Police Pensioners' Association of Niagara

FORD, Carson Dale – Carson Dale Ford, a giant of a man, has gently passed away at the Port Colborne Hospital, on November 14, 2023. Carson was born October 24, 1926 in Matheson, Ontario to parents Henry Ford (d. 1960) and Bridget (McGrath) Ford (d. 1940). He was the 7th son of the 7th son in the Ford family of 9 children – 8 boys, and one girl. Carson is predeceased by his parents; his eight siblings; his beloved wife Helen (Aceti) Ford (d. 2006); his great grandson Samuel McCartney Ford (d. 2003); and daughter-in-law Sharon (Agnew) Ford (d. 2003). Carson is survived by his two sons: Dale Carson Ford (Alice) of Welland, Ontario and Carl Ralph Ford (Laurel Campbell) of Niagara Falls, Ontario. He is survived by three grandchildren who adored him: Shawn Ford (Sarah); Kevin Ford (Shyanna); and Eve Campbell Larouche (Ryan). Also survived by four great grandchildren: Julian, Kaden, Annabelle and Charlie. Lovingly remembered by step-grandchildren: Jodi Fitzgerald (Brady); Sarah Bacchus; Adam Russell (Erin) and families. Carson was employed by the Niagara Regional Police Service, retiring as Staff Sergeant in 1986, after 30 years of service. He was well known for his animated presentation in schools of ‘Elmer the Safety Elephant’. Prior to police service, he worked an additional 9 years, for Kerr Addison Mine in Virginiatown, Ontario and Ontario Hydro in Niagara Falls, Ontario. In retirement with Helen, he enjoyed cottage life and boating at Lonesome Pine Park on Pigeon Lake, Bobcaygeon, Ontario where happy family memories and adventures ensued. Carson loved to entertain with legendary barbeques where no one left the table hungry! He was a gentle and fun-loving man, generous to a fault and kind to all. A common sense approach to life, guided by a positive and resilient nature, helped him through many challenges in his 97 years of life. He was a ‘legend in his own time’ to his family, and all lucky to have known him. He was Irish, first and foremost, with a heart of pure gold! Many thanks to the staff and caregivers at Seasons Retirement Residence in Welland, Ontario where Carson lived for 12 years. Thanks to Dr. Drew Girard, his family doctor and friend, and to Dr. Alison MacTavish for her timely care when most needed. Carson’s memory never failed him. He will be remembered in our hearts and lives forever. In keeping with Carson’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private memorial will be held for immediate family. Arrangements entrusted to the PATTERSON FUNERAL HOME, 6062 Main St. Niagara Falls. Online condolences at pattersonfuneralhome.com

Bunting, Bryan – At the St. Catharines General Hospital on Monday September 11, 2023, Bryan Bunting passed away peacefully at the age of 84. Predeceased by his wife Audrey (2015). Loving father of Deborah (John) Bunting and Jody (Ron) Rochner. Beloved grandfather of Christopher Rochner. Survived by nieces and nephews, David, Jean, Susan, Stephen, Jamie, Cathy, Paul, Stephen, Dan, Maureen, Bryan and Bob. Predeceased by siblings Marion, Beryl, John and Floyd.

Cremation has taken place.

There will be no visitation or service upon Bryan’s request.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Vaughan Wilson – At the age of 96 Vaughan passed away on July 25, 2023 at the Maple Park Lodge.  Now reunited with his wife Marguerite and daughter Judy Ryan.  Sadly missed by son Wayne (Renay) and son in law Jim Ryan.  Cherished grandfather of Kelly (Rod) Bradbury and great grandfather of Sarah and Ryan.

Vaughan served first with the Town of Fort Erie and later the Niagara Regional Police Departments.  He was proud of his longtime association with the Fort Erie Masonic Lodge.

Benner Funeral Services, 1105 Benner Ave., entrusted with private family arrangements.

The family extend their appreciation to Jill, Marylou, Karen the other caregivers who allowed Vaughan to live independently for as long as he could until he needed the care provided by Dr. Scher and the staff of Maple Park Lodge.

If you wish to make a contribution in Vaughan’s memory, please consider the Last Chance Horse and Pony Rescue.

In his 89th year, Dad peacefully passed away at Tabor Manor surrounded with love on Wednesday, May 24. 2023 He continued to mourn the loss of his beloved Joyce (Mahaney) since her passing on June 17, 2021. Left to mourn are his children Lenora Monteith (David), Clint (Lynn Upper), Tim (Vikki DeCaire), and Michelle Chapman (Dave); grandchildren Melissa Monteith (Jason Lusby), Kristen Baillie (Brent), Joshua Sears. Caleb Sears (d.), Kadesh Sears, Tanya Sears (Andrew Porter), Elizabeth Kennedy, Brandon Sears, Elyssia Fedyck (Trevor), Cain Chapman and eleven great-grandchildren.

Dad was born August 30, 1934 in the small fishing village of Woods Harbour, Nova Scotia to the late Fred and Lenora (Malone) Sears, brother to Effie Sears (d. Bryant), brother-in-law to June Smith (d. Jim), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. After the birth of their first two children, our parents moved to Liverpool, Nova Scotia where Dad became a constable with the Liverpool Police. He went on to become Chief of Police and Mom was Matron of the jail that was connected to our house.

In February 1969, we moved to St. Catharines, Ontario because our parents wanted to give us opportunities for a better life. Dad was hired by the then St. Catharines City Police, now Niagara Regional Police (NRP), where he retired as a Sergeant.

Throughout his career, he obtained numerous awards for his dedication and work ethic, such as highest marks in his class and Medal of Merit. The most important recognition to him was respect and companionship from his fellow officers. It has been brought to our attention by several co-workers that our dad is a known ‘legend’ with NRP and would never ask anything of his fellow officers that he wouldn’t do himself.

After several years of health issues, Dad is now at peace and reunited with Mom. We will never forget the unconditional love you gave us and will continue to smile and laugh when sharing memories with our family and friends. You are our legend too!

We wish to thank Dr. Greenway and the amazing staff at Tabor Manor for the care Dad received over the past 23 months. You met his physical, mental and spiritual needs 24/7; we thank all departments involved in making this excellent care possible. A special thanks to the Fourth floor staff, Pastor Don, and Stephen for your compassion, visits, music and prayers, which meant so much to not only Dad but to our family as well.

As per Dad’s wishes cremation has taken place and he will be laid to rest beside Mom in Nova Scotia at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Passfield Mortuary Services Inc. St. Catharines.

If desired, donations to Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Society or MS Society would be appreciated by the family.