2025 HONOUREES

In 2025 we will honour 12 people.

Their families and friends support this event by sharing with us some of their stories and by donating handbags in their honour.

We thank them for their generosity.

Tom Hawken

Tom passed away with his loving family by his side at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on July 21. 2024 at the age of 79.

He was born and raised in Windsor, Ontario, where he met and married his dear wife Heather in 1969. Together they raised their family in Dresden, Ontario, where Tom fully enjoyed his career as an educator. Tom taught at Lambton Kent Composite School for 25 years and finished his last 5 years as Vice Principal at Ridgetown Highschool and LCCVI in Petrolia. Nothing pleased Tom more than coaching his high school basketball teams, whether taking them to Florida during Christmas break or heading to Timmins for OFSSA, he was always supportive on the sidelines. Tom was always very proud of his graduating students and relished in following their career paths and accomplishments.

The community of Dresden was important to Tom. He served 3 terms on town council and was a coach and assistant for various Dresden Minor Hockey teams over the years. Not only did Tom love coaching basketball and hockey, he also loved playing. However, golf was one of his greatest passions. He served on the board of Maple City Country Club for several years and as a senior golfer, captured a Men’s Championship trophy at Huron Pines Golf & Country Club in Blind River, Ontario.

After retirement, Tom and Heather travelled extensively, vacationed in Florida for the winters and spent their summers at the cottage in Blind River.

Creating memories with their children and grandchildren in the summers at their cottage were treasured. He loved watching the excitement on their faces when they caught a fish, jumped off the rocks and seeing them enjoy the space that he and Heather created for them.

Given his competitive spirit, Tom enjoyed a good game of cards. Whether it be poker, euchre, pepper or sevens and his opponents being friends or family (even his grandchildren), he loved nothing more than to win. His friendly jeering at the card table is missed by many.

In Tom’s final days, he had expressed to his family that he wanted to move to Hospice. Once arriving in his room, he took a look around and said “This place is like Vegas!”. The comfort and peace he felt at Hospice radiated to his family and allowed them to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

It is hard to find words to express our gratitude for the experience that Chatham Kent Hospice provided to Tom. The exceptional care and compassion was second to none. We are forever thankful.

Tom’s handbag is sponsored by the Hawken Family.

Kerry Meyerink

Kerry was the definition of a "social butterfly" in the best way possible. She had a genuine interest in everyone she met, a contagious laugh, and a smile that could light up any room. She loved the Chatham Kent community and was everyone's "favourite waitress" at Mikes Place, a career she took pride in. Her quick wit, sarcastic sense of humour, and ability to make people feel taken care of made her customers feel like they were family.

After a long battle of endless tests and procedures and hospital visits, Kerry's illness forced her to leave a career she loved, and a town full of faces she adored, to move in with her daughter and be taken care of full time. Being with family was so fulfilling for Kerry but for her final days she decided she wanted to return to the community she loved and to somewhere that was safe but away from the hospital setting and that's when Chatham Kent Hospice stepped in.

Kerry got to be the social butterfly in Chatham she loved to be one more time, laughing and joking with the incredible staff and volunteers. She was able to live in a beautiful suite that was safe and cozy. And most importantly her daughter who had been her caretaker for over two years was able to be just her daughter again which made them both feel so happy and at peace.

Kerry's family and friends will always remember her as the vibrant and beautiful person she was and be forever grateful for the Chatham Kent Hospice for providing ease and comfort during such an incredible difficult

Kerry’s handbag has been sponsored by

Jodamar Development Properties Inc.

Marie Louise Vanroboys

Marie Louise (Casier) a resident of Thamesville, our Matriarch passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at home on Tuesday October 3, 2023 in her 99th year. "Gramma Van" was a strong, faithful lady until the very end. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She loved her family very much and enjoyed watching her grandchildren, great grand children and great great grandchildren grow, play and was their biggest fan.

She could often been seen at family events just watching and she enjoyed gardening, watching her shows, listening to old country music and a good cup of coffee. She taught us the importance of family, hard work, and resilience, and her lessons will continue to guide us through the years to come.

She attended the Handbags for Hospice event a few years ago and loved the event. She would be honoured that her family has sponsored a handbag in her memory.

Marie’s handbag is sponsored by Steve, Gina, Lucas & Audra Vanroboys

Louane McFadden

Our hearts shattered the day we lost my mom, Louane, at just 55, after her courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer. She faced every challenge with such grace and dignity, and her vibrant spirit and caring heart continue to live on through our family. My mom was beautiful inside and out-classy, polished, and always impeccably dressed.

One of the many special connections we shared was our love for handbags. We often exchanged them as gifts, building collections together.

Now, I carry her handbags with pride, cherishing the memories they hold.

I know my mom would have loved everything about the Handbags for Hospice event. Hospice brought so much peace to her and our family during her final days, and I am truly honoured to sponsor.

Louanne’s handbag is sponsored by Katie, Adam, Cash & Colt Holmes

Grace Lebert

In loving memory of our mother Grace, aka Grammie, who passed away Nov 2/23 at the age of 92. Originally from England, she immigrated to Canada in 1955. She met the love of her life Don in Windsor, married in 1957 and together raised 7 children in Windsor, Sarnia and finally in Chatham.

Don passed away in 1989 at age 54 from cancer. Mom's strength kept the family going as it grew to include 11 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Gardening, knitting, puzzles and card playing with her daughters on Friday nights kept her busy. She loved to travel and saw many countries around the world. By age 90 she decided not to renew her passport, that her traveling days were done.

She was an avid walker, she never ever got her driver's license. It would not be unusual to see her out walking with her grocery cart in the middle of December even though the majority of her family lives here in Chatham. She was famous for Sunday roast beef dinners with Yorkshire puddings and her homemade pies.

Although mom became sick rather quickly and passed away peacefully, she did it under her control and wishes.

We celebrate Grace's long life today, missed greatly by her whole family.

Grace’s handbag is sponsored by the Lebert Family.

Pat Hartford (nee Stanski)

December 23/1950-March 12/2002

Pat was born in Chatham, Ontario and graduated from Tecumseh high school. She entered and graduated the R.N.A. nursing program in London Ontario.

Ter first job was with London Psychiatric hospital where she worked a couple of years and then moved to Vancouver. She returned to Ontario to obtain her DSW

She began her work at South West Regional center in Cedar Springs where she cared for the mentally and physically challenged.

She moved to Centralia where she joined Avon Maitland School Board and worked as an educational assistant with challenged children for 15 years. Pat spent her whole life helping and caring for the disabled and less fortunate. She was a loving mother, a devoted daughter, a caring sister, a special aunt and a friend to many people. Pat would light up a room with her smile and unique sense of humour. Pat was always there when we needed her and we miss her humour and devotion to life itself.

There was no one like Pat and we miss her everyday.

Pat’s handbag is sponsored by the family of Pat Hartford

Colleen Buchan

Our Mom, Colleen Buchan (Carr) what we can say about her. She loved her husband Royce Buchan of 56 years raising 5 children in the village of Merlin. Our mom Colleen, spent her working career at SouthwestRegional Centre for 37.5 years and loved every moment of her time spent there and was well respectedby her peers and residents. In her retirement years, her passion was her family and enjoyed a hobby ofknitting and crocheting and often portraying her hand made products at various local craft shows.

Colleen and her husband Royce enjoyed boating and snowmobiling for 30 plus years with family and friends, as well as vacationing in the Caribbean islands.

She also really enjoyed her time spent at the Merlin Friendship hall where she spent numerous hours enjoying fellowship and cards with close friends. During her last few days at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance, our Mom received exceptionally great care from the staff and doctors on the Surgical Floor for which we are all very grateful for including her 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

We are grateful for the opportunity to sponsor a bingo round in memory of our Mom and hope the individual who receives it will enjoy it as much as our Mom.

Colleen’s handbags is sponsored by the Family of Colleen Buchan

Betty (nee Grant) Adams

Born March 21. 1939 — Died March 28, 2018

Betty was born, raised, lived and died in Chatham. Never venturing too far beyond Chatham or the family cottage in Rondeau park, Betty lived a content life.

Bettyraised four daughters of her own, then helped raise the four Cowan girls and Quinn Canella over the years. Going on to be a great nana to her eight grandchildren in her later years. A very nurturing and supportive figure to have

If you were with Betty you could count on sharing many laughs and good times.

You could be sure Betty would always have something to say, whether to teach a new game, tell a story or unleash the town's latest gossip. No matter the venue there was always happiness and laughter.

Betty always had time for you. Anyone who was part of Betty's life knew what an amazing, understanding and selfless person she was. Betty didn't drive much until after her husband Roy could no longer drive the car. Once driving, Betty created the most unusual driving routes around Chatham in order to avoid making left hand turns to get to where she wanted to go. A truly incredible experience to ride with her while she drove.Betty loved her many friends at Card Club/Pepper Club, her social friends and of course her family. As the "middle child" of Peter and Alice Grant's nine children Betty was pivotal in every family function and gathering.

Betty faced her cancer diagnosis, first breast, then lung with courage and grace spending the last 4 weeks of her life at the Chatham Hospice. While at CK Hospice Betty received wonderful care, in the most amazing surroundings. The family was even able to host a St. Patrick's Day celebration complete with fiddling by one of the hospice volunteers. It it is our pleasure to be here today and contribute to such an amazing cause.

This one's for you Betty, The Adams and Cowan girls

Company, Bigns is Ontario A byal cK ProducKeough, The Brave Brown Bag

Betty’s handbags is sponsored by the Adams and Cowan Girls

Deanna Campbell

Deanna Lynn Campbell (nee Zehr) slipped away peacefully from this world on April 6, 2018, at the age of 46 from brain cancer. Deanna will be forever remembered as a little spitfire who, although small in stature, always overflowed with love, fought any battle to the end, and lived life to the fullest.

She was a loving wife to Michael Campbell and proud mother to Malcolm, lan, and Owen whom carry on her legacy. Although her time with her boys was cut short, Deanna was able to instill her sense of values and compassion that prepares them well for their futures.

Deanna had a wonderful, large family that all held a special place in her heart and were never far from her thoughts. Dee or DeeDee, as she was affectionately called, also had an enormous friend group. She maintained close friendships with her elementary and high school friends. She also had lasting friendships with her co-workers.

Deanna attended Ridgetown Public School, Ridgetown District High School and obtained her degree in Social Work at the University of Guelph. As an advocate for children, Deanna dedicated 20 years at the Chatham-Kent Children's Services (LINCK) by making a lasting contribution towards strengthening children and families in Chatham-Kent.

Dee belonged to a life-long friend group called the Orford Annies. In their younge /ears they enioved plaving together on a slo-pitch team out of Blenheim and latel Chatham. Now the Annies have become a strong, supportive friend group that continues to show each other love, compassion and loyalty while donning the Kelly-green colour. Having the opportunity to sponsor a purse in Deanna's memory is something we know she would be proud of for reasons such as: celebrating friendships, enjoying a good purse (or pair of boots), and supporting the wonderful work of Chatham-Kent Hospice where she spent her final days.

Although her time with us has ended leaving our hearts feeling a bit empty, our memories and the legacy she has created will last a lifetime.

Deanna’s handbags is sponsored by The Orford Annies.

CK Tubs & Taps gratefully donates this Purse in appreciation of the CK Hospice, its staff and volunteers for their compassionate care and support in our community.

Mystery Purse Sponsor — Ray and Clara Bouma

Our parents, Clara Westendorp and Ray Bouma grew up together in a small town Makkum, in The Netherlands. They were both born in 1936 and attended the same school, kicking off their wooden shoes as they arrived and wearing wool socks or knitted slippers inside. Post WW2, Ray and Clara, in their teen years, immigrated to Canada and parted ways as they travelled with their respective families. Ray's family settled in Belleville, Ontario and Clara's family settled here in Chatham.

As church was central to the families both in Makkum and in Canada, Ray and Clara met at a church group gathering of young people. They married in June of 1957 and enjoyed 66 years of marriage together as they created a home for their 6 children, Kathy, Tracy, Sylvia, Lorraine, Denise and Raymond who tragically died in infancy.

Traditions that were established in the Netherlands continued as grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived. We habitually gathered after church in mom and dad's ome for Sunday coffee. We would kick our shoes off at the door and if needed, a asket of homemade, knitted slippers was available to us. Mom and Dad created home that was a gathering place.

Mom and Dad aged well into their 80"'s and it came as no surprise that their wishes were to remain at home until The Lord called them to their eternal home. As daughters. we cared for them and did everything possible to care for our parents enjoying home cooked meals and continuing the tradition of Sunday morning coffee after church.

At the beautiful age of 87, mom was moved from home into Chatham Kent Hospice ir the Autumn of 2023. Dad, a year later, at the age of 88 also moved from home into Chatham Kent Hospice in the Autumn of 2024.

Chatham Kent Hospice became our gathering place when it was no longer possible to gather at home. As our parents were supported for end of life care our family traditions were honoured as they journeyed to their heavenly home. Sunday morning coffee, a drink at 5 pm, a bowl of soup, prayer, a comfortable bed, family gathering, a sense of home were all honoured and supported with compassion, care, and respect from Chatham, Kent Hospice.

Ray and Clara’s handbags is sponsored by the Family of Ray & Clara Bouma

Wayne Baker

Peacefully with his family by his side, Wayne Keil Baker passed away on Sunday July 14, 2024, at the Chatham-Kent Hospice in his 87th year. Son of the late Charles and Ruby Baker. Loving husband of Shirley for 62 years. Proud father of Steve and his wife Lorie of Rondeau and Nicole and her husband David Kirby of Toronto. Cherished grandfather of Kyle (Bailey), Justin (Victoria), Ryan, Claire, and William. Loving great grandfather of Graham. Survived by brothers Bryce, David (Susan) and sister Lorraine (Ray) Dhaen. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by brothers George, Irvine, Gordon and sister Shirley.

Wayne farmed all of his life in Raleigh Township. He was a lifelong member of Wesley United Church, serving on the Session and Board of Trustees. He was a member of the Downtown Chatham Centre Mallwalkers, and volunteered for many years doing bingos for Orchestra London. Wayne was also known all over Kent County as one of the few remaining furniture refinishers, refinishing everything from small tables to grand pianos.

Sponsor: RBC Securities

Wayne Baker

John 'Jack' Strong

Jack passed away January 4, 2024 at the age of 88.

Born and raised on a farm in Belle River, he was not afraid of hard work and long hours with few days off.

Jack was a “fix it” man always willing to lend a hand to those who needed it day or night.

Married for 61 years to his love Helen, together they raised four children who gifted them with nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Family was everything to him.

Jack had a memory that astounded those around him. He would reminisce about the past telling stories about family, neighbours, local history, just about anything he had experienced. If you needed to know something you asked Jack. We would laugh and think - how would we know if what he was telling us was fact or fiction - then he would add more to the story-telling and you would just know it was true.

In memory of Jack and to recognize his love of farming, here is an excerpt from So God Made a Farmer.

It had to be somebody who’d plow deep and straight and not cut corners. Somebody to seed, weed, feed, breed, and brake, and disc, and plow, and plant, and tie the fleece and strain the milk. Somebody who’d bale a family together with the soft, strong bonds of sharing. Who would laugh, and then sigh, and the reply with smiling eyes when his son says he wants to spend his life doing what dad does

So God Made a Farmer.

Wherever we go

Whatever we do

Memories keep us near to you

Forever in our hearts

Jack’s handbag is sponsored by

his Favourite Daughter Cheryl.

United Church UCW

To all our UCW ladies of St. Andrew’s United Church who have earned their wings, we miss and honor you.

In recognition of these angels, we donate this purse in memory of you all.

This handbag is sponsored by

Susan Brooks, Chair of UCW and Linda Rieger, Treasurer of UCW,

St. Andrew's United Church.

Stewart Harris

Stewart Harris of Grande Pointe passed away on October 2, 2019, in Berea, Kentucky, one of the last spots he wished to visit in his 82nd year. Stewart often travelled to Kentucky to listen to bluegrass music and go antique shopping with his beloved wife and best friend Gloria Harris (Shivas).

Stewart was the son of the late Harry and Lenora Harris. Loving father of John Harris and his wife Loree Hodgson-Harris of Dover Centre, and Peter Harris of Chatham. Predeceased by his son Paul Harris (2016). Cherished grandfather of Alex, Tyrus (Chelsea), Ryan (Natasha), Anna (Matthew), Victoria (Alan), Shanessa, Daniel, Sean, Morgan and Madison. Dear brother of Joanne MacPhail (Malcolm) and Joyce Meredith. We regret Stewart was not able to meet his great-grandchildren Jackson Stewart Harris and Olivia Marie Harris, son and daughter of Tyrus and Chelsea, and Theo Anthony Harris, son of Ryan and Natasha.

At age 18, Stewart’s first job with the department of highways, gave him the technical civil engineering background that led him to his career in the construction industry. Stewart became involved in the “Chatham Bldrs Exchange” serving as a director and then in 1976 and 1977 as President. Chatham Concrete Forming, with co-worker Albert Postma, was his first foray into the business world, followed by John Harris Concrete Ltd. with son John, Harris Brothers Ltd. Paving and Recycling with son Peter, and the purchase of White’s Construction (Thamesville) Ltd. with son Paul. Stewart loved his work, the Toronto Maple Leafs, nature and antiques. He was known for his wittiness and funny one-liners -- he had a sense of humour no doubt. He loved to collect “treasures”, the most valuable being the love of his life and best friend of 57 years, Gloria Ann.

This handbag is sponsored by

The Harris Family.