The Millstone, Almonte, ON (2025)

12/10/2024

Dick Veenstra — obituary

With immeasurable sadness we must announce that on the morning of Dec. 1st, 2024 the world’s light became a little dimmer when Dick Veenstra left us.

How do you sum up the life of such a uniquely talented, kind and generous man?

We could start with facts like, he was born on March 22, 1944 in the Netherlands and came to Canada in 1950.

But facts do nothing to capture what made him so rare and special.
It wasn’t just that he could do pretty much anything he put his mind to, it was also that he used his abilities to help so many people. If anyone had a problem, he was there to solve it.

But that too, fails to convey the reason he was adored by so many. We believe it was that whenever you saw him, whether you bumped into him on the street or popped in for a visit, he made you feel so welcomed.

He loved people, and they loved him back.
He will be forever missed by wife Lorraine, daughters June and Vicki, grandson Zach, and everyone lucky enough to have known him.

We will be gathering at the Almonte Old Town Hall at 1:00 pm on Saturday, December 21st to celebrate his amazing life. All he touched are welcome.

10/14/2024

DEVLIN, Steve -- obituary

(Devlin’s Collision Centre and Almonte Krown)

With broken hearts, the family announces that Steve passed away peacefully at the Almonte General Hospital with loved ones by his side in the early hours of Saturday. October 12, 2024 following a courageous battle with ALS; Steven Ronald Devlin of Almonte was only 63 years of age. Beloved husband, partner and best friend of Brenda Lee (nee Andrews) for over 42 years. Much loved father of Michael (Amber), Brooke Manner (Mike) and Mark (Josie). Cherished and proud “Poppa” of Aubree, Everleigh, Millie, Maple, Maverick, Quinn, Mervin, Hank and Rose. Dear brother of Jeff (Lori), Randy (Judy), Terry (Fiona), Shawn (Kate) and Calvin Andrews (Janinne). Special brother-in-law of Donalda and Susanne Andrews. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Son of the late Mervin and Evelyn (nee Giles) Devlin and son-in-law of the late Bob and Lillian (nee Ross) Andrews.

Steve was born in Carleton Place. He was a one of a kind. He worked hard, played hard and loved and lived life to the fullest. A successful entrepreneur, he gave his all to his staff and customers. Never taking his success for granted, Steve always put others and their needs first. A loving and giving husband; a devoted Dad and a doting Poppa. Steve filled his every role in life with passion and dedication. He saw every project through to the end. Gone too soon but always loved and remembered by the many who had the privilege to call Steve “Friend”.

Steve’s final arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Pilon Family Funeral Home and Chapel Ltd., 50 John Street North, Arnprior where visitation will take place on Thursday evening, October 17th from 6 to 9 p.m. only. A Service to honor and remember Steve will be held in the Almonte Civitan Club, 500 Almonte Street, Almonte on Friday morning, October 18th at 11 o’clock. A reception will follow. Interment United Cemeteries, Carleton Place at a later date. In Steve’s memory, please consider a donation to ALS Canada or the Almonte General Hospital Foundation.

09/27/2024

Al Lunney — obituary

September 27, 2024

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LUNNEY, James Alphonsus “Al”
January 2, 1941 – September 24, 2024

Peacefully at the Ottawa Civic Hospital, at the age of 83. Al was the loving husband of the late Mary Jerene “Jeri” (née Doherty) for 57 wonderful years. Proud father of Michael, Carole (Andrew Hayes), and Stephen. Cherished grandfather of Conor and Julia Hayes.

Born to Edward and Elizabeth (née O’Neill) Lunney on a farm in Pakenham, Al was the sixth son of a close-knit family of eight children. He was predeceased by his siblings Gerard (the late Madeleine), John (the late Peggy), Tom, Edward (the late Yvonne), Frank (the late Margaret), Sister Mary (CSJ), and Betty Ann.

Al spent 32 years at Ottawa Hydro, rising from meter reader to Director of Human Resources, where his people-first approach left a lasting impact. Following his retirement, he served his community as Mayor of Mississippi Mills from 2003 to 2010 and as Warden of Lanark County in 2007. Al was also involved in many local organizations, including the Almonte Hospital/Fairview Manor Board. Al will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, and his unwavering love for his family and community.

Al’s family would like to thank the staff at the Civic Hospital geriatric ward and intensive care unit for their care and support.

Friends may call at the

C.R. Gamble Funeral Home & Chapel Inc.,

127 Church Street, Almonte,

on October 1, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter Celestine Church, Pakenham, on October 2, at 11 a.m. Interment to follow at Indian Hill Cemetery, with a reception to follow in St. Andrew’s United Church Hall (Pakenham).

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Almonte General Hospital Fairview Manor Foundation or the St. Peter Celestine Church Building Fund would be appreciated.

Condolences & Tributes: www.crgamble.com

09/16/2024

Dunn, Michael John — obituary

1946-2024

Historian and Storyteller

It is with sadness that the family of Michael Dunn announces his passing at Orchard View Gardens, Almonte, Ontario at the age of 78. Michael passed away peacefully on September 6th, with family by his side, after struggling with Parkinson’s disease and dementia. He was born in Woodstock, Ontario on May 30, 1946, to the late John and Marie (Dewan) Dunn. Loving husband for 23 years to Beryl Bachelder (deceased) and caring stepfather to Beryl’s children, Brian Bachelder (Diane), Scott Bachelder and Bonnie Pringle (Doug). Grandfather to Colin, Amy, Becky (Coleman), Gerald (Cindy), Ariel (John) and Natilie (Brett) and great-grandfather to Penelope, Thatcher, Herschel, Alyssa, Reid, Isabelle, Archer, Timber and Deacon. Caring spouse to Sue Evans for 14 years and remembered with love and affection by her children, Bronwen Evans (Rob Nicol) Sara Evans Quigley (Kevin Quigley) Peter David Evans, Aaron Evans (Melanie McLaughlin) Nathan Evans (Grainne Kerr) and ten grandchildren.

The oldest of twelve children, Michael will be missed by his siblings Patrick (Gail), Margaret, Catherine Cameron, Kevin (Gwen), Maureen (Doug Crane), Sheilagh (Daniel Cybulski), Mary Ann (Archie Chisholm), David (Cindy Winther), Angela (Peter Krumme), Theresa (Jay Scholes), Peter and numerous nieces and nephews. Heartfelt thanks to the staff and palliative care team at Orchard View and to Dr. Lawrie Ray for their care of Michael.

After growing up in Almonte, Michael spent his career in electrical technology and moved from one coast to the other working for Ontario Hydro, to British Columbia Hydro, then to H.A.Symons Pulp and Paper Company and eventually to Industry Canada, Ottawa in their weights and measures section. In his retirement years, Michael devoted his time to expanding his knowledge of the history of Lanark County and Almonte. He built a database of historical photographs, maps and documents which are now readily available to the public through the Almonte website. Michael lived the history of Almonte, becoming very interested in the development of the Thoburn Mill into a commercial and residential building of note. After selling his home on Wolf Grove Road, Michael moved into the mill as its only resident earning him the moniker of “Phantom of the Mill”. It was during this time that Michael met Sue Evans and persuaded her to move to Almonte where they shared many fulfilling years together. Michael was always happy to share a story about his life or about Almonte’s history and if you had nanaimo bars, ginger cookies or butter tarts to share, you would be guaranteed a rewarding visit with him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 2 to 5 pm at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 70 Clyde Street, Almonte Ontario, beginning with a reception and then a memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum would be appreciated by the family.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted Into The Care Of

C. R. GAMBLE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL Inc.

(127 Church Street Almonte, ON., 613-256-3313)

Condolences & Tributes: www.crgamble.com

08/20/2024

Richard “George” Nightingale, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2024 at Manotick Place Retirement Community, at the age of 89. George is predeceased by first wife Enid, second wife Mary, sisters Joan Baltare and Hilda Cross, and brother Peter (Elaine). He is survived by his brother Bud (Bunty), sons, Richard, Paul (Kim Beahen), Peter (Liane) and his grandchildren Matthew, Callum, Graham, Owen, Emily, Miles, and Violet and host of nieces, nephews and loving friends in Canada and England.

George was born in Toronto in 1935 and moved back with his family a few years later to England. After graduating from Durham University, and marrying Enid in 1963, George returned to Canada in 1965, taking a job as a teacher in Almonte, ON. Together, George and Enid raised their three sons while finding many ways to contribute to their community.

George eventually became the head of the Almonte District High School (ADHS) Science department and is fondly remembered by generations of ADHS students. He coached many sports teams at ADHS and co-founded the Almonte community soccer club, where again, he left a positive impression on many young players over the decades. An avid sports lover, George himself played soccer in his younger years and tennis into his early 80s. George retired in 1994 and enjoyed his favourite pastimes watching and playing sports, singing in the choir, performing plays, writing short stories & poetry, reading, taking long walks, and spending time with family.
He found love, happiness, and contentment once more with Mary, his second wife. They shared their love of choir, family, and laughter for over 10 years. George is remembered with great affection by the Playfair family for the years that they shared together.

“Let Nothing You Dismay” was his approach to life. He will be fondly remembered for his wit, his gentle caring spirit and unfailing good will towards others.

Service to be held Saturday August 24th at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Almonte, ON. Visitation will begin at 12pm, with a service at 1pm and reception to follow. Internment will take place following reception at Saint Paul's Anglican Cemetery. Donations to St. Paul’s Almonte are greatly appreciated.

08/02/2024

Almonte General Hospital cuts ribbon on new CT scanner

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Almonte General Hospital and all community patients now have access to CT scanner tests closer to home, thanks to a successful public fundraising campaign. The scanner has been installed and will be fully functional in the coming weeks.

More than 100 guests, including donors, volunteers, local politicians and staff gathered at the Hospital this afternoon to celebrate bringing CT to Almonte. Completely funded through community support, the $3.2 million diagnostic tool was shown off through videos and pictures during the ribbon-cutting ceremony much to the delight of the crowd, all of whom had contributed in some way to the CT Scan Campaign.

According to AGH Chief of Staff, Dr. Melanie Fortune, “This CT Scan is an incredible win for our community. Due to increasing need, wait times for CT imaging across the Ottawa Valley are longer than ever. Having a CT scanner here in Almonte will help our local patients and their families by getting testing when they need it and closer to home.”

Hospital Chair Lyman Gardiner and Foundation Chair Seth Richards cut the CT cake
As part of the celebration, Foundation Chair Seth Richards announced that the diagnostic imaging department at the Hospital will now be named the Helen & Art Levi Diagnostic Imaging Department. Both the board of the Foundation and the board of the Mississippi River Health Alliance voted unanimously to name the department to recognize the transformational generosity exhibited by the Levis. They have now given over $1 million to support the Hospital and Manor.

“Having access to a modern, CT Scanner within our community’s hospital would not have been made possible without the exceptional support of the community, led by Art & Helen Levi,” said Foundation Board Chair Seth Richards. “On behalf of the Foundation, we want to thank everyone who contributed, and worked tirelessly to see this milestone achieved.”

More than 10,640 gifts were received towards the CT campaign from 2,226 donors. The average gift was $2,547. In addition to financial contributions, approximately 100 people volunteered as board members or at events and activities helping to raise funds.

“I am pleased and honoured to be the new President and CEO of the Almonte General Hospital at such an exciting time”, said Brad Harrington, President and CEO of the Mississippi River Health Alliance. “I joined the organization in May 2024 and have continually been impressed by the hospital team and community that I have met. It is nothing short of phenomenal what you have been able to accomplish. I look forward to meeting many more of you in person so that I can shake your hand and share my appreciation for making a CT possible for our community.”

CT Scan (computed tomography) is a rapid, 5 – 10 minute, painless exam that combines the power of X-rays with computers to produce 360-degree, cross-sectional views of a patient’s body. CT is able to image bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels all at the same time. It provides the radiologist with details of bone structure or injuries, diagnosing lung and chest problems and detecting cancers. Currently, all patients requiring CT scan, both inpatients including ER, and outpatients, as well as patients from the region referred by their family physicians, are sent to another hospital such as Smiths Falls or Queensway Carleton Hospital.

08/01/2024

Connor Durack — obituary

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Durack, Connor Edward
Born 7 June 1986

Of Ashton, Ontario and formerly of Almonte, Ontario.

Devoted and loved husband of May Punzalan. Proud father of Isla and Hayden. Sadly missed by his parents Frank and Norma Durack of Almonte, Ontario and will always be remembered by his sister Kristen (Shawn Helmes). Survived by his in-laws Raisa (Philip Rowland), Ruben (Camille) Punzalan, as well as his in-laws who reside in the Philippines. Special uncle to Elliana, Avelyn, and Fairyn Helmes as well as Olivia, Jade and Indy Punzalan. Connor will also be survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and many dear friends.

Private family visitation with interment at the Auld Kirk Cemetery (Almonte, ON.)

A Celebration of Connor’s Life will be held in the Almonte Civitan Hall on Sunday Aug 4th, 2024 from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted Into The Care Of

C.R. Gamble Funeral Home & Chapel Inc.

(127 Church St., Almonte, ON. 613-256-3313)

Condolences & Tributes: www.crgamble.com

08/01/2024

Adam Duffield — obituary

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Duffield, Adam Daniel
Passed away suddenly in Calgary, AB, July 08, 2024

Born on July 20, 1983 and raised in Almonte, he attended Holy Name of Mary School.

Dearly loved son of Linda (nee, Polegato) and brother of Mallory. Predeceased by his father Gary Duffield and grandparents John and Dolly Duffield and Geno and Mary Ellen Polegato.

Adam loved soccer, cars, music, and dogs. He cared for the less fortunate, and received an award for his sandbagging efforts during the flooding of High River, AB in 2013 while working with Public Works.

Adam will be missed by family and friends, including Chikita and Aidan. If you wish to honour Adam with a memorial donation in lieu of flowers, please consider the Canadian Diabetic Society.

Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Name of Mary Church in Almonte, 127 Church Street, ON at 11:00 am on August 17, 2024. Special gathering after Funeral Mass at Linda’s home, 147 Sadler Drive in Almonte for close family and friends.

06/08/2024

Calling Doctor Who fans – the TARDIS has landed

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A reader sends this mysterious message:

“TARDIS was just passing through the 2024/June/5/A.D./Mississippi Mills/Canada/Earth point in the space-time continuum when Daleks temporarily disabled its black hole energy source. I materialized it here to recharge some electrical power units.

“Apologies if you are experiencing a significant power drain in the Almonte area.”

The reader goes on to say that you can find the TARDIS yourself somewhere in our area, and he welcomes you to search for it. It’s visible from the road and if you find it you’re welcome to have a close-up look. If he happens to be around he’ll be happy to chat with you.

For the benefit of those who aren’t fans of Doctor Who — the British sci-fi TV series that’s been on the air since 1963 — the TARDIS is a fictional time machine and spacecraft that typically mimics a police call kiosk once commonly seen in Britain.

More details to follow …

06/08/2024

AGH Run/Walk sets fundraising record: $105,000

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11th Annual AGH Run/Walk for Women’s & Newborn Health sets new fundraising record: $105,000

The 11th Annual AGH Run/Walk for Women’s & Newborn Health, presented by Canadian Tire (Carleton Place), set a new fundraising record raising an astonishing $105,000. The Run/Walk, which took place today (Saturday, June 8), attracted more than 400 walkers, runners and volunteers, ranging in age from newborns to seniors, all of whom contributed to setting the new record.

New Mississippi River Health Alliance President and CEO Brad Harrington was thoroughly impressed with the family-oriented event. “I want to congratulate everyone who participated, said Harrington. “This event generates a significant contribution towards women’s and newborn’s health at Almonte General Hospital every year, and this year has set an new record! Every year, more and more babies in the Ottawa Valley are delivered at AGH, so I challenge everyone to continue to support this incredible event and the AGH FVM Foundation.”

Again, this year, local business leader and fundraising tour de force Darrell Graham, of Darrell Thomas Textiles, was celebrated for collecting the most pledges. Graham collected an astonishing $19,000 plus from friends, neighbours, clients and local businesses.

Jackson Blonde’s Fundraiser Team took home the top prize for team fundraising. Jackson was born at AGH nine years ago and his parents attribute his survival to the skilled AGH Obstetrics team who saved his life. Jackson’s team raised more than $11,000. To see Jackson’s story, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWaIJbuyZAI.

“So many individuals, families, Hospital and Manor staff, physicians, neighbourhood teams, businesses, and organizations raised funds and/or volunteered to support this year’s Run/Walk,” said Al Roberts, CFRE, Managing Director, AGH FVM Foundation. “Everyone deserves a shoutout for how they’ve supported quality health care close to home, but I do want to single out Naismith Memorial Public School that got behind the event and raised more than $7,000.”

Prizes are awarded to the top three fundraising individuals, teams and families. Ballots are given to everyone that raises at least $50 and those individuals are eligible for prizes as well. Maroon 5 Bluesfest, Puppets Up, Celtfest, and Carp Fair tickets, and items like an outdoor pizza oven and projector were up for grabs to those who raised funds.

Official times for all participants are available at: www.splitstiming.com/results/almonte/2024/almonteracerport.txt

The morning event, which featured two different routes, 3km and 5km, took participants through the beautiful town of Almonte near the Mississippi River. Both routes started and finished behind the Hospital and Fairview Manor. In keeping with the reason for the event, a Baby Race was added this year which proved to be wildly entertaining and fun for everyone involved.

“We couldn’t be happier with this year’s event and results,” said Christine Deugo, Vice Chair, Organizing Committee and Director, AGH FVM Foundation. “So many people went above and beyond. That’s why we raised the most money ever. These funds will help the Foundation fund equipment like a fetal heart monitoring system. My sons, nieces and nephews were all born here in Almonte so I know just how important that is. My nephew Jackson would have benefitted immensely from that type of monitor.”

As well as Canadian Tire (Carleton Place), other partners who contributed to the success of the event included: Vamous, playvalue, Joanne Beaton, Sysco nourish, Almonte Civitan, Thrive Chiropractic, Dandelion Foods, Niyama, Lanark Pure, Kevin Frost, Vodkow, Almonte Subway, Xquisit, Equator, The Sterling, Bay & Balm Apothecary, Orchard View by the Mississippi, Café Postino, Dragonfly, Thursty Pedaler, DockMaster, and Kenfield kids.

The AGH Run/Walk for Women’s & Newborn Health has raised more than $500,000 since its inception in 2013 helping the Hospital to purchase ultrasound machines, operating room lights, an OR table, a specialized baby-weigh scale, a panda warming station, IV pumps, and new labour and delivery beds.

The AGH FVM Foundation works with the community through events and activities like the AGH Run for Women’s & Newborn Health to raise the necessary funds to allow the Hospital and Manor to purchase urgently- needed medical equipment.

Pictures of the event will be available on the Foundation’s website by late next week.

For more information on supporting the Hospital or Manor visit: www.almontehospitalfoundation.com or call 613-256-2500 ext. 2296

05/20/2024

OPP investigates Almonte home invasion

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The Lanark County OPP are investigating a home invasion in Almonte.

Officers, including members of the Emergency Response Team and Canine Unit, were called to the residence on Smart Street shortly before 5:00 a.m. on May 20, 2024.

Smart Street runs off Country Street, towards the Rae Side Road.

It was reported that several people had broken into the home, assaulted the residents, caused damage to the home and vehicle, and then fled on foot.

The victims did not suffer any serious injuries.

Investigators believe this was an isolated incident and there is no risk to public safety.

The incident remains under investigation by the Lanark Detachment and Lanark OPP Crime Unit.

If anyone has information, or any relevant doorbell or dashcam images, contact the Lanark OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and refer to incident # E240633531. If you want to remain anonymous, call Lanark County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8847, You can also provide tips anonymously online at Lanark County Crime Stoppers.

05/15/2024

Louise Barker — obituary

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Barker, Louise Alice

Louise peacefully departed from this life at her home on May 10, 2024, with her devoted husband Ian by her side, at the age of 73. Fondly known as Mom and Nan by her family, she leaves behind her cherished children Tanya (Ron Dowe) and Jamie (Roberta), as well as her grandchildren Kaitlyn, Logan, Zachary, and Hayden. She is remembered with love by her sister Betty (the late Wayne) Maschke, and also by her sisters-in-law Wanda (the late Ken) Bellfountaine and Faye Barker. She is pre-deceased by her parents Alice (Kuno) Pilon and Arnet Pilon, sisters Marie Pilon, Darla (the late Terry) Howard and her brother Keith Pilon. Louise will be dearly missed by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Her affection for her family, especially her grandchildren, knew no bounds. Louise will be fondly recalled for her quick wit, infectious laughter, and her remarkable ability to strike up conversations with anyone she encountered. Her most recent enjoyment came from spending time at “The Lake” with Ian sitting on the perch and enjoying laughs and endless conversations surrounded by their friends “in the circle” around the campfire.

Heartfelt appreciation goes out to all who enriched Louise’s life with love and joy. A private graveside ceremony will be followed by a Celebration of Life at Clayton Community Hall (147 Linn Bower Ln, Clayton, ON K0A 1P0) on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 from 2-5pm, where family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share laughter, and reminisce about the stories Louise cherished so dearly. In lieu of flowers donations would be appreciated to The Ottawa Heart Institute or the charity of your choice.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted Into the Care Of

C.R. Gamble Funeral Home & Chapel Inc.

(127 Church St., Almonte, ON. 613-256-3313)

Condolences & Tributes: www.crgamble.com

The Millstone

12/10/2024

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08/02/2024

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