Deaths

Zachary Gauthier RMC 2029

Zachary Terrance Gauthier, 18, passed away on Dec. 30, 2025, in Panama City, Fla. He was born in Heerlen, Netherlands, and was the beloved son of Jason (RMC 1996) and Stacey Gauthier. Zachary’s passing was sudden and devastating, and his loss is felt profoundly by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Zachary was, above all, an exceptionally kind and well-natured young man. He was respectful, polite and thoughtful, with a maturity that often stood out to adults and peers alike. Many people commented on his manners and good nature, but those closest to him knew that his kindness was genuine and effortless. He laughed easily, smiled often, and carried a light, carefree presence that made others feel immediately at ease.

He was naturally intelligent and capable, able to succeed without needing to overextend himself. While he sometimes left things until the last minute, much to the frustration of his parents, he always rose to the occasion. He was not lazy. He was simply gifted. His mind worked quickly, his instincts were sharp, and his natural abilities consistently carried him through challenges. He approached life with confidence and calm, making success seem almost effortless.

Family was central to Zachary’s life. Even with the age gaps between him and his younger siblings, he always made time for them, meeting them at their level and ensuring they felt included. He played with them, supported them, and remained closely connected even as he grew older. His younger brother and sisters looked up to him deeply, and his departure for the Royal Military College of Canada was felt profoundly, a reflection of how important he was within the family.

As twins, Zachary and Mathew shared a bond that was constant and deeply rooted. They were rarely far from one another, moving through life side by side in a way that required little explanation. Choosing to take the journey to the Royal Military College of Canada together was a reflection of that closeness. They watched out for each other, stayed connected, and remained aware of how the other was doing, just as they always had. Their twin bond was quiet, steady and unwavering, and it was one of the defining relationships of Zachary’s life.

Zachary had a rare ability to connect with others. He could be placed in any situation and, within moments, had formed friendships. His easygoing nature, humour, kindness and social grace drew people to him naturally. He moved through life with a calm confidence that made everything look easy, even when it was not.

He was well-rounded in every sense. His acceptance into the Royal Military College of Canada reflected not only strong academic achievement, but also his balance of character, athletics, volunteerism and leadership potential. He possessed the qualities of someone capable of meaningful service and lasting impact.

Zachary enjoyed team sports, including hockey, soccer and basketball, and could excel at nearly any athletic pursuit. He was also an avid downhill skier, which was his winter go-to sport, and he was truly great at it. Zachary also enjoyed video games, particularly those that allowed him to play with friends and stay connected. In all of these interests, what mattered most to him was the shared experience, the teamwork, and the relationships built along the way.

Zachary is survived by his parents, Jason and Stacey Gauthier; and his siblings, Mathew, Joshua, Emma and Sarah. He was deeply loved and will be forever missed.

A Funeral Mass in celebration of Zachary’s life will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church on Jan. 10 at 11 a.m. Following the Mass, the service will continue immediately with a memorial reception at The Blue Room, Building 14, 17 Duxford Rd., 22 Wing North Bay.

Zachary’s life, though far too short, was marked by kindness, connection and quiet strength. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Online condolences may be made at hillsidefuneral.ca.

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Colonel (Ret’d) Michael Davis Barr, OMM, CD 

“A few drinks, a few laughs, and nobody got hurt…and those that did – probably deserved it!” In loving memory of a Legend – in both his Family and the Canadian Army – Colonel (Ret’d) Michael Davis Barr, OMM, CD It is truly the end of an era.

Michael (aka Colonel, Sir, Mike, Dad, Grandpa, Bubba) passed away on 21 Dec, 2025. He did not “go gentle into that good night.” He passed unexpectedly, but in the company of dear friends. Dad was 90 years young – or “in his 91st year” as he liked to say. He was still driving, defying most of the effects of age and still had more than a few miles left in the tank. But if there is a silver lining, he avoided an eventual end in an old age home – that he dreaded so much – in part as a result of visiting his beloved wife of over 63 years, Betty, daily during her final 16 years at Rideaucrest.

Young Michael, son of Ernest and Margaret Barr, was very much influenced by returning World War 2 Veterans (including family) and seemed destined for a career in the Military, beginning as a Reservist with the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders. But – as a waiter at the Banff Springs Hotel, while waiting to hear if had been accepted for Officer Training – his life very nearly went in a different direction. After developing an unlikely but real friendship with actor Jay Silverheels (the original “Tonto”) he was taken on as an extra (as both a Mountie and a First Nations Warrior) for the movie “Saskatchewan” starring Hollywood legends Alan Ladd and Shelley Winters. He had several parts and was subsequently offered a chance to go to Hollywood to become an actor. But at the last moment, fate stepped in and he was directed to report to Canadian Forces Base Borden to begin Officer Training, where he met lifelong friend LCol (Ret’d) Murray McDonald. As they say – the rest is history – but Dad always harboured a “what if” had he pursued the Hollywood path.

Dad leaves behind a family of which he was so very proud, including his three sons: Col (Ret’d) David Barr (PPCLI/Cdn AB Regt/CANSOF) RMC 1980, LCol (Ret’d) Jeffrey Barr (RCD) RMC 1983, LCol Christopher Barr (PPCLI/L Edm R/41 CER) RMC 1987 and daughter Capt (Ret’d) Laura Kissmann (RCAF) RMC 1988. He will be sadly missed by son-in-law LCol (Ret’d) Paul Kissmann (RCAF) RMC 1987; daughters-in law: Dawn Barr and Dr Lee Barr; Christine Phibbs-Barr; and 12 grandchildren: Arwen, Aislin, Ariana, Dana, LCdr (N) Alex, Lt (N) Mitchell, Kara, Ethan, Brandon, Dawson, Devon and Keith. To his immense pride and surprise, he will also be remembered in the future by his young great-grandsons: River and Lucas. Dad will also be very much missed by the Bell and McDonald Families with whom we all have lifelong connections and treasured memories. As a soldier, Dad was most proud of three events/appointments in an extraordinary career: he was instrumental in the creation and shaping of the new Canadian Airborne Regiment in addition to being the Founding Commander of 2 Airborne Commando; he commanded 3 Airborne Mechanized Commando in Germany at the height of the Cold War; and in 1979 he was elevated to Acting Commander of the United Nations Observer Force (UNDO) Golan Heights (3 ranks above his present rank of LCol at the time) and, at the height of the Iranian Revolution, he oversaw the very delicate disarming and removal/repatriation of the Iranian Battalion from the Golan Heights in the midst of IDF threats to avenge previous perceived and real actions by Iran. For his conspicuous leadership in resolving such a volatile and delicate situation (his direction from UN HQ, New York, was “Do what you think is best”) – and in recognition of an extraordinary career, he was invested as an Officer in the Order of Military Merit.

It should also be noted that Dad’s service to Canada and Nation Building around the world did not end with his retirement from the Canadian Forces. He would go on to have multiple OSCE, CANADEM and NGO “deployments” to Somalia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Ukraine, Macedonia, and Israel/Gaza – the last of which was during his 70s!

…..But let there be no doubt, he was equally legendary within the family. He was renowned for making Oscar worthy family movies, playing his boogie on the piano, dancing the Jitterbug and Charleston, sailing as a “Topman” to the Caribbean and back several times, being caught by Google Maps/Street View raking leaves off his roof (at 90!), and leading his young and impressionable Grandchildren on “Adventures” that sometimes resembled the Royal Marine Commando Course (of which he was a graduate as well as being the first Canadian to graduate the early days of the US Special Forces Green Beret ”Q” Course in 1959). Those grandchildren will tell you that he influenced them to embrace his spirit of adventure into their own lives. And could he tell a story! And most of them were true! Grandpa/Bubba was and is beloved by all his family but especially by his grandchildren to whom he was truly larger than life! Dad, despite being almost 91 years old, you still left us too early, leaving more than a few broken hearts amongst your family and friends. Certainly not by your choice. Indeed, you confided often that you were so proud of the family and were looking forward to celebrating more milestones, weddings, engagements and even more great grandchildren – as well as wanting to see what was going to happen next in “this crazy world.” We are all going to miss you Dad, and you will be remembered and loved forever! But we take solace, that after being apart from your wife of 63 years, since Mom passed in 2021, you and your beloved Betty will again be together – for eternity. Dad’s final place of rest will be with Mom after a private service at the Beechwood National Military Cemetery in Ottawa at a date yet to be determined in 2026.

Pro Patria and Airborne!

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Paul Newcombe RMC 1959

It is with great sadness that we announce that Paul Henry Newcombe, 89, passed away on the 20th of October 2025 at the Veterans Memorial Lodge, Victoria, BC.
Paul was born in Port Hill, Prince Edward Island in 1936 to Walter and Ruby Newcombe. He attended Royal Military College and Queen’s University from 1954 – 1960, obtaining a Bachelor of Applied Science (BA Sc), Mechanical Engineering.

He joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1960, serving with various ships in the Pacific fleet as an Engineering Officer. While in Esquimalt, Paul met his future wife, Joyce Rogers, and they were married there in 1962. Paul left the Navy in 1964, moving with Joyce to Arvida, Quebec to work for Alcan.

In 1970, Paul and Joyce moved to PEI, where Paul held various positions with Maritime Electric Co Ltd and retired as Vice President, Operations in January 1995. In Charlottetown, Paul and Joyce operated a bed and breakfast called Reddin House for over 25 years in their historic 1915 home. After retiring, Paul and Joyce moved to Victoria, BC.

In retirement, Paul volunteered as a committee member for the Township of Esquimalt with the Board of Variance, Access Awareness, Advisory Planning Commission and the Design Review Committee.

Paul valued community and always had many projects on the go. He could fix and build anything and was often engaged in woodworking projects or working on his motorcycle.
Paul is survived by his beloved wife Joyce Newcombe; his children, Peter (Line), Kari (Scott), Andrew and his grandchildren, Emily, Ben, Karina, Jake, Julia, Emma and Matthew. He is also survived by his sister, Marjorie McCarty and his brother Leigh Newcombe.

A memorial will be held in Spring 2026. The family would like to express their gratitude to the Veterans Memorial Lodge care team for their compassion and support during Paul’s final days.
Donations to Veterans Memorial Lodge, in lieu of flowers, would be appreciated.

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Gerald Cooper RRMC RMC 1966

Gerry, cherished father of Alexandra and beloved husband of the late Gail (née Manning), passed away at Georgetown Hospital, age 81, showing remarkable courage for years after repeated strokes. Born in the Maritimes, the eldest child of Gerald and Bernice (née MacAskill), Gerry spent his early years moving among RCAF airbases. He graduated from RMC in Mechanical Engineering and Western with an MBA. His career spanned three decades in the federal government in automotive and aerospace economic development. His family was Gerry’s dearest pride. Daughter, Alexa, along with Vlad, brought him the joy of granddaughters, Brielle and Natasha Hachinski, and the companionship of grandpups, Tino and Penny. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law, Lynn Watt; and siblings, Darlene Wolf, Bonnie Cutten, and Ken Cooper, and their families. A man of steadfast duty and devotion, Gerry embodied the role of provider and protector. An adventurous spirit on the cottage lake, golf course and ski slopes, his generosity enriched every celebratory gathering. His ready smile and warmth will be profoundly missed. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, research Gerry long supported. Blue skies and tailwinds.

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David Cummings RMC 1959

It is with deep sadness we announce the death of David Andrew Cummings who passed away peacefully on 24th November 2025 at the age of 90.

He is pre-deceased by his beloved partner, Anne Gilkinson, and grandson, Blaze. He was the husband of Jane Cummings (Filion) and father of Catherine (Staveley) and Robert.

He will be missed by his grandchildren, Brook-lynn, Bailey-Jane, Bethany, Conor and Sean, son-in-law, David, and sister Diane (Blake), relatives and friends.

Dave was born into an Air Force family in Beamsville, Ontario on June 2, 1935 and consequently lived in many places from Calgary to Goose Bay.  He completed High School in Ottawa, and was accepted into Royal Military College in Kingston, graduating in 1959.  Dave then attended U of T in Toronto, graduating with a BASc degree in Mechanical Engineering in April of 1960. He then enjoyed an extensive career in the RCAF as both a pilot and instructor. He flew Sabre jets and later training jets and helicopters. During this time he served abroad in Europe and around various North American bases in joint training operations with the U.S. Air Force.

After settling in Ottawa, he gave up his flying career to work as an engineer at the Land Engineering and Test Establishment (LETE) testing tanks and other military hardware.  In retirement, he enjoyed golf, winters in Florida, and long afternoons at his home in Blackburn Hamlet with his partner, Anne, sitting by their pool in the company of family and friends.

A private graveside service will be held at Beechwood’s National Military Cemetery at a later date.  “His wings carried him through the heavens in life; may they carry him gently home in rest.”

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Paul Don Sharkey RRMC RMC 1966

Paul Donald “Don” Sharkey passed away peacefully on November 21st, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lieutenant Colonel, Paul Donald “Don” Sharkey, a devoted husband, a patient and loving father, a cherished grandfather, and a proud retired Air Force pilot. Don dedicated his life to service – to his country, to his community, and above all, to the people he loved.

Born with a generous spirit and a steady heart, Don spent his career soaring through the skies, embodying the discipline, courage, and commitment that defined his years in the Air Force. After retiring from his service as a fighter jet pilot, he continued his lifelong passion in the Aerospace industry by taking a prominent role at Spar Aerospace. Don played a pivotal role in managing the successful launch of the Canadarm program. Throughout his career and life, Don had a passion for helping others, always willing to lend a hand, offer guidance, or share one of his many unforgettable stories.

Don will be remembered for his kindness, humility, humour, and the warmth he brought to every gathering. He had a natural ability to make people feel welcome and valued, and he treasured the relationships he built throughout his life.

He leaves behind a family who adored him, friends who respected him, and a legacy of love, integrity, and service that will carry on in all who knew him. Don’s wings may now be at rest, but his spirit will forever soar in the hearts of those he touched.

 

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Duncan Milne RMC 1970

With his family by his side, Major (ret.) David Charles Duncan Milne of Fredericton, New Brunswick, passed away peacefully at the DECH in Fredericton on September 7th 2025.

Duncan was born on May 20th, 1948, in England. He was the son of Major Victor and Marion Milne. Duncan is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Margaret Cecile (Laforest) Milne of Fredericton. Also survived by his first cousin, Rose Mary Goodfellow of Engadine, Australia; his sister-in-law, Cathy Isabel Laforest of Lower Coverdale, NB; and Margaret’s cousins, Ross Farquhar of Upper Kintore, NB, Robert Farquhar (Gail) of Hazel Brook, PEI, Garth Farquhar (Jackie) of Upper Kintore, NB, Jo-Anne London of Upper Woodstock, NB, and Janet London (Michael) of Florenceville, NB. Duncan also leaves behind his good friend, Joseph Eulis Hachey.

Duncan had a distinguished career in the Canadian military as an artillery officer serving for 37 years. He had postings in Germany, Gagetown, Cyprus, Shilo, MB, Fort Sill, MB, Australia and Ottawa.

Duncan was an accomplished scholar of military history, and an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the Toronto Blue Jays. Duncan loved his canine companions and is survived by the ever faithful and vocal Charlie. Duncan was a veracious reader and enjoyed collecting stamps.

Funeral service was held on Saturday, September 13th at 2 pm from Saint James United Church of Canada in Andover, NB. Rev. Shirley DeMerchant officiated. Interment followed at the Upper Kintore Cemetery.

Music for the service was by Dawn Bishop, Sarah Farquhar-McAteer, Kathleen Jury, Darlene Morton, Amber Ashworth, and Lucette Hirschi. The eulogy was given by Garth Farquhar. Psalm 23 was read by Glenna Montieth.

For those who wish, memorial donations to the Upper Kintore Cemetery or the Canadian Diabetes Association would be appreciated by the family.

Duncan’s family would like express a heartfelt thank you to the staff at the ICU at the Doctor Everett Chalmers Hospital for their professional and compassionate care.

Arrangements entrusted to the Brunswick Funeral Home, Perth-Andover, NB.

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Ian Sherlock RMC 1956

Please see this link for the full obituary of Ian Sherlock:  https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/kelly-walkley/obituaries/ian-peter-sherlock/153749.html 

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Lucille Sanschagrin Pronovost

C’est avec tristesse que nous vous annonçons le décès de madame Lucille Sanschagrin Pronovost à l’Hôpital Charles-Le Moyne, le 12 décembre 2025, à l’âge de 77 ans et 6 mois. Elle était l’épouse de monsieur André Pronovost.

Outre son époux, elle laisse dans le deuil ses enfants Audrey (Yaraisa Reyes) et Nadia (Lionel Scremin), ses quatre petits-enfants Laura, Joanie, Léane et Charline, ses frères et sœurs, Gisèle, Nicole, Paul, Francine, Hélène, ses neveux et nièces, ainsi que plusieurs parents et amis.

 

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Helen Margaret (Allen) Stowe Obituary

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Michel Blanchard CMR RMC 1968

J’ai le regret de vous faire part du décès de notre confrère et ami Michel Blanchard.

Un individu brillant. Son passage au CMR/RMC a été remarquable. Il a cumulé plusieurs postes de commandement au sein de l’escadre. Son parcours académique exceptionnel lui a valu plusieurs récompenses honorifiques en mathématiques et physique entre autres. En 1968 il a été le récipiendaire de la médaille d’or académique du Gouverneur général. Au niveau sportif, Michel était également un fervent adepte des arts martiaux et membre de l’équipe représentative d’escrime du RMC.

Michel a connu de sérieux problèmes de santé au cours des dernières années. Il est décédé lundi le 27 janvier deux semaines après son entrée aux soins palliatifs.
Michel a exprimé le souhait de ne pas avoir de funérailles.

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Donald Brooks RMC 1956

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Donald (Don) Brooks, who left us peacefully on November 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his wife and daughter after complications from Parkinson’s disease. He was 74 years old.

Beloved husband of Adele Brooks (née Menard), Don was the devoted father of Christopher (Kerry), Karen (Francis), and David (Eleanor) and daughter-in-law Lynn. He was the proud and loving grandpa to his six grandchildren: Ella, Jack, Colin, Grayson, Adie, and Julian, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness.

Born to George and Anne (Draffin) Brooks, both predeceased, Don grew up in a close-knit family and remained deeply connected to his roots. He is survived by his brothers Bernard (Suzanne), George (Carol), and Bill (Janice), and predeceased by his sister-in-law Sylvie Menard. Don also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews who will remember his warmth, humour, and generosity.

A true entrepreneur at heart, Don built a legacy through hard work and community spirit. He owned and operated several well-known businesses in Kirkland, including Canton Auto Parts, Kirkland Service Centre, and Kirkland Snow Removal. His dedication to quality service and to the people of his community earned him lifelong respect and affection.

After retiring, Don continued to share his passions and expertise by volunteering for nearly ten years at the Montreal Aviation Museum, a place that brought him great joy and connection.

Don lived life fully and with gratitude. He loved traveling, camping, playing games, and most of all, spending time with his family. His infectious smile, steady guidance, and boundless love enriched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Don was a very caring, thoughtful, kind person who would do anything for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

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John Russell Barker RRMC RMC 1966

Suddenly at Kingston General Hospital on December 18, 2025 John passed away surrounded by loved ones. Left to mourn his passing are: his beloved wife, Mary (Sweet, Whitney), his cherished sons, Michael and Thomas and grandchildren, Killian, Rowan and Siresha, and his dear sister Janet and her husband Rod Saunders. John was predeceased by his first wife Nan in 2004. John extended his love to Mary’s family: Christie (Dwain) and her grandchildren, Ben and Ethan, and her siblings Jane (Greg) McCarthy and David (Ruby) Sweet.

John was born in Sudbury to parents Russell and Norma. He was fiercely proud of his Northern Ontario heritage and felt most at home in ‘Shield’ country. After high school he got, what he always called, an “excellent” university education at the Royal Military College of Canada and subsequently was posted at Base Gagetown in New Brunswick. While living there he met Nan, and after he had repaid his time to the military, he – in his words – “decided there had to be a better path to world peace than armed conflict”. And so, with his new wife beside him, began his Theological Studies at Queen’s University in Kingston. As clergy he worked within the United Church of Canada as a longtime member of the Justice, Global and Ecumenical Unit working on peace and disarmament, social justice and human rights. John was also one of the representatives from the United Church of Canada on the board of ‘Project Ploughshares’, an independent research institute and advocacy organization committed to peace. As well, he was on the Board of World Food Grains Bank – All these important commitments while he was serving churches in Seeley’s Bay, Capreole, Amherstburg, St. Thomas, Essex, and Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

John retired to Stratford because he loved the plays, but soon after he moved back to Seeley’s Bay when he and Mary married. John loved the warm sense of community with friends and Mary’s many extended family members in Seeley’s Bay.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant”.

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Jack Little RRMC RMC 1966

On Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, Jack of Kanata passed away peacefully at the Queensway Carleton Hospital. He had a long and successful naval career from his days at Royal Roads Military College in Victoria, British Columbia to his time at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, Ontario.

Born on April 30th, 1944, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the eldest child of a military family, they moved several times before moving to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, which he always considered home. He graduated from St. Paul’s Boys High School in 1962 before leaving for Victoria, British Columbia. In 1964, he then went to the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario, from which he graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree. From there, he began his various postings on both the East and West Coasts. He served as a Navigation Officer / Operations Officer. He also taught at the Canadian Forces Fleet Schools on both Coasts. In 1983, he was posted to Ottawa, Ontario, as a Staff Officer at NDHQ. After his retirement, he then attended Carleton University where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and computers.

While doing training in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia, he met his future wife, Brenda, who was also undergoing basic training. They married in Esquimalt, British Columbia, in 1970. They have two children – Jennifer Mosher of New Glasgow, Nova Scotia and John (Tania Levy) of Ottawa, and a grandson Scott Mosher of Halifax, Nova Scotia.

He is also survived by his only sister Bonnie Hoyer (Harry) of St. Albert, Alberta, and one brother Paul Little (Christa) of Edmonton, Alberta. He was predeceased by his parents John Franklin Little and Eva Rose Little of Spruce Grove, Alberta, as well as his brothers Bruce and Robert, hi sister-in-law Judy Little, and a niece Patricia Little. He is survived by nieces Catherine and Jaclyn Little and Kristen Hoyer and by a nephew Douglas Hoyer (Maureen Murray) and their son Daniel.

Cremation has taken place and a private inurnment will take place at Beechwood’s National Military Cemetery at a later date.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at the Queensway Carleton Hospital’s Emergency and Intensive Care Units.

In lieu of floral tributes, a donation to the Heart Institute or the Queensway Carleton Hospital would be appreciated.

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Christopher Pratt RCNC 1942

Christopher Pratt, lovingly known as Chris, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026 at the age of 101. He was born on May 27, 1924, in Okotoks, Alberta and moved to Victoria in 1925.
Chris’ estranged wife, Mary, predeceased him in 2022. He is survived by his children, Mark (Megan), Tisha, Nick (Janice) and Sarah (Grant), seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was the last surviving Canadian Younger Brother of the Trinity House fraternity and is believed to have been the last surviving member of the first class of Royal Roads Military College (RCNC 016). He was Honorary President of the Vancouver Island Ex-Cadet Club from 2012 until his death.
Chris enjoyed a lifelong love of the sea, including a 36-year career with the Royal Canadian Navy. He served in WWII, the Korean War and during peacetime. He deployed all over the world, commanded several vessels and the Canadian Maritime Warfare Centre (CFMWC), taught at the National Defence College in Ottawa, and served as Director of Naval Reserves between 1972 and his release from service in 1978. Chris enjoyed a rewarding “second act” after service. He continued to travel the world alone and with friends and family well into his 90s, hosted generations of students as a Patron of Pearson College, supported conservation efforts as a Director of the Metchosin Foundation, and regularly kayaked the BC coastline into his 100th year.

With many thanks to Garth and Kimberly Irwin, family and fellow Metchosin-ites who helped him achieve his goal of spending his last years at home with his cat Friday and a view of the sea.

A celebration of Chris’s life will be held at a later date. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com

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Donald Ray Williams RMC 1963

Donald Ray Williams, Major General (Ret) CMM, OMM, CD, age 83, fighter pilot took his last flight into the arms of his Lord, Sunday, January 11, 2026. Mercifully he was released from his long and courageous fight with Parkinson’s Disease, one he fought with a warrior’s ethos, with dignity, grace, and strength. Don was surrounded by his loving family, Bonita Williams, heartfelt soul mate of 62 years, and devoted sons Mark and Ryan Williams. His legacy will continue with his sons, granddaughter, Rachel Williams Odland, her husband Tyrell Oldand & great grandson, Brogan Odland, grandson Matthew Williams, and granddaughters, Talia and Kaia Williams. Don was the eldest of his siblings who are Clifford Williams, Rhoda Gerard, Gary Williams, Ray Williams and Eugene Williams.

Born in Corvallis, Oregon, Don became a naturalized Canadian citizen at the age of three when his family moved to Saskatchewan. He joined the RCAF and graduated from Royal Military College in 1963 with a degree in civil engineering. Don completed his flight training earning his pilot’s wings in 1964 and married Bonita Smith in her hometown of Banff, Alberta, Canada. Their military journey together encompassed living in four countries, with The Villages in Florida being their twenty-fifth and final move.

Don reached the peak of his career as the Commander, Canadian Defense Liaison Staff and Canadian Defense Attaché, Canadian Embassy, Washington DC. His exceptional service being recognized already with his investiture as an Officer of the Order of Military Merit (OMM) in 1979, Don was subsequently appointed to the highest level of the Order as Commander (CMM) in 1993. Don would remark, unpretentiously, that he had a successful career as his takeoffs equaled his landings. Retired from the RCAF in 1996, he put on a business suit to join a US subsidiary of BAE Systems, a global defense, security and aerospace company. Later he formed his own company, Rymark Business Solutions, providing Strategic Program Management for DOD and other Defense companies.

Don was a leader, one dedicated to protecting his family, teaching his sons to project themselves to succeed living in a military family. He exposed them to worldwide experiences and taught them to be good men. Yearly vacations centered around the family clan of grandparents, siblings, and grandchildren, gathering around the abundant lakes of Minnesota and Wisconsin; and in the winter, skiing, always searching for the best powder. It was during these vacations that the teaching continued with every experience, and new life lessons were learned. He epitomized leadership by example!

Don was a masterful bridge player, a voracious reader and with his clever intellect and his subtle sense of humour kept us laughing to the very end. Dedicated to fitness, he was once recruited to play football for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and continued with his love of the game all through his life. He enjoyed competition, curling, tennis and playing golf with good-natured rivalry, mostly with all his brothers and sons.

As a dual citizen of Canada and the USA, we are grateful beyond measure for all Don did for our countries and to have loved and been loved by this remarkable man. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude in our hearts. We are immensely fortunate to call him ours.

Don’s Memorial and Celebration of Life was held January 14, 2026 at Beyers Funeral Home, Lady Lake, FL 32162.  The interment will take place in Ottawa in early spring.

Donations (if wished) can be made to the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson research.

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Leon Rouillier CMR RMC 1960

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Mr. Léon Rouillier at Glen Stor Dun Lodge, Cornwall, ON, on January 16, 2026 at the age of 89 years.
Beloved husband of Lesley Rouillier (née Shewan) and much loved as a father, he also leaves behind his children Lise, Liane and Louis; his grandchildren Benjamin, Pascale (Anne Claudine), James, Eve (Jonathan), Sara and Kim; his sister Francine (Gérald Poulin). He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He is predeceased by his parents Hertel Rouillier and Georgette Lareau as well as his sister Simonne.

Born in Chambly, Quebec, he was a graduate of Brébeuf College, the Royal Military College (RMC), and Polytechnique Engineering. A navigator for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), he met his wife Lesley while stationed at the air force base in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Together they raised their family in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec. Léon enjoyed a distinguished career in the steel industry in Canada, the US and Europe as a mechanical engineer and project manager.

Léon and Lesley shared a love of Bernese Mountain dogs and made many friends across North America while breeding and showing their dogs during their retirement years.

The family would like to thank the 3rd floor staff of the Glen Stor Dun Lodge for their kindness and care towards Léon.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring in Chambly, Quebec. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Lahaie & Sullivan Cornwall Funeral Homes, East Branch (613-933-2841).

As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

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Andrew Anderson CMR RMC 1988

The memory of Andrew Anderson of New Braunfels, Texas, who passed away on January 11, 2026 at the age of 58, will forever remain in the hearts of those touched by this precious presence in their lives. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.

Though his name may fade from the lips of time, the imprint Andrew leaves upon the hearts of his loved ones remains eternally vivid — a testament to the depth of his spirit and the richness of his legacy.