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Recently Lost:

Brother Jimmy Houston

Local 2727, Markham

James A Houston passed away peacefully in his home at the age of 62. Jimmy (Red) Houston of Pefferlaw, formerly Richmond HIll, beloved partner of Terrie Canfield. Son of Charles Bernard Houston and the late Eva Houston. Jim is resting at Marshall Funeral Home, 10366 Yonge street, Richmond Hill. Visitation begins Saturday November 30, 2019 from 11-2, Memorial service to follow at 2pm in the funeral home chapel. Celebration of life immediately following at The London Pub on 9724 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hill House Hospice of Richmond Hill, or the Ontario SPCA would be appreciated by the family.

Brother Shawn LaRue

Local 1957, Richmond Hill

Surrounded by his family, Shawn Anthony La Rue passed away peacefully on November 26th, 2019 at Toronto General Hospital due to sudden acute pancreatitis. Loving and cherished husband and best friend of Heather for twenty- seven perfect years. Father, role model and true friend to his two daughters, Chantelle and Mckenna, who were his light and his world. Shawn was a firefighter for 30 years, starting as a volunteer in Keswick and continuing on to serve as a Captain and Acting Platoon Chief in Richmond Hill. Shawn was a snowmobile and ATV racer for many years doing circuits throughout Ontario and Quebec. Once he became a Dad, he directed all his energy to his girls, making sure every opportunity was available to them throughout their lives. He travelled with Heather and the girls to the cottage and all over the world. All these memories will be cherished. Shawn was a protector and would help anyone at any time. He built a dream home for his family three times, first on Tampa Drive, then Old Homestead, and most recently in Little Britain. He had an entrepreneurial spirit, he and Heather owned and operated SLS Lock & Security Systems for 30 years providing protection and peace of mind to families and businesses throughout his community. He was a founding member of Old Flame Brewery and built the brewery from the ground up. He thrived as a part of the craft beer industry. Another passion Shawn had was golf. Although he worked hard and wore many hats, his enjoyment in life was being at a golf course early in the morning. He enjoyed yearly golf trips with his friends where they played two rounds of 18 every day. He was a member of the Briars for many years and organized the Richmond Hill Golf Tournament there several times. Most recently, he and Heather were members of Lindsay Golf and Country Club. More than anything, Shawn loved his family and always put them first. He leaves behind his brothers, Fred (Sue), Mike, Tom (Linda), sister Collette, his mother-in-law Karen, sister-in-law Victoria, and brother-in-law Collin. He also leaves behind his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is predeceased by his loving and wonderful parents Roger and Margaret and his father-in-law Douglas Campbell. He loved you all. Visitation will be held at the M.W. Becker Funeral Home, 490 The Queensway South, Keswick, Ontario on Thursday, November 28, 2019 from 7-9 p.m., Friday, November 29th from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. and on Saturday at Hope for Today Fellowship Church, 267 Hollywood Drive, Keswick from 10-11 a.m. followed by a Funeral Service at 11 a.m. Interment at Christ Church Cemetery, Roches Point.

In lieu of flowers, a donation made in Shawn’s memory may be made to The Hockey Canada Foundation, to help children in need afford to play minor league hockey. Shawn was an avid hockey player for his whole life, and would have wanted to be a part of helping others to do the same.
Click on address: https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/corporate/foundation/donate
Sign an online book of condolences at mwbeckerfuneralhome.com Click Here

Brother Dave Judge

London, Local 142

Peacefully at home and surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, November 12, 2019, in his 72nd year. Beloved husband of Linda (January 2019). Loving father of Susan (Darryl), Cathy (Randy) and David (Kelly). Cherished Grandpa and Papa of Steven, Jake, Claire, Matthew, Maya, Lauren and Gabby. Dear brother of Marilynn (Tony) and Larry (Trish).

Missed by his in-laws, as well as by his nieces and nephews. Captain Dave Judge of the London Fire Department proudly served the citizens of London for 30 years. A memorial gathering will be held at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Sunday, November 17, 2019 from 1:00 ~ 4:00 and 6:00 ~ 9:00 p.m. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Dave are asked to consider the London Regional Cancer Program.

For information and online condolences, please visit www.westviewfuneralchapel.com.

- In the Line of Duty -

Brother Walter Bosak

St. Catharines, Local 485

After a lengthy battle with cancer and pulmonary fibrosis, it is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Walter, surrounded by family at home on Wednesday November 6, 2019 at the age of 71. Beloved husband and best friend to Laramie for almost 50 years. Excellent provider and role model to his children Christian (Jodie), Andy (Betsy), the late Craig, Adam (Jaime) and Kim (Mike). Cherished Papa to Brielle, Raya, Katherine, Evan, Dylan, Megan, Robyn, Oliver, Carter and Ellie. He will be dearly missed by his brother Jan, many nieces, nephews in Sweden and four legged children Kalee and Lucy.

Walter had many years of dedication towards the community with the St. Catharines Fire Dept., The Polish Club, The Auxiliary for OPP, coaching and officiating soccer and many other groups. Some of his many loves was to represent Canada at the World Police and Fire Games and the Can-Am Games as well as collecting Police and Fire Fighter memorabilia from around the world.

The family would like to send a special thanks to Dr. Vandermeer and the Staff at the Walker Family Cancer Centre, Sally and others from Hospice Niagara, the nurses Tina and Julie and the PSW’s from ParaMed and LHIN for all their care and support. In accordance with Walters wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines, on Thursday, November 14, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A Celebration of Walter’s Life will be held at 11 a.m. in the funeral home on Friday, November 15, 2019. A private family Inurnment will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Walker Family Cancer Center or to Hospice Niagara.

Brother John "Herb" Stephenson

Belleville, Local 497

Peacefully entered into rest on Monday, October 28th, 2019 at the Heart of Hastings Hospice, Madoc. John Stephenson died at the age of 64. He was the son of Rita (nee McIntyre) and the late Paul Stephenson of Belleville. John was the loving husband for 43 years to Pierrette (nee Lacombe) and the cherished father of Melissa Livingstone (John) of Madoc. He was the loving grandfather of Justin and Zoë. John was the dearest brother of Gail Stephenson of Belleville, Michael (Pat) of Toronto, Susan (Wayne) of Wellington, Paul (Shirley) of Belleville and Denise (Martin) of Brantford. He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, Katie, Mike, Tracy, Melissa, Jade, Noah, Master Cpl. Paul Stephenson, Lily, Katherine, Ashley, Paul, Nathan, Nicholas, Olivia, Benjamin, and Caleb. John will be sadly missed by Pierrette’s family and his many friends.

John is resting at the John R. Bush Funeral Home, 80 Highland Avenue, Belleville (613-968-5588) for visitation on Thursday, October 31st from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Memorial Service in the Chapel on Friday, November 1st, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Hal Wilson & Rev. Father Brad Beale officiating. Interment to follow at St. James’ Cemetery. If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart of Hastings Hospice, or the Belleville Fire Fighters Toy Drive would be appreciated by the family. To share memories of John, please visit:

www.rushnellfamilyservices.com

- ACTIVE -

Brother Don Leis

Oakville, Local 1582

Gone home to be with his Lord & Saviour, suddenly on October 19, 2019, at the age of 52. Best friend and beloved husband of Julie (nee Scott), together they have been blessed to share 27 years of marriage. Proud and devoted Dad to Noah, Caitlin (boyfriend Justin Gutthardt) and Gabriel Leis. Adored son of Lydiann & the late Edmund Leis. Loving Brother of Doug & Cheryl Leis, Judy & Tim Yantzi, Rob & Brenda Leis, Val & Rob Bender and Sherry & Metaxas Makedos. Dear Son-in-law of Raymond & Catherine Scott. Loved Brother-in-law of Marty & Susan Scott, Cheryl & Norm Penney, Christine & Greg Fries, Jeff & Sue Scott and Jamie & Sherri Scott. Don will be remembered by many nieces, nephews, friends, as a kind and humble man who loved his family and appreciated a sense of humour. He felt honoured to serve on the Oakville Fire Department (Platoon 2B Station 4) and will be deeply missed by his crew Mike Coyne, Mark Dickinson, Nick Castellan and Jody Walker.

Visitation will be held at the Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West St. N., Orillia on Thursday, October 24th from 1 - 3 p.m. and 7 - 9 p.m. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday morning, October 25th at 11 a.m. at Fair Havens Ministries, Irwin Chapel located at B2215 Durham 48, Beaverton. Interment: St. Andrew's - St. James' Cemetery, Orillia, located adjacent to Emmanuel Orillia where parking is also available. A luncheon reception will be served at Emmanuel Orillia following the interment. In Memory of Don, memorial donations to Fair Havens Ministries or Emmanuel Baptist Church - Orillia would be most appreciated by the family. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.mundellfuneralhome.com

Brother Bill Wilson

Local 1957, Richmond Hill

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Stuart Wilson of Havelock, ON (formerly Uxbridge, ON) on August 26th, 2019. Bill was born in Newmarket, Ontario, on August 13th, 1959 to Stuart and Beverly (Doyle) Wilson. He was the loving big brother to Michael (Kim) and Cynthia (Trine). Bill grew up in Aurora, Ontario, where he attended school, played sports, and met the love of his life, best friend, and high school sweetheart Teresa Ann (Smart) Wilson. Bill and Terry were married on April 19th, 1980. Bill was a devoted family man and hockey Dad. His three children William “Billy” (Laura), Lyndsay (grand-pup Opie), and Catherine (Robert) were his pride and joy. He was also thrilled to be “Papa” to his grandchildren Lydia and Maxwell Wilson. Son-in-law to Larry Smart and brother-in-law to Kelly (Andrew) Drummond, Larry (Kristy) Smart. Bill was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Bill joined the Aurora Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter in 1977. On April 2, 1979, Bill became a full-time firefighter with the town of Richmond Hill. Bill continued to move up the ranks, becoming a Captain and then later a Platoon Chief. Bill was well respected by those he worked with and enjoyed his career serving the public. After 36.5 years with RHFD, Bill and Terry retired to Havelock, ON where they built their dream timber frame home. Bill’s passion was designing and building his family’s homes through the years. Bill is preceded in death by his grandmother Mary Doyle, grandparents James and Ella Wilson, Uncle Fred and Aunt Doreen Bolsby, mother-in-law Mary Smart, sister-in-laws Heather Wilson, and Lori Alcorn A visitation will be held on Friday, September 6th, 2019 from 2:00pm-4:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm at Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON. A funeral service for Bill will be on Saturday, September 7th, 2019 at 11:00am at Thompson Funeral Home in Aurora, ON. Interment at Aurora Cemetery with reception to follow. On-line condolences and further information can be found at www.thompsonfh-aurora.com In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Toronto Rehab Foundation (Lyndhurst Centre) where Bill’s daughter Lyndsay received life-altering care Or Canadian Legacy Project in support of our veterans.

Brother Richard Stoparczyk

Ottawa, Local 162

STOPARCZYK, Richard - December 22, 1968 – July 4, 2019

After a prolonged and difficult battle with heart disease, Richard succumbed in hospital Thursday morning, at the age of 50. Richard was a devoted father to Ashwin, his pride and joy. He also leaves behind his loving spouse, Ewa Tomaszewska, parents Ella & George (Kingston, ON), brother Derek (Lori-Ann), sister Rachel (John Williams), and cherished niece and nephew, Amy & Ryan. Special thanks to Dr. Chan and the transplant team at the Ottawa Heart Institute. And to Deputy Chief Sean Tracey and all of Richard’s brothers and sisters at Ottawa Fire Services. Family and friends may pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home-Kanata Chapel 580 Eagleson Rd., Kanata K2M 1H4, 613-591-6580 on Tuesday, July 9th, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Followed by a Celebration of Life in the Chapel at 2 p.m. Reception to follow (3 p.m. to 5 p.m.) in the Arbor Lounge of Kelly Funeral Home-Kanata Chapel. For those wishing, In Memoriam donations to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, the Trillium Gift of Life Association or a charity of choice are greatly appreciated. Sharing memories and online condolences at www.kellyfh.ca

Brother Lindsay Meilleur

Deep River, Local 1276

Suddenly, at his residence on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 at the age of 58 years.

Son of the late Irving “Tut” and Theresa Meilleur ( nee: Blank). Loving father of Devyn Meilleur and Morgan Meilleur both of London. Loving partner of Michele Carlin of Deep River and her children TJ, Sierra and Aaron. Dear brother of Jackie DeHaan and her husband Tinus of Pembroke, Glen Meilleur and his wife Vicky of Chatham, Carol Ann Madore and her husband Daniel of Thunder Bay and Darcy Meilleur (Mary Adams) of Rapides des Joachims.

Respecting Lindsay’s request cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Deep River Arena on Sunday, June 16 at 11:00 a.m. Following the Celebration of Life, friends are invited to join Lindsay’s family at the Royal Canadian Legion, Deep River for a light lunch and to celebrate Lindsay’s life.

In memoriam, donations to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute or the charity of your choice would be gratefully appreciated. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Valley Funeral Home, Deep River.

Brother Douglas "Topper" Topliffe

Windsor, Local 455

Doug, Dad, Grandpa “Topper” passed away peacefully on August 13, 2018 surrounded by his devoted wife of 38 years, Annette, his children, Jeff (Eileen), Tim (Jeanette) and Jesse (Andrea), and his precious grandchildren; Nicole, Mitch, Jake, Shaelyn, Pierson, Hudson and Riley. Much loved by sisters Illah (Albert) Bryan, Fran (late Arnold) Hawkins, and Marilyn (Dr. Carlos) Villarreal, brother in law Ernest (Uncle Looney) St. Denis and sister in law Lucille (John) Whitehead.  He will be sadly missed by his many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his loving parents Delos and Sylvia Topliffe, siblings Harry (Yvonne), Shirley (Richard) Chittim, Herb Topliffe, Marcia Topliffe and was the son in law to the late Ernest and Anne St. Denis.

Grandpa Topper loved to spend as much time with his 7 grandchildren.  He was always attending recitals, plays, hockey games, graduations, bike rides, birthday parties or just stopping in when he was in town.  He was so proud of his grandchildren and loved making memories with them.  Grandpa Toppers letters and “GAMBONIS” will always be special in their hearts!! Doug proudly spent 36 years as a Windsor Firefighter and retired as a District Chief in 2002. Doug spent a majority of his career as a Firefighter not only serving and protecting the Citizens of Windsor but also the men and women in the Fire Service.  He was involved with the Windsor Professional Firefighters Association as the Vice President of the Executive Board, Chair of the Joint Health and Safety Committee, Inaugural Chair of the Critical Incident Stress Team and as Chair of the Windsor Firefighters Benefit Fund.  Doug had a passion for every aspect of the Fire Service.  He was involved with the Ontario Professional Firefighters Association as the Chair of the OPFFA’s Health and Safety Committee, Member of the Ministry of Labour’s Section 21 Committee and as a Member of the Canadian Standards Committee for Firefighter protective equipment.

Doug was a tireless supporter and advocate for Firefighter protection and recognition of the dangers Firefighters face.  He was especially proud after several years of advocating for recognition, when the Ontario Government enacted legislation providing coverage for several Firefighter related cancers; not knowing, that he would ultimately be diagnosed and succumb to one of these cancers. After retirement Doug was the Canadian Customer Service Manager for the Total Fire Group, Honeywell First Responder Products and finally Commercial Solutions Inc. traveling North America providing expertise and equipment to help keep Firefighters safe.

His love for sports, children, compassion for others and commitment to his community is evident by the many organizations that he was involved with throughout his life. His love of sports started in his youth while growing up in Riverside.  He loved playing football at Corpus Christi, Riverside High Schools and for the AKO Fratmen and hockey with several leagues.  He coached Hockey and Baseball in Riverside, was a founding member and Coach of Windsor Minor Football Association and was a dedicated volunteer with the Special Olympics.

A passionate supporter and participant with the MS bike rides, Bike rides for Cancer and any children's organization the Firefighters supported. He was actively involved with many community organizations that shared his passion for helping people in need and in attempting to make our community a better place to live. He loved his work with the Multicultural Council of Windsor/Essex where he was the Vice President on the Board of Directors, as well as Hospice Windsor, where he was a board member. As well as aboard member of Sandwich Teen Action Group.

Always an eager volunteer for the Chili Fest and Muscular Dystrophy Telethon.  Doug was willing to help out a good cause from: using his house as collateral to buy the new football equipment for Windsor Minor Football Association, to shaving his head to raise money for cancer or collecting door to door for support with his annual MS bike ride. A special thank you to the many friends that visited Doug, made him laugh, gave him comfort and offered support to the family during this difficult journey and fight.

The care and support Dad received from the staff at Hospice, Malden Park, Metropolitan and Hotel Dieu Hospital was greatly appreciated by our family. If you so desire, donations to The Hospice Giving Tree Windsor Essex would be appreciated by the family.

      “Peace is the hand of God touching our aching souls.”