Cousin Neal Houston

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Conversation with Neal Houston

Participants: Neal Houston

Neal HoustonTuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:42am EST

Ok. I got it. Thx

Glen BrownTuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:35am EST

Right on - and to you too!

Neal HoustonTuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:34am EST

Happy new year from Afghanistan

Neal HoustonTuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:33am EST

Neal401@yahoo.com

Glen BrownTuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:32am EST

Can you send your email please?

Neal HoustonTuesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:23am EST

Hi Glen. This isn't loading. Can you email it to me please?

Glen BrownThursday, December 15, 2016 at 11:51am EST

Here you go. I wish it was longer :)

Neal HoustonWednesday, December 14, 2016 at 10:14pm EST

Love to have a recording of Ian's rendition of Amazing Grace

Neal HoustonWednesday, December 14, 2016 at 10:14pm EST

That's the Silverlining of a funeral

Neal HoustonWednesday, December 14, 2016 at 10:14pm EST

It was great seeing everybody Glenn

Neal HoustonSaturday, December 10, 2016 at 4:35pm EST

Going to Rent-A-Car sono one needs to pick me up

Neal HoustonSaturday, December 10, 2016 at 4:35pm EST

I'll be there Sunday evening at Palermo village

Neal HoustonSaturday, December 10, 2016 at 4:33pm EST

I arrive Sunday afternoon at 4:47

Glen BrownSaturday, December 10, 2016 at 12:14pm EST

Hi Neal - can you share your plans with us and a contact number - Doug and Dad would like to connect if you're in town tonite - we're also planning an informal get together for Sun evening at Palermo Village

Glen BrownTuesday, July 21, 2015 at 6:36pm EDT

Will do!

Neal HoustonTuesday, July 21, 2015 at 11:16am EDT

Hope your having a good time in Hawaii. Tell everyone I said hi please.

Glen BrownTuesday, July 21, 2015 at 11:05am EDT

Mom's moving slowly but they're both in good spirits. Dad just arranged to sell his business which closes at the end of August.

Glen BrownTuesday, July 21, 2015 at 11:05am EDT

They've got the house up for sale, and we're in the process of helping them move stuff out, sell stuff etc. They've arranged to move into a nice apartment where they have daily meals in a nice dining room, but they have their own apartment and privacy.

Neal HoustonTuesday, July 21, 2015 at 1:12am EDT

That looks beautiful Glen. 407s are really good helicopters. How are your mom n dad doing?

Glen BrownSunday, July 19, 2015 at 4:52pm EDT

Had the most amazing chopper tour over Hawaii's Big Island while there last week. Now I know what a Bell 407 is like.

Glen BrownSunday, July 19, 2015 at 4:47pm EDT

Neal HoustonSaturday, March 21, 2015 at 7:57am EDT

Ha. I'll be here till September

Glen BrownSunday, March 15, 2015 at 12:40am EDT

No they're still looking. 60th anniversary next month. Are you staying over there for a while?

Neal HoustonSaturday, March 14, 2015 at 3:40pm EDT

Not to bad here in Afghanistan. Have your mom and dad started moving yet?

Glen BrownSaturday, March 14, 2015 at 2:34pm EDT

Pretty darn good. It's JUNO Award weekend in Hamilton. Tons of fun. Yourself?

Neal HoustonSaturday, March 14, 2015 at 12:46pm EDT

How's it going Glen?

Glen BrownFriday, January 16, 2015 at 12:11pm EST

Hi Neal, Here's the music magazine crowdfund project I'm heading up. It's keeping me busy in my "retirement" http://igg.me/at/GHMD/x/618193

Neal HoustonSunday, September 14, 2014 at 4:14pm EDT

No. It didn't out. My work schedule kept changing.

Glen BrownSunday, September 14, 2014 at 4:12pm EDT

with all respect to the browns in Cedarville of course, did you get a chance to see those guys?

Glen BrownSunday, September 14, 2014 at 4:12pm EDT

yeah! no snow tires required. bye bye OHIO

Neal HoustonSunday, September 14, 2014 at 4:09pm EDT

Glen BrownSunday, September 14, 2014 at 4:06pm EDT

Sounds exciting. Dang.

Neal HoustonSunday, September 14, 2014 at 11:06am EDT

All over.

Glen BrownSunday, September 14, 2014 at 9:57am EDT

Will do. I'll be seeing Arlene and mom and dad today; we're celebrating her 55th birthday today! Where in Afghanistan are you working?

Neal HoustonSaturday, September 13, 2014 at 6:37am EDT

Thanks for the update Glen. I've a major change. I got a flying job in Afghanistan. I've been here 3 weeks. Pass my best onto everyone please.

Glen BrownWednesday, September 10, 2014 at 6:56pm EDT

Hey Neal, Hope all's well. How's the flying business? As far as teaching goes, I've got about 250 new names to learn in 14 classes over 4 schools. That should keep my brain stimulated for the next little while. Tonight I'm off to a blues gig at the Corktown Tavern with a blues guy named Big Johnny Blue. Makes for a late night but it's always fun to pick up the sticks and make a few bucks on the side.

Neal HoustonTuesday, September 9, 2014 at 7:22am EDT

Hi Glen

Glen BrownMonday, August 25, 2014 at 1:09pm EDT

Hey Neal, things are moving ahead swimmingly. This is a busy week with getting the classrooms all set up for after Labour Day. The summer, as usual, has flown by. We're all well. Ian and Olivia are in driver's ed school this week - in"car"cerated in a classroom!

Neal HoustonSunday, August 24, 2014 at 4:02pm EDT

How do Glen?!

Glen BrownSunday, July 6, 2014 at 10:55pm EDT

I agree!

Neal HoustonSunday, July 6, 2014 at 8:58pm EDT

Hi Glen. It was great seeing you and everyone. Hopefully it won't be so long next time.

Glen BrownFriday, May 9, 2014 at 3:55pm EDT

Hi Neal. This is great news. For sure we'd like to see you. You need to meet my family out here in Hamillton, which is just about a 25 min. drive from Mom and Dad in Oakville. Or, depending on where you're planning to stay, we can connect with you there. My phone at home is 905-549-4082, cell is 905-973-4083. Glen

Neal HoustonFriday, May 9, 2014 at 8:39am EDT

It would be the weekend of June 7 and 8

Neal HoustonFriday, May 9, 2014 at 8:35am EDT

Good morning Glen. How are you? I'm living in Ohio now. I'd like to come and visit your mom and dad and you and everyone else and about three weeks would you be up for that?

Glen BrownTuesday, June 19, 2012 at 7:14pm EDT

No problem! Ron and Jean Brown, 248 Slater Crescent, Oakville, Ontario, L6K 2C8 phone 905-844-3050

Neal HoustonTuesday, June 19, 2012 at 3:57pm EDT

Hi Glen, Would you send me some contact info for your mom and dad please. Neal

Glen BrownSaturday, June 2, 2012 at 4:39pm EDT

Nice. Work it. I'm still finding blue paint in unexpected orifices.

Neal HoustonSaturday, June 2, 2012 at 2:45pm EDT

Hi Glen. Thanks for keeping in touch. Bob, Sandy and Mary Ann are coming down to Las Vegas for my 50th birthday next week. We're all doing pretty good. Please past my best on to your Mom and Dad and everyone else. I've told your story about the can of blue paint and the drill press a few more times.

Glen BrownSunday, May 27, 2012 at 10:07am EDT

Thanks for posting that nice picture. Here's some news from the Browns, to keep you posted. My niece Sarah, Gerry's daughter, has just graduated from Prague Film School, receiving the Best Actress award. She plans to move to LA next. My oldest daughter Olivia is up north planting trees and is dodging forest fires and bears, but having a great time. She starts music at Mohawk College in the fall after finishing a year of music at U of T. I'm still teaching in Hamilton. A few years to go until I put my chalk down. Brenda and I are having lots of fun with music projects. She's working with a guitarist getting some gigs around, and I'm playing weekends with a cover band. My mom and dad are doing well. We just saw them last weekend. My dad continues to amaze me; recently turning 81, he just completed a model radio control airplane that had been gathering dust for years in our crawlspace. They say one secret of longevity is to have the idea of, "I'm just starting to learn how to do something new..." so he's an example of that. Thankfully his health is holding up. My mom is still getting around OK, although stairs are painful for her hip. That will do for now. Hope you are having a great time flying around everywhere :) I'm attaching the link to Brenda's website. Give a listen. They do Vegas special events by the way. lol http://roomfor2music.com 

Glen BrownWednesday, May 25, 2011 at 7:13am EDT

Hi Neal, This is your cousin from Hamilton trying to catch up to you!

Bob Brown, d. December 8 2020

Diana Bonin, Bob Brown, uncle Ron (Ronnie) Brown
September 2017

Kevin McNee, friend of Bob Brown. 

December 13 at 2:04 PM · 

 The world lost a great man this past week. I wanted to share about my time with Bob “Bobby” Brown Bob saw something in me that I didn’t even see in myself. He gave me an opportunity to learn, grow and become the person that I am today. We were golf buddies first, but it felt more like a proud parent golfing with his kid. Bob always reached out to set up rounds for us and I always accepted. We kicked ass too! That cigarette in his mouth, one eye closed and knocking in putts all day, was pretty fun to watch. Watching many of the people we played against shake their heads while Bobby just laughed. When he knew I was playing a round, tournament or not, he was always there to find out how I played. When I played shitty, I think he was more upset than me! Lol. Bob always looked out for me. I remember one time at the oil men’s golf tournament in FSJ, there was a group of us playing a card game called guts. I went after the pot, which would have cost me about $500 (which I didn’t have) if I lost, and everyone else folded except Bob. He just looked at me and said, “you need a better poker face buddy!” I knew right then, he had the card to beat me...and he folded. I never forgot that. Bob gave me my first job in the oil patch. Training me how to run a pressure truck, then bumping me up into dispatch and then to sales. It was a faster transition than expected for someone with zero experience, but he had a plan, I just didn’t know it. Everyone knew Bobby in the patch! Stories of him through the years were endless. And he could tell you every one of them!His memory was unbelievable and if you ever wronged him, he never forgot! His jokes, one liners, and wit were awesome! I remember many times where people would talk back and Bob would put them in their place! “You couldn’t organize a rock fight in a gravel pit!” Was just one of the many sayings I remember. Bobby called me out of the blue a couple months ago and asked if I had time for coffee. He just said he wanted to get together, nothing important. Being always so “busy” I almost said I didn’t have time. I so happy I took the time. We had a great conversation, probably the best we’ve had, about life not just work. I think he knew it would be our last, and I’m grateful he did that. Bobby was one of my biggest supporters, in golf and in life. I will miss him a lot. You definitely deserved more time Bobby. 

Love you Bob ❤️. Thank you for being a part of my life.

Amanda Bonin and Bob Brown

Shayleen Cooper to Diana Bonin 

December 8 at 9:51 PM · 

 My love and thoughts are forever in my heart Bob was like a dad to me one of the greatest kindest loving person I have ever known I love you mom and my heart is thinking of you

Bonnie Brown 

Very nice photos of our dear brother 

Miss him a lot Still wait for his phone calls I know a day will not pass where he will not be thought of His impact on our family was one of keeping things together and was always there in time of need Happy Birthday brother Love you and miss you. 

Bill

 

Jan Monforton to Bonnie Brown yep, I can still hear him answering his cell phone....Bob here! I miss that so much. We talked almost everyday, just checking in on each other.

My Life Poem for Saying Good-bye

When I come to the end of the road, and the sun is set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little, but not too much and not with your head held low.

Remember the joy and laughter we shared, and lovingly let me go.

Mary-Ann Berridge (Houston)

BERRIDGE, Mary-Ann Marie
July 5, 1952 - Calgary, Alberta
November 8, 2019 - Calgary, Alberta

With great sadness our family announces the passing of Mary - Ann at the age of 67 while at the cardiovascular unit of the Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary, AB.

To her end, Mary-Ann kept her distinct sense of humour and her gracious compassion for other people. To all that knew her she was a warrior and trooper in every sense. Mary-Ann never once complained about all her health issues over two decades, did as her doctors told her, and made everyday further proof of her positive attitude.

Mary-Ann, daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, and finally grandmother, was a proud lady that never went anywhere without being dressed properly for the day, a quality she certainly learned from her mother. She was a talented cross-stitcher and has many projects hanging in her home, and won a first place ribbon for her entry in the Calgary Stampede. An avid reader, she would latch onto an author, find all their books, and then read them all in series start to finish. Everything she did was in order. Every Costco trip she went by the book counters with her list in hand of what she needed.

She is lovingly remembered and will be greatly missed by her husband Jim of 47 years; son Dave (Nicole) of Chilliwack, BC, daughter Laura Anderson (Ryan) of Swift Current SK; brothers, Sandy Houston of Halifax NS, Bob (Jackie) Houston of Grand Prairie, AB, and Neal Houston of Las Vegas NV. She will be dearly missed by her four grandsons who she loved with all her heart and who loved her back, Malcolm Berridge, Sylvester Berridge, Riley Anderson, and Luke Anderson. Her extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and a long list of cherished friends will also remember her with dearest thoughts.

Houstons, Browns, Gilmours in "Fabrics From The Seventies"
Back row: Doug, Sandy, Mary-Ann, Bob
Middle row: Kathy Gilmour (?), Gerry, Arlene,
Front row: Neal, David Will, Glen,  ? Gilmour

One example of the amazing stitchwork Mary-Ann created.

Glen, Mary-Ann, Dad in October 2017

Jim, Mary-Ann, Dad in October 2017

The family is truly thankful for all the staff at unit 81 of the Foothills Medical Centre who displayed courtesy, professionalism, and undaunted compassion for Mary-Ann and her family during her last days.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.McInnisandHolloway.com. At Mary-Ann's request, no formal services will take place.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 - 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 Telephone: (403) 264-5549, www.heartandstroke.ca.

A tree will be planted in living memory of Mary-Ann Berridge.
Published on November 12, 2019

The Lee/Peace Families

The Lee/Peace Page

Gwendolyn Armstrong married Johnathan Peace

John and Gwen Peace

Brenda and Gramma Peace

Ray Peace, Gramma Peace, Diane

Gwen and John Peace's kids:

1. Dora (Raymond Lee)
2. Raymond "Randy" (Diane ?)

Dora Lee's and Raymond Lee's kids:

Debbie (Steve Wright)

1. Rebecca
2. Jessica
3. Amanda
4. Hannah

Wanda (Gord Harvey)

1. Rachel - daughter: Grace
   Grace's daughter: Bailey
2. Johnathan - son: Jack
3. Matthew

Barry (Shelley Hongisto)

1. Emma

Tim (Lloydel Peche)

1. Pamela (Brett Baldwin) - children Liam, Emily
2. Philip - (Jessica) - children Parker

Randy (deceased)

Linda (Jeff McConnell)

1. Kyle - (Jasmine Bootle) - children Gemma, Oliver
2. Kathryn (Joe Giannini d. 2021), (Darcy __) - children Hunter

Brenda (Glen Brown)

1. Olivia
2. Ian
3. Elinor

Randy Peace's, Diane's (?) kids:

1. Debbie
2. Susan (Royal?)
3. Cathy - ?

The Brown/Hepburn/Houston Families

William (Bill) James Brown m. Emma Marie Kirkwood

Grampa Brown was born in Molesworth Ontario, near Listowell.

Gramma Brown was born in Vegreville Alberta.

Bill and Marie Brown

Bill and Marie Brown

Bill and Marie's kids:

• Bob (Dorothy "Dot")
• Ron (Dorothy Jean Hepburn)
• Lorraine  ("Mac" Houston, Marvin Lawes)

 Bob and Dot's kids

• Keith (Dorthey)
• Bob (Diana Bonin)
• Billy (Bonnie)
• Janice (Mike Montfortin) 
• Karen
• Kim (Deane Guthrie)
• Kirk

Ron and Jean's kids

• Doug (Carolyn Peach)
• Gerry (Debbie Porter)
• Arlene (John Dandridge)
• Glen (Brenda Lee)
• David "Will" (Lisa Hodgkins, Diane Olcha)

Doug and Carolyn's kids

1. Neema
2. Matthew

Gerry and Deb's kids

1. Sarah (Nate)
2. Amy
3. Kevin (Marnie) - child Regan
4. Chris
5. Jason (Sarah)

Arlene and John's kids

1. Trevor (Kelly)
2. Lindsay

Glen and Brenda's kids

1. Olivia
2. Ian
3. Elinor

David's kids

1. Steven (Lisa)
2. Zoe (Diane)

Lorraine and Mac's kids

• Alexander "Sandy"
• Mary-Ann (Jim Berridge)
• Bob (Avril, Jackie)
• Neil

Who Knows Where The Time Goes?

A beautiful song of reflection and joy. For when you cast your life before the creation and embrace your inevitable end. Where does the time go, and who knows why and where it comes from for us little humans to enjoy and swim in, just for a moment?

https://open.spotify.com/track/43IYZ1zQpbXXWhGQEgjAjb?si=XEwndS7nQLGjqVFcTMK3KQ

Ray Peace 1944 - 2019

Peace, Raymond John - MMM CD

Major Canadian Armed Forces Retired. After a long and bravely fought battle, Ray passed away on April 17, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Guelph at the age of 74 years. He was predeceased by his first wife Dianne and survived by his wife Juliet Baldock, daughters Debbie Labrecque (Ray), Cathy Peace and Susie Syme (Al); sister Dora Lee and his grandchildren Bri, Alisha, Robyn, Brandon and Alex. During his lengthy career in the Canadian Armed Forces, Ray served with distinction in many locations and capacities both in Canada and the Middle East.

At his request, there will be no funeral or visitation but donations in his memory will be greatly appreciated and may be made to Diabetes Canada or to any charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to GILCHRIST CHAPEL – McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph, (519-824-0031). We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at:

To Juliet, Debbie, Cathy and Susie,
Brenda and I send our condolences to you on this sad occasion of Ray's death. Brenda was telling me stories of how her uncle Randy used to pop by at the Lee home on Woodbine when she was a little girl, and he would always take time to be attentive and 'hang out' for a while. Brenda really appreciated that positive input from him as an uncle and as an important mentor and role model. Brenda also spoke fondly of times when she was able to visit and stay with her cousins' in the summertime when Ray was living out near Trenton. My memories of Ray include many special family events and occasions, for example Susie's Hamilton wedding with a special reception at the RHLI officer's mess, Debbie's wedding at Borden, and visits with Cathy and her son in Hamilton, not to mention dozens of visits with gramma Peace when our paths would cross. He was a fine man, obviously very dedicated and capable, with a distinguished career of service under his belt. If there were experiences and memories that Ray held in his heart and was unable to put into words for us to know, I respect him deeply for that. I'm glad to have known him and we are glad to have you all in our lives. Take care and we will look forward to seeing you at a memorial service in the future.
Love from Glen, Brenda and family - Olivia, Ian, Elinor

www.gilchristchapel.com and they will be forwarded to the family.

http://www.gilchristchapel.com/obituaries/133324

Notes From Uncle Don Hepburn re: mom's passing

Dear Doug —
Thank you very much for sending us the order of service and other parts of the memorial service. I did have some difficulty opening the attachment — I am still very much a technopeasant. -- However, Neil was here yesterday and everything became clear in no time. The comments and recollections were spontaneous, and Ian’s reflections on Amazing Grace was quite lovely . Your Grandma would certainly have been pleased.

Our love to you all.

Don

On Dec 20, 2016, at 8:18 AM, Douglas R Brown wrote:

Dear Uncle Don,

Thanks again for putting some of your thoughts down on "paper" for us. They were very helpful as we prepared for the memorial service for mom. I am attaching the a copy of the notes that we used. Gerry, Glen, Dave and I divided them up among us for sharing. Arlene was involved, but did not feel she would be able to speak. Your thoughts are included much as you sent them. Olivia and Elinor shared their own thoughts and those of the grandchildren. Ian played a rendition of Amazing Grace on the piano.

Take care and God bless.


Don Hepburn wrote on 11/12/2016 7:14 PM:

Dear Doug —

We were very sorry to learn of your Mom’s passing.  She lived a long and full life and will be greatly missed, but she is freed from the discomfort and pain caused by the illness of her later years.

I understand that you will be delivering a eulogy at the memorial service on Monday and that you are hoping that I might have some comments especially about her younger years, that might be of help to you. I am not sure that I can be of much help. I was the youngest of three children in the family , and more likely to be the subject of stories about memorable events than the observer. There was an age gap of several years separating the three of us, and often the three of us did not even attend the same schools and had quite different social groups. Moreover I was a BOY with two older SISTERS, which may have affected my memories somehow.

Jean was an easy person to get along with. She was a good student , perhaps a little in the shadow of her big sister, and a serious student of the piano and organ. Actually, my memories of your Mother are more memories of her as a grown-up than as a student. She was the bridesmaid at our wedding. For several years after that we all lived in Edmonton, and there were opportunities for us to spend some time together. ( I seem to remember going to a square dance club with Ron and Jean.) Before long, however, we began moving around. The Browns moved west and east (from the lower mainland of BC to Oakville in the East). The Hepburns moved north or south — from Inuvik to Red Deer. The opportunities for getting together were gone. Contact was maintained by visits during holidays, occasionally (after the kids were grown up) two couples holidaying together (Georgian Bay and the Rockies come to mind).

Family connections were very important to your Mom. She established and maintained contact with cousins. When any of our family visited your family, she made sure that as many as possible should be included in the visit. Similarly with friends. Your Mom formed enduring friendships, keeping in touch with people she had known from grade one, from CGIT, from United Church Young Peoples, St. Paul's United, neighbours and others as well, I am sure. Your Mom saw to it that Joan and I met many of them, too.

Your Mom was always busy. She was an organizer and a doer. I don’t think you would call her an activist. She didn’t attend protests or organize petitions or call public meetings. But she did good works, and made this world a better place. I think she was a person with whom the Prophet Micah would have been well pleased.

Love
Don

The Story of Bill and Marie Brown

The couple you are now looking at is my grandparents William James Brown and Emma Marie Kirkwood aka Bill and Marie.

One day I began swinging my big stick at this Grandparent Piñata and all kinds of sweet little story nuggets fell out.

In order to do so I had to go on a quest of discovery. It was a journey across the country where I met my relatives. I visited them like a beggar, asking for any scraps of information or any little bit of true tales that they might share. I felt like a total sycophant. Completely on the take and only asking for the dirty details.

Better known as Bill and Marie. Better known nowadays as the patriarchal couple of a sizeable clan. The Offspring, you might say.

Bob, Lorraine and Ronnie are the first generation. Their kids. My oh my, there are some rich stories to tell when you get right down to it. You have no idea.

And then there’s the next generation.

Bob’s kids are Karen, Keith, Bobby, Billy, Kim and Kurt. Lorraine’s kids are Mary Ann, Sandy, Bob, and Neal. Ronnie’s kids are Doug, Gerry, Arlene, Glen and David. OMG, the shitload of stories that this group can tell would give your gonads a rush of blood and set your heart a pitter-patter. You’ll see.

In the generation next? Well, things get pretty fucking exciting. Talk about an explosion! Talk about diversity. Talk about creativity. Talk about anything. It’s downright miraculous.

These are the stories you’re going to read. They are sweet, precious, and amazing.

How would one organize a collection of stories that centre around one single couple?

First you would tell the couple’s story. Their story speaks to all the others. Their adventures would help make them who they were. Their choices, their mistakes, their friends, their enemies all have an impact on them and also their children. And their grandchildren. This collection of stories gets its weight from this truth. The stories themselves are the sweet details of a singular unfolding, where two people live their lives, and unbeknownst to them, they write a screenplay of sorts for a thousand other people.

Next you would tell the stories of their children. There are a lot of things that come into play when you start reflecting and analyzing siblings. Birth order. Gender. Gaps in age. Historical context. Job prospects.

The next generation? We can’t escape the truth that we are privileged. We all know that our parents, having lived through hard times, were determined to put themselves on the map by having children. They were pretty good at it. Success in those days seemed to be centred around making sure that you left a bunch of people in your wake who would make this world a better place. It wasn’t a stretch to believe that all of us are survivors and that we should be thankful to be alive.

Which brings us to the NEXT generation. Our kids. The soft clay. The precious ones. The Hopes and Dreams. It’s hard for us to imagine that they too have stories to tell which need to be part of this collection.

Donald Walter (PhD) Hepburn

November 29, 1930 – December 15, 2018

Don Hepburn passed away peacefully at home on December 15, 2018 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

He was pre-deceased by his sister Joyce, his sister Jean Brown, his daughter Cathy McPhail and son Robert.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Joan and sons Gordon (Elsie) of Granville Ferry, Nova Scotia, Bruce (Edith) of Lethbridge, and Neil of Edmonton, together with numerous nieces and nephews.

A life-long educator, Don taught school in Edmonton, and in Ft. Simpson and Inuvik, N.W.T. before returning south. As Supervisor for Special Education for Alberta Education, Don’s work pioneered many of the supports now available to Alberta children with special educational needs. He also taught special education at the Red Deer College and the University of Alberta.

Upon his retirement, Don became an active volunteer for the Central Alberta Historical Society. Don was highly motivated by social justice issues and put his energies into Friends of Medicare, the Council of Canadians, numerous church committees and activities. Most notably, he was involved in reconciliation efforts fostered by Sunnybrook United Church and helped found the Remembering the Children Society. In 2003, the Red Deer Rotary Clubs named Don as Citizen the Year. In 2018, Don received an honorary Doctorate of Sacred Letters from St. Stephen’s College for his work with the Remembering the Children Society. Don Hepburn was a quiet, scholarly, gentle man who accomplished much. We will miss him greatly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

A celebration of life is planned for some time in the new year.

Mom (Jean Brown) - Obituary

D. Jean BROWN (nee Hepburn)

BROWN, D. Jean (nee Hepburn) Passed away peacefully with her loving husband by her side, on December 6, 2016 at Ian Anderson House, in her 90th year. Jean, beloved wife of Ron Brown for 61 wonderful years. Dear mother of Doug (Carolyn), Gerry (Deb), Arlene (John), Glen (Brenda) and David (Diane). Cherished nana of Trevor, Steven, Sarah, Lindsay, Amy, Nathan, Olivia, Kevin, Matthew, Ian, Chris, Jason, Elinor and Zoe. Loving sister of Don (Joan) Hepburn of Red Deer, Alberta. Predeceased by her elder sister Joyce. Jean was an active member of St. Paul's United Church for 47 years. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by family, friends and all who knew her. A memorial service to celebrate Jean's life will be held on Monday, December 12, 2016 at St. Paul's United Church, 454 Rebecca Street, Oakville at 11 a.m. In Jean's memory donations may be made to St. Paul's United Church Memorial Fund or Ian Anderson House, Oakville. You may sign our guestbook at www.koprivataylor.com.

Category: Obituaries & Death Notices

Newspaper(s): Oakville Beaver

Location: Oakville

Guestbook for D. Jean Brown (nee Hepburn)

( November 18, 1927 - December 06, 2016 )

Jim voth July 29, 2017

Ron Just heard about Jean's passing. Our deepest sympathies to you. I know how you treasured her, and set an example for many with your devotion to her.

Janice McKeown (nee Sweeting) December 22, 2016

Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Karen Waite December 14, 2016

Dear Arlene and family, Very sorry to hear about your mother's passing. She was a fine woman, she was very kind to me during our high school years together and I know she will be missed. Thinking about you, Karen (Schwartzendruber) Waite

Mary-Ann and Jim Berridge December 13, 2016

All our love and thoughts for the Brown family. Jean was such a wonderful person.

Jan Russel December 10, 2016

Ron, I want to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family on your loss. I know that there is little I can say to console you but please know that my thoughts are with you and your family. I will carry with me the fond thoughts I have of visiting Jean at your home. She was always a gracious and kind host. Warm Regards, Jan Russel

Nancy Wickett December 09, 2016

Dear Ron and family, Jean will be missed by so many people. She made friends easily and was often ready to set-up a games table. Love, Nancy

Carol & Mark Fulton December 09, 2016

Dear Arlene Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved Mom. She is at peace now in the arms of the Angels. God Bless you and your family. Love, Carol & Mark Fulton

Rev. Charlie Hogg & Rev. Heather Gilmour December 08, 2016

Dear Ron. It seems like only yesterday I chatted, for so brief a time, with you and your lovely partner in life Jean. It was when you recognized me in the foyer of the new O.T.M.H. I had no idea at that time how very sick Jean was. I came home with an excitement at having renewed our relationship!!! Jean and you were major figures in shaping my journey towards ordination whilst I was the assistant at St. Paul's. We will always cherish the memory of our time with you and Jean as Heather still makes Jean's 7up jellied salad when we have guests for dinner; each and every time they leave with the recipe.. You see, Ron, Jean is still very active in memory and her gifts will go on beyond anything that we could ever imagine. You have been married to a one of a kind woman who carved her own pathway into the hearts of all who knew her. With our profound love to you and all of your family. Heather and Charlie

Bell Technical Solutions London December 08, 2016

To Arlene and family, Deepest condolences for your loss. We are all thinking about you. BTS London

Betty Henderson and the KIDS December 08, 2016

Ron and family you all are in our prayers and thoughts Jean was a beautiful lady and will be missed by many We have very fond memories of Jean especially Betty-Ann and I when we visited your home in September 2010 You all have an angel watching over u now and u will call her MOM God Bless everyone

Anna December 08, 2016

Arlene, Dad & Family. I am sincerely sorry for the loss of your Mother/Wife, Sending you all Prayers of Comfort with all my Heart, Anna

Rev. Bill Sparling December 07, 2016

Hello Ron: What a huge loss it is for you to lose such a great partner for so many years. The two of you have been terrific as a team and wherever you have gone, have been a power couple, offering fun and leadership in your gracious manner. Our support and prayers go out to you and to your family. Jean was great! Sorry to miss Jean's service Monday, as I will be with Jane's appointment with her Chemo Physician at Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto. Our very best to you.

Jane and Bill Sparling December 07, 2016

Hello Ron: What a huge loss it is for you to lose such a great partner for so many years. The two of you have been terrific as a team and wherever you have gone, have been a power couple, offering fun and leadership in your gracious manner. Our support and prayers go out to you and to your family. Jean was great! Sorry to miss Jean's service Monday, as I will be with Jane's appointment with her Chemo Physician at Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto. Our very best to you.

Barb Clancy December 07, 2016

Dear Arlene, John, Trevor and Lindsay, So sorry to hear of your Mom and Grandma passing away. I had the pleasure of meeting her several times and I remember her as a wonderful, kind and cheerful person. I know she will be missed. My thoughts are with you. Barb

Deb Brown December 07, 2016

So many beautiful memories, with a caring, beautiful lady. You are loved.

Stephen Arcand December 07, 2016

The Arcand family will always have wonderful memories of Jean and our involvement at St. Paul's.

Harry & Claujine Garifallidis December 07, 2016

Our most heartfelt condolences to our good friend Ron and family. We consider ourselves blessed to have been among those effected by her inspiring, caring, nurturing and loving nature. Jean's departure to be with the Lord creates a void in the world of those she leaves behind. She will be greatly missed...

Ches and Marg Hornibrook December 07, 2016

Our sympathy to Ron and family. Jean will be greatly missed in the congregation and by her family.

Another Beautiful Obituary

With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of NAME in the early hours of _____ at ____ hospital, after a short illness at (hospital).

Re-united with the love of his life from age ___, (name) who predeceased him in ___. They shared many wonderful years together enjoying the company of their family and many friends. ____ and ____ especially enjoyed their yearly trip to ____. He was very happy to return to ____ in the last couple of years with his daughter (name) and her family to rekindle those fond memories.

Beloved father of (name) and (name), and (name). Proud grandfather of (name). Cherished great-grandfather of (name). Loving brother of (names). He will be sadly missed by his many nieces and nephews.

NAME was a loyal, longtime employee of ___ for ___ years. He was highly regarded by his colleagues and those who worked with him. NAME was especially proud of the contributions that he made to help advance the ____ process, including receiving the *** award in (year) from the (association). He retired in (year) as (position) in (department). NAME was an avid golfer and was a member of (golf club) for almost 50 years. He enjoyed many annual trips with his son (name) to (place) to golf and then to the Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia to see the best players in the world play a game that he was never quite able to master but continued to try to improve on until his late 80's.

NAME was a very wise but humble man who always thought of others before himself. His positive outlook on life served him well until the very end. His wonderful legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

When I come to the end of the road, and the sun is set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room, why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little, but not too much and not with your head held low.

Remember the joy and laughter we shared, and lovingly let me go.

A Beautiful Obituary

Surround and celebrated by her family as she took her last proud breath to Vera Lynn's I'll Be Seeing You, -- (nee --) left us on [date] at [location] in [town].

A force of life, love of family and laughter, -- was in her -- year, living the final -- happily in her home of -- years with her adoring husband of -- years

She will always be held proudly and preciously in the hearts of her -- sons and daughter and their families; .... [names]

-- was a writer, a painter, a dancer and carried memories of her beloved town of -- and her favourite -- with her every day.

She came to -- during the incredible decade of --, was working at -- when -- happened. She loved dancing with the airmen. It was at one of those that she me her husband, --. The excitement and pride that permeated -- during the decades of -- never left her, leading her family to believe that her first stop would be with -- at a dance at the Royal connaught.

Our mother was fun and loved to entertain and revelled in making everyone laugh. She was singing, teasing and flirting with her doctor, the great staff at Victoria House, to the moment when she began her final journey Tuesday afternoon.

The family hopes Dr. --, the staff of -- Hospital, the staff of -- her faithful friends and particularly the staff of --for ensuring she could stay in her home, with her cat Maggie, all these years, realize how truly grateful and honoured the family is that they all played such an essential role in our mother's life.

In lieu of flowers, our mother asked only that anyone reading this and remember her do something special today to show your family how much you love them.

And, go to a Ticat game in 2017.

Houstons

Bob, Mary-Ann, Sandy, Neil