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Liam Jay Church

May 4, 2021

February 24, 2000 – May 4, 2021

Liam Jay Church, of London, Ontario, died on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at the age of 21.

Born on February 24, 2000, in Hamilton, Ontario, Liam was the much-loved son of Jennifer Kilgar and Brian (Shannon McConnell) Church. He will be remembered and deeply missed by younger brothers, Tyler and Kai; and grandparents: William and Geraldine Church, Sharon Hackney-Purchase and David Purchase. He was adored by his aunts and uncles: William (Jessica) Church, Mark (Janis) Church, Janis (Terry Stride) Kilgar; and cousins Ethan, Ashley, Daniella, William “Alex”, Jack, Michael, and Jase. His loss is also felt by extended family and friends across the country and his community family who supported him throughout the last few years. He was predeceased by his uncle, Jason Kilgar.

Liam was a curious, musical soul who loved the beauty of nature, outdoor adventures, and trying new things. He delighted in playing any request from any decade by ear on his fiddle or French horn and loved entertaining any audience. He took many road trips to the East Coast to visit Nova Scotia and Newfoundland to hike, canoe, kayak, camp, skip stones in the ocean, and snowboard with family and friends. He had a quirky wit, and a genuine curiosity in fellow humans that endeared him to many; that and the deep blue eyes he saw the world through.

Cremation has taken place. A private interment and a public celebration of Liam’s life will occur at a later date. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Liam are asked to consider Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU), the Canadian Celiac Association, or Teen Challenge – Ontario Men’s Centre. Online condolences are available by visiting www.westviewfuneralchapel.com.

Love is deep as the road is long
and moves my feet to carry on
It beats my heart when you are gone
Love is deep as the road is long

“Nobody Knows” – The Lumineers

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(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ London Community Paediatricians

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ LHSC OR

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Debbie Langer and Cameron Angle

Sharon and David, I am sorry to hear of the death of your grandson. I often think of you and wonder how you are doing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Estelle Creighton

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Mary Anne Paterson

Jennifer, Tyler, Kai, Janice, Sharon & Families ... Sending you our love and keeping you close in caring thoughts and prayers during this very difficult and sad time.

~ Gary & Donna Casavechia

To Brian and Jen and families, So deeply sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all and wishing you peace and strength during these difficult times. My sincere condolences.

~ Kathy Roth

Brian, Jen and family. Our deepest condolences and sympathy for your loss. We hope you can find strength with each other.

~ Jeff and Christine Granton

I met Liam downtown London. He was far too young to be on such a destructive path. This is just so tragic. Condolences to family and friends.

~ Sylvia Exley

Dear Brian & family, I'm so sorry for the loss of your son, Liam. I wish you all strength during this difficult time & hope that soon happy memories of Liam bring you all comfort. My deepest condolences to your family.

~ Indu Singh

We got to know Liam when he was out east end of city and when he asked for money he said it so polite. I always fixed him up with a coffee and always fixed him up with a turnover from A&W. He never was rude and we never heard him cuss anyone out or anything. He was a very good gentle boy and I tried to talk him into seeing my friend who ran Salvation Army who could of helped him. We will miss our talks with you Liam and your quirky ways and we will truly miss your polite ways. RIP my friend. Our condolences to family and friends. He was truly a friend of mine.

~ Bryan Patterson and Judy Muzylowsky

Brian, Jen and family I am so sorry for your loss. May your memories of your time with him comfort you now and in the future. Sincerest condolences during this difficult time.

~ David Sommerfreund

I went to Pearson with Liam, although we were in different classes for most of our time there. He was always making us laugh. He used to get called down to the office everyday, because he was always forgetting to go. It became a bit of a comedy routine for him, we'd hear the announcement and we'd all laugh, and if you were lucky you'd catch a glimpse of him strolling to the office with a cheeky grin. They started to get creative with the ways they called him over the PA system, and once our secretary said "Liam Church please grace the office with your presence" and at 12 I just thought that was the funniest thing I'd ever heard. He was a really endearing person. I ran in to him a few years ago on Dundas and he was so friendly and genuinely interested in how I was and what I was up to. He was a really special person. I'm so sorry for your loss and am sending warm wishes.

~ Sophie Moodie

Our hearts are crushed at Liam's passing. We have beautiful memories of Liam, at our wedding as little boy, later in Robinsons where he had so much love and patience for all of the younger kids around him. With love and sympathy. Mike, Bimi, Jay & Carolyn xoxo

~ Bimi & Mike Yetman

To Liam's family and community, I am so very sorry for your loss. This was such a beautiful obituary for such a beautiful and curious soul. I observed Liam to be a kind and respectful young man who had so many great questions about this world. He will be missed. His smile is etched in my memory. Rest in peace Liam.

~ Tasha

We met Liam while he visited Bill &Gerri in Florida a few years ago ..He was a very charming , courteous young man and a pleasure to be in his company......Please accept our sincere condolences ...

~ Larry & Kathy Cheeseman

Jennifer, Tyler, Kai, Janice, Sharon & David: My heart breaks for you. I can't find the words to express how much I wish I could say or do something to ease your sorrow. You are all in my thoughts & prayers.

~ Susan Twohig

You are so special, Liam. You are missed by so many. Sending love to your family, friends and community.

~ Sarah Rogers

Brian, Jenn, Bill & Gerry...we are shocked and saddened to hear about the loss of Liam. Sending our deepest condolences and prayers.

~ Louise & Brian Cormier

My deepest condolences for this loss. May your memories bring you some comfort at this difficult time.

~ Andreas Antoniou

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Daniel Power

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Indu Singh

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Karen Groeneweg

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Amy and Kevin Bax

(Donated to Canadian Celiac Association)

~ Susan Twohig

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Yvonne Medeiros on behalf of Paeds ED

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Yvonne Medeiros on behalf of Paeds ED

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Ceara McNeil

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Ron & Linda Greason

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Arlene Dugas and Gary Kilgar

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Paul Atkison

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Mike and Pearl

(Donated to Canadian Celiac Association)

~ Victoria

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ fran Mahadeo

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Reg

(Donated to Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU))

~ Joan Firth

(Donated to Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre)

~ Christine Glover

It isn't easy losing a child, a grandchild, a friend. Our thoughts are with you during this time of grief. With love, Mike and Pearl

~ Mike and Pearl

Dear Brian and Family, no words can express the pain that you are going through at this time. I pray that God will give you the strength to face the coming days ahead. Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your beautiful son, Liam.

~ Tony Vannelli

Lake Echo holds you in our hearts today . Just wanted to let you know that we are thinking of you.

~ Dwight and Doris Corbin

Jenn, Tyler, and Kai, I am holding you all in my heart and my prayers. The tributes to Liam talk of a compassionate and loving spirit. He touched many lives. My deepest sympathy and love.

~ Mary Cunningham

So very sorry to hear the passing of Liam. 😪My self and many of my fellow LTC driver's, interacted with Liam downtown. Many of us helped him as much as we were able. He was such a kind, soft spoken young man. Had an awesome smile, that could melt your heart. My condolences to his family and friends. Fly high with the angels, Liam. ❤️

~ Charmaine Preston

Dear Brian and Church family, my thoughts are with you and your family during this profound time of sorrow.

~ Mike Christian

So sorry to hear of Liam's passing. I remember him well and very fondly as a student at L. B. Pearson. He is gone too soon and my deepest sympathy and condolences to his family and his friends and classmates as they try to cope with a great loss.

~ Ian Bennett

My deepest sympathy is extended to all of you. Liam was such a special soul who touched my heart in so many ways. While I was the Secretary at Pearson, Liam made a point of coming by everyday. We had many laughs and conversations. He was part of a group of three that I referred to as Winkin, Blinkin, and Nod, from a children's book. I talked to Liam several times when I saw him on Dundas Street. He was such a kind, gentile soul. Rest In Peace. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Gone too soon.

~ Kimberly Morley-Fickling

we are deeply saddened by Liam,'s passing ,he was a delightful Young man who endeared himself to us when we met him. Please accept our prayers and condolences to the whole family.

~ Bill and diane barker

To Jennifer, Tyler, Kai, Janice and all Family. So sorry and heartbroken to hear of your unimaginable loss. I know, no words can take away your pain, but know that we are thinking of You All and so heartbroken that you have to go through this. Keep your precious memories of him close to your heart and in time, hopefully this will bring You comfort and know that he is at peace. Sending Much Love and Hugs from Nova Scotia.

~ Arlene Dugas and Gary Kilgar

Brian and Jenn - our deepest condolences for your terrible loss. Liam was clearly a special young man who will be missed by everyone who knew him. Bruce and Una

~ Bruce and Una

Jenn, I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. Monique

~ Monique (Mullen) Casta

Dear Jenn We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this very sad time. Sincerely, Elizabeth, Clyde and Morgan

~ Elizabeth Hunt

Bill, Gerri and all of Liams family. Please accept my deepest condolences for your family's loss. May your heart and soul find peace and comfort. Peggy Hurley

~ Peggy Hurley

Jenn, I was so sorry to read about your loss. May God bless you and guide you through this difficult time.

~ Joan Firth

Liam was one of those students you never forget. As his music teacher at Lester B. Pearson I became quickly aware of his natural musical talent which allowed him to learn the difficult French horn with remarkable ease. He demonstrated leadership in the band and several small ensembles and developed great friendships in these groups. My fondest memories of him are of the several times I drove him home after a long rehearsal. His travel conversations as a young teen were both insightful and often contained his "patented humorous touch." Liam loved his little brothers very much and his sensitive soul viewed life with joy and compassion. I pray that he is singing with the angels right now and smiling with a twinkle in his eye as he does so.

~ Jeff Brown

I am sorry for your losing a child is heartbreaking. I cannot imagine how hard it is to lose a child. Our thoughts are with your family at this very difficult time.

~ Victoria McHugh

Gerri, Bill and Liam's family sending our sincere condolences. May your memories bring you some comfort at this difficult time.

~ Julie and Greg Lefaive

My mom and I are heartbroken by this news. Liam often hung out near where I live and we'd be looking out for him. We hadn't seen him this week, but heard of his passing today. He was a good kid. He was polite and kind. Even though we only knew him the past few months, we feel very saddened by his loss. His presence will be missed. He was someone special, that was obvious. My love and condolences to his family and all who knew him.

~ Leigh-Anne Ryan

Sending our deepest condolences to your family. We are so sorry for your loss. Rest In Peace Liam. Arlene, Liam and Benjamin Maharaj

~ Arlene Maharaj

Jennifer and Family, we were saddened to hear of Liam's passing. Please know we are thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.

~ John & Michelle Wolfe

Jenn, Tyler, Kai, We are so sorry for the loss of your incredible boy, Liam. You couldn't know Liam and not be touched by his outsized heart, his playfulness, his curiosity and his humour. We have spent the past few days talking about Liam, laughing at our stories of him, and desperately wishing that he was still here. Sending you our love.

~ Leslie Garrett and family

Our deepest condolences go out to all of you at this time of sorrow. It melts my heart remembering how handsome and talented you were Liam. You played the violin for us so beautifully. You will forever be sadly missed. RIP Liam. xoxo Rose & Wally

~ Rose (Vargyas) & Wally Tonkin

Dear Jenn and Brian, I am heartbroken for you and your family. Extending my deepest sympathies and I will honour Liam with a donation to YOU.

~ Craig Campbell

Together we were Liam Squared. I have many fond memories of playing games and making music with Liam. The first day I met Liam, we were in line ready to go on stage and perform a violin piece at a summer music institute. With many of us nervous to go out and perform, Liam went up and down the line telling everyone to smile. I laughed and so did others. A year later, I was nervous to start my new journey at Lester B. Pearson School for the Arts. Liam and I were magically paired with the same grade four buddy on orientation day. Liam once again made me smile and my nerves were gone. We became best friends. Liam was always trying to bring a smile to the faces of others and make people happy. I will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to his siblings and family, I am so very sorry for your loss.

~ Liam H

Jen and Brian and the Church Family Words cannot express my sorrow to all of you RIP Liam.

~ Miggy Stallbom

I had the privilege of meeting him in the first year of high school and instantly became friends I would say he was my best friend At the time and got me laughing on a daily basis we had lots of adventures and many inside jokes. It is so terrible to see him go and my heart goes out to the Church family Liam is in my prayers

~ Noah Teichroeb

Liam and I were best friends in elementary school, and we both shared a passion for making videos together. We started a YouTube channel and spent countless hours bonding, and developing our creative talents with one another. Endless laughs and great memories that I'll never forget. Rest in peace Liam.

~ Aidan Dawson

I am deeply saddened to hear of Liam passing. Liam was a talented sweet soul. My deepest condolences and prayers of peace to all of Liams family who loved him unconditionally. All my love, Chelle Rimell

~ Chelle Rimell

Jenn and Brian & family...our hearts break for you both. We have many wonderful memories of a young Liam from when our girls babysat him and his siblings. I have been smiling this morning remembering. Know that he was a remarkable young man who touched many lives. We are the better for having known this amazing person. We pray that he and his family will find peace and take comfort in knowing that he touched many in his short life. Hugs Mary Anne, Doug, Amanda, Meagan and Pamela.

~ Mary Anne Paterson

Jenn and Brian, There are no words. I'm so sorry Our hearts are aching for you and your families.

~ Andi Jones

I had the privilege of working with Liam in the community over the past two years. From the moment I met him, it was clear he was a special soul. He was curious, astoundingly compassionate, and always quick to share a joke or witty remark- I can't recall a single interaction wherein a laugh was not shared between us. Liam held true to his values. Even in very challenging moments and circumstances, he remained kind, respectful, and understanding; his resilience and composure shocked and inspired me on many occasions. He truly was a kind, genuine and gentle soul. Liam's passing is a profound loss for all who had the pleasure of knowing him and for the greater world. His unwavering compassion for, and desire to understand those around him go unmatched. As I write about Liam in the past tense, my hands shake and my heart hurts for his loving family. My deepest condolences to Liam's family. I am so sorry.

~ E

Jenn my heart is absolutely aching for you and your unimaginable loss. I am thinking of you and your boys and sending you all my love.

~ Danielle MacEachern (Rowlings)

My condolences to Liam's family, he was such a sweet and kind soul, loved by the community. Liam is going to be missed by so many people, a beautiful soul has been lost and I am so sorry.

~ Allison

Sending you massive hugs across the miles. Jenn, Tyler, Kai and your whole family, I am deeply sorry for the loss of Liam from your lives. I hope that you feel the love being sent your way during this unimaginable time.

~ Kelly (Emmett) Kenny

Liam and I went to elementary school together and shared the same bus for all of Pearson. We weren't close at first but eventually became good friends. I remember he was always so funny and the first to offer help if you needed it. I'll never forget the smell of his sardines on the bus and all the games we played together. He was a great friend. RIP Liam.

~ Graham Lumsden

Liam was one of my best friends at Lester B Pearson. From desk buddies to friends outside of class, Liam had a huge impact on my life growing up. An impact that I will forever cherish and remember. One of my fondest memories was his birthday party in grade 5 where we all gathered at his house and hung out; one of my most memorable memories growing up. I am thankful for the opportunity to have known Liam's kindness, quirkiness and creativity throughout my adolescence and I will forever miss him. Thank you Liam for the ways you have impacted me, and thank you to his beautiful family who raised his kind soul. I send my sincerest condolences and love. Rest In Peace, Liam ❤️

~ Lilly Blevins

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Teen Challenge - Ontario Men's Centre

Youth Opportunities Unlimited (YOU)

Canadian Celiac Association

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