Whelan Funeral Home Ltd.

12/19/2025

12/14/2025

Light a Candle in Memory of a Beloved Child Today!

The second Sunday of December is designated Worldwide Candle Lighting Day. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world participate in this observance, each lighting a candle in memory of a child, someone taken from them too soon.

Established by Compassionate Friends in 1997, this 24-hour vigil starts at 7 p.m. in local time zones, with residents lighting their candle to begin the ceremony. As the world rotates and nighttime begins across different global time zones, a symbolic ray of light and hope is created.

Many organizations, such as hospitals, schools and funeral homes, participate in this healing ritual. The lighting of a candle serves many purposes. It pays tribute to the life of a loved one, it provides light and hope during the darkest of days, and it symbolizes the continuation of the deceased in spirit.

In 2019, a virtual Worldwide Candle Lighting Memorial Wall was added to this observance, allowing family members to share messages honouring their child, grandchild, sibling or friend.

To learn more about participating in a candle lighting event, please visit:
https://www.compassionatefriends.org/wcl/.

© Whelan Funeral Home/CFHC Online

12/13/2025

HALPIN, Jeannette Cecile
Peacefully on December 7, 2025 in her 94th year.

Visitation
Whelan Funeral Home
515 Cooper St, Ottawa, ON K1R 5J1 (between Bay & Lyon)
Date /Time: Friday, December 19, 2025
2 pm - 4 pm & 6 pm - 8 pm
parking behind Whelan's and free (2 hr) parking on Cooper St.
Metered parking elsewhere in the area with a parkade (hourly rate) at 400 Cooper St.

Funeral Mass
A Mass of Christian burial will take place in downtown Ottawa at:
Notre Dame Cathedral 385 Sussex Dr., (between St. Patrick and Guigues), across from the National Gallery.
Date/Time: Saturday, December 20, 2025. 11:00am
Free parking in the church lot behind the Cathedral on the North side (Guigues St side) at the blue markings.
A light lunch will be served in the church hall after the funeral mass with a private interment to follow for immediate family only.

Arrangements entrusted to the Whelan Funeral Home
tel. (613) 233-1488
https://www.whelanfuneralhome.ca/services.html

12/13/2025

LAROCQUE, Earl Joseph Noel

Earl passed away surrounded by immense love, leaving his family with a profound and heartfelt loss. To all who knew him, he was the heart of every room—an incredible father, a devoted grandpa, and a steady, gentle presence whose kindness and quiet strength shaped the lives of everyone he touched.

Earl was the beloved father of Tammy (Frank Bedard), the light of his life. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Noah and Téa, who brought him endless joy and whom he deeply adored. He leaves behind his cherished sisters, Susan and Sharon (Bunyard), who will forever hold his memory close.

He was predeceased by his brother Michael (Pauline), his father Duncan, and his mother Dorothy (née Feltham), with whom he is now reunited. He is lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Micah (Renee), Leah, Sarah (Brandon), Matthew, and Sean.

Earl’s family will remember him not only for the love he gave, but for the way he gave it—steadily, selflessly, and with a quiet, profound strength that guided and uplifted those around him. His laughter, wisdom, and the warmth of his presence will be missed more than words can express.

The family is deeply grateful to the ICU unit at The Ottawa Hospital for their compassionate, supportive care during Earl’s final hours. Their kindness brought comfort when it was needed most.

Earl’s legacy is one of deep devotion, immense love for his family, unwavering strength, a calming presence, and a heart that gave endlessly.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 20th, at 190 Glen Park Dr., Gloucester, Ontario, K1B 5A3, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. All who knew and loved Earl are warmly welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in support of the ICU.

Arrangements entrusted to the Whelan Funeral Home
tel. (613) 233-1488
https://www.whelanfuneralhome.ca/services.html

12/10/2025

EMERY, Joseph Michael (Joe)
May 10, 1964 – Dec. 1, 2025

Peacefully, on Monday, December 1, 2025, after a 3 year struggle with liver failure, in his 62nd year, Joe Emery; beloved son of Mary Bergin Emery and the late Norm Emery. Dear father of Brandon (Emma). Predeceased by his dear son, Ryan, in 2020. Grandfather of Ryker and Skyler, Ryan's sons, in Arizona. Dear brother (Irish twin) of Jim (Maureen Aubé) and Patricia Emery. Loved uncle to Annabeth Perry, Samantha Emery and Nathan Emery.

Before illness took over his life, Joe had a very quick wit and a wide circle of friends from school and work. He loved to reminisce about old times in Belair Park, St. Raymond's and Laurentian High Schools, telling many a wild tale (only slightly embellished) to make people laugh. He could work a room in his own charming way. He had a way of endearing himself to most of his mother's friends, a survival tool used on an “as needed” basis.

Joe was always so happy to reconnect with any of his boyhood pals. He worked primarily in sales but, prior to that, he and his (No. 1) friend, John Roberts, had a DJ business (Laser Sound). He sold furniture at Sears, Eaton's, La-Z-Boy and Bad Boy. He enjoyed working on a commission basis and took pride in caring for his customers. He loved music, especially Genesis, and was an avid sports fan cheering on his Ottawa Sens (followed closely by the Montreal Canadiens), Toronto Blue Jays and Miami Dolphins. He considered himself a fairly good golfer, a game he loved.

Special thanks to Dr. Selwyn De Souza, Dr. Silvana Bolano and Dr. Sarah Davies. The care, kindness and compassion Joe received from the exceptional nurses and doctors at the ICU, Queensway-Carleton Hospital, was appreciated and will never be forgotten by his family. They were with him when he needed them most.

If desired, donations to Serenity Renewal for Families, McArthur Rd.; Rideauwood Addictions and Family Services, Parkdale Ave.; or the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, Carp, would be appreciated.

Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Funeral at St. Basil's Church (Maitland between Carling and the Queensway) on Saturday, December 20, at 11 a.m. A time of refreshment and fellowship will follow in the parish hall.

Arrangements entrusted to the Whelan Funeral Home
tel. (613) 233-1488
https://www.whelanfuneralhome.ca/services.html

12/10/2025

Supporting Those who are Grieving During the Holidays

The holidays are a time for celebrating, sharing traditions with family and friends, good food, exchanging gifts and love. For a griever, this excitement and anticipation of the holidays is often mixed with sadness, sometimes self-pity and dread. Their loved ones witness their anguish but are often at a loss as to how to best provide support.

It is important to differentiate between the griever not faring well and the griever doing their best under the circumstances. Signs of not coping include an increase in self-medication, a personality change and repeated negative emotions. Often family members and close friends are not always objective enough to hold conversations with the griever, without attempting to impose well intended personal views. This provides little benefit to the bereft.

For those who are close to a griever it is important to realize that grief cannot be fixed. Grief must be experienced, even during the holiday season. To have an open and non-judgmental conversation with the griever about what they are experiencing helps provide direction as to if their grief is simply being expressed in the best way they can or the griever is unable to cope and professional help is warranted.

Jim felt that his father should join the family for all of their holiday gatherings after his wife died so he wouldn’t feel alone. Had a conversation between them occurred, Jim would have discovered that his dad actually felt lonelier surrounded by family and appreciated the quiet reflection time being alone offered him. Always seek input from the griever as to what they feel comfortable doing over the holidays.

It is also important to prepare all family members to recognize the fact that persons are changed by the grief they are experiencing. They have lost someone very important in their life. Opening a dialogue in advance minimizes any misunderstanding that may occur as holiday events unfold. As an example, is it ok to mention or talk about the person who has died, subsequently addressing the elephant in the room?

Perhaps preparing a gift for the griever, one which honours the deceased, will show them they continue to be supported and loved. Sometimes children can be part of this, as they often have great ideas on making the griever comfortable and they come from a place of honesty. Grievers do like to hear the name of their loved one and are comforted by stories and memories. Sharing tales about how the deceased brought joy, laughter and perhaps even mischief can add some well needed levity to holiday events.

When someone close dies, we all have a role in helping each other. Remember the needs of those who were closest to the deceased are paramount in the way any traditions unfold. Together, by respecting one another’s feelings and limits, the holidays can be experienced in the most optimal way.

Bertha Brannen
Bereavement Group Leader

© Whelan Funeral Home/CFHC Online

12/05/2025

Writing a sympathy card can be an emotional experience. Finding the right words to comfort someone who is grieving isn't easy.

12/04/2025

BRADLEY, Laurence Hugh
August 20th , 1942 - November 25th , 2025

Larry passed away peacefully at the age of 83. Loving husband to Diane (Lady Di) Arial. Father of Carolyn Jones (Howie), Kathy Bradley and Levi Bradley. Grandfather to Alex Bradley, Luke Paquette, Cass Jones and Tori Boyer (Randy). He was predeceased by his parents Reg and Irene Bradley, his brother Brian and his sister Marilyn. He will be fondly remembered by extended family and many friends.

Larry retired from the National Research Council after a long career in IT. He and Diane spent their spare time and retirement years on their sailboat the "Lady Di" out of Britannia Yacht Club where he was Commodore from 1990-1991, and then on the St Lawrence with many wonderful friends.

A celebration of life will be held at the Britannia Yacht Club 2777 Cassels St, Ottawa on Thursday, December 18th from 5pm to 8pm.

Arrangements entrusted to the Whelan Funeral Home
tel. (613) 233-1488
https://www.whelanfuneralhome.ca/services.html

12/01/2025

Crafting Memory Pieces

Whether it’s creating a keepsake for yourself or as a gift for someone close, crafting can provide joy and meaning to the bereaved following the death of a loved one.

Below are some ideas for making something special and personal to remember your beloved.

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/230528074649825472/ Memory Ornaments
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/363243526166108242/ Memory Candles
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/158963061824282442/ Memory Trees

If possible include a picture, or an expression or quote to create a truly unique piece. Visit a local craft store to get ideas. Imagine placing your special ornament on the Christmas tree each year, making a living memory, one that endures time. Or repurposing an item such as a watch so that the memory of them is always close by.

Making and then displaying simple items such as these provides both peace and joy. Memory pieces are another chance for us to remember and reflect on the special bonds that were shared.

© Whelan Funeral Home/CFHC Online

Jan 3, 2014 - This Pin was discovered by redacted. Discover (and save!) your own Pins on Pinterest

11/26/2025

We’re here to Help, because you Don’t have all the Answers

When individuals and families ponder funeral arrangements, there is a wide range of scenarios they explore. They consider many factors including how ornate or how simple the service will be. Often decisions are made in a short time frame and with emotions running high. Making sense of whether an option is the “ideal choice” can be difficult.

This is what we do. We meet with families and explain the benefits and drawbacks to alternative ways of having the service. We have a great deal of experience working under these conditions and facilitating optimal choices.

Many families are unfamiliar with behind-the-scenes requirements and the step-by-step aspects of planning the service for their loved one. The guidance we provide supports families at a time when most needed. We’re here to help.

© Whelan Funeral Home/CFHC Online

11/25/2025

LYNCH, Kerri-Vaughan (nee Behan)
July 17,1965 – November 16, 2025

Kerri-Vaughan Lynch, 60, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 16, 2025. Her sudden passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Family meant everything to Kerri. Known for her quick wit and warm spirit, she had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel valued and heard. Above all, Kerri was the most generous, selfless, and giving person—she spent her life putting others before herself and was the rock for so many people she cared for.

Despite enduring the profound heartbreak of losing her entire immediate family, Kerri remained an unwavering pillar of strength for all who knew her. She helped her extended family navigate life's challenges with grace, unconditional love, and remarkable resilience. Her legacy of kindness, compassion, generosity, and devotion will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Kerri is survived by her beloved husband, Tom, and their cherished son, Ryan, along with so many loving cousins, extended family, and dear friends who were blessed to know her.

Friends may join the family for a Mass of Christian Funeral at St. Augustine Church (1060 Baseline Rd.) on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 10AM. A time of refreshment and fellowship will follow in the Parish Hall downstairs.

Arrangements entrusted to The Whelan Funeral Home,
tel. 613-233-1488.
https://www.whelanfuneralhome.ca/services.html