Donald McKinnon RMC 1952
It is with great sadness that we announce that our dear father, Don McKinnon, passed away at the age of nearly 96. He leaves behind his four children: Sandra MacDougall (Robert), John McKinnon (Kimberlee), Margot McKinnon and Anne McKinnon; 10 cherished grandchildren: Lindsay, Fraser (Emily), Kristin, Kaleigh (Brandon), Kathryn (Matthew), Eric, Alex (Rhea), Danielle (Zach), Lauchlin and Elsbeth (Derrick); and five precious great-grandchildren: Sullivan, Maeve, River, Ainsley and Oliver. Following the death of Audrey in 1996, his wife, best friend
and mother of his children, he enjoyed a decade of solo world travels. A talented painter, writer and storyteller, he extensively researched and published volumes of our family history—a gift to our family. He married Rollande in 2009, who made his old age fun until her death in 2024. He will be missed by his sister Ellen, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his younger
brothers Keith and Maurice.
Born and raised in Brandon, Manitoba to Beatrice and Malcolm, Don was a natural athlete who left home to study at Royal Military College in Kingston, where he excelled in sports and academics, and won several awards, before finishing his engineering degree at Queen’s University. He served as a navigator in the Royal Canadian Air Force before embarking on a long and interesting
career with the Canadian Government in National Defence. This took him across Canada and around the world, including several years in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Among his lasting legacies was leading the SARSAT satellite communications project, which has saved countless lives and is still in use today. Upon leaving government, he enjoyed seven years at Advanced Information Technologies (AIT) before retirement.
Don was dedicated to his community and very service-oriented, volunteering for 27 years at the Ottawa Civic Hospital ICU family lounge, for which he was recognized with a Governor General’s medal. He also served as Chairman of the Quebec City Protestant School Board at a time when English-language schools were fighting to exist. He was an involved member of Cityview Curling club, skipping a team until he was 90, and gave many hours to committees at Christ Church Cathedral in Ottawa. He loved playing golf at Irish Hills Golf Club. The family would like to thank the staff at the Chartwell Stillwater Creek, Ontario Health at Home and Care for nurses, support workers, friends and family who visited in his last months. A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, October 4 at 11 a.m. at Pinecrest Cemetery (2500 Baseline Road).
Serge Savaria CMR RMC 1978
C’est avec grand regret que nous annonçons à la communauté du Collège militaire royal le décès de notre ami LCol (ret) Serge Savaria CMR RMC 1978. Serge nous a quitté le 4 novembre, 2024, à Québec. Il est décédé entouré de ses enfants et de son épouse à la suite de complications liées à une chirurgie mineure.
Serge est né à Montréal en 1955. Il a fait son entrée au Collège Militaire Royal de St-Jean le 11 août 1973, puis a obtenu son diplôme au Collège Militaire Royal de Kingston en mai 1978. Il était ailier défensif partant des équipes de football du CMR et du RMC, et participait à de nombreux sports intra-muros, en plus d’être un joueur de ballon-balai passionné et très physique. Les amis du CMR invités chez lui, dans la maison familiale d’Ahuntsic, étaient vivement encouragés à jouer aux cartes avec sa mère et ses sœurs, et à boire du rhum avec son père, vétéran de la marine de la Seconde Guerre mondiale et policier pour la ville de Montréal. Son père tenait une maison très stricte et Serge a souvent dit qu’il lui était plus facile de passer une inspection au collège!
Il a épousé l’amour de sa vie, Carole Jacques, le 10 juin 1978. La cérémonie a eu lieu à Kingston au Currie Hall, suivie d’une réception au Mess des officiers. Serge, Carole et leurs 2 enfants, Gabrielle et Étienne, ont déménagé plusieurs fois au cours des années avant de s’établir à Québec.
D’ailleurs les invités de Serge se souviendront toujours des longues promenades à travers la ville ainsi que tous les détails historiques qui se rapportaient à ces lieux.
Lorsque Serge a complété sa formation logistique à Borden en 1978, sa première mutation fût à la base de Valcartier. Sa carrière militaire l’a ensuite menée à London, Calgary, Ottawa, Montréal et de nouveau Valcartier. Il a servi avec l’armée britannique à Detmold (Allemagne) pendant 2 ans et, quelques années plus tard, a complété 2 ans au Fuhrungsakademie der Bundeswehr (collège d’état major), à Hambourg, où on lui a décerné le prix Carl von Clausewitz pour sa thèse de fin d’études. Il fut le premier canadien à recevoir cet honneur.
Après sa retraite des forces en 2004, Serge a complété une maîtrise et un doctorat à l’École nationale d’administration publique. Il a ensuite enseigné, et a été consultant ainsi que membre du conseil d’administration du Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSSS).
Il était également très impliqué dans sa communauté du quartier Saint-Jean-Baptiste. En tant que président du conseil de la paroisse Saint-Jean-Baptiste, il a négocié la fermeture de l’église Saint-Jean-Baptiste, monument historique, et son transfert à la Ville de Québec. En son honneur, le conseil a rouvert une dernière fois l’église pour ses funérailles, auxquelles ont assisté plus de 1 000 personnes.
Passionné de la course à pied, Serge demeurait en excellente forme physique, ce qui rend son départ brutal encore plus difficile à accepter. Il était particulièrement fier de pouvoir encore endosser son blazer #6 de CMR et ainsi défiler (old brigade) lors du 45 anniversaire de graduation en automne 2023.
Serge laisse dans le deuil son épouse Carole, ses deux enfants Gabrielle (Goefrey Tomlinson) et Étienne (Marie-Charlotte Franco), ainsi que ses 4 petits enfants: Eva, Alex, Maxim, Iris, ses sœurs Chantal (Paul Alepin) et Nathalie (Michel Tourangeau), ses beaux-frères et belles -soeurs, de nombreux neveux, cousins, parents et amis proches.
Il repose maintenant au cimetière Notre Dame de Belmont à Québec. Sur son monument est gravé “Mens agitat Molem” qui signifie ” l’esprit domine la matière “
Il nous manquera beaucoup.
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It is with great sadness that we announce to the greater military college community that our good friend CMR/ RMC 1978 LCol (Ret) Serge Savaria passed away on November 4th, 2024, in Quebec City. He tragically had complications from minor heart surgery and died of a stroke, surrounded by his loving family.
Serge was born in Montreal in 1955 and entered CMR as a Prep on August 11th, 1973. He graduated from RMC Kingston with a BCom in May 1978. He was a starting Defensive End on the Football teams at CMR and RMC and played many intramural sports, as well as being an enthusiastic and very physical Broomball player. CMR friends invited to his Ahuntsic family home for the weekend were much encouraged to play card games with his mother and sisters, and drink very potent rum with his WW2 Navy veteran and policeman father. His Dad ran a tight ship and Serge commented during our CMR Recruit term that it was easier than what he was used to at home!
He married the love of his life, Carole Jacques, in June 1978 in a ceremony at RMC’s Currie Hall, with the reception at the Senior Staff Mess. Serge and Carole and their two children, Gabrielle and Etienne, moved many times over the years but settled down and grew to love Quebec City. Visitors fondly recall Serge’s very long walking tours, multiple hikes between Upper and Lower Quebec, and detailed historical references on the many churches, monasteries, and convents not obvious to normal tourists!
Serge completed his Logistics training at CFB Borden in 1978 and was then posted to the Service Battalion at CFB Valcartier. His wide-ranging military career then took him to CFBs London, Calgary, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal and finally to Valcartier. He had an exchange tour with the British Army in Detmold, Germany and completed the Führungsakademie der Bundeswehr (Germany Commander Staff College) in Hamburg where he was the first Canadian to receive the Carl von Clausewitz Award for top student.
After his retirement from the CF in 2004, Serge completed the Master and PhD program at National school of public administration (ENAP) in Quebec City. He then taught Public Administration courses, consulted and served as a member of the board of directors of the Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de la Capitale-Nationale (CIUSS), responsible for overseeing the healthcare operations and social services in the Quebec City region.
He was very active in his Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighbourhood community. As president of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste church Council he negotiated the closure of the Historic Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church Monument and its sale and handover to the city. He was honoured by the Council when they reopened one last time the church for his funeral, with well over 1,000 people in attendance.
Serge was a very passionate runner and kept himself very fit, which makes his abrupt passing even more tragic. He was very proud to still fit into his original CMR #6 blazer and grey flannels and wear them at our Class 45th Reunion and entry into the Old Brigade in 2023.
Serge is survived by his wife Carole, his children Gabrielle (husband Goefrey Tomlinson) and Etienne (wife Marie-Charlotte Franco), and his four grandchildren, Eva, Alex, Maxim, and Iris, as well as his two sisters, Chantal (Paul Alepin) and Nathalie (Michel Tourangeau) and many nieces and nephews, parents and close friends. He is buried at Belmont Cemetery in Québec City. Engraved on his monument is the motto: “Mens agitat molem”, meaning: “Mind over matter”.
He will be missed by his family and many friends.
John Carswell and Larry Stevenson CMR RMC 1978
Frank Norman RRMC RMC 1956
Major General (Retd), CStJ, CD After a short hospitalization, Frank passed peacefully at Kingston General Hospital on the morning of Thursday, August 14, 2025. The younger son of the Hon. Harry Norman and Molle Norman, he was born on September 26, 1935, at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal. He attended Selwyn House School in Montreal, and Trinity College School at Port Hope, Ontario. Frank Norman joined the Regular Force as an Officer Cadet at Royal Roads in Victoria in 1952. He graduated from RMC in 1956 and studied at McGill for one year thereafter. He served as an Infantry officer in The Royal Canadian Regiment for 39 years until to his retirement in 1990. His last appointment was Commandant of the National Defence College of Canada; prior appointments included command of First Battalion, The RCR, and Commandant and Vice-Chancellor of the Royal Military College of Canada. Although he never identified his favourite appointment, his affiliation with RMC was probably one of the defining experiences of his life. On his retirement, he continued to work with RMC in a variety of informal advisory capacities and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the College in 1995. He continued to serve in uniform as the Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel and then Honorary Colonel of the Canadian Grenadier Guards of Montreal, stepping down from the latter appointment in 2005. He was Chairman of the Board of Kingston General Hospital from 1995–1998 and was Chairman of the Board of the Ontario Hospital Association in 2000–2001; he remained a Life Member of that Association. He served in a governance role with the local Loyalist Branch of St. John’s Ambulance for a number of years and was an honorary member of the Chapter of the Priory of St. John in Canada. In 2012, he became the Secretary-Treasurer of the Heritage and Museum Committee of the Royal Military College, stepping down from that appointment in 2024. He married Anne Marie Lemon, daughter of Frank and Marion Lemon, of London, Ontario, on June 10, 1961, his best friend and sharer of all sorts of fun and experiences over the years following. They had two sons – Mark and Peter. They were grandparents to Holly (Nick Poulin), daughter of Mark, and Beverly Norman and to Jacob and Natasha, children of Peter and Jennifer Baird-Norman. As “Grandad,” he admired and encouraged all of their individual talents. He also leaves behind Anne’s brother, Ross Lemon; and his wife, Tova; of London, Ontario. Frank was predeceased by his brother, Michael; and sister, Marie, both of Vancouver. The family would like to thank the staff at the Kingston General Hospital for their kind and compassionate care. Details of the funeral service and celebration of life will be published separately as soon as they are finalized. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: The RMC Alumni Association – Museum Capital Fund: https://www.rmcalumni.ca/en/donate-today/heritage/museum-capital-fund/ Paws Fur Thought (Service Dogs): https://pawsfurthought.ca/
The funeral service for Major General (Retired) Frank Norman, CStJ, CD will be held September 26, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at St. George’s Cathedral, 270 King Street East, Kingston, Ontario.
For those unable to attend in person a livestream is available. Please go to: www.stgeorgescathedral.ca website, click on top right “Livestreams”. The link to view the funeral for MGen. (Ret’d) Frank Norman will be available from September 25, 2025
William Joseph Aitchison RMC 1963
William Joseph Aitchison, “Colonel Joe “to those who knew him in the Royal Canadian Regiment, passed away peacefully in Belleville General Hospital on Thursday, August 21, 2025 with his family by his side. Joe was in his 84th year.
He was loved and respected by many. He was predeceased by his parents, Doug and Marie (née Baes). He leaves behind his wife of 61 years, Elva (Storms) Aitchison, his sons, two of whom served with distinction in the Army, and their wives, Alan & Chris, Craig & Sally, Dan & Julie, his grandchildren Justin, Colin, Kayla, Callie and Alicia, his great grandchildren Nova, James and Olivia, and his loving sisters Jane Galbraith & Margaret Aitchison.
Joe loved what he chose as his career. Graduating from RMC in 1963 with a degree in mechanical engineering, he went on to serve in all three regular force battalions of the Royal Canadian Regiment, including as CO of the 2nd Battalion. His years in the military were good to him with postings to Germany, Cyprus, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick where he commanded the Canadian Forces Infantry School for two years. He had the honour of spending four years as Colonel of the Regiment, the RCR. He loved meeting and talking to the young men and women in uniform.
Post-retirement Joe became “of” in addition to being “in” the community and volunteered as a member and later President of the Board of Directors of the Hastings Children’s Aid Society. His involvement in Child Welfare at the local level led to his appointment to the Board of the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies, where he served as President as well. His contributions to the Child Welfare sector in Ontario resulted in his receiving the JJ Kelso Award in 2008 for “outstanding leadership, commitment and advocacy in child welfare”, recognition that he greatly valued.
Having completed his direct service to children in Ontario, Joe accepted being appointed to the Sponsors Corporation of the $52 billion Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System representing the Child Welfare sector. In addition to work with the Hasting CAS and OMERS, Joe was a member of the Board of a local credit union and maintained a membership at the CFB Trenton Golf Club. He was a “soldier’s soldier,” Royal & Army through and through, but he offered much in the way of time and leadership to his community as well. He was a stalwart example of the RCR motto: Pro Patria!
Robert John Gray RRMC RMC 1963
Commander Robert John Gray, CD (Ret’d) passed away on January 17, 2025, at the age of 83, following a six year journey with Alzheimer’s disease, at Camp Hill Veterans Memorial Building in Halifax, NS, where he resided.
Born in Camrose, AB in 1941, Rob was the son of the late Archie and Dorothy Gray of Devon, AB. Rob proudly served in the Royal Canadian Navy from the age of 18 through to his retirement in 1995. He entered RRMC in 1959 and graduated from Royal Military College with a BEng (Mech) as part of the Class of ’63. Over his respected 33-year career, he served in many roles on surface ships (HMCS Iroquois and HMCS Saguenay) and submarines (HMC Ojibwa and HMC Onondaga) as well as shore roles at Canadian Forces Maritime Warfare School, Canadian Forces Fleet School Halifax, Maritime Command, National Defence Headquarters, CFB Cornwallis, NATO in Denmark, and Canadian Forces Command and Staff College. His classmates, shipmates, colleagues, and friends meant a lot to him. For many years he maintained the Class of 63 internet link. He attended the class reunions over the years and looked forward to the next milestone reunion each time they gathered together.
To say that Rob was an avid outdoorsman is an understatement. Rob was a passionate hunter and fisherman with many storied adventures and accomplishments over the years. He spent several years training and hunting with Deutsch-Drahthaar (German wirehaired pointer) dogs, taking great pride in their participation at breeding shows and other training events. He was most content in nature with a faithful dog by his side. After his retirement, he moved to Blomidon, NS where he resided for 20 years, which was the longest he had ever lived in one place. He valued his beautiful view of the Minas Basin and the Valley communities he became a part of. He exercised his dogs, almost daily, in nearby farmland with an expansive apple orchard and stunning views. The dogs would run free and fast through the fields. This was truly his “happy place”. In his retirement years, he was an honoured member, often holding volunteer roles, with the National Association of Federal Retirees, Bluenose Chapter of the North American Hunting Dog Association, the Canadian Naval Memorial Trust, Kings County Wildlife Association, Atlantic Salmon Federation, Canadian Wildlife Federation, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters, and Ducks Unlimited and other community organizations.
Rob was a proud father and grandfather who enjoyed sharing stories of their accomplishments. Rob is survived by his son Christopher (Rebecca) of Edmonton, AB, his daughters Michelle of Fredericton, NB and Angela (Nevin) of Stillwater Lake, NS, grandchildren Kyli, Sebastien, Nathan, Ella, Drew, Daniel and Owen, his brother Frank of Cranbrook, BC, his former wife, Pierrette Bernier of Fredericton, NB, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Brian MacDonald RRMC RMC 1975
Brian MacDonald passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Montfort Hospital in Ottawa on 29 July. Born in Mulgrave, NS on August 14, 1952, he was a son of the late Hugh (Sonny) and Teresa (Ryan) MacDonald, formerly of Brook Street Ext., North Sydney. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by brothers David and Robert. Brian is survived by his wife of 49 years, Judy (White) MacDonald; his sons Jonathan and Christopher (Maddie); granddaughters Ariel, Indie and Rhue, all of Ottawa. He is also survived by his sister Jacinta (Dale) Archibald, brothers Bill, Michael (April), Brent (Jennifer) and sister-in-law Miriam MacDonald.
Brian arrived at Royal Roads Military College in late August 1970. Even though the discipline and stress were severe, Brian always found humour in everything. His antics and jokes (not always politically correct) often had everyone in stiches.
Following graduation from RMC in 1975, Brian went on to a 25-year career as a RCEME officer. His postings included Borden, Halifax, Ottawa, Germany, England and Gagetown. He attended both CLFJSC and CFCSC, as well as the Royal Military College of Science in Shrivenham, UK.
Upon his retirement from the military in 2000, Brian started a second career leading Pennant Canada and as a member of the Pennant International Board. His strong work ethic and sense of humor ensured his success in this new role. As President of Pennant, Brian was well known for wearing his black pants, shirt, tie and jacket which gave him the appearance of a Mafia Hit Man.
Post-retirement Brian carried on supporting the RCEME Corps via LAD 104, as well as at the annual national RCEME Golf Tournament.
Brian was an excellent officer, a credit to the Canadian Forces, and to his country. If anyone ever needed a laugh, or anything else, Mac was the man to see. His humour and common sense were infectious.
A family graveside service for Brian will take place in Cape Breton at a later date, under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney. Online condolences can be left for the family on the tribute wall of the obituary.
James Yule MacPherson RRMC RMC 1964
James Yule MacPherson, son of James MacPherson and Louie Huggins, born in Wells BC 11 July 1941 passed away Kamloops Hospice June 24 2025, after a week of loving care for he and his family.
Jim is survived by his wife of 60 years Hilda (nee Morrow), daughters Lisa and Tracey, brother John and many nieces and nephews.
Jim served for 30 years with the Canadian Armed Forces after graduating from RMC with a BSc in 1964. Jim reached the rank of Lieutenant Commander. His role was logistic officer.
Jim retired in 1990, relocating to Kamloops BC where he became involved in serving his new community. Jim volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, building 3 duplexes, often working 6 days in a row. Jim also served on the executive of the local branch of the Federal Superannuates National Association first as treasurer then as president. Jim also acted as president of his condominium council.
Jim curled, lawn bowled and walked to keep fit. His favorite walk was in Peterson Creek Park which he affectionately called “the Pillars of Hercules”.
Jim was an active father, a loving husband and supportive friend. He was a great cook; his children fondly remember the years of nutmeg.
Jim’s annual Christmas letter was looked forward to with great anticipation by family and friends. Jim was well read, very knowledgeable.
There will be no service. Jim’s ashes will be interred with his parents in Merritt in September.
Cally Warwick RMC Class of 1985
Loved and dearly missed by all who were lucky to have had Cally in their lives. Please join us as we offer the family our deepest condolences. Arrangements entrusted to Kingtson-Cataraqui Cremation Services.
John Owen (Assistant Coach RMC Men’s Soccer)
Passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness at Kingston Health Sciences Centre – KGH on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the age of 60. Survived by his loving wife of 29 years; Melody (nee Rice) and children Avery and Cameron. John will be missed by his parents Robert and Ruth Owen and siblings David (Sherry) and Elizabeth (Kent). He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephew and other extended family.
John was an adored family man. He valued his wife and children very much and would put them first in his life. Always. John had the ability to make every day an occasion. He brought the sparkle to family or any event with his words and with his culinary skills. John was a captivating speaker and when he was gathered with friends or family, people would stop and listen. His sense of humour will be tremendously missed and is irreplaceable.
John was a devoted soccer coach. He shared his passion for soccer by coaching young players and touched many lives on and off the pitch. John was more interested in building good kids than good players. Morals, ethics and kindness were far more important than skill and John was a great role model for the young people he volunteered with.
John was the long-time and integral General Manager of Best Western. He was well respected in his professional community. He enjoyed getting to know those around him and was great at offering support when needed.
Murry Jay Press (Head of the RRMC Physics Department from 1988 to 1995)
Murray was born in New York City. After losing both parents by age nine, he was raised by his mother’s family in Montreal. He earned BSc and MSc degrees in Physics from McGill University, then completed his PhD in Solid State Physics at Simon Fraser University, where he fell in love with Canada’s West Coast and a girl. He and Heather married in 1976 and moved to Victoria where he took a professorship at Royal Roads Military College. Murray was Head of the RRMC Physics Department from 1988 to 1995. He was instrumental in the design and implementation of the Earth Observational Science program, which greatly increased undergraduate enrollment at RRMC. His ideas were so successful that they were adopted at the Royal Military College Kingston by the Physics professors that transferred there when Royal Roads was closed in 1995 by the Federal Government. At that time, Murray declined a transfer to RMC in Kingston, choosing to remain on the West Coast. He continued his career first as a remote sensing research consultant, and then teaching for many years at the Canadian Forces Fleet School (Pacific) at CFB Esquimalt. He took great joy in teaching throughout his career, and retired in 2013.
Murray’s curiosity remained strong after retirement. He found pleasure in learning piano – the more complicated the piece, the better – appealing to his puzzle solving skills. He loved his home and forested property, and always found solace in listening to and feeling the wind in the trees. He enjoyed cycling, canoeing, hiking, tent camping, and snow skiing with his family, and he and Heather took cruise trips to different parts of the world. He always had a book in hand and was an unabashed news junkie.
Murray will be remembered for his intelligence, ability to see a wider perspective, quick wit, steadfast friendships, and deep devotion as a loving husband and dad. Animals held a special place in his heart, especially the family’s cats and his beloved “grand-dogs.”
Murray is survived by, and will be missed by, his loving wife Heather Reid; his children Roberta (Victoria) and David (Kelly) (Truckee, CA); granddaughter Makayla (Victoria); cousin Sandra Levy (Victoria) and three generations of cousins in Montreal and Ottawa; sister-in-law Anne MacDonald (Maple Ridge); brother-in-law Bob Reid (Karen), and nieces and nephews in Pitt Meadows, BC, and Calgary, AB. Not to forget “grand-dogs” Ojo and Echo.
May his memory be a blessing.
A meet-and-greet to remember Murray will be announced at a later date.
Robert Ryder CMR RMC 1996
It is with deep sadness that we announce that our beloved Robert Scott Ryder, known to his family as Robbie, passed away at home in Spillar’s Cove, on September 6th, 2025, at the age of 52.
Predeceased by grandfather Richard Ryder (2005), grandmother Mary (2022), grandfather Donald Frankcom (1995), Grandmother Marie (2017), dad Robert George Ryder (2020), aunt Irene Keel (2005), aunt Chyla (2016), uncle Michael Frankcom (1989), uncle Stephen Frankcom (2016) and uncle Stephen Workman (2023).
Leaving to mourn with loving memories his mom Sandra, sister Laurie (Stephen), nephew Dylan and niece Katherine; aunts Elizabeth (Darrell), Carolyn (Glenn), Donna Workman, Leanne Frankcom and Vicki Jenkins- Tenney; uncles Don, David and Roger Frankcom (Angela); cousins Cherry, Chad (Lindsay), Mitch (Holly), Cory (Samantha), Dion, Natalie (Lee), Byron, Derek, Jason and extended family and friends, including College, Military and online gaming friends.
Most important to Robbie was his family and friends. He loved to make everyone laugh. He enjoyed each day to the fullest. Robbie took great pride in having been in the Canadian Armed Forces. He reached the rank of 2nd Lieutenant before retiring due to medical reasons. After retirement, Robbie came home to Spillar’s Cove to help with the family lumber business.
Robbie will be greatly missed! Always loved, always remembered and forever in our hearts!
Following his wishes, cremation will take place, visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13th, from 10:00am- 12:00pm. Funeral Service will be held following visitation at 2:00pm from Strathie’s Funeral Home. Inurnment will be held at a later date.
Robert Brown RCNC 1944
It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Robert “Bob” Campbell Brown (Brownie), retired Commander RCN, has set sail on his final voyage to the port where his wife Anne has been faithfully waiting for the past 21 years.
Born in Montreal on June 8, 1927, Bob “crossed the bar” on September 14, 2025 at the age of 98. Growing up in Montreal he was an avid sportsman, which throughout his life, playing hockey, squash, curling, sailing, golf and tennis, the latter which he played well into his 90’s.
In 1944 Bob went to Royal Roads Military College (Navy) and upon graduating had a 27-year career in the Royal Canadian Navy/Canadian Armed Forces across Canada, in the UK and Washington DC. He served on many ships, including commanding HMCS New Waterford and HMCS Nipigon (as part of the NATO fleet). Bob was also awarded his wings and flew a variety of aircraft and Sea King helicopters. He served at HMCS Stadacona as a TAS (Torpedo Anti Submarine) Instructor, at CFB Cornwallis as Officer-in-Charge Leadership School, in Ottawa at CFHQ as Secretary to Comptroller General, and in Washington in the Canadian Defence Liaison Staff office. Providing submarine tracking support during the Cuban Missile Crisis and representing Canada as part of the NATO fleet were a few of his interesting naval career experiences.
Following retirement from the Armed Forces, Bob joined External Affairs Canada as a Trade Commissioner where he had postings in Washington, Philadelphia, Ankara Turkey and Ottawa. He then completed his working career with Litton Industries and as founder of the Canadian Industrial Benefits Association. Bob was fiercely proud of the Royal Canadian Navy/Canadian Forces and his service to Canada. A staunch Canadian. With a strong sense of responsibility and being accountable for your own actions. He was strongly independent but, also, the consummate organizer and leader, as evident by extensive volunteering for the Red Cross, over 20 years of being the President of condo associations in Brockville and Florida, running annual carrallies, golf and tennis events.
Bob was predeceased by his wife Anne (Sutcliffe) in May 2004. They had been married for 52 years. He is survived by his sons: Ross (Erica), Robert (Connie) and Sandy (Barbara), his grand children Patrick, Sandra, Anne, Kayla, Jonathan and great grand children Ethan, Connor, Mael, Corbin, Hannah, Josh, step great grand children Alexis, Bretten, Thomas.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Red Cross Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be gratefully acknowledged. At his wish, there will be a small, private family only event to celebrate his life.
Ranjeet Kumar Gupta RMC 1987
It is with deepest sympathies that we announce the passing of Ranjeet Kumar Gupta, in Ottawa on August 15th 2025, at the age of 59.
Son of Dwarka Nath Gupta and of Adriana Vandendool. He will be missed by his kids Samuel “Dawn”, Justin, and Ann-Sophie as well as his brothers Davender, Hari (Catherine Marquis) and the mother of his children Annie Lapointe.
A graveside service will be held on September 26th at 11:00 a.m. at the National Military Cemetery, located at 280 Beechwood Avenue in Ottawa. A reception will follow to honour and remember the life of Ranjeet.
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C’est avec une grande tristesse que nous annonçons le décès de Ranjeet Kumar Gupta, survenu à Ottawa le 15 août 2025, à l’âge de 59 ans.
Fils de Nath Gupta et de Adriana Vandendool. Il laisse dans le deuil ses enfants, Samuel “Dawn”, Justin, et Ann-Sophie ainsi que ses frères Davender, Hari (Catherine Marquis) et la mère de ses enfants Annie Lapointe.
Une cérémonie au cimetière aura lieu le 26 septembre à 11 h au Cimetière militaire national, situé au 280 avenue Beechwood à Ottawa. Une réception suivra afin d’honorer et de se souvenir de la vie de Ranjeet.
Robert Ranson RRMC RMC 1963
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Brigadier General (Retired) Robert Harley Ranson, age 84, of Oakville, Ontario. Harley passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, following a brief battle with pneumonia, with his daughter Pamela by his side.
Born in Tisdale, Saskatchewan, Harley was raised in the heart of the prairies, where his lifelong fascination with aviation began. Inspired by the sight of aircraft and early satellites soaring overhead—and by family members who served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII—this passion sparked a distinguished 35-year career in aerospace engineering, maintenance, and operations with the RCAF, beginning in 1959 and culminating in retirement in 1994. Throughout his service, Harley was stationed across Canada, Europe and the United States, earning numerous accolades including Airman of the Year (1982), the Canada 125 Medal, the NATO Medal, and the Canadian Forces Decoration. Following his military career, Harley continued to contribute to and expand on friendships in the aerospace industry as a member of the executive team at SPAR Aviation Services in Mississauga, where he worked for eight years until his retirement in 2001.
In retirement, Harley continued to embrace life fully. He travelled extensively, enjoyed time with friends and family, and gave back to his community through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity. A skilled woodworker, he crafted beautiful furniture for loved ones, and shared his joy of music and interest in technology by mixing sound for his local Church and social band.
Harley was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Evelyn Jean (née Barkley) in 2018; his son David in 2001; his father Robert Stanley Ranson in 1999; his mother Frances Margaret (née Smylie) in 1991; and his brother William George in 1946. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Pamela (Mark), grandchildren Kate and Liam, his twin brothers Homer (Shirley) and Stanley (Shirley), sister Margaret (Larry), and many nieces and nephews. He will also be deeply missed by his cherished companion Gloria Norrie and her family.
Harley’s legacy is one of kind leadership, thoughtful mentorship, and unwavering generosity. In the spirit of what makes each of us truly compassionate, he gave more to life than he ever asked in return and will be remembered for his jovial sense of humour, intelligence, gentle nature, and patriotic spirit.
Tobias Mankis RMC 2006
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tobias (Tobi) David Mankis, aged 40, who left us unexpectedly on June 13, 2025, after a short and courageous battle with cancer. He was an adored son, brother, uncle, and friend whose gentle and kind spirit touched everyone who knew him.
Tobi had a wonderful appreciation for nature and spent much of his time outdoors. He enjoyed hiking and birdwatching, and his love of photography and videography allowed him to capture the quiet beauty of the wildlife and landscapes. Being a thoughtful and curious reader, Tobi found joy in learning through his immense book collection.
He studied at the Royal Military College and served as a Captain in the Canadian Forces as a Logistics Officer. He then went on to study at the University of Toronto, and Laurentian University, leading to a dedicated career in Science Communication. The friendships and colleagues he formed during those years remained close to his heart throughout his life.
Originally from Waterford, Ontario, he later built a home and community in Sudbury, Ontario where he was known for his wit, generosity, and his love of the outdoors. His Sudbury circle became like a second family, sharing in his adventures.
Tobias is predeceased by his father, David and he is survived by his mother, Twila; his sister, Larissa (Greg); and his beloved nieces, Evelyn and Amelia, to whom he was a fun-loving uncle.
A celebration of Tobi’s life will be announced at a later date.
Jacques Marcotte CMR RMC 1965
C’est avec le cœur lourd que nous annonçons le décès de notre père, Jacques, qui nous a quittés
de manière inattendue le 22 septembre, à l’âge de 83 ans, pour rejoindre sa bien-aimée Mimi, laissant derrière lui de nombreux proches qui l’aimaient profondément
Ses funérailles ont lieu le vendredi 3 octobre 2025, de 11h à 15h, au Salon Funéraire Lajeunesse, Fortin, Cenac, situé au 8005 Notre-Dame Est, à Montréal. Un court service religieux sera célébré sur place à 13h, suivi d’un buffet.
Nous vous invitons à nous rejoindre pour célébrer sa vie et les nombreux souvenirs que nous partageons. Tous sont les bienvenus.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our father, Jacques, who unexpectedly left us on September 22nd at the age of 83, joining his beloved wife Mimi and leaving behind many more who loved him deeply.
His funeral will be held on Friday, October 3rd, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Salon Funéraire Lajeunesse, Fortin, Cenac, located at 8005 Notre-Dame East, in Montréal. A brief religious service will be held on site at 1:00 p.m., followed by a buffet service.
We invite you to join us in celebrating his life and the many memories we share. All are welcome.
Marvin Edward Rich RMC 1954
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Marvin Edward Rich, who passed away on September 12, 2025, at his home following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease, surrounded by those who loved and cared for him in his final years. Marv was predeceased by his beloved wife, Annie (née Barraud); and his youngest son, Bruce; and is survived by his eldest son, Marc; his daughter-in-law, Claudia; and his two grandchildren, Benedict and Nicolas. Marv attended Upper Canada College in Toronto as a young man and continued his education at the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston. He served in the Canadian Armed Forces as an officer of the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery from 1954 until his retirement in 1977. His service in the Armed Forces took him to many places in the world over the years. He served as part of the UN Forces in the Belgian Congo, was posted to Germany as part of an exchange with the British Armed Forces, and worked as an attaché to British Military Intelligence in London, England, in addition to numerous postings across Canada. Following his retirement from the military in 1977, he began a career with the Corps of Commissionaires and was Commandant of the Corps – Great Lakes Division for 21 years and served as a corporate member for the next 25 years. Marv was a longstanding parishioner of St. John’s York Mills Anglican Church and was an active member of the congregation for many years. The church played a very important role in his life. He was also a member of the Royal Canadian Legion – Fort York Branch 165 for over 30 years and served as President of the Branch in 2007. Marv’s life with his wife, Annie, and their two boys, Marc and Bruce, took them to all corners of the world, where they enjoyed their common love of discovering new places and embracing new cultures. Marv will be remembered by many as a true gentleman, a snappy dresser, and always ready to help and contribute wherever he could. He enjoyed the good things in life and strived to share that joy with everyone he came into contact with. He left a lasting and positive impression on all who knew him and he will be sorely missed. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to all those who cared and nurtured Marv in his final years with Alzheimer’s. Your unconditional love and devotion to his well-being was a great comfort for him – like a bright and warming light in the ever growing darkness of Alzheimer’s disease. A Service of Thanksgiving for Marv will be held at St. John’s York Mills Anglican Church on Monday, October 6, at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in Marv’s name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada or Community Living Toronto.