Dernière sonnerie

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Donald “Don” Belford Dunlop (Ret’d) at the Colchester Regional Hospital, Truro, NS on 3 June 2008 at the age of 88 years.

Don was born in Center Burlington, NS and raised in River Denys, Cape Breton.  He was a veteran of the Second World War who served in the 5^th Field Company.  After the war, he worked for 35 years at Camp Debert, NS as an electrician until his retirement in 1988.  Don was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch No. 26 Colchester. 

A Royal Canadian Legion Tribute Service will be held on 9 June at 2:00 PM in Watson Cemetery in Truro. Reception to follow at 55 Harris Drive.  Donations may be made to the Colchester Regional Hospital Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.colchestercommunity.com.  ^{{dcJan19gd} [zpp ]}

We regret to advise of the death of Major Alan Arthur Macdonald Stewart (Ret’d) on 31 May 2008 at the age of 93.

Alan was born in Comox BC and educated locally before attending Oregon State University in Corvallis Oregon USA.  He started his working career in 1936 in the forest industry on Central Vancouver Island for Bloedel Stewart & Welch Limited before joining the Army.  He was a WW II veteran who served with the Royal Canadian Engineers 1941 – 1945 and served overseas with 22 Field Company. During his lifetime Alan served a total of 39 years with the Militia, Active Army and Reserves and attained the rank of Major. 

After demobilization, Alan returned to engineering in Port Alberni BC working for Bloedel Stewart & Welch Ltd.  In 1958 he left forestry work to become a farmer at Amblecote, Duncan BC.  He later served as the Overseas Commissioner of The Stewart Society of Edinburgh, Scotland and Honorary Commodore of the Maple Bay Yacht Club in Duncan.

A celebration of Alan's life will be held at the Maple Bay Yacht Club on 12 June at 3:00 pm. ^{{gdAug2016kh}}

We regret to advise that Lucien Omer Lafrance died on 29 May 2008 at the age of 88 after a lengthy illness.

Born and raised in Ottawa, Lucien served during WW II in England and France. In 1954 he rejoined the Canadian Army and the Royal Canadian Engineers and served in Chilliwack, Ottawa and Germany. Luc retired from the Canadian Forces in 1968 and pursued a career with the Department of Public Works 1968- 1980.

A memorial Service was held on 4 June at the Valley View Funeral Home in Surrey BC. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

We regret to advise that Master Warrant Officer Stanley Lloyd Stothard (Ret'd) passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness on 29 May 2008 at the age of 68, at Glengarry Hospital, Chandler Unit.

Stan joined the Canadian Army in 1956 as a Sapper Apprentice. He soon transferred to the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry and had a full career, retiring in 1983 at the rank of Master Warrant Officer.

A family service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Colonel Anthony Arthur Humphreys, CD (Ret'd) who passed away on 23 May 2008 in Victoria while recovering from heart bypass surgery.

Born in 1938 in Australia, Tony immigrated to Canada with his parents and siblings in 1952. Upon graduation from North Vancouver High School, Tony joined the Canadian Army in 1956 and trained under the Regular Officer Training Plan while attending the University of British Columbia. Completing his studies in 1961, he commenced a 33-year career with the Canadian Military Engineers as a Troop Commander in 3 Field Squadron, RCE in Chilliwack, BC. This was followed by a two-year posting with Recruit Training Squadron in the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering at Chilliwack.

Tony then went to Tanzania, East Africa, for a year with the Canadian Armed Forces Advisory & Training Team as Company Commander and Engineer Staff Officer. Returning to Canada in 1967, Tony was Second-In-Command, 2 Field Squadron RCE, at Camp Gagetown, NB for a year before he was posted to 1 Airborne Engineer Squadron as its Second-In-Command. He was appointed Commanding Officer in 1969. After this tour, Tony proceeded to England to undertake staff training at the British Army Staff College, Camberley. Upon completion of this course, Tony was a Planning Staff Officer, Military Plans and Operations Division at National Defence Headquarters for a year before embarking on a one-year tour as Station Commander and Staff Officer with the United Nations Military Observer Group In India and Pakistan 1973 - 1974.

Upon his return to Canada, Tony was appointed Officer Commanding Military Engineering Squadron at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering, 1975 - 1977. He then went back to NDHQ, Ottawa as Director of Property Records and Legal Services for a year before starting a four year appointment as Base Technical Services Officer, CFB Borden. He then returned to NDHQ in 1982 for a three-year assignment as Executive Officer to the Vice-Chief of the Defence Staff. In 1985 Tony was posted to Pacific Militia Area, Vancouver, first as Deputy Chief of Staff and, upon promotion to Colonel, as Chief of Staff until his retirement in 1989.

In 1991 Tony accepted an appointment by the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia as Sergeant-at-Arms and was serving in that position at the time of his passing. Tony enjoyed sailing, spending many happy hours on his boat "Wombat" as well as passing on his sailing knowledge and life experience at the Sail and Life Training Society. Tony also enjoyed flying, receiving his private pilot license in 1963. In 1985 Tony and his foster-son Lucien flew "EMJ" across Canada. As well as other volunteer community work, for many years Tony was very active at the Anglican Christ Church Cathedral serving in a number of voluntary capacities.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00pm on Monday 9 June 2008 at Christ Church Cathedral, 930 Burdett Avenue, Victoria, BC, with reception to follow at the Cathedral.

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We regret to advise of the death of Gilbert Frederick (Fred) Marsden who died suddenly at home on 22 May 2008 in Sarnia, ON.

Fred was born in Sarnia and served overseas in World War ll with the Royal Canadian Engineers in 4^th Armoured Division. He retired from Co-operators Insurance in 1982.

At Fred's request there was no visitation. Cremation took take place followed by a private family graveside service. Donations to the Lung Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Fred's memory would be greatly appreciated by the family.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Nelson Garnet “Cowboy” Brydges on 20 April 2008 at Bluewater Health Palliative Care in Sarnia ON in his 88^th year.

Nelson was born in Camlachie ON. He was a veteran of the Second World War and enlisted in the Royal Canadian Engineers, joining the 7^th Field Company in London on 30 June 1941. He did one month of training in London at Wolseley Barracks, two months in Chatham for Basic Training, and two months in Petawawa for advanced training with guns and bridges. He married his life-long wife Audrey in November and left Halifax on 6 December 1941 and arrived in England on Christmas Day. He spent the next two years in various locations receiving more training, and qualifying as a dispatch rider. At some point while in Britain, Nelson was posted to the 3^rd Canadian Infantry Division. He took part in the initial assault in Normandy on D-Day where his brother, Private Robert William Brydges serving with the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa, died two days later. Nelson continued through France, Belgium, Holland and Germany. He was discharged at Wolseley Barracks in London ON on October 1945.

Nelson received his nickname “Cowboy” because he always wore a cowboy hat, boots and jeans – a throwback to his younger days around horses. He loved animals all his life. Nelson was a bowler and played in many leagues and was still bowling in early March. He made many friends through his bowling associations. He was a 40-year member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Sarnia and Wyoming ON.

Nelson’s funeral service will be held on 24 April at 11:00 AM at the Smith Funeral Home in Sarnia. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home on 23 April 2008 from 2:00 until 4:00 PM and 7:00 until 9:00 PM. Sympathy donations may be made to War Amps or the charity of your choice. Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca.

We regret to advise of the death of Thomas Howard Brown of Sydney Mines, NS on 18 May 2008, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital at the age of 79 years.

Thomas was a Korean War veteran who also served in the Royal Canadian Engineers throughout Canada.  After retiring from the Army, he was employed with Clarke's Taxi in Sydney Mines for many years. He was also a lifelong member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #8 in Sydney Mines.

According to Thomas’ wishes, there will be no visitation. Funeral service will be held 20 May at 10:00 AM in the Fillmore & Whitman Funeral Home Chapel with burial in Brookside Cemetery.  Donations may be made to the Veterans’ Wing of Harbour View Hospital, Sydney Mines.

We regret to advise of the death of Marcel “Tom” Blair at Concordia Place Hospital in Winnipeg, MB on 17 May 2008 at the age of 88 years.

Tom was born in Falher, AB and left home early to join the Canadian Army.  He was a Second World War veteran who served with the 6^th Field Company of the Royal Canadian Engineers and landed in Normandy on D-Day.

After the war Tom settled in Edmonton where he worked for the Canadian National Railways (CNR) at various line points in the maintenance of buildings and bridges.  In 1962 he moved to Winnipeg where he worked in the CNR shops in Transcona as a sheet metal worker until his retirement in 1981.  Tom was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Transcona Branch #7 in Winnipeg.  He served in many executive positions including President and was active in many activities including the Poppy Fund and Wheelchair Committee. Tom was also a Life Member of the Moose Lodge.

A Memorial service will be held on 22 May at the Transcona Funeral Chapel with interment in the Field of Honour in the Transcona Cemetery.  Donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Alzheimer’s Society.  ^{{dcFeb2017gd} [zsp, zpi]}

We regret to advise of the death of Bruce W. Miller on 17 May 2008.

Bruce was born in Toronto, ON in 1925.  He was a veteran of the Second World War who enlisted in 1944 and served with the 1^st Field Squadron, Royal Canadian Engineers in Italy and Northwest Europe.  He was discharged in May 1946.  After the war, Bruce returned home to his family and a previous job at Goodyear Tires. ^{{dcNov2017gd} [zsp, zbd]}

We regret to advise of the death of Robert (Bob) Morley Richardson of Calgary who passed away on 14 May 2008 at the age of 86.

Robert was born in Toronto and graduated from the University of Toronto (Chemical Engineering) in 1943. He served with the Royal Canadian Engineers from 1942 to 1946 and was employed by Gulf Canada for thirty-six years.

A private Celebration of Bob's life will be held at McInnis & Holloway's Park Memorial Chapel. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Calgary Humane Society, 4455 - 110 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2C 2T7 or to the charity of the donor's choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Roland David "Rollie" Zinc who passed away peacefully in Lillian Fraser Memorial Hospital, Tatamagouche, NB on 9 May 2008 at the age of 89.

Born in Cape John, Rollie was a Royal Canadian Engineer veteran of the Second World War having served in 23^rd Field Company in Holland and Germany. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 108, River John, receiving his 60-year membership pin, and was one of the founding members of River John Volunteer Fire Department. He was a fisherman and an auto body shop owner for over 30 years.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. In MacLeod's Funeral Home, River John. Funeral service will beheld on Monday at 2 p.m. In St. John the Baptist Anglican Church, River John, with Rev. Marilyn Lamb officiating. Burial in Cape John Cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations may be made to the River John Fire Department, Anglican Church or a charity of choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Anselm Theodore "Sam" D'Eon of Lower East Pubnico, NS on 8 May 2008, in Yarmouth Regional Hospital at the age of 89.

Born in West Pubnico, he was a veteran of the Second World War having served in the Royal Canadian Artillery and the Royal Canadian Engineers. He worked the majority of his life as a carpenter.

Visitation will be Sunday, 11 May from 3:30-9:00 p.m. With a Legion service at 7:30 p.m., and Monday 9:00-9:30 a.m. In West Pubnico Funeral Home, Middle West Pubnico. Funeral will be 10:00 a.m. Monday in Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, Middle East Pubnico. Interment in the parish cemetery. Family flowers only. Donations in memory may be made to the Victorian Order of Nurses Tri-County Branch, Parkinson Society Canada or IWK Health Centre Foundation.

We regret to advise of the death of August Joseph Degenstein peacefully at Vulcan Extendicare Centre, Vulcan, AB on 8 May 2008 at the age of 94.

August was born at Berwick, North Dakota USA but moved at a young age to Turin, AB where his family settled before later moving to Lomond AB. August was a WW II veteran who served with the Royal Canadian Engineers from 1942 to 1945 where he saw action on the Continent.  After demobilisation, he moved to Warner, AB and worked at farming before settling in 1948 in the Champion, AB area where he purchased and worked his own farm.

A Funeral Mass will be held on 12 May at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Champion with interment in the Champion Cemetery.  Donations may be made to the Champion Cemetery Maintenance Association, Box 99, Champion, T0L 0R0 or Vulcan Extendicare Auxiliary, Box 810, Vulcan, T0L 2B0. ^{{gdJul2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the passing of James William Leach on 5 May 2008 at the age of 73.

Jim joined the Army as a member of the Royal Canadian Engineers then transferred to the Army Physical Training Cadre in 1955. He progressed rapidly through the ranks and retired as a major. Among other locations he served in Chilliwack and National Defence Headquarters, Ottawa.

No visitation or burial as per Jim's wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations to your local Humane Society would be appreciated.

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal George Harry Forrister (Ret’d) of Kelvington, SK on 5 May 2008 at the Sunnyside Adventist Care Centre at the age of 95 years.

George was born in Rugeley, in the County of Staffordshire in England, one of eight children. In June of 1924, he came to Canada with his family, settling in the Paswegin area of Saskatchewan. George was a veteran of the Second World War who served in the 9^th Field Squadron, Royal Canadian Engineers.  On returning home, he farmed and made his home in Kelvington until 1999 when he and his wife moved into Saskatoon.  George was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 19 in Kelvington.

A Memorial Service will be held at Park Funeral Chapel in Saskatoon, SK at 3:00 PM on 9 May followed by Interment in Kelvington Cemetery at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Saskatchewan or to a charity of the donor's choice.  ^{{dcJan19gd} [zpp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Francis Patrick "Frank" Martin, formerly of Ketch Harbour, NS, in Halifax on 3 May, 2008 at the age of 83.

Educated at College Street School, St. Mary's College and Nova Scotia Technical College, he received his degree in electrical engineering. A former employee of Maritime Tel and Tel, Frank retired as Supervisor Engineer. He served 15 years in the Militia with 30^th Field Squadron RCE.

Visitation will be held in J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 2666 Windsor St., Halifax, on Wednesday, May 7, from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m. A memorial mass will be held at St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica on Thursday, May 8, at 10:00 a.m. Internment will take place in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Ketch Harbour. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the QEII Health Sciences Centre, Palliative Care, 1278 Tower Rd., Halifax NS B3H 2Y9, or a charity of your choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Gordon F. Pascoe on 23 April 2008 at the age of 92 years.

Gordon was born in Fleming, SK. In 1932 his family moved to Elkhorn, MB where he completed school. Gordon began working for the Beaver Lumber Company in Elkhorn but was transferred to St. Catharines, ON in 1939. He joined the Canadian Army in 1942 and served with the Royal Canadian Engineers. After serving in Canada and England, Gordon saw action in France, Belgium and Holland. He was discharged in 1946.

On returning to Canada, Gordon returned to Beaver Lumber and later worked for Canadian Tire in St. Catharines.

In accordance with Gordon's wishes, cremation has taken place. Gordon's family will receive visitors at the George Darte Funeral Chapel in St. Catharines on 27 April from 12 pm to 1 pm. A funeral service to celebrate Gordon's life will follow in the chapel at 1 pm. A private family interment will take place at a later date. If desired, memorial donations can be made to Habitat For Humanity or The Salvation Army. ^{{dcNov17gd} [zsd, zpp]}

We regret to advise of the passing of Lieutenant-Colonel David Veitch, CD (Ret'd) at the Ottawa General Hospital on 23 April 2008 at the age of 85 years.

Dave's military service began in January 1938 as a sapper with the 7^th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers [Non-Permanent Active Militia] in London. He attended the Royal Military College in Kingston from 1940-1943 and went overseas in 1943 as an engineer reinforcement officer. Landing in Normandy on D-Day plus 3, he joined the 31^st Field Company near Boulogne, France in September 1944 and was with them until VE Day. Serving with the International Commission for Supervision and Control in South Vietnam in 1965-66, LCol Veitch was seconded to Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to supervise the construction of Rehabilitation Centres at Quan Ngai. He retired in 1988, after 48 years of service. He was a strong supporter of the Military Engineer Association of Canada.

There will be a private family service. Memorial tributes/donations may be made to the RMC Club of Canada Foundation, Kingston, Ontario K7K 5L0.

We regret to advise the death of Lance Corporal William Thomas “Bill” Erwin (Ret’d) on 22 April 2008 at the Brockville General Hospital, Brockville ON, at the age of 82 years.

Bill was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #96 in Brockville.

Visitation will take place at the Barclay Funeral Home, 137 Pearl Street East, Brockville on 25 April from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 PM.  A Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel of the Funeral Home on 26 April at 11:00 AM with interment to follow at the Athens, ON Cemetery. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Canadian Diabetes Association.  ^{{dcOct17gd} [zsd, zsp, zcc]}

Nous regrettons de vous annoncer le décès du Caporal Albert Simard, CD (retiré) à l’Hôpital Chauveau, le 20 avril 2008 à l’âge de 63 ans.

Albert était un sapeur qui a servi la grande majorité de sa carrière à Valcartier avec le 5 Régiment du génie de combat.

La famille recevra les condoléances au Complexe Funéraire du Parc Commémoratif La Souvenance, 301, rang Ste-Anne, Quartier Laurentien, Ste-Foy le 24 avril 2008 de 13h30 à 14h30.  Une liturgie de la parole suivra à 14h30 en la chapelle du Parc Commémoratif La Souvenance.

Vos témoignages de sympathie peuvent se traduire par un don à la Fondation des maladies du Cœur du Québec, 4715, avenue des Replats, bur. 261, Québec (Québec) G2J 1B8. ^{{gdMar2018} [zcc, zsd, zsp, zkh]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Hubert Emmerson LeDrew on 10 April 2008 in Sydney, NS. Hubert was born in Conception Bay, NFL, in 1918. A WW II D-Day Veteran, he enlisted in the Army in October 1939 and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers. Hubert was stationed in Fredericton, NB, and then went to Petawawa, ON to complete his training. He trained as a Chemical Warfare Specialist. Overseas, Hubert served in France, Holland and Germany.

After the war Hubert settled in Sydney and worked in the steel plant as a rigger.

Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 12.

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Carman A. Gainer (Ret'd) at the Milton District Hospital, Milton ON on 5 April 2008 ten days short of his 82^nd birthday.

Carman was a WW II veteran who served with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  Following his demobilisation, in 1946 he joined the Canadian National Railway where he enjoyed a 36-year career as a locomotive engineer.  After leaving the CNR he worked with Standard Bred horses and as a volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross and Canadian Cancer Society.

Visitation will be at the McKersie-Kocher Funeral Home, 114 Main Street, Milton from 2 - 4 p.m. and 7 - 9 p.m. on 8 April.  A Funeral Mass will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 139 Martin Street, Milton on 9 April at 11:00 a.m.  Donations may be made to the Milton District Hospital Foundation or the Willow Foundation for the enhancement of the quality of life of seniors and disabled adults in the Halton ON Region, (www.willowfoundation.ca). Letters of condolence may be left for the family at www.mckersie-kocher.ca. ^{{gdJul2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Abram Waldner (Ret'd) of Nipawin, SK on 5 April 2008 at the age of 87 years.

Abram was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the Royal Canadian Engineers. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Nipawin. ^{{dcmar17}[zsd, zcc]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant John Mackesy (Ret'd) on 2 April 2008.

Born in London, England in 1915, his military affinity started early in life as the son of QMS John Mackesy, Royal Engineers, who served in South Africa, Boer War, the majority of WW I in the trenches of France and Belgium and then with the Chief Engineer's Staff in Cologne, Germany. John joined the British Territorial Army as a boy of 17 and served briefly with the Royal Corps of Signals. He later joined the British regular army in the mid-30's as a gunner in the Royal Horse Artillery and saw service in Singapore and Aden. Returning to England, John was a police constable in Southend, England and was mobilized on the outbreak of war and taken into the Royal Engineers where he served in 1 Stevedore Company, RE [British Expeditionary Force] in Brest, France from 1939 until evacuation during Dunkirk in 1940. During WW II due to his prior police experience he was demobilized from the Royal Engineers and enlisted into MI5 (counter espionage) where he served the remainder of the war. Post-war, John returned to the Southend Police force.

In 1953 he answered the call from Canada for former British soldiers to join for the Korean War and joined the Royal Canadian Engineers in England. He never did get to Korea but served with 1 Field Squadron, RCE that included the Squadron's tour in Werl, Germany from 1955 and the subsequent relocation to Petawawa in 1957. John stayed with the Squadron until 1961 at which time he was posted to the Royal Canadian School of Military Engineering, Chilliwack. He retired in 1965 as a sergeant while at RCSME.

After retirement, John re-located to Richmond and worked for a number of years at the University of British Columbia. He retired from UBC to became a "Snowbird" - RV'ing to Arizona for a number of years and finally settled on Vancouver Island.

We regret to advise of the death of Basil Belchuk, peacefully on 23 March 2008 in Windsor, ON at the age of 90 years.

Basil was a Second World War veteran who served in the Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Windsor Branch #594.

Visitation will take place at Families First Funeral Home & Tribute Centre, 3260 Dougall Avenue, Windsor on 25 March 3:00 – 5:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 PM. A Royal Canadian Legion Veteran's Memorial Service will take place at 8:00 PM.  Donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.  ^{{dcJan2017gd} [zsp, zsd, zcc]}

We regret to advise of the death of Captain James Alister Grant Campbell (Ret’d) peacefully on 12 March 2008.

Born in 1922 in Cornwall, ON, he served with the Black Watch and the Royal Canadian Engineers during WW II after which he joined the Reserves in the Intelligence Corps and retired with the rank of Captain.

After the war James entered the University of New Brunswick to study forestry but switched to law at the University of British Columbia where he graduated in 1952 with a law degree and moved to Ottawa, ON to work as an Assistant Crown Attorney.

In 1958, at age 35, James was elected as a Member of Parliament for the Stormont ON riding, becoming , at that time, Canada's youngest ever Member of Parliament. As an outspoken backbencher, he championed trade and defence issues.

After leaving politics James moved to Almonte, ON where he established a rural legal practice in neighbouring Carleton Place. From 1975-87 he was a member of the Ontario Municipal Board, presiding over planning, zoning and land compensation claims.

In 1996, James retired in the historic village of Williamstown, ON. ^{{gdSep2015kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Leading Fireman Samuel Denis “Sam” Posten on 12 March 2008 in the Wascana Rehabilitation Centre, Veterans’ Unit in Regina SK at the age of 93 years.

Sam was born and raised in Regina. He was a veteran of the Second World War and after serving in the Regina Rifle Regiment from August 1940 until May 1942, joined the Corps of Canadian Firefighters.  With no previous firefighting experience, Sam was taken on strength in June 1942, with the rank of Junior Fireman. In August, he was posted to Station 19A-1L in Plymouth, England for basic training. By December 1942, he had completed his training and was attained the rank of Fireman. He was promoted to Senior Fireman in June 1943 and to Leading Fireman a year later. Sam spent most of his time in London and Plymouth fighting fires through the Blitz and subsequent German bombing.

Sam returned home to Canada and worked as proprietor of the Lindsay Lucky Dollar Store in Regina. He later joined the custodial staff at the University of Regina and later served with the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires at the Regina Armoury and HMCS Queen.

A Celebration of Sam's life will be held on Saturday 15 March at 2:00 PM in the Chapel at the Wascana Hospital in Regina. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sam’s memory to the Veterans' Unit 3-6 Wascana Rehab or to a charity of your choice. ^{dcMar20kh}

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Robert James Foster (Ret’d) of Dundas, ON at the age of 89 years on 11 March 2008.

Robert was a veteran of the Second World War and served in the 33^th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Valley City Branch #36 in Dundas.

Robert is buried in the Grove Cemetery in Dundas Ontario ^{{dcJan19gd} [zsd, zcc, zpp]}

We regret to advise of the death of Master Corporal Pierre Morin, CD (Ret'd) in hospital after a long illness in Chicoutimi QC on 10 March 2008 at the age of 56.

Pierre was born in Montmagny QC and enrolled in the Canadian Forces in 1974 at Quebec City QC. After graduating from Recruit School in St-Jean QC and completing his basic Fire Fighter training at the Canadian Forces Fire Academy, Borden ON, he was posted to Canadian Forces Base Bagotville QC in 1976 where he served five years in the Bagotville Fire Department.  This was followed with a two year posting aboard HMCS Skeena out of CFB Halifax NS and then he returned to Bagotville for a second tour of four and a half years. In 1989 he was posted to CFB North Bay ON Fire Department as a Deputy Platoon Chief and Fire Inspector.

In 1994, Pierre took his release from the Armed Forces under the 20/40 Retirement Plan and settled in Ville-de-la- Baie QC. He joined the Air Reserve at 3 Wing Bagotville in 1995 and was employed as a fire prevention officer.  Pierre served a total of 30 years.

Visitation will be held on 13 and 14 March at Salon Gravel &Fils Funeral Home, 873 de la Fabrique Road in La Baie.  A funeral service will take place on 14 March at St-Alphonse Church across from the Funeral Home.  Donations may be made to “Fondation de Ma Vie” Foundation, Haematology-Oncology department, Chicoutimi Hospital.  ^{{gdJul2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Lieutenant Albert Leslie “Les” Brown, BSc(Ret') at the Toronto Western Hospital in Toronto ON, on 9 March 2008 at the age of 89.

Les was born in New Liskeard ON and his family survived the great Temiskaming ON fire of 1922. He attended Public and High School in New Liskeard and graduated from Queen’s University in Kingston ON in 1943 with a BSc in Civil Engineering.  He is a veteran of WW II having served with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  After the war Les joined Ontario Hydro retiring in 1976 to Cavan ON near Peterborough before finally moving back to Toronto in 2003.

A Memorial Service will be held on 5 April at Kingston Road United Church, 975 Kingston Road, Toronto. Visitation will be before the service.  Cremation and private interment will take place. Donations may be made to the Queen's University Student Financial Assistance Fund, Kingston ON, K7L 3N6, or to a charity of one’s choice. ^{{gdMar2016kh}}

Albert's brother Sidney served in the Infantry during the Second World War.

Ken (Red) Redman, former RCE Heavy Equipment Operator passed away in Chilliwack on 5 March 2008.

We regret to advise of the death of Corporal Frederick “Fred” Samuel Bland (Ret’d) peacefully on 5 March 2008 at Alexander Place in Waterdown, ON in his 88^th year.

Fred was a Second World War veteran who served in the 2^nd Battalion, Royal Canadian Engineers.  He was a Life Member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #551 in Waterdown, Life Member of the War Amps of Canada, a member of the Masonic Lodge #357 and an Honorary Member of the Rameses Shrine Temple in Scarborough, ON.  He was President of the Scarborough Baseball Association and served as an Alderman in Ward Six in Scarborough for many years before he retired to the Waterdown area in 1980.

There will be a private cremation and interment in Mount Hope Cemetery, Toronto, ON.  Donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.  ^{{dcFeb2017gd} [zpp, zsd, zcc]}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Osborne Ross “Sonny” Totten (Ret’d) of London, ON peacefully at Parkwood Veterans Hospital on 5 March 2008 at the age of 93 years.

Sonny was born and raised in Forest, ON.  He was a veteran of the Second World War. He enlisted in the Army in November 1939 and served six years in the Royal Canadian Engineers seeing action in Italy. He was hospitalized three times during the war and returned home with seventeen pieces of shrapnel still in his body. His Army career was tumultuous and he claimed being promoted to sergeant three times and reduced back to Sapper each time. He was discharged in November 1945. 

After the war Sonny returned to Forest and went to work for the federal Department of Agriculture as a fruit and vegetable inspector. He started a new career in 1958 as a successful insurance agent and businessman in Forest.  After retiring, he moved to London, ON.  Sonny was active in many community organisations including the St. James Presbyterian Church, the Forest Rotary club and the Royal Canadian Legion Forest Branch # 176 where he was a Life Member and served as president. He was also a coach and supporter of many sports teams in the Forest area.

Visitation will be held at the Chapel of the Good Shepherd at Parkwood Hospital in London on 7 March from 2:00 to 3:00 PM followed by a celebration of life.  Private interment will take place at a later date. Donations may be made to Veteran's Care Fund, c/o St Joseph's Health Care Foundation, London or to a charity of one’s choice. ^{{dcNov2017gd} [zpp, zsd]}

We regret to advise that Sapper George Wellington "Well" Ditmars (ret'd) passed away peacefully on 4 March 2008 at the age of 94, while living at Camp Hill Veterans' Memorial Building, QEII, Halifax.

Well served overseas 1943-1946 during the Second World War with the 2^nd Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers in England and France. After his military discharge, he worked for almost 30 years at CFB Cornwallis as a machinist, carpenter and locksmith. In his spare time, he built two beautiful sailing boats and replica antique clocks.

A funeral service will be held in Jayne's Funeral Home, Digby, on Friday, 7 March at 10:30 a.m. Burial to follow at the Old Saint Edward's Cemetery, Clementsport. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Camp Hill Memorial Garden c/o QEII Foundation, 1278 Tower Road, Bethune Building, Room B04, Halifax, NS B3H 2Y9.

We regret to advise of the death of Hector Peters Aby Vedan peacefully on 4 March 2008 after a lengthy illness.

A member of the Williams Lake Indian Band, Hector was born in Clinton, British Columbia in 1923. He attended the Cariboo Indian Residential School at St. Joseph's Mission, worked in the Williams Lake area and played junior and senior hockey in Clinton and Williams Lake. In 1940, at the age of seventeen, Hector enlisted in the Canadian Army serving with the Rocky Mountain Rangers, the Westminster Regiment and the Royal Canadian Engineers from 1940 to 1946. He saw action in North Africa, Italy and Holland.

Following his discharge in 1946, Hector remained in England until 1952 where he played professional ice hockey for teams in Brighton, Glasgow, Perth, Belgium and Switzerland from 1947-1952. In 1952 he returned to Canada and settled in Stoney Creek, ON. Hector worked for the Lawson Lumber Company in Hamilton from 1952 to 1987 and on retirement moved to Burnaby, BC.

Hector's funeral service will be held on 10 March 2008 at St. Theresa's Roman Catholic Church in Burnaby, BC. Burial will take place at the North Vancouver Cemetery North Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Hector to the Finnish Canadian Rest Home Association, 3460 Kalyk Avenue, Burnaby, British Columbia, V5G 3B2.

We regret to advise of the death of Gifford Moorhouse on 1 March 2008 in Victoria, BC.

Born in Toronto in 1916, he grew up with many great tales to tell, moving north to Huntsville where he learned to ski, trap and achieve academically. As a teen he was a jockey at Woodbine, travelling to New Orleans to race at many tracks. Later he studied drafting. During WW II he enlisted with the Royal Canadian Engineers and saw action in Europe. After the war he moved to Victoria and he worked for 30 years with the Federal Government as a supervisor at the Dockyard.

A funeral service will be held Monday, 10 March at 10:30 am at the Chapel of the New Jerusalem, Christ Church Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Mengo Hospital [Kampala, Uganda] Canada.

We regret to advise of the death of Warrant Officer Second Class Joseph Nathan "Guiseppe" Slyth (Retd) on 21 February 2008 at Mount Edwards Court, Victoria, BC.

Joe was born in 1914 in London, England. He was the youngest of four children and, at the age of eight, he was enrolled at the Central London District School, Hanwell. He was extremely fortunate to be taught the trade of music and he left the school at the age of 16 to join the British Army as a Boy Bandsman in the Gloucestershire Regiment. His WW II experiences included being wounded and captured near Dunkirk and the subsequent three and one-half years as a prisoner of war in Stalag VIIIB and Blechammer. After the war he spent 10 years with the Welsh Guards, where he played his clarinet at the Trooping of the Colour, the Queen's Coronation, and the Festival of Britain.

In 1954 Joe joined the Canadian Army when the military bands were being formed across Canada and he brought his family to Chilliwack, BC where he was posted to the Royal Canadian Engineers Band. He was much involved in the Chilliwack arts community and hosted a classical music radio program there. After retiring from the military in 1966 at the rank of W0 II, Joe and family moved to Victoria where he embarked on a series of careers. These included a brief stint as a Commissionaire, furniture refinishing, owner of "Reliable Used Furniture," and relief lighthouse keeper with the Canadian Coast Guard on Race Rocks and Trial Island, among others. In the 1970s he embraced ham radio and was proud of getting his morse code ticket and his ham radio call sign:"VE7 DVE." Joe was a member of the Monarchist League of Canada, the Monterey Centre, Westcoast Amateur Radio Assn., Victoria Shortwave Club and the Retired Guardsmen Club. He was a volunteer at Glendale Lodge, the CNIB, and the Provincial Emergency Program.

There will be no service. A celebration of Joe's life will be held on 23 April 2008, at the Esquimalt Legion, 622 Admirals Rd. Victoria, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. All family and friends are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations to Foster Parents Plan Canada, 95 St. Clair Ave. W., Toronto, ON, or the Westcoast Amateur Radio Assn. Tower Fund, P.O. Box 48047, Victoria, BC, would be appreciated.

We regret to advise that Captain Henry Maylor Woodrooffe (Ret'd) passed away quietly at Stillwater Creek Residence in Bells Corners, Ottawa at the age of 97.

Henry was born in Bruce Mines, ON, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in metallurgical engineering from the University of Toronto in 1934. The same year, he joined the Ontario Refining Corporation (later International Nickel Corporation) in Coppercliff, ON. His militia service included the Second Dragoons, Royal Canadian Artillery and Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury Regiment. In the Second World War, he went overseas with the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1941 and served on special assignment with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from 1944 to the end of the war. He retired in 1946 at the rank of Captain.

After the war, Henry joined the Canadian government Department of Mines, Mines Branch, serving for 30 years, including tours in Russia, Kazakhstan and Czechoslovakia before retiring in 1974.

Friends are invited to visit at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street, Ottawa, on Friday, February 22nd from 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Theresa of The Child Jesus Roman Catholic Church, 95 Somerset Street, West at Somerset & Cartier streets, on Saturday, February 23rd at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow at the McGarry Family Reception Centre, 315 McLeod Street. Memorial donations to the Shepherds of Good Hope would be appreciated by the family.

We regret to advise of the death of Grant Ross Cumbers in Regina, SK on 13 February 2008.

Grant was born in 1919 in Saskatoon, SK but in 1926 his family moved to Eyebrow, SK. After high school, he studied to be an architectural draftsman. In 1939, he moved to Regina where he continued his studies while working for an architectural firm. His studies were interrupted by three years of war service with the Royal Canadian Engineers. After the war and passing his architectural exams, Grant worked with B.L.M. Architects in Regina for thirty-three years until his retirement.

A Service of Remembrance will be held on 18 February in Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina. Interment will be in Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery, Regina. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. ^{{gdJan2016kh}}

We regret to advise of the death of Sapper Attilio “Ted” Ravanello (Ret’d) of Albert Bridge, NS at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital in  Sydney, NS on 13 February 2008 at the age of 90 years.

Ted was born in Glace Bay, NS.  He was a veteran of the Second World War and served with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  Ted was a lifetime member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #12, Sydney.

A funeral mass will be held on 18 February at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph's Church, Albert Bridge, with interment to take place at a later date.  Donations may be made to Palliative Care, Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation or a charity of one’s choice.

We regret to advise of the death of Sergeant Albert Edward Yeates II, DCM at the  Deer Lodge Centre in Winnipeg MB on 2 February 2008 at the age of 89 years.

Albert served in the Royal Canadian Engineers during the Second World War. He landed on Juno Beach on D-Day with the 18^th Fd Company and served through Normandy and the Low Countries. He was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal, the second-highest award for gallantry in action after the Victoria Cross, for an action in the closing days of the Battle of the Scheldt.

The funeral arrangements for Albert are entrusted to the Chapel Lawn Funeral Home in Winnipeg.

We regret to advise that Lieutenant John William Murray (Ret'd) passed away peacefully at home in Comox, BC on 1 February 2008 after a valiant battle with cancer.

John grew up in Edmonton where he enrolled in the Royal Canadian Engineers and graduated from the University of Alberta with a degree in Civil Engineering. After his initial engagement John followed a civilian career and worked for Alberta Power Co. Ltd. for 32 years, spending the last ten years in Whitehorse before retiring to the Comox Valley.

A Memorial Service will be held at Comox United Church on 6 February 2008 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Moorecroft Camp Society, 1563 Stewart Road, Nanoose Bay, BC, V9P 9E7.

We regret to advise of the death of David Edward Currie at home in Kingston NS on 1 February 2008 at the age of 66 years.

David was born in Halifax NS. He served in the Royal Canadian Navy and later transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force in the Steamfitter trade.  After his service he worked as a Stationary Engineer at Britex Fabrics in Bridgetown, NS.  David was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #98 in Kingston.

Cremation has taken place and, by request, there will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on 5 February at the Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street in Middleton. ^{{dcOct2017gd}[zpp]}

Nous regrettons de vous annoncer le décès du caporal Étienne Gonthier le 23 janvier 2008, mort au combat à l’âge de 21 ans, dans le sud de l’Afghanistan. Il était un sapeur affecté au 5^e Régiment du génie de combat à la Base des Forces canadiennes (BFC) Valcartier (QC).

Étienne était originaire de St-Georges de Beauce (QC). Avant de se joindre aux Forces canadiennes, Étienne avait suivi une formation en menuiserie au Centre de Formation Pozer à St-Georges. Il s’est joint aux Forces canadiennes en 2004, et après sa formation en génie de campagne à l’École du génie militaire des Forces canadiennes à la BFC Gagetown (N.-B), il a été muté au 5e Régiment du génie de combat. Étienne effectuait son premier déploiement opérationnel lorsqu’il a été tué quand son véhicule blindé léger a heurté un engin explosif improvisé (IED) au cours d’une opération de déminage des routes.

Une cérémonie de rapatriement a eu lieu le 27 janvier à la Base des forces canadiennes Trenton (ON). Les funérailles militaires auront lieu le 2 février à 11h à l’église Saint Georges, 1890- 1re Avenue Ouest, à Saint Georges de Beauce. Les dons peuvent être faits au Centre Neurologique de l’Hôpital de l’Université Laval, 10 rue de l’Espinay, Québec, Québec. ^{{rtMar2017gd}} 

We regret to advise of the death of Brian Lynthor Isfeld, MSM, CD, who passed away peacefully on 20 January 2008 at St. Joseph's Hospital, Comox, BC. after a valiant fight against cancer.

Brian was born in Winnipeg in 1939 and joined the military as a young man. His career took him to Europe, Nova Scotia and British Columbia. He was the father of Combat Engineer Master Corporal, Mark Isfeld who was killed in Croatia. Brian was known to many of the Canadian Military Engineer family through his un-ending work on the Izzy Doll project (see: http://cmea-agmc.ca/izzy-dolls-update). Brian and his wife Carol were both awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (Civil Division) for their international humanitarian work.

Flowers are gratefully declined. A donation may be made in Brian's memory to the Palliative Care Unit, St. Joseph's Hospital, Comox, BC. A Memorial Service will be held at the Protestant Chapel, 1325 Military Row, CFB Comox, BC on Saturday, 16 February 2008 at 2:00 pm. ^{{kh5 Sep2015}}

We regret to advise that Ellard James Hanniman died peacefully at Marianhill Residence, Pembroke on 16 January 2008 in his 88^th year.

A Royal Canadian Engineer WW II Veteran, Ellard was a member of Royal Canadian Legion Pembroke Br. # 72.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated on 19 January in St. Columbkille's Cathedral, Pembroke. Interment in St. Columba's Cemetery. In memory of Ellard, donations to the Pembroke Regional Hospital or Marianhill Foundations would be appreciated by the family.

We regret to advise that John W. McMullen died peacefully, in hospital, on 15 January 2008 at the age of 87.

A Royal Canadian Engineer WWII Veteran, he had a career with the Royal Canadian Mint. He was Past Master St. Andrew's Lodge #560 GRC.

A Masonic Service followed by a funeral service was held in the Hulse Playfair and McGarry Chapel on Friday at 2:30pm. At John's request, donations to the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.

We regret to advise of the death of Gilbert Thomas Howden on 14 January 2008 at the age of 88. Gil was born and raised in Vancouver, joining the Militia in his teens with the British Columbia Regiment (Duke of Connaught's Own Rifles) before transferring to the Royal Canadian Engineers. He served six years overseas during WW II in England, France, Belgium and Germany. Constructing Bailey bridges and clearing minefields, he was proud to be liberating Holland when the war ended.

After the war, Gil joined the Post Office where he worked first as a letter carrier, then a railway mail clerk, then onto supervisory roles at the main post office and airport until his retirement in 1983 with 39 years of service. He was a lifelong member of the Royal Canadian Legion and a past Master Mason of Crossroads Lodge.

A celebration of Gil's life will be held at the Boal Chapel and Memorial Gardens, 1505 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver at 2 p.m. Thursday, 24 January. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation to the George Derby Care Society www.georgederbycentre.ca , or the Alzheimer's Society of British Columbia, www.alzheimerbc.org , would be gratefully received.^{khSep2016}

We regret to advise of the death of Donald Clarence “Jamie” Jamieson peacefully on 14 January 2008 at the age of 93.

Jamie was born in Islay, AB but moved to Victoria, BC in 1935.  He was a WW II veteran with the Royal Canadian Engineers.  After the war, he worked in the wholesale building supply business and real estate.  He was a charter member of the Victoria Curling Club and a member of the Capilano Winter Club.

A Celebration of Life will be held at McCall Brothers Floral Chapel, at Johnson & Vancouver Streets, Victoria on 26 January.  Donations may be made to the Christ Church Cathedral School Education Fund, Victoria.  Condolences may be offered at www.mccallbros.com. ^{{gdJun2016kh}}