BREEN: Ronald “Buzz” Wilfred of Grand Bend, formerly of Georgetown
Posted By Haskett Funeral Homes On August 18, 2026 @ 5:52 PM In Dashwood, Obituary | 26 Comments
Passed away at home with his family by his side on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at the age of 90. Beloved husband of the late Beverly (Hutchinson) Breen for 59 years and partner of Brigid Hicks for over 10 years. Cherished father of Cheryl and Joe DaPonte, and Stephen and Traci Breen. Adored grandfather of 4 and great-grandfather of 3. Dear brother of Myra Perusello. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, Brigid’s 4 girls and the extended Hutchinson and Hicks families.
Ron was a hardworking and community-minded man whose life was defined by dedication, service, and a genuine love for others. After leaving school, he spent 15 years working at the paper mill before opening a convenience store alongside his wife, Bev. He later built a successful career in the insurance industry, where he worked for approximately 15 years until his retirement. Ron was also respected Ontario Hockey League referee for many years and, in retirement, enjoyed working at Oakwood Golf Course, where he combined his love of golf with the friendships he made there. A passionate volunteer, he generously gave more than 30 years of service to the Lions Club and was actively involved with the Grand Bend Legion, Exeter Hospital, St. John’s by the Lake Anglican Church, and the Grand Cove community. Ron embraced every opportunity to enjoy life—whether singing karaoke, dancing, golfing, reading, tackling crossword puzzles, or gathering with friends for a weekly game of cards. Above all else, he treasured his family, especially his beloved partner, Brigid, and his extended family. Ron truly lived life to the fullest, and his infectious positivity, kind heart, and gentle spirit will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at Grand Cove Estates Clubhouse, 70592 Pebble Beach Parkway, Grand Bend on Saturday, August 29th from 1 – 4 PM.
Donations to Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.
Condolences for the family of “BREEN: Ronald “Buzz” Wilfred of Grand Bend, formerly of Georgetown”
Dear Brigid, so sorry for your loss. I know you two enjoyed life together so much. Big hugs,
I had the pleasure of working with Ron at the Oakwood Golf Club. He was one of the kindest, most fun and loving people I’ve ever met. Our sincerest condolences to Brigid and Ron’s families.
RIP buddy.
Dear Bridgid Margaret Beth Liam Stefan and the other two sisters: my condolences go out to you all and peace be in your souls. Know that Ron is in a better place and is no longer suffering. God bless each and everyone of you at this most difficult time and prayers are for Ron’s soul and your family. Take care of yourselves and be good to each other. Gods blessings
What a wonderful life, what a wonderful person to have known. He was charming, funny, caring and witty. Jim and I have many fond memories with Ron that we will carry with us. He is truly unforgettable. May he rest in peace. To his family and to Brigids and hers we offer our deepest condolences.
What a legacy Ron leaves behind. He was truly a caring, compassionate and funny human. We are all better for have knowing him. Condolences to Ron’s famiky and Brigid’s family. He will always be remembered for being a great guy.
Ron was a very special friend. We have many wonderful memories of times spent with Ron and Brigid. He was a caring loving guy and fun to be with. We will miss him immensely and our thoughts and condolences are with Brigid and all the family .
Dear Brigid, sorry to hear about Ron , I’m sure there’s a good card game going on somewhere.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Maureen Craig
I had the absolute pleasure of looking after Ron for 15 years. He kindly volunteered his time to teach medical students and allowed them to ‘practice’ on him. He was such a cool guy. I will miss seeing him every 3 months. Hugs to his family and loved ones.
Ron will truly be missed by many. He loved all he did and enjoyed every minute. Ron and Bev entertained in the former theatre shows held in Grand Cove. Bev was a member of our Red Hat Ladies of the Cove and Bev and Ron would entertain our ladies and spouses at our special celebrations.
My sincere sympathy to Brigid and her family during this time.
It was fun working with Ron at oakwood. I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Briged and the breen family Rob Ducharme [rev]
My deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Brigid, Ron’s beloved partner, and to your entire families . My heart and prayers are with you as you mourn the loss of a truly remarkable man.
Ron embraced each day as a precious gift from God, living life with joy, gratitude, and an open heart. He had a beautiful way of making everyone feel welcomed, valued, and loved. His kindness, gentle spirit, and warm smile touched countless lives and will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.
I can only imagine that the angels welcomed Ron with open arms, and that he has already found new friends in his heavenly home. While we grieve his absence, we rejoice in the promise that he now rests in the eternal peace and love of our Lord.
May God surround you with His unfailing love, grant you strength for each new day, and comfort you with the cherished memories that will forever live in your hearts.
Keeping you all in my thoughts, my prayers, and my heart. 🙏❤️
Ron was a very special person and cared so much for his family and friends he was a fun loving guy. Bridget and Ron were truly happy and contented with their life together and the friendship’s they had. Bridget you have a wonderful family who loves you and they are there with all their support, prayers for all. RIP Ron.🙏
Ron was a very special friend. Always with a smile and always ready to help the community and everyone in it. He will be missed.
My condolences Brigid. I didn’t know Ron very long but it was obvious that he was kind, funny and a true gentleman. May your happy memories bring you some comfort at this difficult time. 🩷
Brigid our deepest heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Ron will always be remembered for his lovely smile and warmth. His karaoke friends will miss his talent for the great presence he had while singing his love songs. Truly the loveliest man we had the pleasure of knowing.
Ron was truly a wonderful man. He and Brigid where a special couple and a big influence on my life.
RIP Mr Smooth we love you.
We met Ron at a dance with Bridget. We discovered that we all loved to dance. We recognized him right away that he used to referee Jack”s hockey games in Georgetiwn. What a great guy. Condolences to Bridget and his extended family. Grand Cove will miss his friendliness and winning smile.
We send our sincere condolences to Brigid and family. Ron was a very friendly person who was always offering a helpful hand. He will be sadly missed by the Grand Cove community. Rest in peace, Ron.
Our condolences to the family, and especially dear Bridget who Ron loved and cared for so much.
He will be missed very much.
Sending deepest condolences on Ron’s passing. We had many interesting conversations on our rides to London.
Ron you be missed you were one of the best things about the card games losing to you when you bluffed was worth it to see the joy it brought you
We are thinking of Ron’s family and friends and know how much he will be missed. We will miss our chats on the front porch and we miss his singing on Fridays at the Legion karaoke. He was a special man who was friends with everyone. All our love to Brigid and to Ron’s family.
Ron and I first met in Georgetown while our skates were on; striped shirt covered our torsos; fingertip whistle at the readiness and maybe officiating skills and knowledge to be gained. We started refereeing youth hockey (OMHA); graduating to Ontario Hockey Association (Junior) games. He was always willing to share his knowledge and gamesmanship when needed. Ron enjoyed officiating during the weeklong Bantam Tournament in Georgetown. Dedicated to giving to the youth of the Community.
His whistle may be silenced, his jokes – long forgotten, his good natured/fun-loving attitude not forgotten and the opportunity to be in his company…never forgotten. Thanks for being “Buzz”. I am unable to join you in celebration on the 29th, but assure you, you will not be forgotten! Best to your family. “Take a rest Ron/Buzz…you earned it!”
Deepest condolences, Ron was a wonderful neighbour in The Cove!
Joyce Duchesne
Ron helped me through a difficult situation with such genuine caring and persistence. Michael had a lot of fun playing cards with him. We’re glad we knew him. Our prayers are with everyone who loves him.
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Ron was a lovely man who enjoyed life. Ron and Mom were truly a team and Mom describes their years together as filled with fun. Ron was wonderful to my Son and my Sister’s sons. Ron’s wishes were all honoured and I know he would have been very happy about that.
❤️