Wall-Custance Memorial Forest Program

BOYD, Muriel Gwendolyn Boyd (née Rawn) – In her 97th year, left our care for the arms of her Lord and her beloved James (2011) on February 16, 2025. While her passing is deeply felt by all who love her, it brings her a wonderful release.

She is survived by her children, Phil Boyd (Marian) of Guelph and Jane Ann House (Allan) of St. Thomas, ON. She leaves behind her adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Jeff House (Diana) of St. Thomas, ON, and their son Austin; Janna House (Fadi Philip) of London, ON, and their very soon-to-be-born little one; Ainsley Boyd (David VanDrunen) of Selwyn, ON; and Mike Boyd (Clorinde Peters) of Halifax, NS, and their sons, Mischa and Shiloh.

Muriel and Jim also found a special adopted family in Amer and Reema Obeidi and their children, Yazan, Basil, and Yara. The Obeidi family were newcomers to Canada, they moved in next door, and from that first connection, a lasting and cherished relationship grew as they became extended family, sharing life’s joys and milestones together.

Muriel was born to George and Isabella Rawn in what was then Egremont Township, Grey County, just east of Mount Forest, ON, on November 28, 1928. She was predeceased by her parents, her brothers Ira (1947) and Russell Rawn (2002), both of Mount Forest, and her sister Edwina Waxman of Toronto (2016), along with their spouses. She was also predeceased by two nephews, Jacob Waxman (2013) and Bruce Rawn (2023). Muriel is survived by her seven much-loved nieces and nephews and their families.

Muriel left the farm in her mid-teens with her best friend, Velma, to attend a business machine operators’ school in Toronto, where she lived with her Aunt Mabel. She used those skills at the Dominion Store in Kitchener-Waterloo, then at the Matthews-Wells Pickle Factory in Guelph during the cucumber harvest for many years. She later retired after 19 years at Gay Lea Dairy in Guelph.

She met Jim (Jimbo) at York Road Baptist Church in Guelph, and they were married there on August 28, 1954. Together, they served at York Road, and later Crestwicke Baptist Church, for decades and in countless ways. Muriel was a gifted hostess and an exceptional cook, and alongside Jim, she ensured that family, longtime friends, neighbours, and new acquaintances always felt welcome in their home on Kensington Street. More often than not, those new acquaintances became lifelong friends.

Summers at Muskoka Baptist Conference were a highlight for Muriel and Jim, filled with treasured time spent with their trailer park neighbors and grandchildren. What often went unnoticed was Muriel’s deep compassion for young women who needed a listening ear and loving moral support through difficult life experiences.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring and capable caregivers at Riverside Glen Retirement Village, particularly those in the Emma neighborhood, where Mom felt truly loved and cared for, even through the depths of dementia. Special thanks to Mom’s dear friend, Mary Carter, who faithfully traveled from Rockwood for weekly visits over many years. We are also grateful for the kindness of Audrey O’Krafka (née Pronk), who continued visiting Mom even after her own mother’s passing, and to Johanna Truchan, who brought cheer to Mom’s days.

Friends will be received at Crestwicke Baptist Church, 400 Speedvale Ave E, Guelph, on Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Service to begin at 12:00 pm. Reception to follow in the church hall. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Guelph Hope House.

A tree will be planted in memory of Muriel G. Boyd in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.

Gauvreau, Florida

April 22, 1935 – May 18, 2025

Another angel has come home.

Passed away peacefully at Caressant Care Home, Harriston, with family by her side on Sunday, May 18ᵗʰ at the age of 90.

Florida grew up in North Bay with her many siblings.

Beloved wife of 70 years to Laurent Gauvreau (2019). Loving mother to Karen Patterson (deceased) (Ron), Craig (Sheila, deceased), Arthur, Randy (deceased), Wendy, Alex (Michelle) and Leslie.

Admired by her grandchildren Erin Pigeau (Adam), Shauna O’Donnell (Brian), Joey Pagnan (Jeff), Michelle Panopolous (Peter), Emily Gauvreau, Andrew Gauvreau, Crystal Fach, Thomas Wallace (Jenny), Ben Wallace, Trisha Leslie (Jeremy), Trinity Gauvreau (Joshua), Trey Gauvreau (Shailyn) and Beau Gauvreau (Jessica).

Fondly remembered by her many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mere was the heart of our family – a quiet strength and gentle hand. Her home was always open, kitchen warm and a smile on her face. Family meant everything to her and through a kind word, a warm meal, or a knowing smile, she had a way of making everyone feel special and safe.

The family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses at Caressant Care Retirement and Long-Term Care Home in Harriston for their compassionate care.

“Walk on, walk on. With hope in your heart. And you’ll never ever walk alone” – Elvis Presley.

You will be deeply missed, walk on with Père. You are at peace now, Mère.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

 A tree will be planted in memory of Florida M. Gauvreau in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.

HERRIOT, Brian – It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we announce the unexpected passing of Brian Herriot on May 16, 2025 at the age of 55.

Brian will be deeply missed by his mother Lynne and stepfather Stuart Connolly, his son Brian Jr., as well as his brothers Michael (Chantal) and Wayde; nieces Kassandra, Nastassja, Jayden and Eryn; and by his best friend Tara-Ann.

Brian loved his young son more than life itself and treasured the time they spent together whether it was fishing, camping, bike riding, playing video games or just hanging out.  Brian devoted his life to being the best father he could possibly be and always showed up for his boy. He was Brian Jr’s knight in shining armour.

Brian will be loving remembered as a wonderful son, father, brother, uncle and friend.

Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

A tree will be planted in memory of Brian J. Herriot in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.

McEwen, Marjorie Kathleen (nee Small)
July 14, 1946 – May 15, 2025

It’s with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Marjorie on May 15, 2025, with her loved ones at her side. Known and loved throughout her life as Mickie.

Mickie was the beloved wife of the late Larry S McEwen (2015). She was the proud Mother of her two daughters Tammy McEwen (Alan Pettitt) and Julie Sedman (Peter). Much beloved Gram to Brady, Scott, Jessica, and Evan.

Also left to mourn are her sister Marguerite (Cliff) Boles, and her niece Sharon (Fred) Nettle. Brother-in-Law Bryan (Shirley) McEwen, sister’s-in-Law Gwen (John) Morrison, Joan McEwen, Bonnie (Laverne) Davies, many nieces and nephews, and friends both new and old. 

Now reunited with her parents Frank and Margaret Small, her Sister’s Irene Locker, Mary Gamble, Ruth Beghetto, Faye Small and her brother Charlie Small and with other loved ones who have passed on before.

If you had the time to listen, she loved to tell you stories and share memories about her family, her childhood, her daughters, and her grandchildren. Mickie will be greatly missed by all who her knew her strong spirit and she would be the first to say shed not a tear for me as I am in a happy place but remember me with a smile and a kind thought.

A video tribute has been created in memory of Mickie. You’re welcome to watch using this link.

Special appreciation to those at the Elliott Community who cared for Mom and to Dr. W. Ruddock, Dr. M. Wellman, and Dr. M. Junek. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and compassionate care.

Cremation has taken place, and a private service will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

A tree will be planted in memory of Marjorie (Mickie) McEwen in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.

STOWE, Harry (Bev) – November 30, 1933 to May 15, 2025
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Harry (Bev) Stowe, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who left us on May 15, 2025, at the age of 91.

Harry is survived and will be missed by Laurene, his wife of 72 years, his daughters Sharon, Janis and Laurie and their families, his 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and numerous life long friends. He was predeceased by his brother Robert (Bob) Stowe and sisters Shirley Halliwell and Ruth Laven.

Born on November 30,1933 in Guelph, Ontario, Harry attended Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute and graduated from the Radio College of Canada in Toronto. His interest in all things electronic evolved from practical application to a love for teaching. This led to many years sharing his passion with students at Radio College, Control Data, the University of Waterloo and finishing his career at Conestoga College. 

Harry’s smile, humour and kindness throughout his life is what will be remembered most. He treated everyone the same – family, friends, acquaintances and strangers. Always with kindness, wit and a twinkle in his eyes. He thrived on being around others and making others laugh – and he was pretty good at it!  

Harry loved adventure and together with Laurene they enthusiastically travelled the world exploring many natural and cultural opportunities. They always returned home with great stories – of safaris in Africa, climbs on the Great Wall in China and body surfing in South America. But his favourite ‘homes away from home’ were the cottages in Myrtle Beach and at Berford Lake where he enjoyed spending time entertaining family and friends. 

Harry loved to watch hockey (never ever ever stopped cheering for the Toronto Leafs) and in his younger years he coached many of his daughters’ softball teams as well as the men’s ball team for Calvary Baptist Church. Whether he parented, taught, mentored or coached you, it was done with great compassion and loyalty and his unlimited encouragement will be missed. 

Our family wishes to acknowledge and thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the Guelph General Hospital, all of whom provided great care over the final weeks of his life. We also wish to extend our appreciation and gratitude to the caregivers at the Hospice Wellington for the incredible kindness and support they provided Dad and our family.

In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation to ShareWorld Global (formerly Gideons International of Canada) or your charity of choice. 

A celebration of Harry’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

“Dad, your guiding hand on our shoulders will remain with us forever.” 

A tree will be planted in memory of Harry B. Stowe in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.

CLEGHORN, J. David – Formally of Thistle Ridge Farm (Guelph Township) passed away peacefully in Guelph on Thursday, May 15, 2025 in his 89th year.

Son of the late Douglas and Flora Cleghorn. Survived by his wife Wilma who he married 65 years ago and their five children- David (Jim), Robin (Fiona), Heather (Steven), Holly (Steven) and Liza (Loni). Also 8 grandchildren Avery (Melanie), Sarah (Patrick), Molly (Jack), Emily (Scott), Cara (Jacob), Shawn (Kate), Megan (Rona) and Colin (Lily) as well as 4 great grandchildren Harley, Hendrix, Louis and June. Also survived by his siblings- Catherine (the late Mashtaq), Douglas (David’s twin) and Sandy (Shirley). Predeceased by Isabel (Ray).

David knew as a child that he wanted to farm. He took over the home farm as a teenager and bought it in 1960, later adding additional acres.

Associated with 3 breed associations, he was especially proud to be honoured as a Master Breeder by Holstein Canada and honorary president by Ontario Angus Association. He was a past president of the Canadian Clydesdale Association, the Wellington County Soil and Crop Association and Guelph Township Federation of Agriculture. He served on the Committee of Adjustment for Guelph Township. His Thistle Ridge Prefix was respected far and wide. He loved to farm!

A memorial visitation will be held at the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph, on Sunday, May 25th, 2025 from 1 – 4 pm. A private graveside burial will be held at a later date by the family.  Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Foundation of the Guelph General Hospital or a charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted in memory of J. David Cleghorn in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.

STEFFLER, JOHN LEON, it is with sadness beyond measure that we announce the passing of our beloved father, born on September 2, 1937, in Guelph, on May 13, 2025, in his 88th year.

Predeceased by his wife, our mother Gracie (2007), great granddaughter Sarah (2003), brothers Grant, Mike, Paul, Edward and his parents Doris and William. Survived by his brother Jean (Marie) and sister Yvonne. Exceptional father to Bernadette (Al Melanson), Denise Elizuk (Bill), John (Lisa) and Camille (Andy Croft). John was the best and most devoted grandfather to three generations of grandchildren, affectionally known as “Grumpy.”

John had extensive construction experience all across the province taking immense pride in the schools and churches he had built, retiring from CRD Construction Ltd in 2007.

We are very grateful to everyone who came to see our father in his last few weeks. He enjoyed the visits. We would like to acknowledge the excellent care he received from Lesley (Bayshore) and Karan (CarePartners) in his final hours.

Cremation has taken place and as per our father’s wishes, there will be no service. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to the Salvation Army, Guelph Citadel, 1320 Gordon Street, Guelph, ON N1L 1H2.

Grief cannot be shared. Everyone carries it alone, their own burden in their own way. Grief is the price we pay for love.

A tree will be planted in memory of John L. Steffler in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.