DARLENE WHITFIELD

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darlene Kaye Whitfield (née Manthorne, Murdoch) on Aug. 22, 2024, after a stroke and arthritis/severe degenerative bone disease. Darlene was 75 years of age.

Beloved daughter of the late Vera Zina Manthorne and stepfather Carl. Predeceased by her biological father Robert Murdoch.

Also predeceased by her beloved son, Jason Carl Marsh on June 25, 2022.

Dear sister of Marlene Leavey (née Murdoch), Betty (Murdoch), June Thorne (née Murdoch), Linda Ponti-Sgargi, the late Sandra Bednis (née Manthorne, Murdoch), Carole Rawlyk (née Sager) and Dick Sager. Also remembered by nieces Jo-Ann and Tennille Leavey, nephew Michael Leavey and her four grandchildren: Curtis, Quinton, Coltin and Terran.

Darlene was loved by many friends and family members, and spent her life helping others. She was always kind and compassionate, especially in her love for animals – most recently, her cat Izzy. She had her own business and was an expert seamstress and tailor, specializing in leather making and repairs. She will be dearly missed.

She will be laid to rest with her son Jason, in a private family graveside memorial service, to be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, the Arthritis Foundation of Canada (www.arthritis.org/diseases /degenerative-disc-disease), the Royal Canadian Legion in support of our veterans, or the Feral Cat support program of the Ontario SPCA – all charities that Darlene would honour.

Online condolences may be made through the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home in Fergus, www.grahamgiddyfh.com.