Obituaries

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Cornelius on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Cornelius, at the age of 76, was the beloved husband to Anita (nee Vaillancourt). Loving Father to Maria Jilesen-Shearer, Rhea Jilesen, Robert Jilesen (Mary-Catherine), Sarah Pazienza (Paul), Thomas Jilesen (Roxanne), and Erica Deacon (Jayme). Cherished Opa to Ella, Emily, Tyler, Chelsea, Samantha, Lane, Tia, Beau, Evan, Jesse, Alexander, Victoria, Lydia, Haley (Dylan), and Ashley, and Great-Opa to Lydia. Dear brother to Herman (Judy), William (Bronwen), Wilhelmina (Jim), Mary (Mike), Leo (Carol), Gerard (Jill), Anthony (Bonnie), John (Lisa), Catherine (Richard). Predeceased by brother; Marius (survived by Gail) and by parents Catharina and Leonardus Jilesen. Cornelius will be remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and clients of Jilesen’s Service Centre.

Volunteer Firefighter and captain at the Omemee Fire Hall for 25 years of service, long serving member of the Knights of Columbus in Downeyville, former Lindsay Kinsmen Club member, and an active member in the St. Luke’s Downeyville community, working on many committees over the years. Lived a life of charity and service to his family, church, and community.

Visitation will take place at Stoddart Funeral Home, 24 Mill Street, Lindsay on Friday, March 14th from 2:00 – 4:00pm and 6:00pm – 8:00pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Luke Church, Downeyville on Saturday, March 15th at 11:00am. Interment will follow at St. Luke’s Cemetery, Downeyville. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation can be made to The Knights of Columbus 8911 (Downeyville Hall Renovation Project) which would be appreciated by the family.