August “Gus” Martin Leenders - Former Resident
December 14th, 1933 - January 22nd, 2026
Gus has left this world and rejoined his life dance partner, Myrl (February 2021). Born on December 14, 1933, in Boekel, Netherlands to parents Johannus (deceased 1982) & Huberta (nee Van den Boogaard, deceased 1957) Leenders.
The complete family of 11 sailed to Canada in 1950. Gus met Myrl (nee MacKenzie) in 1967 at a Valentine's Day dance in Sarnia, married on October 21, 1967, and had been dancing together until her passing. Had over 54 years together spending as many weekends as possible dancing in Michigan and Ontario at whatever venues where polka/waltz music was playing. They had travelled many times to the East Coast to visit Myrl's sisters and their families as well as the growing Leenders families. Been employed by Belton from April 1953 and retired in 1991.
Dear brother of the late Marie VanWerde (John); Liza Vermeulen (the late John); late Joe (Freda); late Andy (the late Ann); late Albert (Kathleen); Eugene (Willie); Herman; Richard (the late Gladys). He also leaves behind his extended East Coast family; sisters-in-laws Myrta and Karen (the late Lloyd) as well as many nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews.
Visitation to be held at SFH - McKenzie & Blundy Chapel, 431 Christina St. N., on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00. Funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Benedict's Church, 1011 Oak Ave, Sarnia, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. (A livestream will be available at the start of the service - https://youtube.com/live/eeCnmO7HANI). Interment will follow at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Children's Rotary or Bluewater Health or a charity of your choosing would be appreciated (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
Diane Marie Gagnon (nee Milner)
April 15th,1950 – February 2nd. 2026
Diane Marie Gagnon (nee Milner) passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026 following a courageous battle with cancer. She leaves behind her devoted husband of nearly 56 years, Serge; her 2 loving children Suzanne (Sam) and Tony (Amy); four cherished grandchildren. Dakota, Kiran, Jasleen and Arjan.
She was predeceased by her parents Maynard and Ethel Milner as well as her older brother Hartley. She is survived by her other siblings Brenda, Joan, Rick and Clyde.
Following high school, Diane became a hairdresser, met Serge on 27 January 1969 and married in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia on 27 June 1970 she followed her Air Force husband through 18 moves including 4 postings in Nova Scotia, 3 postings in Ontario, one each in Germany, Virginia (USA) and Florida. Throughout these years she became an accomplished interior decorator with a very successful business named ‘Finesse Decorating’.
In her active life as a devoted mother, grandmother, wife and professional decorator, she always had a contagious radiant smile and a wonderful sense of humor. She loved hosting dinners at home and was an expert social events coordinator. She was loved and admired by all who knew her, always creating wonderful memories.
She traveled extensively to different parts of the world including all European countries, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Puerto Rico and many US states. She loved nature and exploring the different cultures and traditions. Before her illness, she was an avid hiker, gardener and enjoyed partaking in social events to meet people and to dance her heart out. She truly loved living life to its fullest.
She had a heart of gold and was gifted with a blessed soul. Diane will be sorely missed but will always be remembered, honored and cherished.
A Memorial Funeral mass will be held at St. Benedict's Church at 1011 Oak Ave in Sarnia, ON on Saturday, February 21st, 2026 at 2 PM.
In her memory, donations may be dedicated to the Canadian Cancer Society or the St Joseph’s Hospice.
Patricia Ellen McEachern - Former Resident
April 9th, 1945 - March 4th, 2026
Peacefully, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Trillium Villa Nursing Home, Patricia Ellen McEachern passed away at the age of 80 years old.
Loving Mother of Shealin (Randy) Bird. Beloved Sister of Dan (Sue) Kelly and Joe (Cathy) Kelly. Patricia is predeceased by her parents Bernard and Irma Kelly, her sisters Colleen Kelly and Ann (Bill) Barnes, and her husband Bruce McEachern. Dear friend of Rita Silvestri and Sandy Lunn. She will be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Patricia had a deep love for knitting. Rarely was she without her knitting bag by her side, and her needles seemed to follow her wherever she went. She cherished the time she spent around the table playing cards, where laughter, friendly competition, and conversation were always in abundance. Patricia found happiness in the company of others and the comfort of the traditions she loved.
Cremation has taken place. Family and friends will be received at Smith Family Centre, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Friday, March 13th, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Lochiel Kiwanis Community Centre (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia. Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca
