W.Bro. Gord Franklin

FRANKLIN: Gordon Willis – With sad hearts and never ending deep love we say goodbye to Gord, our husband, dad, grandpa and great grandpa who passed away peacefully with his Loving Family by his side on Monday, March 25, 2024 at the Woodstock General Hospital in his 94th.

Beloved husband of Margaret (Townsend) Franklin whom he married November 6, 1954. Dear father of Brian (Annelise) of Delhi, Brenda Daniels (Kevin Martin) of Delhi, Blaine (Bernadette) of Delhi, Kim (Kelly) of London, Kevin (Cynthia) of Oakville, Krista Dewachter (Rene) of Eden, Kathra Bonnett (Mike) of Delhi and Ann Couwenberg (Adrian) of Burgessville. He will be sadly missed by his 20 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Predeceased by his parents Charles and Iva (Berry) Franklin, brother Robert & wife Cecelia and sister-in-law Mary & Wray Harris.

At a young age Gord learned the value of a hard days work from working with his father on the family farm. He then went on to work for 25 years at Backus Lumber until he was able to establish his own business and operated Franklin Home Centre in Delhi and Norwich until his retirement. Gord had a great love of community having served as President of the Delhi Figure Skating Club, as a member of Delhi Town Council, past Master of the Walsingham Masonic Lodge, Port Rowan, past president of the Norfolk Shrine Club and as a Director of the Lumber and Building Materials Association of Ontario, Warden of the Turkey Point Anglican Church. Gord was always ready to lend a hand for community projects and even quietly helping someone when needed.

A private family service will be conducted at the Jeffrey W. Glendinning Funeral Home, Port Rowan with burial in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Walsingham. A Celebration of Gord’s life will be announced at a later date.

Masonic Memorial Service – Saturday March 30, 2024 @ 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the NF Foundation, the Shriner’s Hospitals, Delhi Medical Centre or the charity of ones choice would be appreciated by the family. Personal condolences can be posted at www.gffh.ca

A special thank you to the compassionate nursing staff at Woodingford Lodge in Woodstock and the palliative care team at Woodstock General Hospital.

Bro. Harry Tutin – Mercer Wilson Medal Recipient

TUTIN, Harry – It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our husband, father and grandfather, Harry Tutin, in his 91st year.  Predeceased by his parents Nan and Ralph Tutin.  Harry is survived by his loving wife Bonnie (nee Thomson), daughter Karen (John Leger), daughter Lori (Brad Houze), son Ralph (Jessica), and his beloved grandchildren Jacob and Emily Leger.  Also survived by his adored sister Marion (Bob Vitone) of California.  Harry worked at Texaco/Esso in Port Credit before being transferred to Nanticoke.  He then continued working at Canadian Tire in Simcoe.  Harry was also a member of the Trinity Anglican Church in Simcoe, the Norfolk Masonic Lodge #10 and the Scottish Rite in Hamilton.  Friends are invited to share their memories of Harry with his family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe for visitation on Wednesday, March  20th, 2024 from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m.  A Masonic Service will be held Wednesday evening at 5:30 p.m. under the auspices of Norfolk Masonic Lodge #10.  A funeral service will follow at Trinity Anglican Church, 80 Colborne St. South Simcoe on Thursday morning at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Paul Sherwood officiating.  Private family interment at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Society of H-N would be gratefully appreciated.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199

V.W. Bro Don Grimshaw

Donald ‘Don’ Grimshaw Obituary

Donald ‘Don’ Grimshaw, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, left us peacefully on March 12, 2024, at the age of 96. Born on October 25, 1927, in Merriton, Ontario, Don’s life was one marked by devotion to his family, service to his community, and an unwavering commitment.

Don spent his final moments in Woodstock, Ontario, surrounded by the love of his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Ruth, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and unwavering partnership. Together, they raised a family that includes their son, Donald (Elvira), and daughter, Patricia (late David). Don’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Joe (Sheri), Stephanie, Michael, Elizabeth, Wesley, Donald, and Jared, as well as his great-grandchildren, Davey, Melody, Terrell, Shelby, Grayson, Maxwell, Kanen, and Jaylin, who will carry forward his teachings and zest for life.

Though predeceased by his siblings, Francis, Arch, and Dorothy, Don’s memory is honored by his sisters-in-law, Marg (the late Bob) Marks, and Erica Rapson the late Tom. His extended family, a host of nieces, nephews, and friends, will remember Don for his warmth, wisdom, and the joy he brought into their lives.

Don’s life was one of service and dedication. As a proud member of Adanac Lodge 614 and Mercer Wilson Lodge 678, he embodied the values of brotherhood, charity, and truth. His commitment to his community was further exemplified by his role as a volunteer firefighter in Merriton, a position he held with honor for almost 50 years. Don’s bravery and selflessness in this role earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

Donald ‘Don’ Grimshaw’s journey on earth may have concluded, but the story of his life will be recounted for generations to come. Rest in peace, dear Don. Your love and legacy will endure always.

Family and friends will be received at Brock & Visser Funeral Home, 845 Devonshire Ave, Woodstock (519-539-0004) on Friday, March 22, 2024 from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm. A Memorial Service will be held in the chapel on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 11am. Burial to follow at Christ Church Huntingford Cemetery.

Masonic Memorial Service at the Funeral Home on Friday March 22, 2024 @ 6.45 p.m.

If so desired, donations to Sakura House would be appreciated by the family.

V.W. Bro. Russell Dickout

Russell Edward Dickout, a pillar of strength and kindness in his community, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2024, in Woodstock, Ontario at 94 years of age.
Russell’s journey began as a dedicated family man, a role he cherished above all else. His beloved wife Bernice was his lifelong partner in love and life’s adventures. Together, they raised a family that became his pride and joy: daughters Virginia (Denis) Reilly and Sandra (Darcy) Alyea. Though he was predeceased by his son Norman in 1990 and daughter Kathryn Routliffe in 2011, his legacy continued to thrive through his grandchildren Brian, Russell, Jennifer, Jill, Garrett, Sadie, and Ainsley, as well as six great-grandchildren who will carry forward his teachings and love.
Russell’s commitment to his family was matched only by his dedication to his work and community. A long-time dairy farmer, he was a respected figure in agricultural circles, known for his expertise and passion for the land. His involvement with the Dereham Masonic Lodge spanned an impressive 70 years, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the principles of brotherhood and service.
A true leader, Russell was an active member and leader of 4H Clubs and Junior Farmers. His influence shaped the lives of many young individuals, instilling in them the values of hard work, integrity, and community service. His love for cattle was not just a profession but a way of life. He showed cattle for many years, and his presence was a familiar and welcome sight at Black and White shows and fairs, where he enjoyed both participating and spectating.

A Masonic Service under the auspice of Dereham Lodge # 624 will be held on Friday March 15, 2024, at 5:45 pm at the Brock and Visser Funeral Home.

A Memorial visitation will take place on Friday March 15, 2024, from 2-4 and 6-8 held at Brock and Visser Funeral Home (845 Devonshire Ave. 519-539-0004).

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday March 16, 2024, at 11 am held at Knox United Church – Embro with Rev. Susan Cole officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Canadian Cancer Society, Knox United Church- Embro or charity of your choice would be appreciated. Share a memory at www.brockandvisser.

W. Bro.Stephen Beatty

It is with sadness I am writing to advise you of the passing of W. Bro. Beatty. The link to the notice follows: https://woodstocksentinelreview.remembering.ca/obituary/stephen-beatty-1089352592

Steve was sponsored by  Al Cooper and  Don Gorsline. He was investigated by Don Cooper, Murray Robertson and Les Goodall and initiated June 16, 1980. This would have been the year following R. W. Bro. Jack Beatty`s term as District Deputy. He was: Passed June 15, 1981 -Raised Sept 27, 1982 Installed as Master June 1, 1999 Passed to the Grand Lodge above February 3, 2024 We cherish his memory in our hearts.V.W.

Bro.Jerry Rasokas

With great sadness the family of Jerry Rasokas share that he passed away peacefully with his Family by his side on Thursday January 11th, 2024, in his 79th year, at the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Jerry was born in Kuhlungsborn Germany and came to Canada 5 years later with his family. They grew tobacco on a farm near Langton, Ontario. Jerry is predeceased by his wife, true love, and best friend Renate (Kelm). They enjoyed each other’s company for 50 years and everyone who knew them saw the love and bond that they had. Loving Father to his Children Dan (Kim) of Tillsonburg, and Andrew (Meaghan) of Kitchener. Proud and cherished Papa to Isabella, Aleah, and Cody. Also survived by his siblings Regina (Fred) Homeniuk and Ray (Carol) Rasokas, and Sister-in-Law Paula Rasokas. Predeceased by his parents George Rasokas and Elizabeth Voverius, and brother Peter Rasokas. We will all miss barbecues by the pool, golf games, pizza parties, kugelis, pickled herring, Scotch and Sunday dinners with our best friend, confidant, and biggest supporter.
Jerry was always a dedicated Husband, father, and grandfather. He worked many hours to provide for his family. He spent 38 years working at Ford, and countless hours working to help his parents, family, friends, and in laws with whatever they needed help with. Jerry dedicated much of his time to the Masonic Lodge and Shrine club. He was Past President of King Hiram Masonic Lodge #78, Wilson District Secretary, Member of the Scottish Rite, and Past President of the Tillsonburg Shrine Club. You could find him selling tickets, bartending, or serving meals at community events to raise money for charity, or riding a minibike or the Shriners fire truck at local parades to put smiles on people’s faces.
In keeping with Jerry’s wishes a public Masonic Lodge Memorial Service will be held on January 27th, 2024, at the Bridges at Tillsonburg Golf Club at 12 pm, followed by a celebration of life open house until 3 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations made in his name to the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Foundation or the Tillsonburg Shrine Club are appreciated. Donations may be made directly, or by cheque through Ostrander Funeral Home, Tillsonburg ON who have been entrusted with Final Arrangements

We regret to inform you of the passing of V. W. Bro James George Sinden

Initiated October 19, 1972 – Passed December 7, 1972 – Raised April 19, 1973

Passed to the Grand Lodge Above December 20, 2023

Filled all Offices up through to the Worshipful Master in 1981 and then continued as needed.  Jim was very well known in Tillsonburg for his many memberships with various organizations.  A Masonic Memorial Service will be conducted at Ashlar Lodge on January 18 @ 7.30 p.m.

We will cherish his memory in our hearts.

V.W. Bro. Arnold Johnson

JOHNSON, Arnold Francis – passed away at the Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe on Monday, December 25th, 2023 in his 89th year. Beloved husband of the late Georgina (nee Smith) Johnson (2000). Loving father & grandfather of Jeff Johnson (Linda) of Simcoe, daughters Amanda & Victoria; Shari Johnson (Glenn Desmarais) of London, daughters Ansley (Jecelle) & Sarah (Ryley); and Tim Johnson (Donna) of Delhi, children Lily & Owen. Predeceased by his brother John Johnson. Arnold was a member of the Norfolk Masonic Lodge #10, the Ezra Regal Chapter #23 and the Ode St. Amande #17 and 32nd Degree Scottish Rite. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Anglican Churchmen (BOAC) and the Royal Canadian Legion – Branch #79 Simcoe. Friends are invited to share their memories of Arnold with his family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North Simcoe for visitation on Friday, December 29th, 2023 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. A Masonic service will be held at 5:45 p.m. Arnold’s funeral service will take place from Trinity Anglican Church, 80 Colborne St. S. Simcoe on Saturday morning at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Paul Sherwood officiating. Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Simcoe. Those wishing to donate in memory of Arnold are asked to consider the Canadian Red Cross. Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199

BRO. OWEN CARSON

OWEN JOSEPH CARSON
April 19, 1952 – December 4, 2023

We are heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of Owen Joseph Carson on Monday December 4, at the age of 71.

Loving husband of 43 years to Sandra Marie Carson (Drotos). The best Dad and loving father of OJ Carson (Vicki) of Lyndoch, Cara Carson (Drew) of Kincardine, and Cole Carson (Marisa) of Tillsonburg. Grandfather of Cori, Parker, Max, Jordan, Ryan, Elliott and Nash. Brother of Preston Carson (Maxine), and Cathleen Pettinger (John). Devoted son-in-law to Marg Drotos. Predeceased by his parents, Ross Carson and Betty Carson (Walmsley), his brother Archie Carson, as well as his father-in-law Joe Drotos.

Owen was a third-generation farmer on his family farm, where he grew tobacco and cash crops on Carson Line. He also drove transport truck for Future Transfer. He was a faithful and active 50-year member of King Hiram #78 Masonic Lodge and proud member of the Tillsonburg Shrine Club and Mocha Temple. He was a second generation and most senior member of the Providence Bay Hunt Club. In the community, Owen also volunteered for many years with Tillsonburg Minor Hockey Incorporated, including serving as President.

Owen was a hardworking, humble, patient, and generous man. He loved spending time with his family and friends, a good scotch or hot cup of coffee, and he never hesitated to lend a hand or help a neighbour. You could find him on his lawn mower in the summer, plowing snow in the winter, and doing field tours in his truck all year round. His heart and soul was on the farm, and the essence of who he was will always be found there and in each of us.

In keeping with Owen’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A public Masonic Lodge Memorial Service will be held at 1:30pm on Saturday, December 16th at the Tillsonburg Community Centre in the Lions Auditorium. Words of remembrance will follow at 2pm with a Celebration of Life Open

In keeping with Owen’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A public Masonic Lodge Memorial Service will be held at 1:30pm on Saturday, December 16th at the Tillsonburg Community Centre in the Lions Auditorium. Words of remembrance will follow at 2pm with a Celebration of Life Open House to continue until 7pm. Private inurnment will be held at a later date at the Tillsonburg Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Tillsonburg Shrine Club or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the Carson Family and can be done via cheque payable to the organization you would like to donate to by contacting Ostrander’s Funeral Home (519) 842-5221. Condolences may be shared at www.ostrandersfuneralhome.com

R.W. Bro. Michael de Belleval

It is with a heavy heart that I let you know that R.W. Bro. Michael de Belleval has passed to the Grand Lodge Above on Tuesday October 10th, 2023.

There will be no funeral service or visitation.

There will be a celebration of life and a Masonic Memorial Service from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday November 18, 2023 at the Innerkip Masonic Hall.

R.W. Bro. de Belleval was the District Deputy Grand Master for Wilson North in 2014 and was the District Chaplain during my two years as DDGM.

He taught art for many years and his artwork was featured in numerous art galleries in Ontario including the National Gallery of Canada.

We shall Cherish his Memory in our Hearts.

Mike

Fraternally,
R.W. Bro. Michael J. Segui

W. Bro. Lawrence Durham

It is my sad duty to inform you that Worshipful Brother Lawrence Durham, Past Master of Dereham Lodge No 624 (1977), passed to the Grand Lodge Above on Wednesday October 4th, 2023. 

We cherish his memory in our hearts.

Fraternally,

Scott Gillies

Secretary

Dereham Lodge No. 624

Mount Elgin, Ontario

Bro. Bruce Allardyse

Bro. Bruce Allardyce of Tavistock Lodge No 609 passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving Family on Monday March 27, 2023 at Woodingford Lodge in Woodstock, Ontario.
Loved husband of Carolyn. Dear Father of daughter Heather, sons Bradley (Kim), and Robert. Grandfather of Adam, Chelsea, Mitchell, and Jordan, and great granddaughters Nicole and Hazel.
Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock has been entrusted with Final Arrangements.

Bro. Fraser Currah

It is with sadness that I announce the passing of Brother Fraser Currah, a long time member of the Tavistock 609. Fraser was a 60 plus year a Mason.
His passing was April 16, 2023 and the obituary can be found in the Woodstock Sentinal-Review of April 27, 2023. The details are available at the Website ” https://woodstocksentinelreview.remembering.ca/obituary/fraser-currah-1087486329″. Please paste this tested link into your browser to view the obituary.
From the obituary, “The family will honour him on May 13th at 2pm with a Celebration of Life at Craigowan Golf Course on Highway 59, south of Woodstock, Ontario.”
We shall cherish his memory in our hearts.
Fraternally
W. Bro. Barton Tettman FCF
Secretary Tavistock 609

R.W. Bro Harry Ketchabaw

Passed away peacefully at the Woodstock Hospital on Sunday February 26th, 2023. Dear husband of Joan Ketchabaw (nee Shadwick). Loved father of Lila (Lewis) Geauvreau and Jamie Ketchabaw. Loving grandfather of Jason and Nathan (Janine). Cherished great grandfather of Evolet, Maren, Barrett, and Laken. Dear brother of Bruce Ketchabaw, Wilda Bowerman, Evelyn Mercer, and Eileen Fick. Will always be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Harry was a dedicated member of King Solomon’s Masonic Lodge #43 Woodstock. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners’ Hospital for Crippled Children / Rehabilitation Centre for Children, and may be arranged through the Brock and Visser Funeral Home, Woodstock (519-539-0004) . MASONIC MEMORIAL SERVICE – TUESDAY MARCH 7, 2023 @ 2 P.M.

W.Bro. Tom O’Neill

It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of Vienna Lodge No. 237 Worshipful Master Tom O’Neill. W. Bro. O’Neill passed earlier this morning (March 1, 2023) while in hospital suffering a recent illness. A tribute service will be conducted at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home – 1099 Gordon Street Guelph on Friday March 10, 2023 @ 7 p.m. No regalia to be worn. A Masonic Memorial Service will also be conducted at the March 17, 2023 regular meeting @ Vienna Lodge No 237 at 8 p.m.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Walls, J. Harold “Hal” – Passed away at Sakura House, Woodstock on Tuesday February 21, 2023, in his 92nd year. Beloved husband of Barbara A. (nee Ogden) Walls for over 32 years. Loved father of Barry (Laurie) Walls, late Bruce Walls, dear stepfather to Kim Quigley (Dr. Gord Kruger), and Sandra (Paul) Walker. Cherished grandfather of Emily and Danny, and loving step-grandfather to Russell (Kelly) Quigley, Haydn (Kimmie) Carlin, Leah (Eric) Paulsen, Lindsay (Gerry) Raymond, and is survived by his sister Mary Starodub. Hal was a former Clerk Treasurer of Oxford County. He was an avid golfer, fisherman, “new car” enthusiast, Mason and Shriner for many years with Oxford Lodge No. 76, A.F. & A.M. A private time of remembrance will be held by the family. Cremation has taken place. If desired, memorial contributions to Sakura House, Woodstock and may be arranged through the Brock and Visser Funeral Home, Woodstock, 519-539-0004. Expressions of sympathy may be given at www.brockandvisser.com

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________