At University Hospital, London on Monday July 20, 2020, at the age of 92. Beloved wife of the late Capt. John R. Beer, RCAF (1975). Survived by sons David of Chatham (Dianne), John of Windsor, and Steven of London; grand-daughter Kristin Heard (Keith) and great-grand-daughters Katherine, Nicole, and Danielle of London, and grandson Aaron Beer of Edmonton; sister-in-law Lucille Beer of Hensall, several Saskatchewan cousins, and many nieces and nephews, to whom she was either ‘Aunt Lil’ or ‘Auntie Mitch’.Predeceased by brothers Frank Mitchell (1962), John ‘Jack’ Mitchell (1993), and Emerson Mitchell (2017); brother-in-law George Beer (1995) and sisters-in-law Elaine and Evelyn (1992) and Phyllis (2014).
Lillian was born February 19, 1928 in Morris Township, Huron County, to William Mitchell and Elizabeth Watson. Graduating from the Kitchener-Waterloo General Hospital Nursing Program in 1951, Lillian’s career really began in the mid-1940’s as a 16 year-old helper at a maternity hospital in Brussels, Ont. founded by her second-Dad and mentor Dr. Charles Myers and his wife Anne, an RN. As an Air Force wife (always ‘adapting’ because it was expected and because she was up-to-it), Lillian nursed in Winnipeg, Exeter, Ont., Tillsonburg, Camp Borden, Moose Jaw, Winnipeg again, Alliston, Ont., and finally Exeter again, from where she retired in 1991.
A Life Member and officer of both Hensall Legion and the Ladies’ Auxiliary, a Hensall United Church committee-member for 40 years, a nursing-home and Seniors’ Drop-In volunteer week-in/week-out for years after she retired, Mom was known as a team-player and a ‘doer’, the product of a generation that dedicated their time on Earth to public service. Mom was easy to love, easy to work with, honest and patient, uncomplaining and always in good spirits, even in difficult times, a ‘small-gesture-goes-a-long-way’ type of person. That’s why her first mentor’s youngest daughter, as well as a grand-niece and a great-grand-niece, bear her name. We grew-up in a happy, fun environment because our Mom and Dad loved each other, that was plain for all to see. And we ate like kings, because Mom could cook anything, and her baking was legendary. Always friendly, Mom used to say, ‘Life’s too short – say hello when you meet someone on the street, whether you know them or not.’ She was living-proof that longevity might have something to do with not holding grudges, being utterly without guile or meanness, knowing when you’re lucky, and treating friendship like a gift. As her boys learned growing-up: when other people think your Mom is a nice person, they cut you a lot of slack. Mom will be missed.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 370 William Street, EXETER on Friday evening from 6 – 8 PM. Due to Provincial COVID-19 restrictions, each person must RSVP with a time to attend the visitation. Please visit www.haskettfh.com/calendar or call 519-235-1220 to book a time. The Bereavement Authority of Ontario and Huron Perth Public Health have mandated that each person coming into the funeral home must wear a mask.
A private family funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 25th at 11 AM. Though the service is private, the family invites you to join with them from the comfort of your home. Stream the service live by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh . Interment Hensall Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to London Health Sciences Foundation, Stratford General Hospital Foundation, or South Huron Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Kate Ryan
Lillian was a kind, compassionate and lovely Nurse.
As a young RNA working at South Huron Hospital, Lillian supported, guided and encouraged me to be a better person.
God Bless all of Lillian’s Family and friends.
Rest with peace.
Best regards,
Kate Ryan
kate.m.r121@gmail.com
JoAnne Pickering
Oh Lillian was a wonderful nurse, was with me when 2 of my babies were born at SHH and was just the best! Later when my mother was in the Nursing home at Queens way I had a few conversations with her and she remembered me and the kids such a great person and so kind! I am sure she will be missed by family and friends!
Mary and Al Venner
Sending our condolences. Lillian was a sparkling gem. So kind and welcoming, always happy and smiling. She will be greatly missed.
Carol & Glenn Gascho
Lillian was a dear friend and volunteer for most of my 39 years at Queensway in the Programs Department. She was kind and caring to all the residents and she would always see & do what was needed. With her commitments to her Church, the Legion, her Community and all that she contributed at the Nursing Home she served with compassion and integrity. Rest well dear Lillian.
Gord and Julie Mitchell
what a full life this wonderful woman lived. such and good friend and aunt to us she will always
be missed and we are so glad for the long life she had and how she touched so many
Nelson & Terri Armstrong
Though we only knew her from buying her delicious pies, hence the reference of Pie Lady, Lillian was a little dynamo who would put people half her age to shame. She will be greatly missed and our world has lost an amazing human being. Sincere condolences to the family.
Karmen Pellitteri
My deepest condolences to the whole family. Heaven got another Angel. I will miss Lillian deeply 🙏♥️
John & Joanne Mitchell
We are very sorry to hear of Aunt Lillian passing. She was a very kind, sweet, lovable person . She always made everyone feel so special. She touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed very much.
We tried to tie in to the funeral today, but our “country” internet went down.
Our thoughts and prayers were with you all the same .
Joan Middleton
Lillian will be remembered by me as a special family friend she always had a kind word and was interested in everything that was happening around her. She was truly a remarkable woman that had so many talents that she shared tirelessly with her family, friends and community.
Lillian will be missed…
Sincere condolences to your family David, John and Steven
Joan Simmons Middleton and Bob Middleton
Garry & Janice Alderdice
To the Beer family.
Our deepest condolences in the loss of your dear Mother, Grandmother, Aunt and friend to all who knew her.
I have fond memories of many church suppers or funeral luncheons working with Lillian. Always a pleasure to be in the kitchen with her. Hensall has lost one of its best. Rest well, dear Mitch, you have earned it.
Kind regards
Garry & Janice Alderdice
Hugh & Fran McCallum
We met Lillian through the Hensall Legion a few years ago – remembering Lillian made our life somewhat brighter!
Sue Riley
Lillian – no words are adequate enough to describe this awesome lady! She has earned her spot in Heaven for sure. RIP, Mitch.
Jill & Ralph Geiger
Dear David, John, & Steven,
Our sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Mother. It was always a special treat for us to have 1 of ‘Mitch’s’ yummy pies. Your Mom was a proud Mother, excellent nurse, devoted community member & a friend to many. A life well lived!
Sincerely, Jill (Drysdale) & Ralph Geiger
Jim and Mary Lou Hyde
Our condolences to Lillian (Mitch)’s family. She was a sweet, warm, friendly lady, with a wicked sense of humour, eyes that twinkled, and an ever present smile. She will be truly missed but has more then earned her rest.
Lois and George Godbolt
David, John, Steven and families
For me, Lillian will be remembered as a longtime family friend, a special nurse, wonderful organizer and tireless worker and top-notch baker, especially pies. She was a great friend to my mother.
Lillian, you have helped and inspired many. RIP.
Sincere condolences to all from George and I.
Lois (Simmons) Godbolt
Rene Richmond
The Myers family have lost a special person .Lil was very important to us as a family and we grew
up with her.
Our condolences to the Family
Don and Sharon Appleby
Our condolences to the family. We met Lillian through the United Church dinners. She would call and let us know when another dinner was coming up, and we regularly ordered pies from her. Reading her obituary, she was truly an amazing lady.
Martin and Cheryl Gelinas
Dear David, John, Steve, Kristin And Family and Aaron, We wish to express our deepest sympathy on the passing of Lillian. She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Brian Lacey
My condolences to all family and friends of Mrs. Beer. I can truly say that every encounter with her was a pleasant and positive one, and I have always recognized her as her family’s respected center. We all need essential links like that in our lives.
Dale (Simmons) Bland
My sincere condolences – Lillian was an inspiration to many..
Marie McLennan
Our sincere condolences on the loss of “Grandma Beer”. Such a lovey lady who we had the honour of meeting.
Our thoughts are with you.
Marie (Heard) Mike and the McLennan family
Sue Page
Sending condolences to Mitch’s family & friends. I worked beside her at the Hensall Diners. She was a quiet, kind lady but she could definitely get some “zingers” in at times .. loved her sense of humour. Fly high pretty lady RIP
Marg Williamson ( Inson)
David , John and Steven
My sincere condolences to you and your families. I had the privilege of working with Lillian at good old South Huron Hospital for many many years. The best coworker ever and awesome friend.
Lillian spend Christmas Eve and Day with my family due to weather conditions or year. Lillian and I were working days. The kids had her up by 04:30 in the morning because Santa had come. She loved it. She said she missed the Christmas morning excitement.
Lillian earned the title “Diamond Lil” from the many annual meeting for ONA in Toronto. We had fun.
Wonderful memories of you Diamond Lil ❤️
Lillian has left a wonderful legacy for her boys , family and friends .
Prayers and thoughts for her boys and families
Karen Dickins
Never a nicer person walked this Earth, she gave so much to so many. RIP Mitch, you left huge shoes to be filled.
Bill& Pat Noakes
So sorry to hear of Lillians passing. She was a wonderful person and great community supporter. We will miss her at church, horticulture and legion. Bill will miss her lemon pies. She was one of Hensalls special people. RIP Lillian
Dianne Skinner
To David,John and Steven: I had worked with your Mom at SHH. She was a great nurse and alway had a smile on her face. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Theresa Parsons
Sincere sympathy to all of Lillians’ family and friends. I also had the privilege to work with Lillian at Exeter hospital for many years. She was a very kind and compassionate nurse with a wonderful smile and sense of humour…her patients loved her! May all your wonderful memories help to bring comfort in the days ahead.
Theresa Parsons
Marjorie McLean
Lillian’s Family: So sad to hear that this special lady passed away. She was a great friend of my Mom’s (Jeanette Turner) and myself. So many wonderful times at the Queensway and buying her Aloette products from me. Always looked great with a wonderful smile. We shared many stories when I delivered her products. I’ll never forget her driving over to Zurich to my Mom’s funeral in that snowstorm- a true friend. I’m sure the Hensall Community will miss her and her delicious cooking- Marjorie McLean
Jim and Linda
Steve
Our sincere sympathies to you and your family.
Kindest regards.
Fred and Gordon Arnott kerrobert, sask.
David John and Steve sorry to hear about your moms death. ALWAYS ENJOYED HER VISITS WHEN I WAS DOWN IN Brussels and also nwhen she was up visiting us here in Saskatchewan. She was moms favourite cousin and they shared the same birthdate. Isee she was a very popular loved lady and admired by many.
Jean Elliott
My sincerest condolences to Lillian’s family. I had the pleasure and privilege of working along side this incredible woman. She was a kind, caring, and compassionate soul. A wonderful mentor. I learned so much from her in the few short years we worked together at SHH. I will cherish those memories ❤️
Judy Mock
My sincere sympathy to Lillian’s family and friends. May peace fill the pain and your strong bond of love fill the loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Vera Armstrong
Sincere sympathy in the loss of Lillian
may all the special memories bring comfort during this difficult time
Greg & Brenda Dayman
To All of Lillian’s Family & Friends
What a Kind Beautiful Lady she was. She seemed to be on every Committee & helping wherever was needed with always a smile on her face. Glad to have known her & was a neighbour for several years. Our Sympathy to All
Barb Gackstetter
Thinking of the beautiful person Lil was. Always so generous in every way. My son loved her butter tarts especially. My sympathy to her family during this time.
Marge Schilbe
Sorry to hear of your moms passing, my deepest sympathy ,
Jan Chittenden
My sincere condolences to the Beer family. It was a privilege to have worked with Lillian at SHH. She was a kind & gentle lady. My thoughts & prayers are with you
Inge Mowat
Dear Family
Lillian was living proof that angels walk the earth..!! Not long after moving to Hensall I became aware that the name ‘Mitch Beer’ (spoken as though it was one word :) ) was part of the Hensall lexicon. It would be many years before I came to understand why. Please wear your pride for your mother as your mantle of honour of who she was and who you are today. She has truly earned her eternal rest. My prayers are with all of you as you prepare to say goodbye.
Inge Mowat
Charlene Finkbeiner
My sympathy to Lillian’s family. I had the privilege to work with Lilian for many years. She loved to talk about her sons, so proud of them. A truly caring, dedicated nurse, with a great smile.
Linda & Jerry Traquair & family
Bless her beautiful heart. I am sure there is a special place in heaven for Lillian (Mitch) Beer . It was a privilege to know her and be part of her church family and community . Our sincere condolences to her sons, their offspring, the Beer and Mitchell families. May the memories of a life well-lived, the examples she set and the legacy she left in each of you, sustain you in the days ahead.
Liz & John Stephens
My deepest condolences to Lillian`s family on her passing . I too had the privilege of working with Lillian at SHH for many years. Her compassion , caring & great smile , gave comfort to her patience . Lillian was also a valued member of the Exeter Lioness Club for many years ,where she continued to serve the ”less fortunate”.Our loss is heavens gain .You will be missed Great Lady .
Roy Ellis
David,John and Steve, So sorry to learn of your Mother’s passing.Her presence will be greatly missed by the many people she encountered during her life by her great sense of humour and zest for life. Hopefully the memory of the many happy events shared with her during your life will help ease the burden of your great loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. Lillian…….Rest in peace !!!
Melonie Miller
I worked with Lillian at Exeter Hospital and she certainly was a team player.. a good nurse & always a smile.
Everyone, staff& patients loved her… I also grew up in Hensall so knew all the Beers .. good good people .. world was a better place with your mom in it.. good memories for all of you
Barry & Melonie Miller
Karen McLellan
Lillian’s Family, My deepest sympathy to you. Lillian was a wonderful kind person and a sweet lady. Rest in peace Lillian we all will miss you.
Darlene Porter
Deepest sympathy to the family . I worked with Lillian for many years what wonderful RN . Her eye just twinkled when she smiled. . Her kindness was genuine and it was a great honour to know Lillian . Heaven gained an angel.
George and Sue Wilson
Lillian’s sons and families, Lillian was a lovely woman, a very compassionate nurse and volunteer. She was very dedicated to helping others even after her retirement. My parents knew her and thought a lot of your Mom. Cherish your precious memories. Heartfelt condolences and prayers sent.
Janet Winters
To the entire Beer family:She was a gem! On Sunday mornings after church, we would meet my parents…Andre and Mariette Bilcke at Brenda s Restaurant. (former Cozy Corner) for breakfast. Just as we were leaving the Hensall United church ladies would pull up in their shared car ride assisting each other in and out of the restaurant. We were always so happy to see their smiling faces. Lillian made a mean pie too! For many years she made pies for our Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Petite,cute,always smiling, always smiling and I still don t know how she saw over the dashboard of her car but she always had a car full. She will be missed
Brenda Palsa
I worked with Lillian at the beginning of my career 88-91 when Lil retired. She was a most patient conscientious compassionate nurse- always a smile
on her face no matter how hard the shift has been. May you cherish her memory I have had the blessing of some memories which I will hold dear Brenda Palsa
Mary Lynn Hetherington
⭐️⭐️Forever in my heart. Goodbye my beloved travelling companion. We have put in thousands of miles of travelling. We shared, laughter, joy, sorrow, the birth of a beautiful baby girl, good food, bus trips, travelled across a continent numerous times, made memories that will last. You have your Heavenly Wings. (And then I heard the angel say, ‘She’s with you every day”).
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” – Mahatma Gandhi⭐️⭐️R.I.P. Aunt Lil. Til we meet again. ❤️❤️🙏🙏🕯🕯🕯. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you, David, John and Steven. Thank you for sharing your incredible mom with Orland, Brianne and I.
Sharon Scruton Zone Commander Ladies Auxiliaries' to Zone C-1
Lillian will be sadly missed, there will be a vacancy within the ranks of Zone C-1 Legion Ladies Auxiliaries’. Lillian was present for all functions of District and Zone and considered an Honorary Member, she wore her uniforms (Branch/Auxiliary) proudly. It was an honour to have had the privilege of calling her Comrade.
Kathy Mann
David, John, Steven: So very sorry to hear of your mothers passing. I considered her a true friend, and so wonderful to work with at all the Church functions, a supporter of Hensall Horticulture and of the Hensall Heritage Hall. She I’ll be truly missed
Marion & Ron Cornish
Sincere condolences to the Beer family. Lillian was such a great lady and a caring nurse, I always enjoyed working with her at SHH and visiting with her at our monthly retiree breakfasts. She was such a sharp and witty lady. Thinking of all of you at this sad time. Marion & Ron Cornish
Linda Dudley
To our dear brother-in-law, David, our sister Dee, Kristin, Keith & daughters, Aaron; Steven, and John. Such a beautiful obituary for a truly wonderful lady. What an amazing legacy she has left during her 92 years. We always loved being in her presence, and reflecting back now, have to realize what an honour it was. Ms. Lillian was always very warm, friendly, kind, gentle, humorous….so many things. This is a great loss for your family, her community, her friends, and the many organizations in which she was a long term dedicated, and hardworking member. We extend our love and deepest sympathy during this difficult time.
Sincerely, Alan and Linda.
Doris Wragg
Lillian was a great woman , that I had the good fortune to work alongside and learn from at South Huron Hospital. She was a quiet and sweet person with the greatest sense of humor . She was one of the best and now will be an angel . Rest in peace Lillian
Jen (Cook)Carter
To the Beer family.
I am sorry to learn of Mitch’s passing. For years I didn’t know she had another given name. She always had a smile that would warm your heart when you saw her and the look of someone who was comfortable in her own skin. Thinking of you at this time of sorrow.
Jen
Pat and Donna Suter
To all Lil’s family,
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. She was an amazing person who we have lots of great memories. Her smile was so genuine, it just felt good to see it. It was a honour to have known her. She truly enjoyed her life to the fullest. God received a very special angel in heaven. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Pat and Donna Suter (Saskatchewan cousins)
Mary and Clark Forrest
David, John, and Steve:
Please accept our deepest and most heartfelt condolences at this most challenging time.
Lillian left footprints of kindness, love, courage, compassion, humour and joy.
I was honored to be one of her hairdressers and appreciated her driving me to work on the days that she had her hair done.
Lillian’s love may leave us, but, she will be well remembered.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cecil & Joyce Pepper
So sorry to hear of Lillian’s passing. Her & I shared so many things around the Church. You all have our sympathy & condolances. Rest in Peace
Dave Frayne
To Lillian’s family and friends:
Sorry to learn of her passing, knew her more for her work with the Hensall Legion. She will be missed.
Allan & Gail Reid
Sincere condolences to Lillian’s family, she will be missed . Allan and Gail
Louis
sorry to hear of Lillian passing our prayers and thoughts are with all of you
Elaine Vandeworp
Condolences to Lillians family, she was always a sweet lovely lady.
Darlene Varley Lightfoot
Steve, so sorry on the passing of your mom. She was just the sweetest lady. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
Ross MItchell and Susan Reeves
Aunt Lil always a laugh, always a smile, she never seemed down about anything . I know she was a ray of sunshine to every one she met. Our family will miss her dearly.
Bill & Les
Dear David, John and Steven What a shock when David phoned to tell me the sad news. I truly loved this lady and will miss her so much. She always had a smile and could laugh at things she did wrong and loved everyone and had a greeting for them when she would meet anyone. She was such a great asset to the community and will greatly missed. She looked after our little dog Marley a lot of times when we had to go way.
Mandy Dimaline
A truly remarkable women to me. Always knew just what to say and had the patience to listen to any problems. I wish I could have honoured you in an even bigger way, but I was proud to be able to give your great grand niece your name, and she happily let’s everyone know she is named after her Aunt Lil. I will never forget ❤️
Joyce and Doug McBeath
My sympathy and prayers to the Beer family. I met and worked with Lilian “Mitch” for a number of years at South Huron Hospital. What a great caring lady. When I had the funeral home our relationship continued through the Hensall United Church where she worked tirelessly. May she Rest In Peace
Caroline Peterson
To Lillian’s family,
Our condolences on your loss. Lillian will be missed by many, many people. I met her through the Hensall Legion and she was the most dedicated volunteer. She was such a sweet lady. It was an honour to know her.
Caroline, Glenn, Malcolm and Anna Peterson
Cheryl Talbot
My thoughts and prayers are with you David John and Steven. she was my neighbour for over a year but we bonded right away and she loved James Patterson books and found out I was too so she would get the latest book read it and leave it at my door when finished reading it. I will miss her leaving me books at my door. I have 3 books left that she left at my door because she was a fast reader and could not keep up to her. so every time I read James Patterson I will think of her.
Gary and Judy Kyle
David, John and Steve. Your Mother was a truly beautiful, kind, generous and humble Lady. Always a smile, sparkle in her eyes and a little chuckle. She will be remembered by many.
Keith and Gloria Wilbee
Lillian was a nice lady, always seen her at Hensall United Church or visiting her brother Emerson. Keith remembers her teaching him to skate in a Brussels. So sorry to hear of her passing our thoughts and prayers are with all the family.
Carol Dixon
David, John and Steven . My deepest sympathies to you on the loss of your Mom. Mitch was a great lady and was a friend to many. She will be missed by her Northcrest family.
Doug and Janet Mitchell
We will so miss her being a part of our lives. We both loved her like a mom and so did our kids. Rest in peace Aunt Lol. You will never be forgotten!
Doug and Janet
Judy Grenier
My sympathy to Lillian’s family. I had the privilege of working with Lillian & she was the most compassionate & kind nurse I have ever worked with. Cherish your memories.
The Northcrest Board of Directors
A beautiful tribute to a truly beautiful lady. May she rest in eternal peace, softly cradled in the arms of the Lord.
Tony & Alma Dayman
A truly inspiring lady who will be missed by so many! Our deepest condolences to her family and friends. RIP
Don and Edith Lewis & family
To the Beer family and friends,
We are sorry to see that Lillian has passed away.
I had the privilege working with her, WHAT A GREAT NURSE.
She loved her work, and helping everyone, always a smile.
I’m sure she will be missed by family and friends and all that knew her.
R. I. P. Lillian
Alvin and Marilyn Taylor
David, John and Steven
We were very sorrow to hear of Mom’passing. She was a wonderful neighbor for the last nine years. May happy memories help you through this difficult time.
Sharon Sims
Dear David, John, Steven and all Lillians family ..Lillian was the sweetest lady l have met. She was always a LADY and so very gracious and sincere. My mother, Marie Gelinas, thought the world of her as well. My deepest condolences to all of you and may fond memories ease your sorrow. With sympathy and prayers..Sharon Sims.
Faye Skinner
To Lillian’s family: My sincere sympathy to all your family members. I was a Coordinator for the Dining for Seniors program that ran out of the Hensall United Church where your mother Lillian was a volunteer for several years. I was there for 24 years and she had already been a volunteer then and continued even after I left in 2018. She was a dedicated and hard worker who supported me in my work environment. She will be missed by her family and the community where she lived. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Brian & Lynda Sanders
So sorry to hear of Lillian’s passing Such a sweet sweet lady Loved working with her Our prayers & thoughts are with all of you.