Tribute Wall
Sunday
24
August
Memorial Open House
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Sunday, August 24, 2025
River Valley Golf Course
4725 Line 1
St. Marys, Ontario, Canada
Loading...
K
Ken & Ruth Charlish donated to Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation
Monday, December 15, 2025
Dave & Family,
I was so sorry to here of Joan's passing she was a great comfort to me when my mother passed away and I will always have a special place in my heart for her. This first Christmas with her gone will be difficult so I wish you all the strength do make it through. Think of the happy times. Best wishes Ken Charlish
Please wait
J
Jennifer Evans posted a condolence
Sunday, September 7, 2025
Softball games will never be the same without Boots. She was our team’s biggest fan, coming out to cheer us on no matter what the weather and clearly so proud of her children, Mel and Marko. Boots was friends with everyone and could connect with anyone. Her bright spirit and great sense of humour made her very special to so many people. She will be very very missed and there will always be a spot at every ball game (and dinner table, and friends gathering, and…) where she should have been and where space will be held for her. I feel honoured to have met Boots and to have her cheer me on for so many years. Sending big hugs to Dave, Mel, and Marko, and all of Boots’ extended friends and family.
N
Nelson and Hazel Mills posted a condolence
Saturday, August 30, 2025
So very sorry to hear of Boots passing. Deepest sympathy to the Benner and Thomson families at this sad time.
E
Elaine Johnston donated to Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation
Thursday, August 28, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Boots passing! She was one of a kind and will surely be missed by many! My sincere condolences to the family. Elaine Johnston
Please wait
J
Julie McCarthy posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Boots' bright spirit, kind heart, and joyful presence touched the lives of so many in our community. She brought warmth and light wherever she went, and her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled.
My thoughts are with your family during this incredibly difficult time.
A
Ann Zwaan posted a condolence
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
My deepest condolences to Dave, Mark, Melanie and the entire family
I will always cherish the conversations I had with Joan and her smiles always warmed my heart.
May God comfort you during this sad and difficult time.
Ann Zwaan
G
Greg and Jayne Tinney posted a condolence
Monday, August 25, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers to Dave, Mark, Melanie, the Benner and Thomson families.
Please wait
J
Jim and Judy Ulch posted a condolence
Monday, August 25, 2025
We are so sorry to hear of Boots passing. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of your families. I enjoyed working with Boots and seeing her at baseball games.
C
Cindi Jones posted a condolence
Sunday, August 24, 2025
Our sincere condolences to the Thomson and Benner families. Wayne and Cindi Jones
Please wait
L
Lindsay Benner posted a condolence
Sunday, August 24, 2025
An Ode to My Aunt Boots
August 24, 2025
Lindsay Benner
My dearest Aunt Boots, you deserved so much better. It has been difficult to curate a lifetime of memories into a simple theme, but I did it: safe haven.
No one sitting here is a perfect person, you included. You are an intricate web of qualities, you are not known for sitting silently in a corner, and you left an indelible mark that I will be proud to wear for the rest of my life.
As a young child, maybe three years old, I vividly remember the morning I told my dad I didn't want to go to the babysitter. She wasn't treating us very well. This memory is well over 35 years old, but I remember my dad asking Erin and me where we wanted to go. The answer was instant: "BOOTS!" And then, that was it. Boots cared for me until I started school.
We had so. much. fun. I can still remember how Boots's car smelled, how her voice sounded at the arena, and how she kept her kids' teeth in the kitchen. Boots provided the ultimate childhood luxury: a full face wipe down with a warm washcloth.
See, Boots was nothing if not unapologetically herself. She wore it like a badge of honour and her acceptance was unconditional. Safe haven: I could be myself around her. Boots encouraged it - and I'm WEIRD.
When I was in university and Peterborough flooded, it was Boots who called (at like 7.30 AM) shrieking and offering to come pick me up. Safe haven: my parents were sailing and Peterborough was under eight feet of water. Boots would have been on my doorstep in a heartbeat. I'm lucky she called first.
It was Boots who made a picture board for my wedding, and it was Boots who told me to laugh off the divorce. When I found myself unexpectedly raising a newborn alone, straddling a weird line between the ultimate joy and the grief of betrayal, it was Boots who invited me over. Safe haven: I was late. A lot. One day I spent an hour driving in the wrong direction. I was tired, boring, and Boots was still always excited to see me.
Boots was diagnosed only a few months after my son, Lorne, was born. Today, Lorne is three years old.
Three years, Boots. That is incredible. For three whole years you stayed, and you wiped my son's face with a warm washcloth. I didn't actually think it would end. Not like this. Not for you.
When you were admitted to hospital I started to explain to Lorne what was happening. I like to start with a small fact, and let it grow from there.
Boots is very sick.
Boots's brain hurts.
The doctors are trying to help her. It might not work.
Boots might die.
That means we don't get to see Boots anymore.
Timbit visits continued. Your stories continued. Life moved on. Your family, Mel, Mark, and Dave, left everyone in awe as they formed an impenetrable and protective wall around you.
And then, it hit, like a brick wall.
When you were moved to the hospice, I told Lorne that the doctors couldn't help you anymore. Lorne stopped, wrinkled his brow, and said "Mom, we need to go see Boots."
"Yes, Lorne. We will go tomorrow."
Tomorrow was the day you died. That day I brought three-year-old Lorne to the hospice (along with 45 chocolate Timbits). It was a strange choice, questionable to some. That is okay. I had told my son he could see you one more time, and Boots, you made it happen.
What a gift, Boots. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. For everything.
The Stratford Rotary Hospice has a beautiful tradition: Boots was ushered down the hall with music, a lighted candle carried by her beloved husband, and her family following behind her. Lorne and I followed at the back. I had explained that Boots had died and we were going to say goodbye. We couldn't go with Boots, because she was leaving in a "special car."
Lorne understood that people would be sad.
As Boots was placed in the special car Lorne waved and said "bye Boots. Bye bye Boots."
The adults were in tears and the hospice staff provided Kleenex. Lorne squealed: "Mom! Kleenex! Look at all the Kleenex!"
I was crying softly, and I replied "yes, darling. The Kleenex are for people who are sad."
Lorne, stopped, wrinkled his brow, and said "Mom, Boots is so lucky."
Oh Boots.
Your husband, your children, and warm washcloths will forever stand as a beautiful reminder of the strong, courageous woman who offered me, my son, and so many others a safe haven.
M
Marg McLean posted a condolence
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Boots always had a welcoming smile, quick story and a contagious laugh. Heartfelt sympathy to Dave, Mel, Mark, Don, Heather and the whole family. I’m sorry for your loss.
T
Trent and Deb Ward donated to Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of Boots , she is going to be missed by all that knew her. We loved her so much and what a warrior she was .
Please wait
B
Bev and Marg Tunks posted a condolence
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Dear Dave, Mel, Mark, the Thomson and Benner families
Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you today, tomorrow, and the days ahead. She was an amazing women. Always had time to chat and her smile and laugh were so contagious. May all the love and wonderful memories you hold close to you help to ease your heavy hearts at this difficult time.
Sincerely, Bev and Marg, Jen and John, Leanne and Jenn, Paul and Danielle
Please wait
L
Lindsay uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, August 23, 2025
/public-file/1377/Ultra/074a9f1a-62fd-4d9c-ab89-788055fcdf19.jpg
/public-file/1378/Ultra/cd040a99-9fde-4f04-adba-4222c17c8ed7.jpg
Please wait
R
Rosemary Frayne posted a condolence
Friday, August 22, 2025
We are saddened to hear the news of the passing of Boots, our sincere condolences to Dave, Mark, Mel and Benner families. Rest in Peace Boots,
Jim and Rose
E
Eric and Pat Chovancek posted a condolence
Friday, August 22, 2025
Dear Don and Heather and family, our deepest sympathy in the loss of your sister Joan. You are in our thoughts at this sad time and send our heartfelt hugs your way.
Eric and Pat Chovancek
Please wait
S
Steve Northey posted a condolence
Friday, August 22, 2025
We met Joan at the Brain Tumour Walks in London. She was such a nice person, very upbeat and personable. We hope that her husband Dave and all the family have many great memories of their lives together to help them through these very hard times. We will miss her at the London Walk next year but her memory will be there walking with us.
Steve Northey - Co Founder Brain Tumour Foundation of London
M
Melanie Hardie posted a condolence
Friday, August 22, 2025
I first met Joan 5 years ago and have watched her battle health concerns throughout that time with amazing strength & an unshakeable spirit. Her sense of humour was always present and her bright light was always an inspiration to me. I am glad that Joan has found peace after such a tough battle.
My sincere condolences to Dave, Melanie & Mark, for your loss.
B
Bonnie Swarthout posted a condolence
Friday, August 22, 2025
Dear Dave,Mel,Mark and Families
"What a beautiful picture of Joan"
My sincere sympathy to all of you in the loss of Joan.
Words alone, cannot express how deeply sorry I am.
Thinking of you at this most difficult time.
Rest easy Boots..
Bonnie Swarthout
B
Bruce & Sue Kittmer posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Our sincere condolences to Dave, Mark, Mel & all the Benner & Thomson Families. Joan was always full of life & mischief. Fond memories of her playing ball, working at the BOM, Subway & the Cheese Shop. Always a pleasure to talk with her & have a great laugh. Treasure all the great times & memories of her in the days ahead. You are in our thoughts & prayers.
Bruce & Sue Kittmer
S
Shelley & Louie Martin posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Boots always had a great smile and hello whenever our paths crossed. I first met her in high school , she was so friendly and just genuine you immediately were comfortable around her. Even as she fought her health battle she always had a smile for others. May you fly with the angels in peace and comfort now Boots.
Heartfelt condolences to Dave , Mark and Mel and extended family.
Shelley Martin
B
Bob DeBrabandere posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Dear Dave, Mark & Mel
I remember being a bit lost during my first few days in grade 9 at DCVI, but I was lucky enough to end up with a locker next to Joan. She was a great help!
Our condolences to you and all your family
Bob & Lou DeBrabandere
G
Glenna Day Hicks posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Boots always had a beautiful smile.
It was always a pleasure to have a chat.
Sending my condolences, Glenna
Please wait
Please wait
R
Ross and Marilyn Robinson posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Our deepest sympathy at this sad time
S
Shannon O'Shea Ross posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Dear Thomson family-
Deeply sorry to hear the news about your wonderful fighter. She truly had the biggest heart and was always cheering for our boys with so much love from the sidelines. She made such an impact on everyone- always taking the time to say hello or have a chat whenever we saw her. I’m especially grateful she was able to be at Rotary Hospice in her final days - a place very special to my family and I.
Boots will leave a tremendous void in so many lives, but she will always be remembered with love. My sincere condolences to all.
Shannon O’Shea Ross
N
Nancy & Dave Preston Preston donated to Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Please wait
G
Gary Mallalieu posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
To all the family circle of Boots...What a pleasure to have known her. Always nice to meet her out while she was walking and have a good chat and a laugh. May your memories of her bring you all special joy and comfort. You can feel sad because it is over or you can smile because she was with you.....Gary and Cynthia (Copeland) Mallalieu
B
Brenda Alderson posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Dave, Mark and Melanie and families, I just heard last week that Boots was ill. I am so sorry that you all have had such a tough time. She will be with Norma and Gail now watching over you.
R. I. P. Boots
L
Lauren and Mark O’Keefe posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
To all Joan’s family and friends we are so sorry to hear of your loss. This picture captures everything about her, her love for family, her beaming smile and the genuine sound of her laughter. May your memories guide and help you through this difficult time. Hugs
B
Bruce Andrews posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
So sorry to hear of Joan's passing. Our prayers and sympathy go out to Dave and the whole family.
Please wait
L
Linda Greason posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Our Sincere Condolences.
Joan was a beautiful person.
Linda & Ron
H
Herman Veenendaal posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Don and Heather, heartfelt condolences.
M
Marlene French posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
To the Benner and Thomson families. We are so very sorry for your loss. Boots lit up the room and was always ready for a good joke. You can be proud of her strength and fighting nature and her deep love for life and family. Sincerely, Marlene and Joe French
D
Doug and Sue Marriott posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
To Dave, Mark and Mel and all of Boot’s extended family. We are sending our condolences and big hugs! Boots was a fighter and stayed as long as she could for her family. Her presence will be missed, but she is finally at peace.
S
Sue & Joe Marcaccio posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Dave, Mark & Mel, very sorry to hear about Boots. Such a strong, vibrant, wonderful woman. Hugs to you all. Sue & Joe Marcaccio
G
Gwen Bestard posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
My deepest heartfelt sympathies to all of "Boots" family, especially Dave, Mark and Melanie. Your dear wife and mother was an amazing person. She was always SO positive, caring, jovial and FULL of life. I am extremely saddened to read of her passing.
H
Harry Foster posted a condolence
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Sending Heart felt sympathy To All The Family's
She was A wonderful person
So glad I had the chance to see her
M
Mary and Pete Seale posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
We are so saddened to read of Boots passing. She was one of a kind, always up for a chat, a true gem. Our condolences to all of the family.
L
Larry and Elsie Coulthard posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Our condolences to all the family. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
L
Lynne Grobbecker posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Mel, Marlo and Dave, we are so sad to hear this news. Boots was always a positive upbeat influencer to our family and the community. We have many fond memories whether it was in the ball stands cheering on the girls or just meeting up when the kids were together. She was positive and a fighter right to the end ❤️ love from Alicia, Kurt, Lynne and Bernie Grobbecker
Please wait
t
terry posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
To Joan's Family;
Remember all the good times! Deepest sympathies on your loss.
Terry and Colleen Lang
F
Ferguson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Don, Heather and extended families,
Wishing you peace, comfort, and courage to face the days ahead with loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Sincere condolences in the loss of your sister Joan.
Ron & Marianne
B
Bev Graff posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Dear Dave , Mel and Marko , sending you love hugs and prayers. Joan braved and fought a terrible disease and as a family you supported her battle in good times and bad . Cherish your memories. She was a happy go lucky soul and laughed so easily . She made the world a better place .
B
Bridget Bradford-Shrubsole posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Dave, Mark, Mel and family,
I am so heartbroken to hear of the passing of Boots. She truly was one of a kind—so full of life, love, and energy. She was larger than life, and her spirit touched everyone around her. May you hold your memories close to your heart; she will never be far. Sending you love and strength. xo
B
Bill Doupe posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Dave, Mel & Mark and all the Thomson and Benner families, my deepest sympathies to you all on hearing of Boots passing. May all your fond memories of years past, carry you through for many years to come. She will be missed by everyone that knew her. Hugs to you all.
L
Laura Sheldon posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Dave, Mark, Mel & all those who loved her - my sincere condolences to your family. Boots was a strong force & definitely kept us inline during our high school years over at the Subway not putting up with any nonsense. May her body rest easy & her memories live on forever.
K
Keith and Joyce Thomson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Dear Dave , Melanie and Mark and Don and Heather and family and friends of Joan. Our deepest sympathy to you all on the passing of this beloved gal. Always had a great smile upon greeting any of us. She put up the good fight always. May you cherish the fond memories of her. Rest in peace Boots.
T
Ted and Eileen Oliver posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Eileen and I wish her family and friends our deepest sympathy on your loss. She is in a better place.
K
Karen Insley Windsor and family posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Our deepest sympathy to Dave, Mel, Mark, Bob, Don and families. Boots was an incredible person, always had a smile and a laugh. We always had a story to share and she was a friend to everyone! Hoping that your wonderful memories give you strength at this difficult time.
L
Lauren Eedy & Lucas Fisher posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Our sincerest condolences to Dave, Marty & Mel as well as Katie, Talon & respective families. ‘Boots’ was in a way a mother to us all, sharing laughs and wisdom she always had a brighter look in things which was contagious.
Her courageous battle with cancer remains inspirational much like she was in life & illness.
Sending love and comfort to the families from Lucas & myself. I’ll always cherish how she made me laugh.
You have an angel watching over you all.
D
Don & kim Bailey posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
We send our sincerest condolences to Dave, Mark & Mel for the loss of a beautiful, outgoing wife & mother. Boots always lit up the room and have everyone laughing. Rest in peace now boots
G
Grant Thomson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
My thoughts are with you at this time
D
Diane (Aldis) Korver posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Most sincere condolences to Dave, Mark, Mel and family. Had such good times with Boots. Lots of fun memories. She was a loyal ,steadfast friend. Rest in peace Boots. Diane(Aldis) Korver
D
Dave & Nancy Preston posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
So sad to hear of Boots passing! She was a lovely, genuine lady always with a smile. Our sympathy to Dave, Mark and Mel. Thinking of you at this most difficult time. RIP Boots.
Dave & Nancy Preston
K
Kim and Sam Corriveau posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Our sincere condolences to Dave and family. Boots always had a big smile when she greeted you no matter how she felt. She was a big spirit and will so be missed by many. Hugs to all
J
Julie Docker Johnson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
All of my love to all of you! Boots was an amazing person with the most wonderful spirit and the best laugh! Rest in peace Boots, Heaven won’t know what hit it! With Love, Julie
S
Sherry Fedyk posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Our condolences to you Dave, Mark and Mel may you find peace that she is not in pain anymore!!! Love Pete and Sherry Fedyk
P
Paul and Sue Robinson posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Dear Dave , Mark, Melanie and Donnie/Heather and Bob/Connie and the entire family.
We are so very sorry to hear about Boots passing.
She has been strong for so long. She left a legacy of smiles and laughter whenever she met anyone.
Our sincerest condolences. Hugs and Prayers to all.
Paul and Sue Robinson
L
LindaMcCorquodale posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Thinking of you all at this time
Sorry to hear about your loss
E
Erin Walpole posted a condolence
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss. Working with Boots at Subway so many years ago taught me how to have fun in the work place. She was a kind hearted sole for sure and will be missed.
M
The family of Joan Thomson uploaded a photo
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
/tribute-images/cropped/402/Joan-Thomson.jpg
Please wait
Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home Ltd.
47 Wellington Street South, PO Box 304
St. Marys, Ontario
N4X 1B2
Canada
Phone or Text (519) 284-2820
Email: andrew@hodgesfuneralhome.ca
The Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home is a Class 1 funeral home
License by the Bereavement Authority of Ontario
License # 411