LEGION PASSINGS
Steven Francis Hayward
1947 - 2023
We note with great sorrow the sudden passing of Comrade Steve Hayward, late of Branch 449, Alton.
Comrade Steve was a ‘let’s get it done’ member at his branch and throughout his community. If there was something that needed doing, from being a Santa Helper to roofing a building, if he could see a way, it got done.
Our condolences go out to his family and all those with whom he came in contact. He was a huge boon in his community and will be sorely missed.
Master Warrant Officer Stuart William Seki, CD
24 November 1967 - 10 June 2023
We are sad to note the sudden passing of MWO Stuart William Seki, well known by many Ontario soldiers and Legionnaires, an Army Veteran and iInstructor to many soldiers across Ontario; a respected Legion member and good friend.
Sadly, we don't know at which Legion Branches he may have visited or been a Member. Stuart lived in the Barrie area and moved on to other towns, most recently Victoria Harbour. He was a proud, active member of the Canadian Armed Forces for 34 years, most recently serving as Master Warrant Officer in 32 Service Battalion. He served with the Ontario Provincial Police for 18 years as Senior Armorer.
Stuart will be remembered for being an accomplished musician, for his love of military history and collectibles, and remote-control vehicles. He was an avid marathon runner. He was a patient teacher and mentor. We cannot forget Stuart’s love of Jeeps. He restored several over the years and enjoyed many trail and Jeep Jamborees.
Raywin Melmore Raaflaub, a proud member of the RCAF, passed away on April 20th, 2023 in his 93rd year after a short but valiant battle with cancer.
During his time in the RCAF Ray was stationed in St. Jean, Quebec, Aylmer Ontario, Lac St. Denis, Quebec and Goose Bay, Labrador. He completed his trade in diesel and electrics.and serviced vehicles and aircraft for the RCAF. He had a love of flying including membership in a gliding group stationed out of CFB Borden.
Ray was a member of The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 171 Alliston since 1959 and enjoyed participating in many services and activities at the Branch. He valued his friendships with the Legion members and his RCAF family.
To celebrate his 91st birthday, with a touch of nostalgia, Ray arranged his last flight around the Orillia area aboard a 1953 Beaver aircraft in the company of a few comrades and friends from 441 RCAFA, Barrie.
A Legion/RCAF service will be held on Sunday May 7th at 1 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 34), 215 Mississaga St. E., Orillia followed by a drop-in Celebration of Life/visitation from 2 pm to 3:30pm.
Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.mundellfuneralhome.com
Our sincere condolences to Ray’s family.
We note with sadness the passing of Comrade Derek Gillett.
A veteran of the Royal Pioneer Corps, National Service, Derek joined the Legion at Branch 329 Tottenham in 1980. He served in many capacities at branch and zone levels over the years, including District E Commander 2009-2011. He was accorded several awards and citations including Life Membership in the Legion.
In his honour, Branch 329 Tottenham will conduct a Ceremony of Life on Saturday, May 27, 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
We were saddened to learn of the passing of Lieutenant General (Retired) Lou Cuppens, former Chair of the DC Defence and Security Committee and past National President of the Last Post Fund, who died on December 16th. The Legion valued Lou's continuing guidance and assistance. He was a staunch supporter of the Legion
