Fawcett Funeral Home

11/17/2025

HODGINS, Edison Ross

April 9, 1963 – November 14, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Edison Ross Hodgins on November 14, 2025, at the age of 62. Edison was the devoted husband of Dawn, and the proud father of four: Jolene, Ed, Glenn, and Carol. Beloved brother of Sue, Doug, Linda and Bev. He will be dearly missed by his many nieces and nephews. Edison is predeceased by his parents, Marilyn and Emerson Hodgins.

Edison will be remembered by his family and friends for his giant heart, generous spirit, and unwavering kindness. A talented electrician and mechanic, he was always the first to lend a hand. He loved good food—especially anything off the smoker —and his life was soundtracked by the rock and roll he adored.

In lieu of flowers, e-transfer donations may be made to support the ongoing education of his children to HodginsKidsEducation@gmail.com

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 285(109 Proton Street North, Dundalk) on Thursday, November 20, 2025 from 2:00–4:00 p.m. with speeches beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Edison leaves behind a legacy of love, big laughter, and loyalty that will forever be cherished by all who knew him.

Arrangements entrusted to Fawcett Funeral Cremation Reception Ltd., Flesherton. Online condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca 519-924-2810

11/14/2025

Varley; Tyson Brian Albert James

Suddenly, as the result of a motor vehicle accident on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 of Holstein at the age of 16. Beloved son of Daniel and Maryellen, and brother of Makenna and Violet. Loving grandson of Murray(Theresa) of Prince George, Norma(Mike) Case of Georgetown and Brian and Terri of Dundalk. He will be greatly missed by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Tyson was born October 10, 2009 at Collingwood General and Marine Hospital. He was busy young kid who loved the outdoors. He graduated from Egremont Elementary School in 2023. He was well known for his love of cars and tinkering with them. He knew well how to make and fix things. He had a passion for lawnmowers, 4-wheeling and mud. He was working hard on his dream of becoming a small engine mechanic. Last month, for his 16th birthday, he requested a pig roast with lawnmower races. He will always be remembered for these.

Cremation has taken place and his life will celebrated just the way he would have wanted. If desired, memorial contributions in his memory may be made to a GoFund me that has been set up(https://www.gofundme.com/f/tyson-varley-forever-16?attribution_id=sl:705f841b-7481-424f-bb87-c2e81514befd&lang=en_CA&ts=1763083565&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=facebook). Online condolences may be sent to www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/14/2025

Margaret Laurita Townsend (1952 - 2025)

Laurita Townsend, 73, of Durham Ontario, passed away from a stroke on Saturday, November 8th. Laurita was born in Vancouver in 1952 to Charles and Rita Townsend, and will be remembered as a kind and supportive source of love for generations of her family.

After moving to Ontario, Laurita focused on her educational career, rising to leadership roles and becoming a widely loved Principal in her community. She was part of several groups such as the Shelburne Historical Society, and the Retired Teachers of Ontario, where she was surrounded by friends and respected colleagues.

Among the many children in her family, Laurita was lovingly known as Lodds. Generations of children were influenced by her care, affection and deep respect for her community. Throughout her long career, she earned the admiration of those who learned under her guidance by always being a kind and thoughtful person. The many nieces and nephews she helped raise by always being a warm, wholesome presence will always cherish their many childhood memories with Lodds.

Laurita was preceded in death by her brother James Townsend, and is survived by her brothers Charles, Thomas, William, and her sister Roberta Carr.

A celebration of Laurita's life will take place on Saturday, December 6 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Shelburne, Branch 220 from 12:00noon until 3:00pm. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Alzheimer Society Grey-Bruce would be greatly appreciated. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/12/2025

Brulotte, Lynda Mary

September 10, 1952 - November 11, 2025

An amazing wife, mom, and granny to so many, Lynda passed away peacefully at the Stayner Care Centre - a place she lovingly called home, surrounded by her family and dear friend Lucie. Lynda is survived by her loving husband Michel, and her children Brian Brulotte (Michelle), Rene Brulotte (Danny), and Kevin Brulotte (Vickie). She was a proud and devoted granny to Sierrah, Emilia Janzen, Chris, Colin, Tristan, Brennen, Daxton Brulotte, and Raquel Mailhot-Ruiz. She will also be dearly missed by her dog Alice, her siblings Nancy, Barbara, Elizabeth & Joey Coffin, her nieces and nephews, extended family and the many friends who were blessed to share in her life.

She will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and sense of humor that brought joy to everyone around her. Her life was filled with countless wonderful memories, adventures, and laughter shared with family and friends. Lynda spent her early years working as a Bell Canada operator, where her friendly voice and kind manner left a lasting impression on those she assisted. As time went on, Lynda devoted herself fully to being a mother, not only to her three beloved children, but also to many others in her community who came to see her as a second mom. Her home was always open, her heart always giving, and her love knew no bounds. She nurtured everyone who came into her life with patience, warmth, and kindness. She later spent many years helping and caring for seniors in the community, offering kindness, companionship, and a helping hand whenever it was needed, a role in which her compassion and gentle nature touched the lives of many. Her passion for quilting was one of her many joys. Every stitch she made carried a piece of her heart, and her beautiful quilts found their way into the homes and hearts of many, wrapping loved ones in her warmth long after her hands have rested. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing her couldn’t help but love her. Her caring heart, generosity and unconditional love will be deeply missed, but forever cherished in our hearts.

A special thank you goes to her dear friends Lucie Mailhot-Ruiz and Monica Green for their friendship and support - always by Lynda’s side, especially through the final days. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful team at the Stayner Care Centre for their exceptional care and compassion.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or the Centre Grey Health Services Foundation (Markdale Hospital) in Lynda’s memory.

Her love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

11/12/2025

TODOROFF- Sarah Margaret Ina

Peacefully, with family by her side, at the Grey Bruce Hospice on Saturday November 8th, 2025, at the age of 76. Predeceased by Jerry, her beloved and devoted husband of 44 years. The proud and loving mother of Jason (Miranda) and Paul. Loving grandmother of Aliison, Clarissa and Everett. Treasured sister of George (Juliane) Neil of Bridge North, Elizabeth Fry of Toronto and Mary (John) Mann of Blind River. She will be greatly missed by her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Sarah was raised in Iron Bridge and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario where she finished out her high school years before attending the University of Toronto for her undergrad and teacher’s college, followed by obtaining her Masters of Education at Brock University. She had a lengthy career as a teacher and principal in Dufferin. Her love for children ran deep in the way she loved her sons and in later years her grandchildren, always putting family first. When she wasn’t teaching in a formal setting you could find her teaching at the keys of a piano and lending a listening ear and a gentle word to anyone who needed her gift of counselling. Marg was selfless and humble, dedicated and faithful, she was strong in her faith and had a pull for adventure and a keen love for gardening. Her wise words and kind heart will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be held at Markdale Baptist Church (144 Lorne Street) on Saturday November 22nd at 10:00am followed by the funeral service at 11:00am. All are welcome to stay for a time of fellowship following the service. In lieu of flowers donations to Markdale Baptist Church or the Grey Bruce Hospice- Chapman House. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/10/2025

11/07/2025

Benninger; Carl Louis

Carl passed away peacefully at Grey Bruce Hospice (Chapman House) on November 6th, 2025 in his 92 year. Son of the late Charles and Marie (Bauman) Benninger. Predeceased by his beloved wife Joy (nee Marchand) in 1992. Cherished husband of Jean Olesen (nee McGee). Proud father of the late Christine (2018) and her husband Francis Brekelmans of Lakeside, and Jennifer and her husband Bryan Smith of Toronto. Loving stepfather to Dann Olesen (Mary), Lisa Olesen, and Scott Olesen (Shannon). Devoted grandfather to Alexandra Dalkie (Stephan), Eric Smith, Danielle Olesen (Geoff), Ryan Olesen (Kaity) and Christopher Olesen (Hayley). Carl’s grandchildren brought immense joy to his life, and he treasured every moment spent sharing his love for the outdoors, technology, and storytelling with them. Predeceased by his sister Elaine (2023) and her husband Lorne (2009), his brother Donald (2001), and brother-in-law Tom Wunder (2021). Survived by his dear sister Gloria Wunder.

Carl spent his working life in the farm equipment industry, first as a Territory Manager for New Idea Farm Equipment, then as the owner and operator of C.L. Benninger Equipment Ltd. in Chatham, Ontario. His dedication to the agricultural community extended beyond his business. He served as President of the Ontario Retail Farm Equipment Dealers Association (ORFEDA) and was an active member of the North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA), where he served on the Executive Committee.

Carl was proud to serve on the Board supporting the development of the new Markdale Hospital (Centre Grey/Brightshores). His steady leadership, community spirit and countless volunteer hours helped ensure quality healthcare would remain close to home for future generations.

Outside of his professional life, Carl had a deep love for the outdoors. X-country skiing, boating, fishing, gardening, and hiking filled his leisure time. After retiring in 1994, he and Jean spent summers aboard their beloved boat, “Y KNOT,” exploring the beauty of Georgian Bay.

Carl had a natural curiosity for technology, becoming one of the first farm equipment dealers in Ontario to computerize operations. In retirement, he turned this interest into a hobby, generously helping seniors with their computer needs, always patient and eager to lend a hand.

His adventurous spirit also led him to travel extensively, visiting every continent except Antarctica. Carl approached life with enthusiasm, warmth, and a commitment to both family and community. Carl’s legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the contributions he made to the agricultural community. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for a life well-lived, full of love, adventure, and service to others.

The family will receive friends at Annesley United Church, 82 Toronto Street South, Markdale, on Friday, November 14 from 1:00-4:00pm and again Saturday from 10:00-11:00am. Funeral service from the church on Saturday at 11:00am. Cremation has taken place. Interment details to come at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Chapman House Hospice or Centre Grey Health Services Foundation (Markdale Hospital) would be greatly appreciated. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/06/2025

Ward; Barry Edward

Suddenly at his home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 of Berkeley in his 67th year. Loving partner of Theresa Quinn Cherished brother of Leona Kinney, Perle Breadner, Helen Ward all of Markdale. Predeceased by brothers Earl, Roy, Mac and Bruce Ward and sister Betty Lougheed. He is survived by sisters in-law Lone Ward of Edmonton, Barb Ward of Markdale and Mary Jane Ward of Owen Sound. He will be fondly remembered by Theresa’s family, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A graveside service to honour Barry's life will take place at Markdale Cemetery in the spring. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Centre Grey Health Services Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/06/2025

Raymond Kenneth Wickens, born November 24, 1938, at Mrs. Nuhn’s Birthing House in Flesherton, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on November 1, 2025, in his 87th year. Ray will be greatly missed by his loving wife Mary(nee Donald), his children Ruthanne Risk(Ron), Cathy Wilson, Glenna Le, Kim Sinclair(Rob), Eden Langford(Riley), Braeden Wickens(Andi), and Brett Wickens. He is survived by his nine grandchildren Luke, Shelby, Kaely, Sarah, Tim, Nate, Courtney, Cody, and Emberly and three great granddaughters Re*****on, Dallas and Olivia. He is also survived by his three brothers Laurie, Clayton(Pat) and Lindsay(Barb). Raymond was predeceased by his parents Kenneth and Stella Wickens(nee Young), his brothers Laverne, Leo and infant Keith, his sister Bonnie, sisters-in-law Doreen(Laurie) and Sheila(Laverne) and grandson Brad.

Ray also known as “The Bear” was a loving spouse, brother, father, grandfather, and friend who always made sure his family was a priority. He offered guidance, love, support and wisdom to the many, many people he interacted with and mentored. He cherished family gatherings, and his presence at holidays and celebrations brought comfort and warmth to those around him. Raymond was a pillar in his children’s lives and he enjoyed attending baseball games, hockey games, figure skating and any other extracurricular activities they were involved in. Besides family, Ray would drive for miles to see a horse pull, a fall fair and the Ottawa Senators. Hockey was a staple in the household, Ray knew all the stats, the rookies and the stories behind the players. There were many nights spent around the TV watching his favourite team. Ray excelled in his career owning and operating a Wabco 555 grader(triple nickel). His love for grading began at eighteen at Peel Construction. In the 1970’s Ray bought his own and started Ray Wickens Grader Rentals. Ray spent about half of his working life in northern Ontario with Miller Construction. In total, Ray culminated over 65+ years in construction where he created lifelong friendships. His dedication and work ethic provided him with immense experience and knowledge that allowed him to share solutions to any problems that arose on the job site. He will be deeply missed by his work family and his knowledge and skill could never be replaced.

The family would like to thank Blanche River Health Englehart site for the excellent care provided to Raymond at the end of his life. He often expressed to family how much he appreciated the girls and enjoyed that they would spend time talking and doing activities with him. This made it easier on the family to know he received such dedicated care when we could not be there.

A come and go celebration of Ray’s life will take place at the Osprey Community Hall, Feversham, on Saturday, November 22 from 1:00-3:00pm with memories shared at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Feversham Agricultural Society or the Feversham Kinsmen would be greatly appreciated. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/03/2025

Kouwen; Janet Margaret

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Janet Margaret Kouwen on October 31st, 2025 at Brightshores Health System, Markdale at the age of 77 after a yearlong battle with cancer. Beloved wife of Nicholas. Treasured sister of James ‘Jim’ Peterson (Nancy Brooks). Much loved cousin of Kelly (Michael) Meighen, Ann (Ted Cape) and Kate Dillion. Predeceased by her parents, James and Margaret Peterson.

Jan was born in Stratford Ontario In 1948 and grew up on the banks of the Avon River across from the Festival Theater. She spent many hours playing in the park and eventually in her early teens she had use of a horse that was in a stable next to the park so that’s where she and her friends from the barn rode. We can only dream of these things today! After high school, she enrolled in the nursing program at St. Joseph’s hospital in London, Ontario graduating in 1969. Her next stop was to work at the Grand River Hospital in Kitchener for a couple of years where during this time she met Nicholas (Nick), her future husband. Jan became interested in a career as an O.R. nurse and took a six month course at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal to get this qualification.

Following this, she accepted a job in the operating room of St. Mary’s Hospital in Kitchener, while her relationship with Nick became more serious following her introduction to racing a 505 sailing dinghy www.int505.org. Here they paused and got married in 1973 followed by a honeymoon road trip to l’Anse aux Meadows Newfoundland in their “regatta van”. In 1978 Jan retired (rather early) from nursing to move to Colorado to join Nick on one of Nick’s sabbaticals. Jan then completed a B.A. at the University of Waterloo in psychology followed by a position as a teaching assistant at the KidsAbility Centre for Child Development in Kitchener-Waterloo.

In 2004, both Jan and Nick retired and shortly after moved to a property in Grey Highlands on the 10th Concession just east of Eugenia Lake. They bought this property in 1988 and had a Viceroy kit erected that was only framed and closed. The rest of the build was completed by Jan and Nick just finishing some of it only last year! They have felt rather at home given Jan’s father was born in Dundalk nearby where her grandfather was the Dentist in the early 1900’s.

Nick was a rather fanatical participant in the sport of racing sailing dinghies and Jan became his permanent crew; together they sailed in many regattas travelling all over Canada. Eventually they bought a bigger boat and cruised on Georgian Bay for about 40 years visiting every nook & cranny. For the last 8 years Jan and Nick have been members of the Reef Boat Club in Meaford where they made many good friends.

In 1999 Jan rekindled her love of horses and riding and teamed up with a lovely Canadian Horse called Billy and together participated in a number of Eventing competitions at the entry level (Jan was her 60’s and new at the sport!). Jan also loved her dogs: two Dachshunds and six setters – one Irish followed by five English. In her own words, summing it all up: “I had a wonderful life”.
Her final days were spent at the Markdale Hospital where, as stated on a certificate in it’s hall, the care is “exemplary”. It really is. The care people there really care!

The family will receive friends at Fawcett Funeral Home, 1 Highland Drive, Flesherton on Wednesday, November 5th at 10:00am until the time of service at 11:00am. Those who desire are welcome to proceed to Avondale Cemetery in Stratford for the interment. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Centre Grey Health Services Foundation(Markdale Hospital) would be greatly appreciated. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/01/2025

Meads; Daniel Patrick Brian

Passed peacefully after a brief illness at Margaret Bahen Hospice, Newmarket, of Brampton on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 in his 66th year. He will be greatly missed by his daughters Candice(James) Marion of Barrie, Shayna, Zefanya, Zoelina and the 3 girls’ mother Alecza, all of Brampton. Loving grandfather of Braydon, Luke, Hunter and Ryder. Cherished partner of Deirdre Hardy. Dear brother of Dave(the late Joan) of Newmarket and Gary(Verna) of Richmond Hill. Predeceased by his parents John and Marion and brothers John”Chico” and Glenn. Survived by sister in-law Mary Ferrier and Sandra Campbell. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

The family will receive friends at Fawcett Funeral Cremation Reception on Friday, November 7 from 5:00-7:00pm. Funeral service from the funeral home on Saturday at 11:00am. Interment Markdale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to The Terry Fox Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Online donations and condolences at www.fawcettfuneralhome.ca

11/01/2025

Exciting times

🌿 New Columbarium at Flesherton Cemetery 🌿

As part of our ongoing commitment to honouring diverse memorial traditions, we’ve expanded the options for final resting places at Flesherton Cemetery with the installation of a new columbarium.

🕊️ Niches are now available for purchase, offering a dignified and lasting tribute for loved ones.

Learn more and explore your options at 👉 https://greyhighlands.ca/cemetery