Celebrating Life, One Family at a Time

Judith Ann Ratcliffe (nee Van Patter), known affectionately as Judy by her loved ones, was a beacon of kindness and a wellspring of love throughout her remarkable journey on this earth. Born on July 26, 1943, in St. Thomas, Ontario, Judy's life was a tapestry of rich experiences and unwavering commitment to her family, friends, and community. On February 23, 2024, she was called home, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and adventure that will forever be cherished by those who had the...

Richard Arthur Gray (86) of Woodstock Ontario passed away March 20, 2024 (1937-2024) Known as Dick to his many friends and coworkers, he had a long and distinguished career in journalism. Beginning in radio in the late 50s, Dick became a reporter at CHCH TV in Hamilton in the early 60s and subsequently News Director, a position he held until 1982 when he resigned to teach Broadcast Journalism at Mohawk College also in Hamilton. Several of his students went on to serve as news reporters and...

Susan Elaine Bradford Born October 3, 1954, Port Hope, ON Susan passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side at Sakura House on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Adoring wife of Paul Bradford for 48 beautiful, adventure-filled years.‘The force’ was with her as she had a long journey with Multiple Sclerosis and then later developed Parkinsonism. Susan was a gentle soul with an incredibly strong heart who loved deeply and gave freely. No one ever left her house without...

Early on May 4th, 2024 as he slept peacefully, much loved Verne H. MacDonald ushered into the presence of the Lord.  Born September 15, 1936, Verne left for heaven in his 88th year.   "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints" Psalm 116:15.   Our confidence in Dad’s joyful reunion with parents, Jack and Eileen, wife Lorna, and son Todd along with other family and countless friends is not merely a wish or sentiment. Verne was...

Wendy Louise Joyce (nee Eaton), at the young age of 61, passed suddenly with the love of her two daughters by her side, on May 4, 2024, at Victoria Hospital. Born on September 9, 1962, in the quaint town of Paris, Ontario, Wendy lived a life of warmth, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to those she held dear. Wendy was the cherished mother of Tami and Tabitha, who were the absolute joy of her life. Wendy's love for her family extended to her siblings, Deb (Bill) Wright, Tom Eaton...

Charon Cecelia Baker, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2024, at the Woodstock Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on Valentine's Day in 1947, in the quaint town of Stratford, Charon's life was a testament to love in all its forms. Charon was the beloved wife of Walter “Butch” Baker, her devoted partner for 57 remarkable years. She was the loving mother of Tamara (Warren) Baker-Burgin, Tracy (Michael) Collins, and Todd (Crystal) Baker. Her role as a...

Jones, Diane Ingrid Beatrice Peacefully, after a lengthy illness, with husband of 56 years, Gary at her side, Diane passed away on May 1, 2024  in Woodstock, Ontario. She will be sadly missed by sister Laraine, sister-in-law Carol (Kevin) Sanderson, and nieces and nephews in B.C. and Australia. Diane and Gary moved to London, Ontario from B.C. in 1972. In 1979 they moved to Woodstock and owned and operated Pinto Variety on Dundas Street for 10 years. Over those years, Diane...

James Robert Lichti, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2024, the same date he graced the world with his presence in 1942. Born and raised in Woodstock, Ontario, Jims’ life came full circle as he departed in the same town that he loved and called home for 82 years. He was a beloved husband to his wife, Joyce, with whom he shared a lifetime of cherished memories. Together, they raised their children, Stephen and Tina, with love...

  It is with deep sorrow that the family of John Schmidt announces his passing on April 28th, 2024, in Woodstock at the age of 60. He was predeceased by his parents, Alma and George Schmidt, and his older brother, Bill. He is survived by his siblings, Marge MacMaster (Fred), Chris Mihaly (Tony), Bob Schmidt (Karen), Dan Schmidt (Rose), Lloyd Schmidt (Julie) and Tracy Schmidt (Lisa). He will be missed by many nieces and nephews. Special thanks to John’s second family in...