Death of Retired NRPS Officer – (S/Sgt) Dave Barrow

 February 28, 1942 – December 7, 2025

Well folks, I’ve been officially reassigned to my final beat — let’s just call it Precinct Unknown.

The good news: no paperwork.

The bad news? The coffee is terrible, and the donuts are… suspicious.

In life, I wore many titles: police officer, husband, dad, brother, uncle, and friend. But the ones I was proudest of were being husband to Carol, dad to Darryn and Deanna, and grandpa to Kendal, Kayla, Mitchell, and Hanna. And just when I thought my scorecard was full, I was blessed with the title of great-grandpa to little Ares. Talk about a hole-in-one.

Carol and I loved our winters in Florida —those years may be behind us now, but I cherished every sunny day, every slow morning, and every round of golf squeezed in while escaping the snow.

And then there was golf. My brother Jim (who got here ahead of me) and I were fierce competitors on the course. I’m happy to report that the rivalry continues…

If you want to honor me, hug your family, thank a cop, and play a round of golf — preferably with a cold drink waiting at the 19th hole.

In keeping with my wishes, cremation has taken place and I have entrusted my arrangements to the ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 179 Clarence Street, Port Colborne. A celebration of my life will be held at a later date. If you wish, I’d like any donations in my memory to go to Port Cares. Online memories, photos and condolences may be shared at http://www.armstrongfuneralhome.ca

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David (Sarge), please visit our floral store.

Staff Sergeant Barrow began his policing career with the OPP, serving from September 1963 until February 1970.  In March 1970, Staff Sergeant Barrow was hired by the Fort Erie Police Department and became a member of the Niagara Regional Police Service in 1971 after regional amalgamation.  During his career, Staff Sergeant Barrow worked in 1 District, 2 District, 3 District, 5 District, 6 District, Emergency Services and Traffic. Staff Sergeant Barrow retired in 1994 with over 30 years of police service.

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Death of Retired NRPS Officer – (Cst) Dorothy Hart

After a brief battle with cancer, Dorothy Hart passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 6, 2025, in her 91st year.

Predeceased by her son Clarence (1986), husband Murray (2015), partner Clarence (2024), and beloved fur baby Angel (2024). Dorothy is survived by her children Carolyn (Alfie), Calvin (Jill), Charles, Cathy (Mike), and Chris; ten grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; three siblings; and many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was the first policewoman in the Niagara Region and received numerous honors, including the Order of Canada, Woman of the Year, and other awards for her police service. She devoted her life to helping others through fostering and volunteering with McNally House Hospice, West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, and the Grimsby Benevolent Fund.

Known for her angels and crafting, she supported her favorite charities and was fondly called “the angel lady”. Dorothy loved playing cards and bingo, enjoyed outings with friends, and treasured time with her dear friend Louanne and many cherished friends who brought joy to her life. She brought kindness and comfort wherever she went.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at McNally House Hospice, the second-floor team at The Jacob Senior Living, and a special thank-you to Amanda and Judy for their exceptional care.

At Dorothy’s request, cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McNally House Hospice.

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86th Annual Herman Rogers Match – November 3, 2025

Invitation to our law enforcement and military members:

86th Annual Herman Rogers Match

Date: Monday, November 3rd, 2025

Range Opens: 1630hrs

Location: Decew Gun Club; 3042 Cataract Road, Thorold, Ontario

Awards Mess Opens: 2000 Hrs

Location: Officers’ Mess, Lake Street Armoury; 81 Lake Street, St. Catharines, Ontario

Entrance Fee: $20.00 per participant; $100 per team (if you are unable to form a team beforehand you can still shoot and we will assign you to a like team ie police, aux, retired)

Entrance fee includes the following: 3 Slices of Pizza, 1 Drink at the Officer’s Mess and Ammunition/Targets . Club guns are provided, 38 cal and 40 Cal. No 22 cal.

This is open to any police, retired, auxiliary members.

You can bring your own handgun, but it is a Service Match, so no match grade kits or 22 calibre. If you want 9mm pistol you’ll have to supply your own handgun and ammo.

This has always been a fun, friendly event between local police and militia, if you have never come out it’s about time!

Thank you.

Steve Scriven (Ret’d)

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Death of PPAN Member – (S/Sgt) Dennis Connors

Dennis passed on peacefully after a short illness with family by his side. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his daughters, Liane Heinen (Will), Amanda Kamendy (Jozef), Brother, Barry (Roxanne), his mother-in-law, Olga Bowen, sister-in-law, Christine Nardelli (Dominic), brothers-in-law, Greg, Danny and also but not the least the grandchildren nieces and nephews. His absence will especially be felt by Austin, Brianna and Izaak. He was predeceased by his parents, Eric and Ivy, and brother, Gary. In his very early years Dennis was a member of the Canadian Armed Forces. Over some time, he made his way to employment with the Niagara Regional Police Service, first as a constable. After some time, he became a staff sergeant and worked in this capacity until his retirement at 30 years. Dennis enjoyed every minute of his retirement. The family referred to Dennis as Mr. Fix-It. He would say that he can’t fix everything but, the Grandchildren would say otherwise. He was also a “Gamer”. In the early years Dennis introduced his daughters to the various systems where he would play by himself and/or with them. After some time, the grandchildren also were introduced to follow in the gamer’s footsteps. Dennis was also a member in the Masonic Lodge Perfection 616. Our family says ‘thank you’ to all staff at Hospice Niagara for their care and compassion for us and especially for Dennis during this difficult period. Dennis was a much loved husband, father, papa, uncle and he will be truly missed. Cremation has taken place.

Published on August 21, 2025 in the St Catharines Standard

Visit Pleasantview Funeral Home to see the obituary, events and guestbook.

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Death of Retired NRPS Officer – (Cst) Donald Bingley

Donald BINGLEY August 2, 1942 – July 19, 2025

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that Don passed at the age of almost 83. His dearly loved Sandie, his wife of 58 years; his sons Jeff (Tina) and Greg; grandchildren Soleil, Sabrin, and Quintin (predeceased); his brother Roy (Sandra); his daughter-in-law Tammy; and all his nieces and nephews. Don was a proud police constable with the N.R.P. for 33 years. In retirement he enjoyed driving and travelling across Canada and the USA with our champion show dogs. He was especially proud of Max, the corgi, who won the title of #1 Pembroke Welsh Corgi in Canada and the first #1 Herding Group Dog in Canada. Don’s family would like to extend a special big thank you to Dr. Scher, the home care nurses, all of the palliative care team at the PT. Col. hospital, Pastor Brian, Debbie Grimes, and Passages Services for all of their care and advice. In closing, the family would like to say to Don, may the winds of love blow softly but loud enough for you to hear, we will always love and miss you. The memories of you will make us smile and remember all the good times and fun we had together. Love, your very grateful family. We extend an invitation to attend at the BIC [Brethren In Christ], PT, Col. church on Monday, August 11, at 10 a.m. for visitation and service with Don’s family. Please take time to appreciate all of the great people who work in healthcare.

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Death of Retired NRPS Civilian Member – Roberta Parry

PARRY, Roberta (nee Lethby) Peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 in her 72nd year. Loving mother of Jacob Elstone (Tina Lanzillotta) and Matthew Elstone. Dear grandmother of Hugh and Erica. Survived by sisters Marie (late Arthur) Perry, Linda Dawson and predeceased by sisters Judith Lethby, Elizabeth Cousineau. Predeceased by parents Robert & Seconda ‘Sunnie’ Lethby. She will be missed by her dear friends Linda Hay, Dawn Nadon, Debbie Kieth, Dale Monroe, Diane Gallant, and many nieces and nephews, colleagues, neighbours and friends. Heartfelt gratitude to all at the Walker Cancer Centreand St. Elizabeth Health for their care. Any donations there would be greatly appreciated. Cremation with HAINE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 26 Ormond Street South, Thorold.

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Death of Retired NRPS Officer – (Sgt) Rick Berketa

With heavy hearts and deep sadness we announce the passing of Rick on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.

Devoted best friend and loving husband of Rhonda (née McCauley) for over 52 years. Rick and Rhonda were high school sweethearts. They were passionately devoted to caring for each other. They were a picture of a blessed marriage. They both had morals, values and standards; each one strengthening the other. The love and respect he showed to his family is a legacy that he will leave behind.Rick is survived by his two sons Brandon and Tyler. He enjoyed watching with pride the people they have become today both being educated and holding down professions that they worked so hard for and enjoying life. Thank you Brandon for taking such good care of your Dad. He loved you, was proud of you and appreciated everything you did for him.

Rick is predeceased by his parents Samuel and Georgina (McNichol), his in-laws Fred and Annie McCauley, brother-in-law Roy Breitenbach, nephew Jayme Breitenbach and sister-in-law Eilene White. He is survived by sisters-in-law Lorna Breitenbach and Sheila Imbeault, several nephews and a niece including Royce, Craig and Dwayne White, Andrew Imbeault (Marilyn), Sylvia Breitenbach and their families.

Rick’s childhood dream came true when he was hired as a police officer on February 1, 1972. After 36 years on the job working in various departments, he retired on February 1, 2008 as Detective Sergeant.

Rick was a keen researcher of his family tree. He was an avid contributor of genealogy of both his and Rhonda’s families. He also had a passion for Niagara Falls history, donating most of his work and pictures to the Niagara Falls library and giving numerous info to people who admired his excellent web page.

Following Rick’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Essentials Cremation and Burial Services in Welland.

He never looked for praise, he was never one to boast, he just went on quietly working for the ones he loved the most. We will never regret having loved you, caring for you, standing by you and walking life’s journey with you. If one so desires, donations in Rick’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice.

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Death of Retired NRPS Officer (Cst) Len Lewis

Len passed away peacefully on May 18 at Douglas Memorial Hospital with family by his side.

For 87 years, Len lived a full and meaningful life as a son, brother, husband, Dad, Father-in-law, Grampa, Poppy, Uncle and friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Lenny grew up in Port Colborne where he loved playing in the woods, and being involved with the local baseball and hockey teams. Len served the community as a police officer starting with Bertie Township, then Fort Erie and eventually Niagara Region (HQ communications and Ft. Erie Detachment) and practiced the principles of diversion long before it was formally recognized — possibly because he disliked writing tickets, but more likely because of his genuine belief in giving people second chances. He was a fan of practical jokes, and many who knew him experienced his good-natured mischief firsthand.

Len loved all animals, especially dogs and always kept a large stash of treats nearby. His best day included spending the morning on the phone checking in on family and friends, afternoon drives with a stop to feed the birds at Waterfront Park (which the boaters and sun bathers must have loved), and story telling with friends over coffee. He loved gardening, garage sales, and playing Hearts online. Perfection would be achieved if the day ended with a vodka lemonade and filet o fish sandwich. Oh, and watching Judge Judy on the television. Always Judge Judy.

Len had a gift for connecting with people.He also loved to sing… LOUDLY. Tina Turner was a favourite, though he often made up his own lyrics and didn’t always stay in tune. But that never stopped him — he sang with joy and confidence. This is the legacy of Len: connect deeply with family and friends, believe in second chances, laugh often, welcome strangers, and sing because who cares if anyone is listening.

Thank you to all who have befriended, supported, and visited him over these many years. As per Len’s wishes, his ashes will be buried alongside his parents in a private family gathering at Oakwood Cemetery in Wainfleet. If you would like to honour his memory, donations can be made in his name to the Fort Erie SPCA.

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Death of Retired NRPS Civilian – Craig Johnson

 It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Craig Raymond Russell Johnson, who passed away on May 1, 2025, at the age of 61.  Craig has been reunited with his parents, Ted (Edward) and Gloria Johnson and his beloved dog Goober.  Craig leaves behind his loving son, Leo, whom he adored with all his heart, and his best friend Shalan who meant the absolute world to him.  Craig will be fondly remembered by his brother, Chris Johnson, and his sister Briar (Ken) Rendell and his nieces (Caitlyn, Kylie, Courtney) and nephew (Seth).

Craig had the biggest heart and kindest soul.   He retired from the Niagara Region Police after working there for 35 years, and spent a great deal of his summers running the chip wagon at Happy Rolph’s when Leo was young.  He loved spending time hunting and fishing up north and of course having fun at his trailer on Marble Lake with his friends and Leo.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sat. July 12th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Port Robinson Community Centre, 40 Cross St. Thorold..we encourage people to wear costumes or dress in a Halloween theme to celebrate Craigs favorite holiday!

A Memorial Tree was planted for Craig
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at George Darte Funeral Chapel Inc.

 

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