Obituary of Lon Whaley

Whaley, Patrick “Lon” passed away surrounded by his loving family on January 16, 2025 at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket in his 78th year. Beloved husband of Ann (Moore) Whaley for 58 years. Cherished father of Trish (Ed) Lamers and Tracey (Kelly) Antonissen. Adored Grandpa to Craig, Dylan, Jordan Lamers, Ashley (Garrett) Nicol, Kelsey and Alex Antonissen.

Lon was born in St. Thomas on March 7, 1947 to the late Russell and Freda (Baxter) Whaley. Predeceased by brothers Tony, Doug, Bill, nephew Tyler Peters, David Moore and niece Jennifer Whaley. He will be sadly missed by his sisters-in-law Fran and Marilyn Whaley. Loved dearly as both in-laws and friends, Butch & Linda Peters, Bob & Anne Moore, Rick & Sharon Moore, Wendy (late Tony) Tait, Tom & Debra Feeney, Steve & Allison Moore, Tom & Jo Belton, plus many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friend Paul Kay who was always more like a bonus brother.

Lonnie grew up on a tobacco farm on Springer Hill, attended Corinth P.S., EESS and married his high school sweetheart Ann on May 14, 1966. He was the owner/operator of Whaley's Auto Body and towing service until his semi-retirement when he moved north. He was a proud Ducks Unlimited volunteer for several years, parent chaperone for EESS school band and a longtime member of the Southern Ontario Street Rods and National Street Rod Association. Countless car shows earned him several trophies and awards for his rare 1940 Dodge Sedan which he originally purchased when he was 16 years old. It was the transportation of choice to his daughters’ proms, weddings and many family events.

Later he moved to River Haven Resort on the Magnetawan River to perfect his hunting and fishing skills. Entertaining friends on his pontoon boat became a favourite pastime. Later residing in Britt, he enjoyed grooming snowmobile trails, home renovating, watching hockey, attending local events, becoming a familiar face at the senior breakfasts and of course, continued to tinker in his shop on cars, boats and the occasional lawnmover. An open garage door was an invitation to anyone passing by to visit or get something fixed.

Special thanks to family and friends for the loving support, visits and calls during this heartbreaking time. We are deeply grateful to the wonderful staff at the cardiac units in Parry Sound, Sudbury, St. Thomas and Newmarket hospitals for their excellent care over the years.

Please join us for a celebration of life on Saturday, July 5th, 2025 at the Richmond United Church(53895 Church Street, Richmond, ON) with visitation from 10:30am-11:00am and the service at 11:00am. Luncheon to follow downstairs.