Desmond Ernest Hayden Smith

November 9, 1933 – April 15, 2025

Desmond (Des) passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 91. Family and friends had previously celebrated Dad’s 90th birthday at a surprise party with many coming from far away and some attending virtually. Dad was thrilled.

Des was born in Bournemouth, England, by the sea, to Ernest Smith and Ivy Gray. A sailor at heart from a young age, he joined the Royal Navy in England at 12 and served on submarines until the age of 23. He married his beloved Pamela Phillips, and together they had two daughters, Helen and Karen. In 1965, he moved his young family to Canada for a better life.

Ever curious and ambitious, Des became a top computer technician and later led the Air Canada Computer Services in Toronto. This brought many travel opportunities for his family, and they shared treasured memories of camping, boating, and globe-trotting together.

Des cherished visits with his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In retirement, he spent joyful summers on his sailboat at Toronto Island, surrounded by a loving community of friends. His second marriage to Madeleine Johnson brought him years of travel and sailing companionship.

Des will be deeply missed by his children Helen Smits (Christoffer), Karen Williamson (Dave), and Caroline Taylor (Peter); his grandchildren Emily Smits (Bikram), Daniella Smits (Brandon), Juliana Smits (Kenneth), Tori Williamson (Keith), and Graham Williamson (Jaclyn); and great-grandchildren Evindar, Destan, Warren, and Quentin. He will also be remembered with love by extended family in England.

Special thanks go to Jim and Thelma Hammond, his devoted friends and fellow sailors, whose boat was moored beside Des's C&C 30 sailboat. Their friendship continued beyond Toronto to St. Catharines, where they remained by his side as family.

Des is predeceased by his parents Ernest Smith and Ivy Gray, his sister Pamela Webster, his first wife Pamela Phillips, his second wife Madeleine Johnson, and his cousins Bob and George Smith.

At Desmond’s request, there will be no funeral. He was cremated, and his ashes will be scattered at locations meaningful to him. Close family and friends will gather in his memory at a later date.

Condolences and memories may be shared online here.

We will dearly miss Dad (Grandad) but wish him happy sailing in heaven. Until we meet again.

Michele Woodrow

July 7, 1964 – April 17, 2025

With the heaviest of hearts, our family announces the passing of Michele Woodrow on Thursday, April 17, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Michele is now joyfully reunited in heaven with her beloved husband Mike Clementi, who passed just six months ago, as well as her parents Joan and John, brothers Mike and Craig, and sister Jeanette.

Michele’s warmth and kind-hearted spirit touched everyone she met. She was a loving mother to Bradley (Jessica), Crystal (Chris), and Tiffany (Joey), and the proud grandmother of Claudia, Payton, Aubrey, Bentley, Briley, and Bryson. Michele will be fondly remembered as a devoted sister to Harvey and Louise, and will be deeply missed by her extended family and many dear friends.

In keeping with Michele’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, where family and friends can gather to honor her memory and share the many beautiful moments that defined her life.

Lawrence Wilson Morris

February 3, 1953 – April 19, 2025

After battling many severe health issues, Lawrence passed away peacefully at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, Ontario, with family by his side on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the age of 72.

Lawrence was well respected and adored by many throughout his long career as an electrical engineer (motor drive specialist) at the University of Toronto. He was the youngest son of the late Paul and Agnes Morris.

Lawrence is dearly loved and will be greatly missed by his beloved wife, Diana Morris, and by his two daughters from a previous marriage, Sharon Wilson (Frank Wilson) and Cindy Morris. He was a cherished grandfather to Tei, Bentley, Breckin, Brody, and Aubrie, all of whom adored him deeply.

He is lovingly remembered by his late sister Nancy, and survived by his supportive brothers Dave (Barbara), Jim, and Gord, as well as his youngest sister Laura, with whom he shared a close bond. Lawrence also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will remember him fondly.

Forever in our hearts, Lawrence—also known affectionately as Lorne and Larry—it was truly our pleasure to know and love you.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at AFTERCARE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE LIMITED.

Sheree Gail Knight-Stagg

November 9, 1955 - April 17, 2025

After a lengthy stay in hospital and a life filled with pain, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear Sheree on April 17, 2025, with her closest family holding her hands.

Loving mother to Rae, nana to Brittney (Tyler), Joshua (Rory), and Jacob, and great-nana to Ameliya, Lacey, Aria, and Emery. Leaving to mourn a large circle of family and friends including her sisters Barb (Gary) and Sandra, brothers Barry (Pauline), Dennis (Gina), and Reg.

She is predeceased by her husband Ray, sons Chad and Brock, her parents Charles and Mildred, and her brother Fred.

Sheree will be forever remembered for her love of cards and being the social butterfly in any group or party. But she will especially be remembered for her deep, deep love of her sweetest Brittney. There is no doubt that the day Brittney was born, she became Nana’s favorite. Although Brittney only had 25 physical years with Nana, she is left with an eternal unconditional love that we are incredibly grateful for.

Nana, we love you higher than the sky and deeper than the ocean.

Mary-Louise Engels

1931 – April 14, 2025

On Monday, April 14, 2025, Mary-Louise Engels passed away in Toronto. She leaves behind a loving family and a legacy of learning, compassion, and strength.

She will be deeply missed by her children, Lorne (Carole), Nancy, Patricia (Bob), Stacey, and Jenn (Andrew); her grandchildren Claire, Léa, Sacha, Alexander, Chloe, and Naomi; and her great-grandchildren Sofia and Aenor. Mary-Louise is also survived by her sister Lillian Upright and her dear cousins-in-law, the Lawson family.

She was predeceased by her devoted husband of 58 years, (William) Dennis Engels. Born in Shoal Lake, Manitoba in 1931 to Joan (Gibson) and Frederick Kester, Mary-Louise was a lifelong learner, earning five advanced degrees throughout her life. After completing her PhD in her fifties, she went on to serve as a psychologist at the Douglas Hospital in Montreal and in private practice.

An active member of the Unitarian Church of Montreal and author of Rosalie Bertell: Scientist, Eco-Feminist, Visionary, Mary-Louise was also a passionate gardener, avid traveler, and gifted chef. Her sharp intellect, warm heart, and generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Hazelton Place and her many caregivers for their compassionate care.

James Douglas McCartney

May 6, 1942 - April 2, 2025

In the early hours of April 2nd, 2025, James (Jim) Douglas McCartney passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved him dearly. Jim is survived by his sister Donna (Andrechuk), his daughters Janine, Heather (Roy), and Karen (Derek), along with his grandsons Carlton, Wade, Jacob, Mayson, Brady and a great many nieces and nephews.

Jim was born in Wingham, Ontario in 1942. He was one of seven children. He moved to Ajax where he excelled at the sport that he loved the most: baseball. Jim was a talented pitcher, who was cited as an ace right hander in many newspaper articles. Jim helped lead his teams to multiple Championships in the 1950’s. It was also in Ajax that he met his wife, Carmel.

Jim began his career in General Motors in 1964. He began in Central Maintenance and then later spent most of his career in Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering. Jim loved GM and often spoke proudly of his career that spanned 30+ years. He retired in 1997.

Jim was spirited, and opinionated. You never had to guess where you stood with him. If he told you, you were “top of the drawer,” you knew you were one of his favourite people. Beneath the Scottish bluster, he led with a generous heart. Forever in our minds will be his mantra… “Things should be done with consistency, decency and for the right reasons.” He was generous to a fault and loved to laugh more than anything else. His smile lit up every room he walked into. Jim had many faithful friends in his final years, whom he spoke so highly of.

Jim lived honestly; he loved deeply; he laughed as loud as he “sometimes” yelled. He was one in a million, and we are so very proud to say he was ours. Dad, you did great. Rest with the angels now... Your work here is done.

As requested by Jim, no formal service will be held. Donations to any charity in Jim’s name are welcome and appreciated.

Stamate Iliescu

March 25, 1924 - March 30, 2025

At the grand age of 101, Stamate (Stammy) passed away peacefully on March 30th, 2025, with his beloved daughter Rowena, daughter-in-law Yuko, and grandson Arthur by his side at home in Toronto.

Born on March 25, 1924, in Berbesti, Romania, Stamate was predeceased by his brothers Ion Vasile (Basil) and Mihai, and sisters Theodorica, Annetta, and Paulina. He is fondly remembered by numerous nephews, nieces, and great-nephews, great-nieces, as well as longtime friends like Cornelia (Theodorescu) and Marion Rosculete, with whom he maintained close relationships well into his nineties.

Stamate immigrated to Toronto in 1957 to begin a new chapter in life. He started a family and founded Incorporated Building Services, Ltd., building a reputation as an honest businessman with high standards. He embraced cottage life, owned a farm for a time, but always felt drawn back to the city.

For the last 27 years of his life, Stamate was a resident at OWN Housing Co-op on The Esplanade in Toronto, where he cherished the sense of community and enjoyed spending time with friends and neighbours, whether having a coffee, chatting, or playing chess. His greatest joy was playing chess with his grandson Arthur and his daughter-in-law Yuko, and he also enjoyed the companionship of his boxer dog, Loki.

Stamate is survived by his daughter Rowena (from his second wife, Mary (Reeves)), and grandson Arthur (whose father, Michael (Yuko Murakami), predeceased him). He is also survived by his step-son Michael (from his third wife, Joanna) and daughter Caitlyn. From his first marriage to Joy, Stamate is survived by his children Annetta (Cooper), Angela (deceased), and Mandy (Jenkins), and his grandchildren Tara, Natalie, Chloe, and Jody, as well as his great-grandson George, who live in England and Wales.

Stamate was a lover of jokes, always quick with a punchline, and enjoyed discussing the world’s events, particularly sharing his admiration for Winston Churchill, whom he frequently quoted. He will be remembered for his strong will, caring nature, hard work, wit, intelligence, and his love of children, animals, good food, and nature. His appreciation for craftsmanship and antiquities was another trait that endeared him to all who knew him.

Rossanne Lorna Higgins

November 19, 1955 - March 23, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rossanne Lorna Higgins on March 23, 2025, at the age of 69. She loved her Grandma Lila, who was very significant in Rossanne’s life growing up.

Rossanne was born on November 19, 1955, to Ross and Lorna Higgins (nee Talbot). She was the middle sibling of five, with sisters Janet, Margaret, Sharron, and brother Ted. She was a single mother to her sons Talbot and Jason, and a proud grandmother of Brandon, Brooklyn, Brielle, and Brexton.

In 2012, Rossanne underwent a double lung transplant and regained her active lifestyle, becoming known for the many medical miracles she had experienced.

Rossanne is survived by her oldest son Jason and her grandchildren. She is at peace now, walking again with Talbot.

She was very active in her community, participating in her seniors group, darts, euchre, and volunteering at Pickering Village. She loved spending time with friends, socializing, and shopping. For many years, she cherished her time at Cedar Valley Trailer Park in the summer. Since her lung transplant, she developed a love for traveling, taking many trips.

Rossanne especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. Brooklyn and Brielle were her motivation for undergoing the lung transplant, fighting to be with them. She called them her "two angels."

A celebration of life will be held in May. Details will be made available to all who want to celebrate her.

She will be missed by all who knew her. She is now reunited with her son Talbot, her Grandma Lila, her father and mother, and her sister Janet.

Margaret Macsween Smith (nee Finlayson)

May 11, 1931 - March 21, 2025

Margaret Macsween Smith (nee Finlayson) died peacefully on March 21, 2025 surrounded by family. Cherished wife of the late Rev. Dr. Donald C. Smith (2023) for over 65 years and loving mother of Fiona (Tom), Sheila, Neil (Jackie) and Laura (John). Dear grandma of Owen, Delaney, Neve, Sheridan and Mackenna. Predeceased by her parents, her sister Annabelle and brother Peter.

She was born May 11, 1931 in Toronto. She met and married Donald at Oakwood Presbyterian Church where they were active in the young people’s group. They lived in Edinburgh, Port Alberni, and Medicine Hat where she had a busy life as a minister’s wife and mother. They moved to Georgetown where they lived for more than 30 years and were active in Union Church.

She was a voracious reader, loved birds, travelling and spending time with friends. She was happiest being with her family.

A private service will be held later with interment at Hillcrest Cemetery, Halton Hills.