and uncle Don Druskee, on October 7, 2018, after a brief illness. He was born on December 21, 1952, in Nelson, BC where he began his schooling. The family moved to Kamloops in 1960 where Don completed his education and made many friends along the way. As the years progressed, Don continued to be active in the outdoors as well as participating in a wide variety of team sports - especially hockey - where he, like his brothers, was a natural. In his early twenties, he enjoyed a long stint in the Royal Canadian Navy, where he trained as a Marine Engineer. In 1978, and back in civilian life, Don spent some time with Holland-America Cruises. Then it was on to several Power Engineering positions, which took him to Vancouver, Tofino, Kamloops then finally up to 100 Mile House where he worked for Ainsworth OSB from 1993 through 2007. Some minor health issues contributed to an early retirement, prompting Don to return to his home in Kamloops. He continued with many of his hobbies and interests, particularly photography, cycling and anything outdoors. Don was predeceased by his father Percy (1997), his mother Elsie (2017) and his older brother Richard (1997). He is survived by his sister Karen, her three children Melanie (daughter Justine), Jennifer and Daniel all of Ontario, plus his brother Howard (daughter Annie) both of Kamloops and Richard's children Natalie and Layla, plus their children Sadie, Avery, Hannah and Owen all of Kamloops, as well as numerous cousins in various parts of Canada. Like his siblings, Don was a talented writer, having numerous articles published. He always maintained a keen sense of humour even when faced with adversity. There were few regrets, but two of note would be that he never got to appear as a contestant on Jeopardy and he will not see his special niece, Annie graduate high school. The two of them had a unique bonding that will forever endure. Several months ago, he graciously set her up with a Galaxy S9+ then she quickly showed him how they could text each other from near and far. There was always an abundance of jokes and clever comments between the two of them. Our family unit will continue to thrive, with everlasting love and support from our increasing network of friends. At Donald's request, there will be no formal service, but a gathering of family and friends will occur at a later date. In lieu of cards or flowers, he also suggested a nice donation to the SPCA or a local charity of your choice. (Kamloops This Week 11 Oct 2018)

LaLONDE, John F., AB, 34046-H, RCN - Died 28 Nov 1959 age 28 years.

Killed In Car Crash John Francis LaLonde, of HMCS Cornwallis, was killed late Saturday evening when a truck left the highway near Marshalltown and plunged into a water filled ditch, pinning him down. Another occupant of the truck, William Goodwin, of Digby received a badly smashed arm and other injuries. He got clear of the vehicle and made his way up on the road where he summoned aid from a passing motorist. Lalonde who was a native of Downsview, Ont., had only recently come to the Cornwallis naval base although he had been in the navy for the past four years. He is survived by his wife, the former Adeline Boutilier, of Glen Margaret, Halifax county, and by three children, Susan 6, Elaine 5, and Nancy 3. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil Lalonde, of Downsview, also survive, as do two brothers and a sister. An inquest was called into the fatality by Digby coroner C.W. Ramsey, and after viewing the body on Sunday adjourned until Mr. Goodwin is able to testify. A.R. Pyne, of Digby, is foreman of the jury. (Digby Courier 03 Dec 1959)

John is buried in the St. Margaret's of Scotland Catholic Cemetery, Glen Margaret, Halifax County, NS.

Photo of John's headstone

WYLIE, David Stanley (Dave) - of Winnipeg, MB passed away October 4th 2018. We mourn the loss of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Left behind are his loving wife, Agnes, daughters, Meaghan Wylie, April and Angie Friestad. Step children Lou and Clinton Paetkau, Stephanie (Jayson) Cardinal. Four Grandchildren Aysha, Blake, Gio and Victoria. In addition to numerous family and friends. He is predeceased by his parents Ernest and Mary Wylie, his sister Shirley Grill and niece Shannon Grill. Dave was born in Minnedosa, MB on July 13, 1941. He lived all his youthful years in the small town of Brinie, MB. He left for Victoria, BC and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy, serving 3 years on HMCS Saskatchewan from 1963-1966. After leaving the service he worked construction jobs for several years back in Manitoba. He then spent the next 26 ½ years as a corrections officer for the Province of Manitoba, working at the Headingly Correctional Institution. He retired October 1st 2008. Dave loved to take road trips with his family; often travelling and camping throughout Canada and the USA. He often surprised his favorite nieces Kathy (Fred) Neuffer and Karen (Neil) Merrick, arriving unexpectedly at their homes in BC. Dave had a passion for fishing, spending countless hours in his tin boat enjoying the peacefulness of our nearby lakes. Dave’s loved companion Key-o could be found by his side for many of his last years. We say so long, no goodbyes; goodbyes are too final – until we meet again. Rest in Peace. We love you. A celebration of life to be held on Saturday, October 20th 2018 at 2pm at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB.

HMCS SASKATCHEWAN

AVEY, Keith Leroy - WW2 Veteran. At the Woodstock General Hospital on Thursday December 30, 2004. Keith L. Avey of Woodstock in his 81st year. Beloved husband of Mary Avey (nee MacDonald). Dear father of Linda Paret and her husband Rudy of Brantford and Garry Avey and his wife Beverley of Woodstock. Loved grandfather of Jonathan Bee and his wife Rose, Timothy Bee and his wife Janey, 4 step grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Also survived by his sisters Eileen Milton and Verna Newell, brother Donald Avey and his wife Helen and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Predeceased by his parents Vernon and Ethel (Lowes) Avey and brother Lloyd. Keith was a member of both the Woodstock Navy Club and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #55 Woodstock. Friends may call at the R. D. Longworth Funeral Home 845 Devonshire Avenue Woodstock (539-0004) on Saturday after 9:30 am where the complete funeral service will be held in the chapel at 11:00 am with Rev. Don Moore officiating. Interment later in the Anglican Cemetery. Contributions to the Southwestern Ontario Chapter of the Kidney Foundation would be appreciated. A legion service under the auspices of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #55 Woodstock will be held in the chapel on Saturday at 11:00 am.

HMCS SWANSEA - Served in Swansea during the Second World War

HOGG, Rick - Age 58 of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully October 12, 2018 in Arborstone Enhanced Care. Rick was born in Calgary. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Navy (retired) where he proudly served in various roles including the Military Police. He is survived by his mother, Ellen; his father, Lloyd; stepmother, Lorain Hogg; sisters, Marina (Ronnie) Lindala, Judy Hathaway (Darren DeWolfe); nephew, Michael; niece, Erin; half-sisters, Heather, Marie; half-brother, Gordon, and special mother, Betty Prest. Memorial visitation will be held 7-9 p.m. Thursday, October 18th in Dartmouth Funeral Home, 29 Queen St., Dartmouth. (Halifax Chronicle-Herald 15 Oct 2018)

HERBERT, Earl G., Sto 1c, V85870, RCNVR - Died 05 May 1995

HMCS QU'APPELLE

(1 & 2) Christmas card from Earl to his Mother - 1944  (3) Winnipeg, MB - The day we left for the East coast  (4) Earl Herbert - location unknown  (5) Earl Herbert - location unknown  (6) Group training photo - possibly taken on the shore of the Red or Assiniboine River in Winnipeg while Earl Herbert was at HMCS Chippawa  (7) Class # 199, HMCS Cornwallis, Aug 1944 (note: likely Earl's Stoker training course) with names on the back of photo  (8) Earl Herbert holding his daughter Gerry

(9-15)  Diary of Earl Herbert, 2-8 May 1945, Esquimalt, BC

(16-23)  Letter that Earl Herbert wrote while crossing the Atlantic from Halifax to the UK on HMCS Qu'Appelle - Aug 1945  (24-27) Transcription of the letter  -  Note: pages 5-8 are missing from this letter.

(28-29) Letter Earl wrote talking about his celebration when he go the news of the birth of his son - dated 19 Oct 1945  (30) Transcription of earls 19 Oct 1945 letter  (31 & 32) George Thompson, unknown and Earl Herbert wearing kilts  (33) Earl Herbert, Guard and good friend George Thompson, Scotland or England 1945  (34) Earl Herbert - location unknown  (35) L-R: Helen and George Thompson, Bea Herbert

(36 - 37) Letter Earl wrote about training on HMS Cochrane - dated 25 Oct 1945  (38) Transcription of letter dated 25 Oct 1945  (39-40) Letter Earl wrote about possibly coming home on HMS Puncher - dated 15 Nov 1945  (41-42) Transcription of letter dated 15 Nov 1945

(43 - 52) Letter Earl Herbert wrote while crossing the Atlantic from the UK to Halifax on the Troopship Lady Rodney, his arrival at HMCS Peregrine, his demobilization and return home - Feb-Mar 1946.  (53 - 57) Transcription of the letter dated Feb-Mar 1946

Note (1) : pages 1-4 & 7-8 are missing from this letter.  Note (2): In Earl's letter he mentions the ship he was on only as "the Rodney".  They arrived in Halifax on 23 Feb 1946. The Halifax Mail dated 23 Feb 1946 has an article on the arrival of the Troopship Lady Rodney - which give us the identity of the ship Earl returned to Canada on. (this article was researched by and provided courtesy of George Newbury)

(58-59) Sto Herbert's Wet Canteen Pass - HMCS Peregrine - 31 Aug 1945

(60) Two brothers who had been apart for six year, just happened to be walking down the street in Scotland in Dec, 1945 on leave and ran into each other.  They exchanged uniforms and had their photo taken.  On the left, Victor Herbert, BC Dragoons, Tank crew: North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France, Belgium and German; on the right, Earl Herbert, RCN

Photos, letters and documents courtesy of Gerry Oliphant

PUTNAM, Leonard Gerald - Surrounded by his devoted and loving family, Leonard Gerald Putnam died peacefully, Tuesday, June 24th, 2014 in his 90th year. Born in Chatham Ontario to William and Frances Putnam (nee Dauphin), Leonard was a beloved brother to Richard (Eileen), Reid (Gerda), William (Doris), Harold (Marie), Jack (Donna), Bonnie (Gerry), Catherine (Bernard), Dorothy (Walter), Marylou (Joe) and Carmen (Bill). A World War Two Vet and longtime Kent County businessman, Len and his former wife Evelyn were parents to eight children, Kathleen Putnam, Sean (predeceased), Colleen (Keith Ford), Eileen (Chester Kuratczyk), Evelyn, Leslie (David Bobier), Matthew (Anna Karpinski), and Stephanie Mason (Rob). A man of many self-professed blessings, Leonard was loved by his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Guy (Nicole) and Marijke Maclean; Stuart (Katie), Madeline and Gordon Graham; Lauren (Trevor) Power, Crauford and Kendrin Madar and Shalen Trask; Adelaide and Miro Kuratczyk; Anastasia (Michael) Suja and Apollonia Putnam-Karetos; Ella Putnam; Aislinn, Isobel, Ewan and Nigel Mason, and Great grandchildren Griffin and Beckett Power and Evan Suja. There will be a private family service. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Leonard's name to The Poppy Fund, Branch 28, Legion, Chatham, Ontario.

Portrait of Leonard Putnam (WW2)     Photo of Leonard Putnam

HMCS FRONTENAC

(LP03) HMCS FRONTENAC K335

PIMLOTT, Douglas Humphreys, Lt, RCNVR - served in the RCN for just over five years beginning as an Ordinary Seaman & ending the war as the First Officer / Navigation Officer on HMCS THETFORD MINES K459.

Douglas Humphreys Pimlott, conservationist, wildlife biologist, ecologist, environmentalist (born 4 January 1920 in Quyon, QC; died 31 July 1978 in Richmond Hill, ON). A founder of the modern environmental movement in Canada.

Douglas Humphreys Pimlott, conservationist, wildlife biologist, ecologist, environmentalist (born 4 January 1920 in Quyon, QC; died 31 July 1978 in Richmond Hill, ON). A founder of the modern environmental movement in Canada, Pimlott advocated the conservation of wolves as predators with a rightful place in nature. He eliminated the wolf bounty in Ontario and launched conservation programs in Europe where only a few wolves remained.

He was also one of the first spokesmen in the 1970s for protecting the northern Canadian environment. Pimlott directed a number of Canadian environmental organizations, founded the Canada-US Environmental Council and chaired an international wolf specialist group.

He taught at the University of Toronto and published many professional articles and books, including The Ecology of the Timber Wolf in Algonquin Park (reprinted 1978), and coauthored Arctic Alternatives (1973) and Oil Under the Ice (1976). (Source: the Canadian Encyclopedia)

HMCS THETFORD MINES

FOOT, Christopher (07 Feb 1940 - 10 Oct 2018) - With great sadness the family of Chris Foot announces his passing at the age of 78 on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at Sunnybrook Hospital, surrounded by his wife and two daughters. Chris was son of the late Alan and Eldred (Plaxton) Foot. Predeceased by sister Barbara Quinn, and brothers Doug and Gordie. He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years Sue (Elizabeth) (nee Lynn), his daughters Erin (Jan Sorhaug) and Angie (Enzo Del Bianco) and his cherished grandchildren Finn, Liv and Lars Sorhaug. Lovingly remembered by brothers-in-law Paul Quinn and William Lynn (Margaret), cousins, nieces and nephews. Born in Toronto, Chris grew up on Toronto Island where he met his lifelong friend Eric Johnstone (Ellen). He spent summers sailing at the RCYC and winters crashing through the harbour ice on the Ned Hanlon to reach Jarvis Collegiate on the mainland. Chris' first career was with the Royal Canadian Navy. As a natural explorer and lover of open water, the Navy seemed a beautiful fit. But a Navy vessel is no sailboat and soon Chris learned the meaning of sea-sickness and chose a different path. After graduating from McMaster University, and a brief stint as an editor at MacLean-Hunter, Chris found his calling in teaching. He captured his elementary school students' hearts and minds for 30 years with his bottomless imagination and quirky sense of humour, his love of singing and the ukulele and a devout belief that to be a great educator, you need to think outside of the box. With his strong intuition and empathy, Chris connected deeply with his students and colleagues. As a dynamic storyteller, Chris had his audiences in stitches and unbeknownst to most, the stories were often true! He was gifted with a unique mastery of etymology and an ability to absorb and develop far-ranging interests. He was a magical ukulele player, inspiring students and fellow musicians with his enthusiasm and was a dedicated member of Corktown UkeJam. Chris and Sue married in 1967 and settled in Richmond Hill for 43 years. They were devoted members of Richmond Hill United Church. Together, Chris and Sue became part of the community sharing wonderful times at the Mill Pond, the theatre and other activities with many dear friends. That was home, before moving recently to Mid-town Toronto. Chris adored his Sweet Susie, wife and apple of his eye of 51 years. And Sweet Susie adored Chris. He will be greatly missed. A Celebration of Life service to be held at Jubilee United Church on Saturday, October 20th 2-6 p.m. Service at 2 p.m., reception following. 40 Underhill Drive, Toronto. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CAMH Foundation (mental health), and Doane Uschool (ukulele) supporting accessible musical education for children. www.uschool.ca/support (Toronto Star 15 Oct 2018)

FRANCIS, David Henry (28 Jun 1923 - 02 Oct 2018) - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Francis. Born in Claresholm, Alberta, he was raised in Vancouver attending Carlton and John Oliver Schools. He joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1942 and was on convoy duty in the North Atlantic. He graduated from UBC in 1950 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, the same year he met his future wife, Pat Adams. They were married in 1952. Dave's engineering career started in Sarnia, Ontario at Polymer Corp. Then on to Canadian Oil, later Shell Canada. It was here in Sarnia that he and Pat raised their three children, Bill, Ann and Bob. The family moved many times during Dave's career, first to Toronto in 1964, then to Winnipeg, Mississauga, England, Sarnia, and Calgary. Dave retired in 1982 and moved to Tsawwassen where he enjoyed travelling, gardening, wine making, woodworking, bridge and square dancing. Dave also wrote and illustrated humorous poems and stories of his adventures with family and friends. A founding member, President, Games Chair, Coach and Umpire of the Tsawwassen Lawn Bowling Club, he enjoyed the many friends he made on, "The Green". Predeceased by granddaughter Emily Francis, sister Doris Panio, Dave is survived by his wife of 66 years, Pat, children Bill (Cathy), Ann, Bob (Ming) and grandchildren Laura, Naomi, Gillian, David and Jennifer, brothers John and Cyril and many nieces and nephews. A true gentleman, devoted family man and friend he will be dearly missed. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 27th from 2 to 5 pm at Dave and Pat's home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to VGH/UBC Hospital Foundation, Leukemia BMT Program at 190-855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 1M9 in memory of Emily Francis. (Delta Optimist 18 Oct 2018)

RIOUX, Thomas Randall (Randy), PO1, C.A.F. - The death of Thomas Randall “Randy” Rioux husband of Anna (Peter Paul) Rioux of Miramichi, NB, occurred at the Miramichi Regional Hospital on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at the age of 67. Born in Campbellton, NB, Randy is the son of the late Lester and Barbara (Engall) Rioux. Randy retired from the Canadian Military as a 1st class Petty Officer with 32 years of dedicated service. Besides his wife Anna, Randy is survived by one daughter Jennifer Rioux (Matt Nicholas) of Dieppe, NB, one son Greg Rioux (Melissa) of Cape Breton, NS, one stepdaughter Sonya Peter Paul (Nathan O’Reilley) of Chatham, NB, three sisters: Mary Carolyn Grant of Chipman, NB, Laurie Hartin (Dwayne) of Island Falls, ME, Vicki Rickard (Steve) of Hilton, SC, one brother Ken Rioux (Jean) of Hilton, SC, three grandchildren: Catherine and Ellie Rioux and Stone O’Reilley, god daughter Nara Bishop, several nieces, nephews and two great nephews. Randy is predeceased by his parents and stepson, Jordan Peter Paul. At the request of Randy, there is no visitation or funeral service. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Bell’s Funeral Home. 651 King George Highway, Miramichi, NB

HMCS YUKON, HMCS IROQUOIS

BARBER, Malcolm Sternie, LS.LM, 38129-H, RCN - Passed away at the CHUS Hôtel-Dieu on Thursday, October 4, 2018 at the age of 81. Loving son of the late Dorothy Price and the late Sternie Barber. Father of Shawn Barber (Jill) and grandfather of Mason and Leah. Malcolm leaves to mourn his ­brothers Ron Barber (Pattie) and Bruce Barber (the late Helen), along with his nieces, nephews other ­relatives and dear friends. A graveside service will be held at the Malvern Cemetery on Friday, ­October 12, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. (Sherbrooke Record 10 Oct 2018)

HMCS BONAVENTURE

MURRANS, Frank Patrick - died unexpectedly at his home in Clayton Park on October 7, 2018, at the age of 78 years. He was born and raised in Halifax. He spent two early years in Los Angeles, Calif., then a brief stint in the Navy. Over the years he worked for Farmer's Frank died unexpectedly at his home in Clayton Park on October 7, 2018, at the age of 78 years. He was born and raised in Halifax. He spent two early years in Los Angeles, Calif., then a brief stint in the Navy. Over the years he worked for Farmer's Dairy, Sears and The Chronicle Herald. Frank loved hockey (Chicago Blackhawks) and skated until he was 75. He is survived by his brothers, John (Patricia) and Peter (Sandy). He was uncle to John's son, Derek (Heather) and son, Gregory and a great uncle to Derek's children, Reese and Daniel. Frank was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Sadie and his wife, Avis (Morton) who died in 2010. Frank was easygoing, generous and hard-working. He enjoyed his early (5 a.m.) morning walks and the weekly Sunday trip to Sobeys and breakfast at McDonalds with John and Greg. Cremation has taken place. There will be no service as would be Frank's wish. Donations in his memory can be directed to Prescott Group, 3430 Prescott St., Halifax or a charity of your choice. (Halifax Chronicle Herald 20 Oct 2018)

BOWDITCH, Raymond Victor Pomeroy, Cdr (S), RCN / C.A.F.  - died 04 Aug 1985, Halifax, NS

Cmdr. Raymond Bowditch dies in Halifax at age of 68

Commander Raymond Victor Pomeroy Bowditch, 68, of Halifax, died at home Sunday after a lengthy illness.

The son of Edward and Ann (Ricketts) Bowditch, he was born in Dorset, England, where he received his education. He was with the Institute of Municipal Accountants when called up to serve with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War.

He transferred to the Royal Canadian Navy in 1945 where he had a distinguished career, retiring as Supply Officer, Shearwater, in 1966. HE was adminstrator of Standard Paving until his second retirement in 1981.

He was a member of the Naval Officers Association, the Royal United Services Institute, the Officers Mess, HMCS Scotian, was past president of the St. George's Society, Royal Commonwealth Society, Missions to Seamen, Nova Scotia Conservation Society, the Saraguay Club, the Nova Scotia Bird Society, and was a member of the vestry of St. James Anglican Church for several years.

He is survived by his wife, the former Claire Edsall, two daughters, Valerie (Mrs. George Teed), Truro; Kathryn (Mrs. Richard Fitch), Calgary; a son Peter, Halifax, and five grandchildren.

The body is in Snow's Funeral Home. Funeral will be 2 p.m. Tuesday in St. James Anglican Church, Armdale, Rev. Ronald Harris officiating. Burial will be in St. John's cemetery.

Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or St. James Anglican Church. (Halifax Chronicle Herald 05 Aug 1985)

HMCS MAGNIFICENT - Served in Magnificent in 1954

MASTERS, Robert David, Signalman, V81132, RCNVR - On October 13, 2018, Robert (Bob) Masters was reunited with his beloved wife of 59 years, Vi (nee Helm), and their son, Bruce Allan. Robert was born on December 16, 1925 in Windsor, Ontario and moved to Alberta with his young family in 1957 working for Palm Dairies until his retirement in 1990. Robert was a son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his son, Robert Masters Jr. and daughter-in-law, Linda; daughter, Cathryne Masters and son-in-law Paul. He is also survived by his brother, John, sister, Joan and sister-in-law, Marge. He will be dearly missed by his granddaughter, Marianne and partner, Elliott; grandson, Jason and wife, Melissa; and great grandchildren, Chloe and Noah. Robert will also be dearly missed by his many nieces and nephews. Robert was predeceased by his wife, Vi; son, Bruce Allan; sister, Joy and brother-in-law, Mitch; brother, Raymond; sister-in-law, Pearl; and brother-in-law, Arthur. A Graveside Service will be held at Queen’s Park Cemetery on Friday, October 19, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow at Calgary Crematorium Chapel, 3219 - 4th Street N.W., at 2:30 p.m. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, Administrative Office, 10531 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton AB T5H 4K1. Tel: (1-866) 950-5465, www.alzheimer.ab.ca or to a charity of your choice. Thank you to the compassionate and caring staff at Mayfair Care Centre.

HMCS HUNTER

HMCS ST FRANCIS - Served in St Francis 21 Oct 1944 - 27 Oct 1944 while serving at HMCS Cornwallis

HMCS SCOTIAN

HMCS GRANDMERE - Served in GRANDMERE 23 May 1945 - 09 Jul 1945 as an AB, RCNVR

HMCS YORK

HMCS TECUMSEH

(1) Naval Training and Active Service  (2) Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Ottawa - circa 1944-1945  (3) HMCS Bytown, Ottawa, circa Nov 1944 - Apr 1945  (4 & 5) Parliament buildings, Ottawa circa 1944 - 1945  (6) St. John's, NFLD circa May - Jul 1945  (7) St. John's, NFLD circa May - Jul 1945. HMCS Napanee K118 outboard ship.  (8) Unknown ships at HMCS Protecteur (Point Edward Naval Station), Sydney, NS circa May - Jul 1945

(9) Sydney, NS as seen from HMCS Grandmere J258 circa May - Jul 1945  (10) Calgary as seen from HMCS Tecumseh circa Oct 1945 - Feb 1946  (11) "Derry, Erin" Londonderry, Ireland  (12) AB Elmer Ferguson from Vancouver, BC  (13) Andy Anderson, E. Ferguson (Fergie), Lamb and Cavouri in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Ottawa, Ontario  (14) E. (Fergie) Ferguson and Andy Anderson  (15) Al Paxton from Vancouver, BC (16) Jerry Ryan from Ottawa, Ontario

(17) Jerry Ryan and Al Paxton  (18) Al Paxton  (19) Tel Joe Cantor from Regina, Saskatchewan  (20) The Gang - Sto 1c Fortier, Tel Cantor, AB Noisy, AB MacDonald  (21) AB Noisy  (22) Robert Masters outside of Hudson's Bay, Calgary, Alberta  (23) Cantor and Buggs  (24) Dummie Broncassio in Zoot Suit

(25) Larry Chalmers and Vi Helm  (26) Larry Chalmers from Drumheller, Alberta  (27) Jack Artiss, Jerry Coone, Bill Crouchman  (28) Jerry Coone, Joe Schrettlend, Bob Masters - Shore Patrol, Calgary, Alberta  (29) Al Paxton from Vancouver, BC  (30) Jerry Coone, Jack Artiss, Bob Masters  (31) Jerry Coone from Guelph, Ontario  (32) Jack Artiss from Windsor, Ontario

(33) Andy Anderson, Al Paxton, E. (Fergie) Ferguson  (34) Andy Anderson, Ivan, Fergie Ferguson, Dort  (35) "Just Jeeps" Location and sailors unknown  (36) "The Gang" - Norm Prowse, Gwen Highlande, Knight, Betty, Robert (Bob) Masters, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, 04 Nov 1944  (37) "The Gang 2" - Glen Sharpe, Marge McBride, Omar Ferguson, Gwen Highlande, June Pitcher, Al Paxton in front of the Parliament Buildings, Ottawa, 21 Apr 1945  (38) Marge McBride and Glen Sharpe, Ottawa, 15 Nov 1945  (39) Glen Sharpe, Marge McBride, June Pitcher, Al Paxton, Ottawa, 15 Nov 1945  (40) Norm Prowse and Gwen Highlande

(41) Bob Masters (left), Norm Prowse (on top by lion's head), David Knight (in front of lion), 01 Apr 1945. Taken in front of statue at Parliament Hill, Ottawa  (42) Dot Lanktee  (43) Marge McBride and David Knight, Ottawa, 04 Nov 1945  (44) Al Paxton, June Pitcher, Glen Sharpe, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, 14 Nov 1944  (45) Marge McBridge, June Pitcher, Gwen Highlande on the steps of the Parliament Building, Ottawa, 15 Nov 1944  (46) "One of the swellest and most decent kids I ever met and myself (Bob Masters). Taken by Rideau Canal in Ottawa. Other Wren is Mary Neilson her girlfriend. Also one of the best I met." Note: Caption on back of photo does not identify who the first wren is that he is speaking of.  (47) Bob Masters, Betty and Norm Prowse by the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, Ottawa  (48) "Kats" C/S Kaderlend V-83299 HMCS St Hyacinthe, Quebec

Photos and documents courtesy of Cathy Masters

RUTHERFORD, Gerald David (Gerry) - passed away peacefully on Sunday October 21, 2018, in Ottawa, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 28, 1937, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to parents, David and Margaret (Goodman) Rutherford. Gerry grew up on the prairies, spending his summers working on the farm. Seeking adventure, Gerry joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1955, serving for 34 years. Gerry saw many foreign ports throughout his career. When asked how he handled different languages, he admitted his mastery of only Canadian English "but a smile and an invitation to dance go along way"! Upon retirement, Gerry continued to serve the Navy as a civilian, allowing him to remain close to his passion for submarines. Gerry loved to be where the action was and always had a story to tell, especially about his career in the Silent Service. He was an avid gardener, curler and member of his local Submarine Association. He is survived by his wife Jane (Christie); sons David (Sandra) and Gerry (Shauna); grandchildren; Shannon, Heather and Andrew, Katy and Meg. He was predeceased by his parents; his first wife, Norma, whom he lost far too early to cancer; sisters Faye and Norma. Memorial visitation will be held at the St. Laurent Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 1200 Ogilvie Road, Ottawa on Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 2-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Heart & Stroke Foundation or charity of your choice. Heartfelt thanks to the Ottawa Civic Hospital Trauma Team whose exceptional care and attention helped us through Gerry's sudden passing as well as to neighbours, Perry, Carol Ann and Heather for their tremendous support. Dolphin 38.

Gerry, served in British submarines from 1959-1964.

HMS/m SCORCHER, HMS/m WALRUS, HMS/m SEALION, HMS/m EXCALIBUR, HMCS SKEENA

FRANCIS, William Lionel (Bill) Francis, P1VS / LCdr, RCN / C.A.F. - Bill Francis passed away peacefully in his sleep on the evening of Wednesday, September 12th, 2018 at the age of 83. Predeceased by parents Lionel and Elsie, sister Marion and son Kerry. The most important thing to Bill was family! Bill is lovingly remembered by his wife of 44 years, Benita and their son Darren (Susan) along with first wife Joan and their children: Sheryl (Glenn), Tom (Debbie), and Jim. Bill will also be missed by his six grandchildren: Hayley, Jeremy, Billy, Danielle, Madison, Hayden and four great-grandchildren: Dustin and Clara Rose, Eli and Emma. Also survived by brothers Arnie (Pat), Brian (Donna) and sister Kay (Grant).

Born November 5th, 1934 and raised in Headingley, Manitoba, Bill was a hard worker and community builder from a very young age, always helping family and neighbours throughout his life.

Bill, a veteran of the Canadian Navy took great pride in his 37 years of service to his country, first as a Naval Supply Technician and then taking his commission in 1967 and becoming a Logistics Officer. Bill joined the Navy after he graduated from high school. Bill's postings included Victoria (Esquimalt), Ottawa, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Kamloops and finishing his career as CFB Chilliwack's Comptroller in 1988. Bill was an active member of the CD2 Association for veterans.

Bill valued community and volunteered his time with Chilliwack Minor Hockey and Chilliwack Minor Baseball managing or coaching his youngest son's teams throughout the late 80's and early 90's. Bill affectionately nicknamed "The Big Cat" by the team players was always willing to help out and would drive as many kids as he could fit into his mini-van to games and practices.

Known for his ability to find a deal, Bill could be seen cruising the different grocery stores around town looking for his next "good" deal while making friends along the way. Bill's recreational time was spent golfing and curling. Bill's golfing career included a "Hole-in-One" which his wife Benita liked to remind him was one behind her.

Curling was a passion for Bill and he had lots of success in numerous bonspiels throughout his life. He started curling as a young man out of the Assiniboine Memorial Curling Club. He participated in several bonspiels with a variety of teams including an all-family-team consisting of his Father, Lionel, brothers Arnie and Brian. The family-team tradition continued later in life when he curled with daughter Sheryl, and sons Tom and Jim at various times in the Canadian Forces Logistics Bonspiel, winning many trophies. Bill curled until he was 83 and often bragged about how he could still sweep the entire length of the ice in his eighties.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 29th, 2018 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm at the Canadian Forces Base Chilliwack, Colonel St John Armouries Combined Mess, 5535 Korea Rd. Sardis, BC V2R 5P2 (off of Keith Wilson Rd beside UFV Trades and Technology Centre). In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Canadian Cancer Society in the memory of Bill Francis.  www.cancer.ca.

HMCS NEW GLASGOW, HMCS STETTLER, HMCS BEACON HILL, HMCS CHIPPAWA, HMCS MALAHAT

MCDOUGALL, James (Jim) - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, James McDougall, on October 19, 2018. James was born in Winnipeg in 1922. Upon graduation from high school, he served the Navy on the Atlantic Ocean in the Second World War. When returning to Canada in 1945, Jim continued his career as a machinist with the Canadian National Railway where he stayed until his retirement in 1985. James is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Violet, his sons, George (Karen) and Bruce (Brenda), his grandchildren, Karen, Lyle, Colin, Chad, Cara, and his eight great-grandchildren. James was predeceased by his son, Scott. A sincere thank you to Dr. I. Mohammed and the medical team at Concordia Hospital for their care. Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at the Transcona Legion in Winnipeg. In lieu of flowers, donations in James' memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of choice. "We will always love you and cherish our memories of you." Love your wife, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. (Winnipeg Free Press 23 Oct 2018)

ACHESON, Thomas Norman (Tom), P1RM, RCN - Born 18 Mar 1934, Edmonton, AB. Tom, P. Geol, beloved husband of Elise of Calgary, passed away peacefully with family at his side on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the age of 84 years. Tom lived in Edmonton, Montreal, British Guiana and Port Edward, BC before moving with his family to Vermilion, AB in 1946. Tom married the love of his life Elise in 1965. Tom was always a man ahead of his time. In 1952, and six weeks before graduating high school, Tom participated in a student walkout. It was suggested by the school that he not return to graduate. Subsequently, Tom joined and served in the Royal Canadian Navy for fifteen years, finishing his career with the RCN as a Petty Officer First Class. Not one to shy away from a challenge, and deciding he had unfinished business regarding his education, Tom enrolled in Geology at the University of Alberta in 1972. At the age of 38, with a wife and eight month old child, Tom graduated with a BSc (Honours) degree. Despite his university classmates being in their late teens and early twenties, Tom formed lifelong friendships along with his many navy friends and those he met in his forty-two years in the petroleum industry, all of which he treasured to his final days. In retirement, Tom enjoyed his friendships with his Lake Bonavista coffee group discussing world politics and current events. Tom's second career as a geologist was challenging and enthralling. His time exploring the Arctic Islands was a highlight of his career. The idea that perhaps he was the first human to ever step foot on a remote landscape continued to provide a never ending sense of awe to him. His unreserved passions and loves of his life were his family, his profession, the outdoors and an illogical attachment to the game of golf. Tom will be dearly missed by his family, friends and relatives. He is survived by Elise (nee Breault), his wife of fifty-two years; two daughters and a son-in-law Andrea and Dave Sharrock of North Vancouver and Mary Beth Acheson of Calgary; as well as three grandchildren, Aislynn, Teagan and Callum. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Emma Acheson, and his siblings Robert and Karen. At Tom's request no service will be held. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Calgary Health Trust - Sarcee Hospice, Suite 800, 11012 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary, AB T2J 6A5, Telephone: (403)943-0615, www.thetrust.ca. A very special thanks to Dr. Sean McFadden, Tom's miracle worker. His surgical expertise, caring and advice in both Tom's 2002 lung cancer surgery and 2007 esophageal cancer surgery gave Tom an additional sixteen years of life. This extra time allowed Tom to travel the world and check off his bucket lists, as well as spend precious time with his beloved grandchildren. In living memory of Tom Acheson, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park. (Calgary Herald 01 Sep 2018)

HMCS ASSINIBOINE, HMCS CRESCENT

MORRIS, Gerald L. - Born 1919  Died 1999. - After the war, Gerald returned home and took over family farm at Metcalfe until 1958. He then started his real estate career and continued that until retirement around 1994. He was married to Effie Cameron of Vernon Ont. Together they raised a family of six children - 4 girls and 2 boys).

HMCS STORMONT

LEDSHAM, Harold Connor, CD, Cdr (MARE), RCN / C.A.F. - On Thursday December 25, 2003, Harold passed away at hospital in Halifax, N.S., at the age of 61, after a battle with cancer. Loving husband of Carol. Beloved father to Rebekah and Dorion, and loving stepfather to Kim and Quinn. Most beloved son of Helen and brother of Allayne and Elizabeth. After having spent 35 years honourably serving his country in the Royal Canadian Navy he will be sadly missed by friends and family. Harold's remains will stay in Nova Scotia. A Time of Remembrance in Harold's honour will be held at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street on Friday, January 2, 2004, at 10 a.m. Reception to follow in the McGarry Resource & Reception Centre. In lieu of flowers donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. (Ottawa Citizen, 30 Dec 2003)

MORGAN, Walter - 92, of Winder Georgia, formerly of Derry, NH and Melrose MA., died of natural causes on Monday October 27th. Walter was born on March 31, 1922 on Bell Island, in Newfoundland Canada. He was pre-deceased by his wife of 53 years Dorothy (Noseworthy) Morgan. Walter was a WWII veteran, serving in the Royal Canadian Navy for 6 years. At the end of the war and after becoming a US citizen he and Dorothy settled in Melrose MA and raised five children. For 22 years he worked for Boston Fuel Transportation in East Boston. He finished his working years as a member of the Iron Workers Local #7. Walter was active for many years as a 33rd degree Mason and later was a member of the Shriners Aleppo Temple Mounted Patrol. After retiring, he and Dorothy spent ten years traveling across the US and Canada in their RV, having the time of their lives and enjoying retirement to the fullest. After the death of his wife in 1997, Walter settled in Winder, GA. Walters true joy was his family and he loved nothing better than spending time watching his grandchildren at their ballgames or being a part of every family get-together. As such a devoted family man, Walter was loved and will be sadly missed by his 5 children: Keith of Englewood FL, Leslie Perry and her husband Jeff of Lyman, ME, Bruce and his wife Nancy of Derry, NH, Scott and his wife Susanne of Winder GA, and Marjorie Ellison and her husband Keith of Leesburg VA. Walters legacy also includes 5 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. A private memorial service will be held in Georgia and a celebration of his life will take place in the New England area Spring of 2015 on a date TBD.  (Melrose Free Press 06 Nov 2014)

RUSSELL, Alexander Grey - 81, died Wednesday, January 3, 2007 at Menorah Manor under the care of Hospice. He was born October 31, 1925 in Sault Ste Marie, Ont. Son of the late David and Margaret Russell. He was predeceased by his wife Velma, brothers Jim and Bob, sister Martha “Toots“ Eagle. He is survived by his friend and companion Rose Marie Koper of Gulfport. Dear friends, Kathy Koper of Gulfport, Fla, Iris “Princess“ and Dave McMinn of Heyden, Ont., nieces Nancy and Terry Rowlinson of Sault Ste Marie, Ont., Lynn and Tom Eckford of Echo Bay, Ont., Mary Jo and Jim Bell of Horton, MI., and Mary and Frank Nichols of Sault Ste Marie, Ont. and numerous friends. He was a World War II Veteran in the Royal Canadian Navy. He served on three different ships that were torpedoed and sank in the cold North Atlantic Sea and survived. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 25 in the Soo for 34 years. He was a patron of the American Legion Post 125, Gulfport, giving generous monetary donations and volunteer hours. He graduated from the University of Canada earning 3 engineering degrees: Civil, Mechanical and Electrical. He had a wonderful life. In his earlier years, he played bagpipes with his father and sister “Toots“ on the piano. He curled for the Waupaca Curling Club as the “Skip“. As a Bush Pilot, he flew the Turbo Beaver, de Havilland Otter, Noordyn Norseman and the Stimson Reliant fighting forest fires. He retired in November 1981 from Algoma Steel, Sault Ste Marie, Ont. Locating in Gulfport, Florida and a later date in Heyden Lake, Sault Ste Marie, Ont.

LLEWELLYN, John LeRoy Eugene (Roy) - Passed away at the Brantford General Hospital, on Thursday, November 26th, 2015, in his 96th year. Predeceased by his wife Phoebe (nee Welsh) (1967), two daughters in infancy, parents Wilford and Caroline and two brothers Charlie and Keith. Fondly remembered by his sister Muriel (Don) Herne, brother Ronnie (Bernice) and his nieces and nephews. John was in the Merchant Navy for 8 years before joining the Canadian Navy in 1941. In 1948 he moved to Brantford where he worked for Masseys before being hired by the City of Brantford in the Works Department where he worked from 1959 until 1985 when he retired. He did volunteer work at the Beckett Building for the dances and later he enjoyed the fellowship and wonderful lunches. John very much loved his Monday evenings when he went every week to the Moose Lodge for the Euchre party and was very sad when he was no longer able to attend. The family would like to thank Helene, Ko and the staff Parkview Retirement Home for the understanding care they gave to John during his time spent there. He greatly enjoyed his fourth floor room and the view of the city. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hill and Robinson Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 30 Nelson Street. A Private family burial will take place at a later date.

THOMPSON, Allister Moore - Age 92, of Westville, passed away on October 22, 2018 in Northumberland Veteran's Unit, Pictou. Born in Westville on October 29, 1925, he was a son of the late Moore and Rena (Roy) Thompson. Al enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy in 1944 serving as an Able Seaman in the Second World War. He was discharged in 1946. He began working in the office with the Drummond Mine, Westville, later with Maritime Packers in Pictou, and then Eatons in Moncton and Toronto as an accountant. In 1981 Allister and Dorothy both retired moving back to Durham, Pictou Co. He was a member and elder at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Westville, the Western Star Lodge No. 50, and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 35. He was very active with the Order of the Eastern Star, Westville, and North Admiral Murray Retired Naval Association. Surviving are children, John (Charlene), Green Hill; Ann MacLeod (Eric), Salsbury, N.B.; David (Louise), Dieppe, N.B.; brother, John R. Thompson; six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife, Dorothy (Swan); and brothers, Vinton and William Thompson. Many thanks to all Allister's Home Care Workers and staff of the Northumberland Veteran's Unit, Pictou for their excellent care. Visitations will be held from 6-8 p.m. Thursday from Eagles Funeral Home, Westville. His funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Friday in Eagles Funeral Chapel with Rev. Greg Dickson officiating. Interment will be in Heatherdale Memorial Gardens. Donations in his memory may be made to the Northumberland Veterans Unit Comfort Fund or St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Westville. (Halifax Chronicle-Herald 24 Oct 2018)

BLEAU, Louis, AB, V50817, RCNVR - Louis (Red) was born in 1921 to Jean Baptiste and Apoline Bleau in Ponteix, SK. He completed his schooling to grade 12 in Val Marie, SK. In 1941 he moved to Windsor, ON where his older brother John Paul lived. He met Adeline Cleverley  in 1941 while boarding at her mother's place and in 1943 they married. He joined the RCNVR in 1942 and served in the corvette HMCS Fredericton during the Battle of the Atlantic. Louis died at his home in Ponteix, SK in April of 1970.

(1) Portrait of Seaman Louis Bleau  (2) Louis Bleau (left) and unknown sailor  (3) Record of Training and Active Service  (4) Certification for medals awarded

HMCS HUNTER

HMCS FREDERICTON - Served in Fredericton 22 Jan 1944 - 08 Jul 1945 as an AB, RCNVR

HMCS ROYAL MOUNT - Served in Royalmount 09 Jul 1945 - 05 Aug 1945 as an AB, RCNVR

GUYETT, Bertha Caroline - Carrie passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 2nd, 2011 at the age of 103. She was well known as Carrie Forbes, wife of Fredericton Mayor (1941-49) Ray T. Forbes. Born March 12, 1908 in Norton, N.B. to Ora and Annie Yerxa. Carrie was predeceased by brothers Ora, Paul and Bart Yerxa. She married Mr. Forbes in 1930. Mr. Forbes passed away in 1956. She is also predeceased by daughters Nancy, Eva (Gillies) and son Ray as well as granddaughter Nancy Godin. She is remembered by daughter Marjorie (George) Elliott of Bath ON and son Eric (Debra Clark) Forbes of Regina, fourteen grandchildren and twenty-seven great grandchildren. She is remembered as well by sister-in-law Bernie Yerxa of Sussex and nephews Bart and John of Kings County and niece Betty Ann and nephew Lane of Massachussetts. In 1970 Carrie married Howard Guyett of New York, then resided in Seminole Florida. Mr. Guyett passed away in 1992. She is also remembered by stepson Robert (Sue) Guyett and stepdaughter Susan Corrigan and their families. Carrie returned to Fredericton in 1999 living near grandson Tim Gillies. As spouse of a civic leader she met King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1939, was hugged by Mayor LaGuardia of New York and christened the original HMCS Fredericton in 1941. Following graduation from Sussex High School Carrie attended Fredericton Business College and became a skilled and gracious secretary. She worked for insurance and law firms and ultimately served in the offices of Lieutenant- Governors John B. McNair and Wallace Bird. Many remember her as a talented oil painter of pastoral landscapes and seascapes. She loved to golf and at the age of 84 she carded a hole-in-one. Carrie's 100th birthday party in 2008 drew friends and family from across North America. Carrie was a proud, dignified and beautiful woman and remained so till the end. The family is grateful for the attention and care she received from staff and friends at Windsor Court, Dr Ian MacDonald and to those who cared for here at Chalmers Hospital. A celebration of her life will be held at the J. A. McAdam Memorial Chapel, 160 York Street, Fredericton on Saturday, October 8th, 2011 at 3:00 PM with Rev. Bob Jones officiating. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home prior to the service from 1 to 3 PM. Memorial tributes made to the CNIB would be appreciated by the family.

GEMMELL, Andrew Gordon -  Born December 30, 1925, in Selkirk Manitoba, to James and Evelyn (Comber), passed away peacefully, October 12, 2018, in his 93rd year. Andy is survived by his wife and soulmate of 70 years, Margaret, his four sons, Bob (Monica) of Kelowna, David (Maureen) of Ponemah, MB, Paul (Janis) of Abbotsford, BC, and Peter (Ramona) of South Surrey, BC; eight grandchildren, Andrea (Andrew) Cochrane, David (Kristina), Matthew (Erin), Andrew (Carly), Jeff, Lauren, Carmen and Olivia Gemmell; five great-grandchildren, Ben, Olivia, Sam, Max and Isla - who is soon to be a big sister. He was predeceased by his sister, Frances Powell, of Winnipeg. Andy served during the Second World War aboard HMCS Prince Robert, which was sent to Hong Kong at the end of the war to repatriate Canadian prisoners of war. After the war he went on to earn his degree as a Chartered Accountant in 1949. Shortly thereafter Andy joined Beaver Lumber, where he held several senior management positions during a 34-year career that saw he and Marg make lifelong friends in stops from St. Catharines to Oakville, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Mississauga. His last responsibility with Beaver Lumber, then owned by the Molson Companies, was the introduction and successful implementation of the franchise owner/operator program. Andy retired in 1981, settling in the Okanagan Valley to spend the spring and summer months while wintering in Naples, Florida. He was an avid golfer whose career featured five holes-in-one and lots of happy memories with his many golfing friends. During his retirement years Andy explored his artistic talents, producing numerous pieces in a variety of mediums that are proudly displayed in the homes of his family. Much loved by those close to him and respected by all who had the good fortune to get to know him, Andy will be missed. A private, family service will be held to inter his ashes in their final resting place. (Winnipeg Free Press 31 Oct 2018)

HMCS PRINCE ROBERT

MURRAY, William James Farquhar, AB.LTO, V44048, RCNVR - Born 1922  Died 1984.  William enlisted in the RCNVR at HMCS Discovery, BC on 23 Jul 1942 and was demobilized there on 06 Nov 1945.

Training and Active Service records for AB Murray

HMCS DISCOVERY

MCS RED DEER - Served in RED DEER 16 Jun 1943 - 28 Feb 1944 as an OS.ST, RCNVR

HMCS SCOTIAN

HMCS STONE TOWN - Served in STONE TOWN 23 Aug 1944 - 12 Aug 1945 as an AB.LTO, RCNVR

CARMICHAEL, Thomas E. (Tom), SD / Radar - Died 2007

HMCS WENTWORTH

MESSERVEY, Clifton Maxwell - Born 04 Jan 1917, Sandy Point, Newfoundland, son of Herbert Clifton and Mary Winnifred (Abbott) Messervey. Clifton served in the RCN during WW2. He died in Kentville, NS on 05 Feb 2003.

Portrait of Clifton Messervey

HMCS COLUMBIA

OFF, John George - age 93 years, formerly of Thunder Bay, died peacefully on Tuesday, October 30th, 2018 at Fleetwood Place, Surrey, BC. Born in Regina, SK on May 13, 1925, John was the youngest son of Francis and Agnes (Buhlin) Off who came to Canada from Germany, and brother to Frank, Larry, Agnes, Anne and Charles, all who predeceased him. John grew up on the prairies and joined the war effort in 1943, serving on in HMCS Sault Ste. Marie, a minesweeper, in the Battle of the North Atlantic. After the war, he moved to Fort William to live with his brother Frank's family. Here he met the love of his life, Elsie (Semenick), at a church dance; they wed in May of 1954. Elsie passed away the summer of last year and John has now joined her. Today, we are all confident that they are holding hands again. Married for 63 years, John and Elsie started their life together first on Christina Street and then on Walnut Street. Together they raised a family, built a community, fostered beautiful friendships and grew a garden together. They moved to BC in the fall of 2014. John is survived by his daughter Louise and son-in-law Edwin Klaponski of Surrey, BC; son Raymond Off and daughter-in-law Angela Fong of Edmonton, AB; daughter Rosemary Off of New Dundee, ON; and daughter Shirley Anne Off and son-in-law Bill Jeffery of Ottawa, ON. He will be greatly missed by his 11 grandchildren, Matthew, Jill, Laura, Peter, Allison, Erika, Karl, Paul, Quinn, Lauren and Mason, as well as his five great-grandchildren, Jacob, Sarah, Hannah, Andrew and Dominic. His family and all of his nieces and nephews were dear to him. John loved being anywhere outdoors. With him at the “helm”, the family went on camping and canoeing adventures taking them from coast to coast. He loved fishing, baseball and playing cards and shared this enthusiasm with loved ones and across generations. John was a pillar of his church, St. Patrick's Cathedral, where, over the decades, he ministered to the sick, was a lector, and an active member of his prayer group. It is here where he and Elsie fostered the friendships of a lifetime. A funeral mass will be held at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Cathedral, 211 Archibald Street, on Friday November 9th at 11am, with visitation for family and friends starting at 10am. If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers, please consider L'Arche Canada, an organization that supports individuals living with intellectual disabilities and helps them live in a more joyful world. John was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, Gigi and uncle, as well as a loyal friend. He loved deeply, possessed remarkable faith and strength, and believed in and lived true compassion. He was someone who, once you met and took time with, you never forgot. He was generous, kind, determined and loving. We will all miss him, but are truly greater for having loved and been loved by him. John Off will be remembered in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 9, 2019.

HMCS SAULT STE MARIE

CLEMENS, James A., C1WA, 30384-H, RCN / C.A.F. (enlisted 30 Jan 1956) (22 May 1938 - 29 Oct 2018) - Passed away quietly at the Royal Jubilee Hospital. He will be missed by his son Mike and his friends at Maude's. Jim requests no Service and no flowers. Donations can be made to the RCN Benevolent Fund.

BELLA, Margaret M., Lt (MN), RCN (02 Apr 1915 - 20 Oct 2018) - Fernie's centenarian, Margaret Mary Bella, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 28, 2018 at the age of 103. The eldest of 14 children, Margaret was born in Fernie on April 7, 1915. She resided at Rocky Mountain Village for the past thirteen years under the watchful eyes and excellent care of the staff. Margaret is survived by her three sisters: Pat Gigliotti of Cranbrook, BC, Carmen (Ken) Carr of Medford, Oregon and Delphine (Jim) Kennelly of Cranbrook, as well as many nieces and nephews, and her loyal friends in Victoria, BC. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Elizabeth (Hovan) Bella, five brothers and six sisters. Margaret graduated from the Holy Cross Hospital Nursing School in Calgary, AB. She joined the Royal Canadian Navy when World War II broke out and was initially posted to Halifax, NS before being sent to Victoria. Margaret continued to serve until her retirement and remained in Victoria until relocating to Fernie in 2005. A Funeral Mass was celebrated at the Holy Family Catholic Church, in Fernie on Saturday, November 3, 2018 with Father David John, Celebrant. Reception followed in the church hall. Interment will take place in the Spring of 2019. Memorial tributes may be made in Margaret's name to Rocky Mountain Village Ladies Auxiliary. 55 Cokato Rd. Fernie, BC V0B 1M4. (Victoria Times Colonist 02 NOv 2018)

HOGG, William Donald (Bill) (17 May 1930 - 29 Oct 2018) - passed away peacefully. Bill will be missed by his wife Doreen of 61 years, children Dayle (Jill), Debbie (Luis) and David; and grandchildren Lisa, Melody, Jeremy, Selena, Angelica and Alexandria. Bill was predeceased by his parents William and Lily, as well as his brothers Dayle (Mid) and Wilfred "Bud" and sister Edith "Muff" (Gus). Bill was a prairie boy at heart, born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, but he wanted to see the world, so he joined the Canadian Navy where he served during the Korean War. Afterwards, Bill settled in Toronto where he would meet his wife Doreen. Bill and Doreen were married in 1957 and built a happy home together with three children. Not one for the city, Bill and Doreen bought a rustic cottage and every weekend was spent up north – summer or winter - without electricity or running water. Bill had the mindset that he could figure out anything and built the entire cottage including plumbing, electrical, walls, ceiling, roofing, even making a beach on the waterfront. While cottage country was his second home, his love of western music betrayed his origins and the staff at K Wing of Veterans' Program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre fondly remembers him singing cowboy tunes every morning. The family wishes to thank the staff at Sunnybrook for the care they gave Bill during his residence. A service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, November 3rd at 1:00 p.m. at Humphrey Funeral Home, A. W. Miles-Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue, Toronto. In lieu of flowers, donations to Sunnybrook Foundation "Veterans Comfort Fund" or to a charity of your choice, would be appreciated by the family. (Toronto Star 02 Nov 2018)

GRANT, Frank, C2WU, RCNR / RCN (enlisted in the RCNR May 1938. Transferred to the RCN Jan 1941) (28 Jan 1919 - 22 Sep 2018) - #1 Papa!  It is with sweet sorrow that we say goodbye to our Dad, who passed away quietly on Sept 22, 2018, at the age of 99. Frank is predeceased by all his immediate family and many friends. He will be sadly missed by his children Brian, Marion, Cara and grandchildren, Laura, Tony, Michael, Brianna, Sam & Jessie. Frank was born in Victoria on January 28, 1919, but grew up in Vancouver. He skied Grouse Mountain when there were no chair lifts, using wooden skis. He delivered telegrams as a teenager on bicycles with wooden rims. Frank served in the Royal Canadian Navy for 26 years, retired to the Valley in 1964, and then after working with a great bunch of guys, retired from the Courtenay Bridge Crew in 1983. Retirement included more camping/fishing, golfing, skiing Mt. Washington til age 72, swimming laps at the local pools til age 83 , then back to biking until he was 95. He is now with his sweetheart, Florrie McMinn. They shared 63 years of marriage in this life, and now have many years to catch up. He survived the Great Depression, WWII, the Korean War, and yet was not around long enough to see his beloved Canucks win the cup. Maybe a little more help from above will do . A special thank you to all the caregivers over the years that have cared for and kept a watchful eye on our dad as he walked and rode the streets of the Comox Valley. A Celebration of Life to be held in early 2019. (Comox Valley Record 22 Sep 2018)

Photo of Frank Grant

HMCS ARMENTIERES, HMCS WOLF, HMCS PRINCE ROBERT, HMCS QUESNEL, HMCS PORT COLBORNE, HMCS WARRIOR, HMCS ONTARIO, HMCS ATHABASKAN, HMCS CAYUGA, HMCS ASSINIBOINE, HMCS BONAVENTURE, HMCS HUNTER

MCLUSKIE, Reginald Vincent (Star Shell), V37152, RCNVR / Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Weapons Surface, 6153-E, RCN (20 Apr 1925 - 01 May 2008) - Born April 20, 1925 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Predeceased by his parents Hugh and Lucy. Passed away May 1, 2008 at Richmond Hospital surrounded by his family. Survived by his loving wife Kathy of 54 years and his 5 caring children, Mike, Ross (Cathee), Gord, Liz (Mic) and Dave (Carol), 10 grandchildren, Michelle (Forbie), Ryan, Jonathan (Jessica), Hayley, Samantha, Serena, Trevor, Kyle, Jessica, Braedan, and 2 great-grandchildren, Kaleb and Annika. Survived also by sister Bunny Amies (Bob), their families and many friends. Reg first joined the Canadian Reserve Army and then Royal Canadian Navy in 1942. Reg served in the North Atlantic destroyer escort, WWII, Chinese conflict and Korean War. Reg's tour of duty ended in 1953 and he remained in the Canadian Navy until his retirement in 1967 and moved to Richmond where he retired in 1985 from the Richmond school district. Reg was a life member of the ANAF Veterans Unit 284 in Steveston. The family thanks Dr. Nixon, Dr. Yun and Dr. DHK Wong and the staff in Oncology and Palliative Care at Richmond Hospital. No service at Reg's request. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Ukrainian Hall, 5311 Francis Road, Richmond on May 25, 2008 from 1-4pm. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to the BC Cancer Society or Richmond Hospital Foundation. We miss you Poppa. Anchors away! (The Vancouver Sun and The Province 07 May 2008)

Served in the RCNVR and RCN - 15 May 1942 - 02 Apr 1967

HMCS ATHABASKAN - Served in ATHABASKAN during the Korean War

HMCS MARGAREE

HMCS MACKENZIE

SHEA, John Thorton, M.I.D., CERA, 20801-E, RCN - Born 22 Nov 1919  Died 05 Jan 1977

M.I.D. Citation:  SHEA, John Thornton, Chief Petty Officer First Class (CPO1) - Mention in Despatches - RCN / HMCS Athabaskan - Awarded as per Canada Gazette of 6 February 1954. "In the action at Chop-To on the 31st March, 1953, during which the ship came under enemy gunfire, CPO Shea, at his action station in the engine room, demonstrated remarkable qualities of leadership, quick thinking, resourcefulness and initiative, which materially helped the Engine Room Department to respond promptly to the many urgent demands made on them. These qualities, which he has shown at all times in this ship, were again most noticeable during the all night inshore actions of June 24th and 30th, which resulted in the destruction of two trains."

Portrait of PO John Shea

HMCS ATHABASKAN - Served in ATHABASKAN during the Korean War as a CPO.ERA, RCN

NEWHOOK, Murdock James, P1BN, RCN / C.A.F. (29 Aug 1929 - 27 Oct 2018) - Age 89, born in Hampden, N.L. and raised in Roddickton, died peacefully in his sleep in St. Vincent's Nursing Home, Halifax, on October 27, 2018. Son of William Newhook of Botwood, and Sarah Newhook, (Ralph) of Hampden. Predeceased by brother, Age 89, born in Hampden, N.L. and raised in Roddickton, died peacefully in his sleep in St. Vincent's Nursing Home, Halifax, on October 27, 2018. Son of William Newhook of Botwood, and Sarah Newhook, (Ralph) of Hampden. Predeceased by brother, Floyd; and sister, Adella. Survived by sisters, Aleta, Halifax; and Ruby, Rodickton. Murdock was a member of the Armed Forces serving in the RCN (Bosn) for 25 years. Retiring as Petty Officer 1st Class, he then served 15 years in the Auxiliary Navy in Halifax. He is survived by his wife, Frances (Kieley); children, James (Edna), Barbara Dejong (Darryl), Shawn (Tammy), Freeman Cull (Glenda). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Natasha, Sabrina, Kyle, Kristopher, Kody, Scott, Stephanie, Christine, Jessica, Nicole, Hollis, Terri-Lynn, and Alison; as well as 14 great-grandchildren. On Friday, November 2nd from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., a Celebration of Life will be held in Atlantic Funeral Home, 771 Main St., Dartmouth, NS B2W 3T9. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. Fair Winds and Following Seas (Halifax Chronicle Herald 31 Oct 2018)

HMCS IROQUOIS

BLACKHURST, Robinson Garth (Blackie), C1ER, RCN / C.A.F. - (12 Dec 1935 - 29 Oct 2019) Age 82, of Dartmouth. It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved father on October 29, 2018 in the Dartmouth General Hospital, surrounded by his daughters. After a long battle with heart and lung disease and dementia, he left us to be with his Heavenly Father. Born in 1935, he was a son of the late Madeline and Palmer Blackhurst. He was raised in Toronto until he was 16 when he left to join the military. He had a 25 year career as Chief Engineer in the Navy until he retired in 1976 as CPO1. He then worked at Halterm Container Pier and then off to Saint John Shipbuilding, as Chief Engineer on the military's new Tribal Class Frigates. After full retirement, he dedicated all of his time to serving the Lord. From travelling to Africa to build churches, to small counselling groups in his home, participating in prison ministries and being a strong member in his family church. Dad was at his best spreading God's word and helping others. As a standing member of AA, Dad recently celebrated his 42nd year of sobriety. Blackie is survived by his daughters, Shelly (Wayne) Hollett, Halifax; Sandy (Sam) Blackhurst, Cole Harbour; Valarie Blackhurst Wright, Edmonton, Alta.; and Gail, Halifax; grandchildren, Cole Robinson Blackhurst (his namesake), Cassandra, Rachael, Ryan and Courtney Mann. He was predeceased by his sister, Leora Dixon; brother, Warren Blackhurst; and his pride and joy, darling daughter, Lynda Blackhurst. Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Friday, November 2nd in Atlantic Funeral Home, 771 Main St., Dartmouth. The funeral service will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday November 3rd in the funeral home chapel, Pastor Carmen Crockett officiating with a reception to follow. Cremation to follow and interment to take place at a later date in Dartmouth Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia. Many thanks to the staff at the Berkeley, Dartmouth, for giving Dad the most respected and dignified last years of his life. Thanks also to the Palliative Emergency Team at Dartmouth General Hospital who treated Blackie and his daughters with such care and compassion, above and beyond their duty. Extra special thanks to Lacey who made Dad's last moments comfortable. (Halifax Chronicle Herald 31 Oct 2018)

HMCS HAIDA

CAMPBELL, Jack A., V31162, RCNVR - Date of passing unknown

Photo of Jack's duffle bag

HMCS PRINCE HENRY - Listed in 1943 ship's company photo

HMCS TECUMSEH

BUTSON, Harold - Died 1988

HMCS ARRAS, HMCS SKEENA

VIDLER, John Richard (Tarz), RCNVR / A-5824, RCNR (served 12 Feb 1943 - 14 Dec 1945) (10 Sep 1922 - 06 Sep 2001) - a lifelong resident of Erieau passed away September 6, 2001 at C.K.H.A., P.G.H. Born in Erieau 78 years ago, son of the late Charles and Mollie Paterson. John was born and raised in Erieau. He served in the Canadian Navy overseas in WWII and was a member of the Blenheim Branch 185 Legion. John sailed the Great Lakes for the Lake Erie Navigation Company for many years and was second mate of the Alexander Leslie. He later worked at the SWRC as a Stationary Engineer until his retirement. He and Ruth celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in August. He is survived by his wife the former Ruth Dunlop and children Gavie Goulet, Toronto, Suzanne and David Robert, Erieau, Jeff and Joyce Vidler, Toronto, grandchildren Krysta and Allan Taylor and great grandson David, Gregory Goulet, Julie Robert, sister Mary Remington, Chatham, brothers George and Jeanette Hartley and Mary Lou, O.J. and Mollie Vidler all of Erieau. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Predeceased by daughter Judith in 1977. Rested at the J.L. Ford Funeral Home for visitation Friday under auspices of Padre Bill Terris and President Peter Cumming with a Legion Service and where funeral service was Saturday with Rev. Sharon McCormick of St. Paul's Anglican Church officiating. Ralph Thomas gave the eulogy. The hymn "Amazing Grace" was heard during the service. Pallbearers were Greg Goulet. Jim Vidler, Dennis Dunlop, Ralph Thomas, Tim Parker and Allan Taylor. Members of the Legion formed the Honour Guard at the cemetery.

(JV01) John Vidler - 14 Jun 1944

(JV02) Article on John returning to duty after being hospitalized - Mar 1943

(JV03) Seaman Torpedoman Vidler

(JV04) John Vidler on unknown ship

HMCS PREVOST

HMCS ALGONQUIN

HMCS ORILLIA

FIERCE, Leo Thomas - Born: 13 Feb 1925  Died 08 Aug 1969

Portrait of Seaman Fierce

HMCS MATAPEDIA

BOICEY, Orville (Orv), C2ET, RCN - was born in 1924 in Almont, Ontario. His father, a First World War veteran, spoke of his experiences so his children might better understand patriotism. Orv completed grade nine in 1941, and in August, 1942 enlisted in the navy. He trained as a torpedo man at Cornwallis, Nova Scotia, and then joined the crew of the corvette, HMCS Nanaimo. Nanaimo protected convoys in the Western North Atlantic, on “the triangle run”. This refers to the three Atlantic ports of origin for convoys, St. John's, Halifax and New York. After the war, Orv pursued his career in the RCN - serving in all three of Canada's aircraft carriers, HMCS Warrior, HMCS Magnificent and HMCS Bonaventure, as well as the destroyers HMCS Wallaceburg and HMCS St. Croix. He retired with the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Orv died in 2003.

HMCS NANAIMO

HMCS WARRIOR

HMCS MAGNIFICENT - Served in Magnificent in 1949

HMCS BONAVENTURE - Served in Bonaventure in 1958 as a CPO

HMCS WALLACEBURG - Served in Wallaceburg after the Second World War

HMCS ST CROIX

RUSSELL, Anne (Ana) (nee Holunga), Leading Wren, WRCNS - It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our mother and grandmother, Anne Russell (nee Holunga) on October 29, 2018 at the age of 95 years. She was predeceased by her loving parents, Vasile and Magdelina Holunga and her brothers, Nestor and Ted, as well as her sisters, Mary and Roberta and three infant siblings, Gheorghe, Domnica and Veronica. She leaves to mourn her passing her daughter Karen (Donald) and cherished granddaughter Kalyn, as well as many dear nieces, nephews and treasured friends. Mother lived a long and full life. She believed in prayer and in peace and died as she lived with her values and principles still strong. She left behind her a legacy of truth and love. Mom was born in Lennard, Manitoba on September 10, 1923. She attended Shellbank School in Lennard and Riding Park School in Twin Brae. Her first job, at 13 years of age, was doing domestic work and chores for a district farmer which earned her a little extra money for the family. As a young girl, age 17, Anne went to Nelson, BC where, at various times she secured work at a local hospital, at a bakery and at a dry cleaning establishment. At the same time she attended business school and took courses in shorthand and typing. It was while she was in Nelson in 1942, that she enlisted in the Royal Canadian Navy (W.R.C.N.S.) Anne returned to Winnipeg where she waited for her call to the Navy following which she went to Galt, Ontario for her basic training and graduated to Wren status. She then went to Cornwallis, Nova Scotia for further extensive training and eventually became a Leading Wren. Soon after she went to Ottawa and in 1943 was assigned overseas. She travelled to Scotland on the ship The Queen Elizabeth and was then stationed in Gourock/Greenock on the Clyde. She was then placed on loan to the British Navy and assigned to the highly confidential Department of Warships Movements (ETA). In 1945 she was in London in Trafalgar Square where she celebrated VE Day. Returning to Canada, shortly thereafter, she was sent to Sydney (CBI), Nova Scotia for Decommissioning of Ships and subsequently to NSHQ NADEN at Victoria, BC where she was discharged and Demobilized. Over the years that followed she would fondly recall many of her special friends and the experiences she had during her years in the Navy. Up until the age of 90, she was an active member of the Retired Wrens Association. Following her return to Winnipeg after the war years, Anne attended United College (University of Winnipeg). She then worked for various firms and it was in May of 1954 that she was hired and employed by B. A. Robinson Company Ltd. where she eventually became office manager and accounts receivable supervisor. Anne retired after 35 happy years employed with the company. Throughout her life, Anne's accomplishments were many. She was an initial founder of St. George's Romanian Orthodox Church and also served as Treasurer. From the time of its inception (1973) Anne was also one of the original founders of the St. Demetrious Romanian Orthodox Church and served in the capacity of secretary of the board of directors for many years. As well she participated as both member and vice-president of the Ladies Auxiliary. Anne continued to attend weekly church services until May of 2018 and remained a board member and church trustee until just prior to the time of her passing. Her faith truly was a very significant part of her life. Anne initiated the inception of and was also an executive member of Pavilion Romania, a part of the yearly Folklorama festival in Winnipeg. She was the first mayor of the Pavilion and held that position for two consecutive years. Her involvement in all things cultural also extended to her participation with programs at the Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature. Mother often said "I thank God for my many Blessings, my family and my dear friends." "Dumnezeu s'o erte" Prayers will be held at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue on Sunday, November 4 at 4:00 p.m. Funeral service and Divine Liturgy will be held on Monday, November 5, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Demetrious Romanian Orthodox Church located at Furby and Westminster. Father Victor Malanca will officiate. A memorial lunch will take place in the church basement directly following the service. Interment will follow at Chapel Lawn Cemetery, 4000 Portage Avenue. (Winnipeg Free Press 03 Nov 2018)

Wrens Crossed the Bar Index

O'HEARN, Lappan Patrick, RCN (19 Oct 1922 - 28 Oct 2009)- WW2 Veteran, Member of the Knights of Columbus. Peacefully at the Carveth Care Centre, Gananoque, ON, on Wednesday October 28, 2009. Lappan O'Hearn, beloved husband of Mary Scott. Loving father of Frank (Heather), Jo-Ann Littlewood, Danny (Anna) and Chris (Gail). Cherished grandfather of 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Dear brother of Ioleen Bovey, Doris Bovey, Jean Ashton, Irene Tozer (Stan) and Gerald O'Hearn (Margaret). Predeceased by 1 brother Frank O'Hearn and by 5 sisters Marguerite Slack, Kay Beaubiah, Phyllis Stokes, Marcella Murray and Alice Deans, and by 1 son in law Rod Littlewood. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the Tompkins Funeral Home 63 Garden Street Gananoque on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated from St. John the Evangelist Church on Saturday October 31 at 11:00 am. Followed by cremation. Donations may be made in Lappan's memory to the Chalice Catholic Sponsorship Program. Parish prayers in the funeral home on Friday at 1:45 pm. A Legion Service will be held in the funeral home on Friday evening at 6:45 pm.

Portrait of Seaman O'Hearn

HMCS MATAPEDIA

JOHNSON, Peter Claude, PO1, RCN / C.A.F. (11 Jan 1941 - 04 Nov 2018) - passed away at 1:10 pm on Sunday, November 4, 2018 at the age of 77. By his side, was his wife of 57 years, Wendy “Beth” Johnson, his daughter, Sue Johnson, of Calgary, AB and his sister in-Law Karen Webb of Kamloops, BC. Peter was an only child and was predeceased by his both his mother and father, Dorthy S. and Ralph H. Johnson of White Rock, BC. Peter was a Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, where he spent the first 25 years of his career and continued his connection through the Rocky Mountain Rangers and the Vernon Cadet Camp. Peter was a lover of rescue animals and took comfort in his final days from his cat Smokey. For the many people who loved and adored Peter, there will be a military burial at sea in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary (www.yamnuskawolfdogsantuary.com) or the Kamloops SPCA..

Just an old submariner

He was just an old submariner; you see them now and then telling stories with his buddies of when they were younger men. Creative recollections of when they were strong and bold. Escapes that they recall but are best left and untold. Yet more than old submariner‘s, they are brothers of the phin. Those who've earned their Dolphins are forever welcomed in. And when they finally cross the brow on their eternal leave all their brothers everywhere take time to mutely grieve. Its true the flag at city hall will not fly at half mast but lots of old submariner’s will be thinking of the past. And reciting with his buddies as they sing the final hymn he was just an old submariner but we shall remember him.  (Kamloops this Week 07 Nov 2018)

HMCS GATINEAU

HMCS RAINBOW - Commissioning crew as a LS

HMCS GRILSE

JACOBS, Robert Joseph (Bob) - Passed away peacefully at home in Brantford with his family at his side on Thursday, February 26, 2009, in his 85th year. Loving husband of Evelyn and of the late Helen (nee Peters). Wonderful father of Steve, Paul, Gregg and Jennifer. Cherished Poppie of Azzure-Lea, Lindsay, Stephen, Matthew, Melinda and Michael. Fondly remembered by Donna Jacobs. Brother of Fred and Bonnie, Betty (deceased) and Joe McCarthy, Frances and Clare Richardson (both deceased), Jack and Mabel (both deceased), Ed (deceased) and Helen. Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Will be sadly missed by Donna and Fred Brinker, Danny and Dee Dee Harbour and families. Dad was a retiree from Dofasco, WW II Naval Vet, and Ham Radio Operator (VE3CJW). Many thanks to Dr. Jeff Manning, Jennifer Dennis, Candace Wells, Jennifer Budd, nurses Adrienne, Diane, and Susan for all their wonderful care and concern for dad during his illness. Cremation has taken place. Friends will be received at the Donald V. Brown Funeral Home, 36 Lake Ave. Drive, Stoney Creek on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. Memorial Service to be held at the Church of Our Saviour the Redeemer, 25 Lake Ave. South on Wednesday, March 4th at 1 p.m. Private interment to follow. In Bob’s memory, donations to the Stedman Hospice, 99 Wayne Gretzky Parkway, Brantford, Ontario M3S-6T6 would be appreciated by the family.

HMCS COPPER CLIFF

CROMPTON, Joseph Samuel - Born 21 Nov 1925   Died 23 Sep 2005

HMCS REGINA, HMCS ROSTHERN

STYLES, Robert Charles, Stoker Mechanic, 16208-H, RCN - date of passing unknown

HMCS NOOTKA - Served in Nootka c1951

TREPANIER, Joseph Bernard (J.B., Bernie) - Passed away peacefully at the Minden Hospital with his family at his side on Thursday, September 8, 2011. In his 87th year. Beloved husband of Evelyn. Dear father of David and his wife Mary of Minden, Donna and her husband Mark Taylor of Barrie, Alan and his wife Charlene of Calgary and Teresa and her husband Glenn Evans of Haliburton. Loving Papa to Meg, Steven (Amanda), Kyle, Nelson, Mallory, and Brian. Dear brother of Ola and Lou. Fondly remembered by his family, friends and neighbours. It was Bernie's wish for cremation. The family would like to invite friends to visit and share their memories of Bernie at the home of Dave and Mary Trepanier at 3934 Deep Bay Road, Minden on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. to share their memories of Bernie. Memorial Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

After the war, Bernie became a land survey for the Province of Ontario and lived in Minden, ON.

Portrait of JB Trepanier

HMCS KAPUSKASING

GUDBRAND, David, P1ET, RCN / C.A.F. (06 Feb 1937 - 22 Oct 2018) - David was born in Vancouver and raised in Port Kells, near Langley, by his Aunt Bren and Uncle Sam. He snuck into the Navy at age 16, not something you could do these days... He served on several ships including the Yukon, Provider, New Glasgow and Cayuga as an electrician. He retired from the Navy after 25 years of service with the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He continued to work in the private sector for a couple of years and then switched to the Esquimalt Dockyard refitting ships with modern electronic systems on our Navy's fleet. His retirement years were spent with his wife and Partner Mair. They enjoyed camping and socializing with friends and neighbors. Dave spent many a summer and fall volunteering at a forestry owned campground on Cowichan lake helping run day to day services. Dave and Mair especially enjoyed visiting with close friends on Hornby Island. David was not well the last couple of months of his life and succumbed to his respiratory illness early in the morning on Oct. 22. He was preceded by his son David and his partner Mair and is survived by His Sister Rita, her family, Florence mother to Dawn and Dana. Mair's family Sian, Karen, Beth and Steve and their children. We would like to ask those whom knew Dave to take the time to tell their family and friends how important they are in your life. We are here for such a short time. Love Ya Dad.

Photo of David Gudbrand's 1967 Leadership Course

HMCS YUKON, HMCS NEW GLASGOW, HMCS CAYUGA, HMCS CHAUDIERE, HMCS PROVIDER

DEZALL, Samuel Alpheus, Lt (S.B.), RCNVR - Born 01 Apr 1887 in Hopefull, ON to John and Mary (Kinnell) Dezall. Died 01 Aug 1956 in Victoria, BC. Samuel is buried in the Royal Oak Burial Park, Victoria, BC.  Samuel was 54 years of age when he joined the RCNVR and served in WW 2.

Photo of SLt Samuel Dezall

HMCS PRINCE ROBERT - Appointed to Prince Robert 11 Sep 1940 as a SLt (S.B.), RCNVR

BELL, Arthur Everett (Daisy), Radar Operator, V1641, RCNVR, - Born 19 Sep 1923  Died 14 Oct 2001

(1) Portrait of Arthur Bell  (2) Photo of Arthur Bell holding HMCS Skeena's badge  (3) Arthur's headstone

HMCS SKEENA

DeFRANE, Alfred (Alf), AB.GM, RCNVR (served 1942-1945) (1923-1995) - Gunners Mate on B-Gun as loader on HMCS Prince Rupert.  Alf was demobilized in Esquimalt, BC on 04 Sep 1945. During his time on Prince Rupert, his gun crew made the Liberty Magazine in 1944. He traveled through the Panama Canal, to Bermuda, Scotland, Ireland, Italy and around thE Mediterranean. After the war, Alf returned to Canada and began a career in Funeral Service.  

Medals:  1939-45 Star, Atlantic Star, Italy Star, CVSM, War Medal 1939-45.

Portrait of Alfred DeFrane

HMCS PRINCE RUPERT

CHATFIELD, Walter, CPO - Born Nov 1900  Died 1976

Photo of Walter and his brothers - all were in the navy.

HMCS BARRIE

CHATFIELD, Harold - date of passing unknown

CHATFIELD, Stanley - date of passing unknown

WILSON, Russell Bruce, Signalman (20 Apr 1922 - 01 Nov 2018) - Our dear dad died peacefully in Rocky Mountain House Clearwater Centre, on November 1, 2018, with our sister Sharyn by his side. In October 2017, Russell was predeceased by his loving wife Dorothy, just two months short of their 75th wedding anniversary. Of his siblings, only sister Maudie Anderson remains, having previously lost brothers Bud, Ed, Jake, and Max. Russell is survived and will be missed by his children, Laverne (Ben) Zuk, Sharyn Menon, Maureen (Dale) Pateman, Ken Wilson, Guy (Carolyn) Wilson, Larry (Shannon) Wilson, and Charlotte (Michael) Scott, his grandchildren: Collin Zuk, Kevin (Jody) Zuk, Alan Menon, Asha (Rob) Belisle, Holly (Brian Gottmers) Pateman, Mackenzie (Jeremy) Bell, Grayson and Gillian Scott and great grandchildren: Stephen, Olivia and Carter Zuk, Sean, Ella and Dane Menon, Calli Belisle, Liam and Anise Gottmers, Sophie, Harry and Bernadette Bell. As well, Russell will be missed by his many relatives and friends. Russ and Dorothy were both raised in Big River, Saskatchewan and were married on December 5, 1942. After joining the Navy Russ was posted to Prince Rupert, B.C. where, as a signalman, he was tasked with training Army personnel. He was later posted to Victoria where he and Dorothy started their family once the war was over. Laverne, Sharyn, Maureen, and Ken were born in Victoria. In 1953 the family moved to Innisfail, Alberta, where Russ built a trucking business and where Guy was born. In 1960 Russ had the opportunity to buy the UFA Co-op business and the family moved to Olds when Dorothy was 8 months pregnant with Larry. Charlotte arrived 3 years later, to the day. Russ worked incredibly hard and took the fuel delivery business to new heights with Dorothy at his side. They were both very involved in the community and donated their time and energy to the Elks and Royal Purple, the Legion, the Olds United Church, and the Olds Elks (Chinook Hockey League) where Russ served as manager and Dorothy did her utmost to be their most vocal fan. With semi-retirement they began spending 6 months of every year in Mesa, Az., where they met many old friends and gained many new ones. When they were in Olds, Russ drove the Sunshine Bus and Dorothy volunteered her time as the dispatcher. They were always avid campers and this continued until they were well into their 80s. Losing Dorothy was hard on Russ and although dementia was taking its toll, he always kept a picture of his "angel" and kissed her every single day. Sometimes several times a day. We will miss both of our parents dearly but take great comfort in knowing that they are now reunited for eternity. We are very grateful to the staff at Sunrise Village in Olds and the staff at the Cottage, Clearwater Centre in Rocky Mountain House for the incredible kindness shown to our parents. Memorial services were held on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at Olds United Church with Reverend Tammy Allan officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch # 105, Olds. The family would like to recognize the compassionate, supportive, and efficient services provided by Heartland Funeral Services following the passing of both our parents. (Mountain View Gazette 08 Nov 2018)

PRIOR, Charlie - date of passing unknown. Survived by his wife Betty; son Edward and daughter Teresa (known as Terry).

ROSE, Clifford, P1RP/ NESOP - died 07 Nov 2018

DARWIN, Percy Vincent, OS, V6995, RCNVR - Veteran WWII - Royal Canadian Navy Survivor of HMCS Weyburn 1943. Friday, May 3, 2002. Percy Vincent Darwin age 77. He was loved so very much and will be missed so terribly by his wife Anne. Much loved father of Bruce (Lise), Margo (Terry O'Connor), Judy (Leo Turner), Wendy (Paul Tosh), Debbie (Neil Quinn) and step-father of Mike Carrigan and Tim Carrigan (Debbie). Cherished grandfather of 12 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was dearly loved by sister Josephine (the late Doug Burrill), brothers Howard (Connie) and Rupert. Special cousin of Nola Gormley. Predeceased by first wife Norma Kenyon and brother Jack. Friends may pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home, 585 Somerset Street (Centretown) Monday 7 to 9 p.m. and Tuesday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Wednesday to Wesley United Church, 31 Graham Avenue, for Service at 2 p.m. Interment at Pinecrest Cemetery. Donations to the Ottawa Boys & Girls Club appreciated. (Ottawa Citizen 05 May 2002)

HMCS WEYBURN - Survived the sinking of HMCS Weyburn. He was an OS at the time of the sinking

TIPSON, Andrew (Andre), Tel, V1878, RCNVR - Born 1923.  Died Jan 1979, Montreal, QC.

Wartime notes/diary of Andrew Tipson

HMCS JOLIETTE

NICHOLLS, John William (Jack), Submarine Detector (SD) - Died of cancer 10 May 1966, age 46, Ottawa, ON.

HMCS MATAPEDIA

WILSON, Lee Edward - Born 1931 - Died 1975

HMCS IROQUOIS - Served in Iroquois during her 3rd Korean War tour

GAUTHIER, Fernand - Died 18 Oct 2018

Fernand Gauthier with his family - Remembrance Day 2016

HMCS THETFORD MINES