Eddie Peter Dutka

With great sadness the family of Ed Dutka, 83, announces his passing on Monday, January 30, 2017 in Thunder Bay.

Ed was born on June 26, 1933 in Fort Frances, Ontario to Led and Mary Dutka. He was the youngest of three children. He was united in marriage with Mary Anne Delaurier on November 18, 1955 and together they had two boys, Dale and Alan. Ed was heartbroken when Mary Anne passed away in 2011 after 56 years of marriage.

They lived in Fort Frances until moving to Thunder Bay in 1981. Ed worked for the Ministry of Correctional Services for over 30 years starting at the Fort Frances Jail and then retiring in 1988 from the Thunder Bay Jail as auperintendent.

Shortly after his retirement Ed and Mary Anne moved to Atikokan, and in 1990 he started Dutka Signs, working alongside Mary Anne and Alan. Ed was very artistic and loved to draw and paint.

Ed was a kind and considerate man. He had the ‘gift of gab’, loved to tell jokes and make everyone laugh. He had a joke for every occasion. He loved to play darts and cribbage, enjoyed a great cup of lemon tea, and a superb rum and Coke. Ed served in the Canadian Armed Forces during the Korean War, and was an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Atikokan Branch. He was also a longstanding member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge in Fort Frances.

Ed was pre-deceased by his wife Mary Anne on December 18, 2011; parents Led and Mary Dutka; sister Betty Main, and brother Bill Dutka; and by brothers-in-law Bill Zdep and Romeo Delaurier.

He leaves behind his sons Dale (Donna) of Thunder Bay, Alan of Atikokan; granddaughter Abbygail of Thunder Bay and sisters-in-law Gayle Dutka of Atikokan and Diane Zdep of Airdrie, Alberta, brothers-in-law James (Sylvia) Delaurier of Prince George, B.C., and Andy Main of Maple Ridge, B.C., as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will take place at Riverview Cemetery in Fort Frances this summer. If friends so desire in memoriam donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 103-979 Alloy Drive, Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 5Z8.

Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com

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Lorne Gallinger

With heavy hearts, the family of Lorne Gallinger, 53, announce his passing after a short illness on January 28, 2017.

Born December 19, 1963 in Atikokan, Lorne grew up here and moved to Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, as a young man. He worked as a painter and drywaller. Fishing and camping were among his favourite pastimes.

He is survived by the love of his life, Diane, son Gordon, daughter Jamie, and grandchildren Jailin and Leeson; siblings Brian (Shirley), Doug (Bev), Karen (Kim), Ron (Laverne), Donna (Mark), Carol (Rick), Billy (Anna); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lorne was pre-deceased by his parents, Gordon and Evelyn Gallinger, brother Glen, and sister Darlene.

A service will be held in Portage La Prairie at a later date.

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Douglas Charles Rowell

With great sadness the family of Douglas Rowell, 59, announces his unexpected passing on January 18, 2017 at his apartment in Calgary, Alberta.

Doug was the second son born to Donna and John Rowell, December 26, 1957, in Atikokan, Ontario.

Doug was a hard worker, and very versatile; he would tackle any job, big or small, and was not afraid to try anything. Doug worked at Caland Ore, in the bush, and at Atikokan Forest Products. He moved to Calgary doing renovations and carpentry work up until he could no longer work due to illness.

Doug loved the outdoors, camping, and fishing with family and friends. Doug loved his family; family meant everything to him.

Doug is survived by his mother Donna, brothers John Jr. and Shawn (Laurie), sister Gwendolyn, niece Sarah, nephews Luke, John, Ray and Mike, and many aunties, uncles, and cousins who loved him dearly.

He was pre-deceased by his father, John, in 2002.

A memorial service was held January 28 at the Atikokan Community Fellowship Church where Pastor Brad Ricci officiated.

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Vernon Strom

With deep sadness the family, announce the passing of Vernon Richard Strom, 56, of Atikokan. Vernon passed away peacefully, February1, 2017, in the comfort of his own home.

Vernon was a dedicated father, loving son, brother, and uncle, and a genuine friend to many.

He was born on February 21, 1960 in Atikokan, Ontario as the third child to parents Everett and Marie. Vernon had a love for Atikokan so he decided to spend his life here and is where he raised his son – and best buddy – Michael.

Vern worked 30 years at Sapawe Forest Products. He especially enjoyed his career as a millwright which was cut short due to health issues; but this gave him plenty of time to spend with friends and family, which he cherished the most. He had a strong love for his family

Hunting, fishing and spending time with his dogs were a great passion for Vernon.

Vernon was pre-deceased by his father Everett Strom, his infant daughter Jennifer Marie, and his nephew Brent Anderson. He is survived by his mother Marie Komaransky (husband Frank), son Michael and girlfriend Amanda, siblings Orval (Susan), Glen (Becky), Neil, Sheila (Norman Anderson), and Lee-Ann (Steve Belfry), and many nieces and nephews.

Everyone who knew Vern, knows he made their day a little better by his cracking jokes, great sense of humour, and the way he just enjoyed life. Vernon was loved by many and he will be greatly missed.

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Percy Stamler

With heavy hearts, the family of Percy George Stamler, 62, announce his sudden passing on Saturday January 28, 2017.

Percy was born in Warroad, Minnestoa on October 24, 1954 to Marie and George Stamler. In 1956 his family moved to Atikokan, where Percy fell in love with the outdoors. In his teenage years he entered and won many canoe races. In the winter he loved being out on his sled and was a goalie for the Atikokan Voyagers Junior hockey team. He built a cabin on Sand Point Lake and loved spending time there. In his later years Percy was an avid gardener and grounds keeper. His yard work was the envy of the neighbourhood.

Percy was a fire crew boss for the Ministry of Natural Resources up until his health prevented him from working. He took pride in the work, and told countless stories of his working days. Percy loved to research and read about all kinds of topics and was eager to share his knowledge with others.

Percy was pre-deceased by his father George Stamler, his grandparents John and Borghild Hodgson, and Teresa and Frank Stamler.

He is lovingly remembered by parents Marie and Eugene Grennier; sisters Peggy (Dean), Carrie-Lynn (Pat), Dina; brothers Victor (Twila), Pete (Kim), and Carey (Bev). Uncle Percy Percy held a special place in his heart for each and every one of his nieces and nephews, Kyle (Shelly, Drew, Casey), Cody, Aaron, Judd, Kobe, Michael, Spencer, Kayla, Jordan (Ethan), Ava-Mae, Izzy, Jasmine, Justin, Christian and Calliegh.

He will be missed by his many aunts, uncles and cousins, especially his very special Aunty Teresa.

Percy will be remembered for his warm heart and giving ways; a beloved son, brother and uncle.

Cremation has taken place; interment and a celebration of Percy’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to KidSport Fort Frances (396 Scott Street, Fort Frances, ON, P9A 1G9) or Atikokan (Box 1957, Atikokan, ON P0T 1C0) chapter. Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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René Marion

With great sadness we announce the sudden passing of René Joseph Denis Marion, husband, father, grand-father, brother, and uncle on Sunday February 19, 2017 at the age of 64.

René will be forever loved and missed by his children, Colleen (Bruce), Eric (Brigitte), Dean (Thasha), Michel (Lisa); and grandchildren, Chloe, Cody, Colin, Andon, Danica, Tristen, Tyler and Aria. He will also be missed by his siblings, Solange (Cyril), Agnes (Edmond), Marie (Andre), Roger (Dee), Yvonne (Carl), Rolande (Albert), Blanche (Raymond), Therese (Gilles), Joe (Carole), Jean-Leon, Bernie (Tim), Alphonse, Raymond, and many nieces and nephews, as well as extended family and friends. René is predeceased by his wife, Gisele Marion (née Gagné), father, Léon Marion and mother, Rita Marion (née Moquin).

A celebration of life in honour of René will be held Thursday March 2 (2 pm) at the Cabane a Sucre, 432 Joubert Street, Saint-Pierre Jolys, Manitoba.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in René’s honour to a charity of choice. On-line, condolences may be made at WiebeFuneralHomes.com

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Renee Louise Russell

Renee Louise Russell, 65, of Atikokan, Ontario, beloved daughter of Violet Fulford, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2017 at the Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary, Alberta.

She ‘fought the good fight’ with her battle with chronic lung disease. She is survived by her daughters Sherri Russell and Carri (David) Safronuk; brother Kenneth (Shelley) Fulford; and her grandchildren Brenna and Drew. She was pre-deceased by her mother Violet Fulford, her grandmother Maria Ranta, her auntie Bertha Chomyshyn, and her brothers Cal and Chuck.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations being made in Renee’s memory directly to the Canadian Lung Association, (ON Lung Association, 401 18 Wynford Dr, Toronto, ON M3C 0K8). Messages of remembrance may be left for the family at www.SouthCalgaryFuneralCentre.ca

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Lorne Eric Zacharias

Lorne Eric Zacharias, 84, of Atikokan, Ontario passed away peacefully in his home on February 22, 2017. Lorne was born to John and Susanne (nee Epp) Zacharias on January 28, 1933 in Carrot River, Saskatchewan, where he grew up and attended school. He married Elaine Greene on August 29, 1954 and moved to Atikokan that fall where they would begin their lives together and later raise their family.

Lorne was a jack of all trades and a master of many; carpenter, welder, mechanic to name a few. Shortly after moving to Atikokan he began the construction of his home where he raised his children and lived until the end. Lorne worked in the maintenance department as a welder at Steep Rock Iron Mines until 1975 when he left to help build the new particle board plant in town. Having been there since the beginning, Lorne was a valuable and respected employee at Pluswood (later Proboard) until his retirement in 1998.

Lorne loved to travel; he and Elaine enjoyed tropical vacations with friends throughout the years and pulled their camper all over North America, even up to Alaska! In his younger years, Lorne enjoyed fast cars and cruising around in his latest Dodge; sometimes he was even known to race. In recent years, Lorne traded in his hot rods for a lawn tractor and could often be seen cruising around town in his favourite straw hat. Lorne loved reading and always had a good mystery novel on the go. He also enjoyed spending time in his garage working on cars, woodworking, watching hockey, curling, and baseball, and enjoying a good visit with those who stopped by.

Lorne was very lucky that all five of his children remained in Atikokan to raise their families, allowing him to be a very active part of his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s lives.

Lorne is survived by Elaine, his wife of 62 years, brother Waldie (Freida), and sister Betty (Dewey) Mark. He will be forever loved and missed by his children Erle (Carrie), Paulette (Allan) Nelson, Rob (Lorraine), Todd (Jenny), and Tammy (Jason) Mattson; grandchildren Tina (Steve) Cunningham, Sherri (Jason) Dragan, Erin (Ashley), Eric (Megan), Amy, Ashley (Kelly) Chernosky, Nick (Alexis) Nelson, Jesse, Kelsey (Matt), Tyler Nelson, Janelle (TJ) Viney, Bailey, Cole Mattson, Hunter, Darbie Mattson, Caleb and 14 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life is being planned for Lorne’s family and friends this summer.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lorne’s honour to Atikokan General Hospital or a charity of choice.

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Sybil Pearce

Two weeks after celebrating her 100^th birthday, Sybil Pearce passed away peacefully in St. Joseph’s Hospital with her daughter at her side.

Sybil was born in Liverpool, England, February 6, 1917. At age 13 she moved to Canada with her parents and two young brothers. On Christmas Eve 1937, she married Philip Pearce and spent the first three years of their marriage in Geraldton. Sybil and Philip raised their family in Blake Township and moved to the Atikokan area in 1966. Sybil returned to Thunder Bay after the death of her husband in 1991.

Sybil’s main interests were centered on her home and family and she had a life-long interest in healthy living and physical fitness. She was very strong in her faith and was a member of Westfort Baptist Church.

Sybil is survived by her children Robert (Elizabeth), Phyllis Walker, and Walter (Vera); 11 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by her husband Philip; parents Walter and Violet Williams; brothers Gordon and Alan; son-in-law George Walker and great-grandson Miguel.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private service will be held at a later date. On line condolences may be made at www.Jenkens-Funeral.ca

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Alfred Hedrich

Alfred Hedrich, a resident of Thunder Bay, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 3, 2017 with his family by his side at Atikokan Extended Care. Alfred was born on August 21, 1935 in Germany. He spent most of his childhood growing up in Germany before coming to Canada in 1949. Alfred immigrated to Canada with his family settling in Saint Gregor, SK.

Alfred continued his schooling in Saskatchewan, then helped the family run the farm along with numerous other jobs in the farming industry. Alfred moved to Atikokan in 1954 to be closer to his sister, Emma Braun and family.

Alfred worked in the bush camps, Jim Mathieu Saw Mill, and CAC before moving to Thunder Bay in 1962 where he got a job at Canada Car and then later Bombardier where he worked until his retirement in 1997.

After retiring, Alfred began to travel with trips to Mexico, Las Vegas, California, and his most important trip back to Germany to find the burial site of his father.

Alfred spent many summers at the family cabin, which became his second home whenever possible. Alfred could be found most evenings playing cards around the table with the family  He was always up for any game of cards. He spent many days playing horseshoes, bocci ball, and volleyball with his nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Alfred loved to spend time with the family. Alfred was an avid hunter and fisherman. There were many stories told about the earlier years sitting around camp. These stories were passed on to all. He was an avid reader. He read many, many westerns.

Alfred became an avid bingo player, and spent many nights at the bingo hall in Thunder Bay and across the border. He met his special friends at bingo or he’d pick them up and helped them get to bingo.

Alfred always loved to watch his nephews and nieces play hockey. Alfred loved his sports and spent many hours at any arena watching the kids play hockey.

Alfred was known as the uncle with the big heart. He was very involved with all of the family and their lives. He was always there to help anyone in need. He spent all holidays with his family here in Atikokan.

Alfred leaves behind his sister, Emma Braun and her family Dennis (Ann), Garry (Linda), Linda (Gerald) Thivierge, Lorraine (Wayne) Miller, and Marianne (Keith) Caldwell; great nieces and nephews Nicole (Jason), Darren (Chrissy), Joe, Jeremy, Jamie (Kristen), Mallory, Jason, Brittany (Tyler), Melissa, and Adam; great great nieces and nephews Hannah, Charlotte, Nathan and Finnigan.

Alfred was pre-deceased by his parents Emma and Alois Hedrich, stepfather Arthur Albert, an infant sister, and brother-in-law Joe Braun.

Alfred will be sadly missed by all of his family. Interment has taken place at the Little Falls Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Atikokan General Hospital Extended Care. Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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Lucille Janet Krishka

Lucille Janet Krishka, born in May 1929 to Albert and Edna Cain, raised with three brothers (Lyle, Melvin, and Les) and a sister (Thelma), married John Krishka (passed 2013) and brought a family of four sons into this world, has returned her spirit to her maker on February 23, 2017.

Left to remember her love as a mother, grandmother and great grandmother are: Randy (Donna, passed 2005), Jason (grandson), Alana (granddaughter-in-law), Talia and Tayne (great granddaughters); Rick (Lisa), Donny and Gillian (grandchildren); Brian (Lori), Meagan (granddaughter), Nelson (grandson-in-law), James (great grandson), and Nikki (granddaughter); Alan (Jennifer), John (grandson) and Lynn (granddaughter-in-law), Henry, and Jack (great grandsons).

Those who knew her will remember her heartfelt appreciation for anyone who helped her when she would say ‘Thank you!’ Flowers and her gardens were her summer passion, and will be dearly missed for the beauty she created. She never got enough of her family visits and phone calls.

At her request no service will be held.

… but the meek shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Psalm 37:11

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Clifford Charles Ducharme

Clifford Charles Ducharme, 78, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on March 12, 2017 at the Atikokan General Hospital.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Pat, his three devoted children Deb (Dave Hill) Ducharme of Atikokan, Sue (Jim Foster) Hadley of Kingston, and Mickey (Cathy) Ducharme of Atikokan; his precious grandchildren Jon (Jen) Barron of Winnipeg, Chylo Peacosh of Atikokan, Cyle (Nikki) Peacosh of Atikokan, Jacob (Logan Shillington) Hadley (also a godson) of Kingston. Sara Hadley (also a goddaughter) of Kingston, Michael Ducharme of Atikokan and Abby Ducharme of Atikokan; three very precious great-granddaughters, Paytyn Peacosh of Atikokan, Bailey Barron of Winnipeg, and Elyn Barron of Winnipeg, and soon to arrive great-grandson, Cyle Clifford James Peacosh, the loves of his life.

He is also survived by brothers and sisters Annette (Jack) Otis of Belleville, Wilfred (Lise) Mallais of Val Rita, Danny Mallais of Cochrane, Claudette (Pete) Brown of Niagara Falls, Jeannette Wannamaker of Kapuskasing, Ernest (Ruth Leo) Ducharme of Vancouver; brother-in-law John (Caol) Chabot of Fowler; uncle Frank Nelson, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was pre-deceased by his beloved mother and step-father, Mary and Edgar Mallais, and three siblings, Laurette, Edward and Sandra, several aunts and uncles, son-in-law Grant Hadley, and in-laws Mary and Charles Chabot.

Cremation has taken place and a private funeral will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations gratefully appreciated to the Parkinson’s Society or Atikokan General Hospital.

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Florence (Flo) Ferguson

Florence (Flo) Ferguson, 96, passed away peacefully with family by her side on March 16, 2017 at the Atikokan General Hospital.

Florence was born August 3, 1920 in Teulon, Manitoba, the eldest daughter of Adolf and Violet Hamaburg. She grew up on the family farm and this is where she met and married her husband Jim. Together they enjoyed 64 years of marriage before his passing in 2010.

Florence and Jim moved from farming in Manitoba to the little mining town of Atikokan in 1953. They didn’t have much, but she was so happy to here. She always said, anything was better than living on the farm. Their first home was a little house on Sykes Street along the river. The only running water was her, running to the river. After a few moves to different houses in Don Park, they settled into 138 Hawthorne Rd in 1964, where she lived for 51 years.

In her younger years she was an active member of the Ladies of the Moose, socializing with her friends, working at bingos, and preparing and serving dinners at countless community events. She must have rolled a million cabbage rolls! Florence also spent many hours at the arena and the ball field. She always had a smile and a joke for everyone. She could give it as good as she could take it. She made life-long friends that she enjoyed up until her passing.

She continued living in the family home until 2015, enjoying family visits along with her many friends who would stop for coffee and dainties. She loved her home, cooking for family, and taking care of her yard and flowers. Florence loved cheering for the Blue Jays and passionately watched the Scotties, the Brier, and World Championships of Curling. Florence loved her life to the fullest.

Health issues required her to spend her last two years in the Atikokan General Hospital.

Florence is survived by her beloved sister Olive (Roy) of Teulon, Manitoba, six loving children, Brian (Mary Ann), Dale (Arlene), Dianne (Lew), Lorne (Jocelyne), Gary, and Rob (Sheila), eight adoring grandchildren Lori (Fred), Jimmy (Julie), Troy (Jennifer), Terry (Alysa), Stephanie (Jamie), Ryan (Taylor), Janice (Brian), and Carole (Graham) and 12 great-grandchildren.

Florence was pre-deceased by her parents, husband Jim, brothers Leonard, Courtney, Roger and Bob.

Cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held later this spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

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Owen B. Boland

Owen Boland, 97, passed away peacefully in the Extended Care Wing of the Atikokan General Hospital on March 23, 2017. He’s gone to be with Betty, his wife of 64 years, who died in 2011.

Owen was born November 3, 1919 in Cache Bay, Ontario. He, his parents and siblings, spent a large part of their summers at their family cottage on Lake Nipissing. After high school, Owen attended University of Toronto where he graduated as a Mining Engineer in 1943. During WWII he served in the Corps of Royal Canadian Engineers.

He and Betty were married in 1946. They settled in the Val d’Or, Quebec area where he worked at several mines. Stuart, Barb and Jim, their three children, were born there. In 1954 the family moved to Atikokan where Owen took a position with Caland Ore. It didn’t take him long to become involved in the community – Riverview United Church, Chamber of Commerce, hospital board, high school board, ski club, and more.

Almost immediately upon arrival in Atikokan, Owen and Betty bought property on Eva Lake where they built their piece of paradise. At the cabin, they enjoyed their time canoeing, fishing, sailing and watching the annual return of the loons and the hatching of the Common Merganser ducklings in the stump by the lake. Although he didn’t like getting his face wet, he did buy himself a windsurfer for his 60^th birthday.

Owen and Betty loved hosting numerous sailing regattas with family and friends and shuttling campers and staff to Camp Freeman. Throughout most of Owen’s life the family dog accompanied him.

Owen and Betty loved travelling and saw much of Canada, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the British Isles.

Owen is survived by his brother Larry (Marilyn), children, Stuart (Nancy), Barb, and Jim (Laurie), six grandchildren, Jason (Mindy), Kerri (Jeremy), Bree (Raegan), Casey (Natalie), Brodie (Amira) and Colin (Laura), five great grandchildren, and many extended family.

A service and internment of ashes will occur at a later date. Donations, if desired, can be made to the Extended Care Wing of the Atikokan General Hospital, Riverview United Church or the charity of your choice.

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Dagmar Sampson

With heavy hearts, the Sampson family announces the passing of their beautiful matriarch Dagmar. Dagmar passed away peacefully on Thursday March 23, 2017 at the Atikokan General Hospital with her children by her side.

Dagmar was born in Berlin, Germany on July 12, 1939. She came to Canada as a young girl on her mother’s back while swimming to escape the war, and she carried many haunting memories of their travels out of Germany.

She met her one true love in Atikokan and was united in marriage to Omer Sampson on December 23, 1955. Together they gave life to seven children. They were happily married until Omer’s untimely passing in 1970.

Dagmar went on to own and operate J&D Shell Service. It was there she discovered her love of cooking, baking, and people. It didn’t take long for word to spread about her home cooked meals and amazing baking. Her simple secret was “Heavy on the TLC”, and it showed on every plate and pie she baked. After nearly 20 years success at J&D, Dagmar moved on to become co-owner of The Union Pub where she operated The Diversion Restaurant. Her faithful patrons followed her on her new venture making the Diversion a success as well. After a fall and injury to her hip, she retired from the physical labour of running the Diversion and went on to own and operate Heart & Home Gift and Flower shop with her daughter Carol. Upon the closing of Heart & Home, Dagmar retired to enjoy home life and her children and grandchildren. She always had a home made meal and fresh baking ready at any time of the day, every day for her family.

Dagmar enjoyed any and all activities that involved her family. She especially loved the times spent at the camp on Perch Lake. Though she was renowned for her lavish home cooked meals, she herself was totally content with a hot dog over the fire. We always have, and always will, set a chair for “Mom” around the campfire.

Dagmar is lovingly remembered by her children Douglas, Carol, Brad (Susan), Darren (Jennifer), and Greg; grandchildren Brendan, Cole, Kelsey (Codge), Callie, Ricky, Robin, Parker, Scotty, Simon and Alex; great grandchildren Brinley, Ellie, and new baby Gage. She is also survived by her siblings Sue (Bob) Potts, Ernie Czapla, Mike Czapla, Peggy (Jim) Lee, and nieces and nephews.

Dagmar was predeceased by her mother Ruth Czapla, her husband Omer Sampson, and their precious children Pamela and Ricky.

As per Dagmar’s wishes a private family service will take place at a later date with interment in Little Falls Cemetery Atikokan by Omer’s side.

If desired memorial donations may be made in Dagmar’s memory to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.NorthridgeFuneralHome.com

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Margaret Bailey

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret Bailey (née VanDillen), mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who died peacefully on March 29, 2017 at Meadowood Manor in Winnipeg.

Margaret was born on May 24, 1931 to Olga and Hubert VanDillen, the middle of six children, and grew up on the family farm near Manitou, Manitoba in the beautiful Pembina Valley.

Margaret and her late husband Ron (August 25, 1926 – March 1, 2012) spent over thirty years in Atikokan, raising their family.

She is survived by her youngest sister, Ella, her children, Rhonda, Kim (Laurie), Lori (Gary), and Coral (Ken), grandchildren, Ron, Jen (Ian), and Jamie, and three great grandchildren, Wyatt, Leila and Orion.

A funeral service was held April 8 at Doyle’s Funeral Home, with Rev. Catherine Waldie officiating. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, a donation in her name can be made to a charity of your choice. On-line condolences may be made at  www.DoylesFuneralHome.ca

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Ike McMahon

Lawrence Kelly ‘Ike’ McMahon passed away suddenly on Saturday April 1, 2017 in Stony Mountain, MB.

Ike was born on January 30, 1977 in Atikokan to Kelly and Roberta McMahon. He was raised in Atikokan, attending school (Outers 1993-94), playing hockey, and collecting baseball and hockey cards. Ike made friends everywhere he went; he was the type of guy you wanted on your side. He was always there to help a friend or right a wrong.  Inside that intimidating body was a person with a big heart.

He leaves behind his father Kelly (Lisa); mother Roberta (Richard); daughters Ciera and Emerson; brother Tyler (Amy); step sister Kelisa; aunts and uncles Louis (Smokey) Bruyere (Ginny), Lawrence Bruyere (Carole), Peter Bruyere (Faye),  Wendy Kratky (EJ), Barb Boulette, Doreen Williamson (Wayne), Jack Folster (Caren), Bob McMahon (Lorraine) and Dawn Demuriak (Steve) as well as numerous cousins.

Ike was predeceased by his uncle Albert Bruyere.

A private family service was held with cremation. Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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Liz Chambers

With great sadness the family of Elizabeth (Liz) Susan Chambers (née Croome) announce her passing at Atikokan General Hospital on April 13, 2017 with family by her side.

Born June 10, 1953 in Winnipeg, she and her family lived in Thunder Bay and then moved on to Montreal. When her father became ill, they moved back to Atikokan to be near extended family. Liz received her high school diploma (Outers 1969-70), obtained her RNA certificate, and then on October 20, 1973 married her hometown sweetheart, Darrell Chambers. After a few months in Thunder Bay, they returned to their roots and family in Atikokan. Liz worked at the Atikokan General Hospital (AGH) for a number of years.

Liz and Darrell added three beautiful daughters to their growing family: Lisa, Dorion, and Jodie. They were the loves of her life. She devoted herself to her family. She adored her girls, spent many hours at the cabin, sewing, doing crafts, and cooking for them. Liz taught her girls many wonderful skills. It was a busy time: looking after her family, taking care of her mother Marjorie, helping with her in-laws Jim & Grace Chambers, and working full time.

Liz had an amazingly big heart: not only did she love her family and friends, a big part of her heart went to her fur babies! She was definitely a dog whisperer. After leaving the AGH, she and Darrell started grooming and kennelled dogs. Liz thought all the dogs in Atikokan were hers, she just loaned them out to their “owners”!!

She was a faithful member of Church of the Good Shepherd and to this day you can see where she left her mark in those beautiful paintings. Liz loved painting with her little group (the 5 L’s) as well as hunting, fishing, playing cards, making crafts etc.

Liz is survived by her loving husband of 43 years Darrell Chambers, children Lisa (Leo) Chambers of Stratton, Dorion Chambers of Fort Frances, Jodie (Jeff) Hare of Winnipeg, and eight grandchildren: Jacob, Shailyn, Elias, Cheyenne, Cohen, Ozzy, Mason, and Rhyse. She is also survived by her brother Herbert (Mary) Croome, sister Sherry Holgerson, and brother Ron Holgerson. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and adored cousins.

She was pre-deceased by her father Bill Croome in 1961, mother Marjorie Croome (Brown) in 2015; in-laws Grace and Jim Chambers; grandparents Clara and Alfred Brown and Elizabeth and Randolph Croome; uncles Gerald (Merveline), Norman (Hazel) Croome, Herbert Croome; aunts Josephine (Cam) Benson, Ruby (Craig) Duns, Caroline (Alex) Hughes, Mary (Webb) Calder, Gertrude (John) Stark; and cousins Willie Cheslock, and Blake Cheslock.

Cremation has taken place. A service was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd April 20, followed by a celebration of life, love, and friendship at the Atikokan Royal Canadian Legion hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Church of the Good Shepherd (Box 554, Atikokan) would be appreciated by the family.

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Frances Viita

With great sadness we announce Frances Mary Viita (née Fishley), 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at the Atikokan Hospital Extended Care.

Frances was the daughter of Francis and Margaret Fishley (née McMurchie), born on April 23, 1925, in Haileybury, Ontario. She married Allan Viita on October 7, 1950, and in 1961 they moved to Atikokan, Ontario.

She enjoyed time at the cottage, gardening, knitting, reading, swimming, cross-country skiing, spending time with her family, and was active in the Anglican Church.

Frances is survived by her children Karen, Andrew, and Eric, grandchildren David (Kristin), Robert, Jennifer, and James, great grandchildren Sophia and Claire, as well as nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

She was predeceased by her husband Allan on March 12, 1989, her parents, brothers William, Harry and Thomas.

We will always cherish our memories of her as a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made to the Atikokan General Hospital’s Extended Care Wing or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

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Mary Pailing

Mary Pailing, 91, a long-time resident of Atikokan, passed away peacefully at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre on May 17, 2017 with her family by her side.

She is survived by sons Bruce (Sue), Gord (Tammy), and Robert (Melanie); grandchildren Danielle, Jamie, Jason, and Bradley, and by numerous nephews and nieces in Southern Ontario.

She was predeceased by her husband Percy, son Brian, her parents, brother, sisters, and lifelong friend Gord Webster.

As per Mary’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private internment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society, the Heart & Stroke Foundation, or a charity of choice.

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