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HORNER: Earl of Exeter

By 101 Condolences

HORNER: Earl of Exeter

Earl Horner passed away peacefully with family by his side, in Exeter, Ontario on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, just a month before his 90th birthday. Beloved husband of Margaret (Schade) Horner for 64 years. Cherished father and father-in-law of daughter Debbie (Horner) and Dwayne Mathers of Grand Bend and proud grandpa of their three children Brent (Amanda), Blake (Alexandra) and Kyle (Natalie); and son, Brian Horner and Suzanne Mathers of Exeter and proud grandpa of their three children Justin (Sara), Brock, Drew (Hailey). Great-grandpa of Adia, Adelyn, Harrison, Keith and Emmaline. Dear brother of Wayne and Helen (Grainger) of Cold Lake, and Larry of London. Fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, a host of long term friends, and grand dogs Achilles, Hank, Buster. Predeceased by parents Harold and Ora (Schoch), brother Ross, sister Helen, and grand dog and best friend Duke. 

Earl was the sport fan’s sport fan, and everyone’s grandpa. As far as Earl was concerned, the Leafs and Blue Jays had potential every season and a game couldn’t be missed. Countless people will remember him for always being at the local rinks or ball diamonds and cheering, whether his own children or grandchildren were playing, or anyone’s grandchildren were on the field.  

Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 456 Main Street South, EXETER on Saturday, September 16th from 12:30 – 1:30 PM, where Earl’s funeral service will be held at 2 PM. Interment Exeter Cemetery.

Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to South Huron Hospital Foundation or South Huron Minor Hockey specifically to support those needing assistance with registration costs; or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Condolence Messages

  1. Doug Ellison

    Sorry to read about his passing ( just returned from holiday ) – always enjoyed meeting up with Earl and great sense of humour de

  2. Bob and Helen Coates

    Our condolences to Margaret, Debbie, Dwayne, Brian, Suzanne and families. We remember his friendliness and zest for life as well as his smile. Remember the great memories.

  3. Tom and Bev Prout

    Brian and Suzanne
    Sorry about the late condolences. I always enjoyed Earl’s humour and positive outlook on life.
    Sincere condolences to all of the family.

  4. Yunus Butt

    Grandpa Horner was an incredibly nice man and always welcoming and kind to me, friend of his grandson Kyle. He also raised an amazing daughter Debbie. Sending my deepest condolences to the family. Thinking of you all.

  5. Jeff O'Brien

    Marg, Deb, Brian and family. I will miss our friendly chats whenever our paths would cross. A very nice man who will definitely be missed.

  6. Wendy and Scott Stafford

    Marg, Deb, Brian and their families. I was so sorry to hear of Earls passing! He was very good to my dad (Bob Boogemans) and always had a smile on his face!! Keep the memories close in the coming days and moths ahead!

  7. Craig & Andrea Alexander

    ~The Horner Family~
    Sincere Condolences for your family’s loss. He will be remembered as another of our community’s greatest sports fans. His legacy will live on in all of you. May you find comfort in all of your wonderful memories.
    ~The Alexander Family~

  8. Kate Monk & Doug Hocking

    Our sincere condolences at this sad time. Earl has left a wonderful legacy for our communities and your families. Lots of good memories to carry with you on your journeys.
    Take good care,
    Doug & Kate

  10. Linda and Joe Pasher

    So so sad to hear of Early boys passing. He was a wonderful man. Our hearts are with his family. Marg, please remember how much he loved you. Such a love inspiration to everyone. Linda and Joe Pasher.

  12. Mary Moffatt

    Marg and family,
    My condolences to all of Earl’s family. He always had a smile and time to visit. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed life to the fullest through his enthusiasm for sports, cards, chats and humour.

  14. Mark Heimrich

    Marg, Brian & Suzanne, Debbie & Dwayne & families;

    Our sincere sympathy in the loss of Earl. He was a good man and always wearing a smile. I have fond memories of my interactions and chats with Earl over many years. From my young days serving him gas in Zurich to more recent times around Exeter, he was always a happy guy. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you all at this time.

    Mark & Julie Heimrich, Sarah, Scott & Spencer

  15. Tim & Shelley Sullivan

    Dear Marg, Debbie & Dwayne, Brian & Suzanne and families. We certainly enjoyed every time that we got to spend with Earl. Good memories of times in Florida chatting & playing cards with Earl. He was such a fun loving and compassionate soul. Earl will be truly missed by everyone who had the good fortune to know him. Cherish your memories. Rest in Peace, Earl.
    Shelley & Tim

  17. Brenda van Vugt

    I am so saddened to hear of Earl’s passing. Our families were very close growing up. I have fond memories of the many family gatherings. He will be missed.
    Our deepest sympathies to Marg, Debbie, Brian and families.
    Brenda and Harry van Vugt

  19. Tom & Noella Triebner

    Marg and Family. Sincere condolences to all your family. Cherish all those special memories in the coming days.

  20. Doug Hoffman

    Brian and family,

    Sorry to learn of your Dad’s passing. He was such an enjoyable and positive person. Cherish the memories.

    Doug

  21. Alexandra

    Home free to a place where the Blue Jays always win the World Series, the Leafs win the Cup, and where he wins solo every time. Thank you for always caring about everything. You will be missed. 💕

  23. Allie Millar

    Marg, Debbie and family,

    So sorry to hear about Earl’s passing.
    Sending my most sincere condolences to you and your family as you go through this difficult time. Earl was a lovely man I am honoured I got to meet him.

    He’ll be watching the Blue Jays from above.

  25. Gene & Becky Bender

    To Marg & your family…we were very saddened to hear that Earl had passed away. We had a wonderful visit with Wayne & Helen this summer along with Glen & Donna Greb, and we had asked about both of you then. I remember Earl as a kind, gentle man who was always friendly. I have the very best memories of our EUB church families, and they most certainly include the Horner and Schade families. Love, Becky & Gene Bender

  26. Laurie and Phil Erb

    Marg, Debbie & Dwayne, Brian & Suzanne and families,
    We were so sorry to hear of Earl’s passing and we know he will missed very much by all of you! His family was so important to him. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Hugs, Phil and Laurie

  27. Sandra, and Brian & Michael Funk

    Marg, Brian & Family and Deb and Family

    It was sad news to hear of Earl’s passing. Our Sincere Sympathy.
    He will be dearly missed,
    Marg, I think you agree that it was entertaining just sitting back (with a smile on our face) and listening to Earl and Fred tell their stories.

    Earl will always be remembered. Hold those memories.

  28. Linda and John Wuerth

    Marg and Family
    I am so sorry to hear about Earl. So hard to lose your soul mate for so many years. You have our deep sympathy. Cherish your memories

  29. Hugh & Fran McCallum

    Marg….thinking of you during this difficult time. Our card games were so much fun…hope Earl is holding his club solo due. Sincerely, Hugh & Fran

  30. Bernice Boogemans

    Marg and family. Our sincere sympathy to you Marg and your family. Bob remembers Earl at McDonald’s sitting with the boys for coffee. After Bob had Alzheimer Earl always offered or brought Bob home after coffee. Such a nice man and we thank him so very much for his kindness.
    Bob and Bernice

  32. Bill and Louise Pincombe

    Marg, Brian, Deb and families:
    Sorry to hear of Earl’s passing. It was great knowing him and yourself Marg over the past many years.
    Our children and grandchildren were the same ages so many hours spent in arenas and ball diamonds.
    Those were the good days, so hold those memories close and they will make you smile! Our sympathy goes out to all your family.

  34. Dianna Kiss

    To the Horner/Mathers family. So sorry for your loss.
    Dad & Mom (Harold & Lil) always enjoyed talking to Earl….together they shared many many “stories” over the years.
    Earl was always interested to hear what was “happening” on the farm at any particular time; crop yields, cattle prices, rain amounts, machinery purchases etc. etc.
    If I remember correctly there may have been a few games of solo played back in the day as well.
    Cherish your memories of your husband, dad, father-in-law, and grandpa. Theses memories will keep him close to your heart forever.

    Dianna

  35. Margaret Brintnell

    Marg. & All Your Family
    I extend my sympathy on the passing of Earl.
    We had a lot of laughs & fun at MacDonalds before all the covid. Just a great man.
    All of you will have such meaningful memories in days to come.
    Margaret Brintnell

  36. Brian and Janet Wedlake

    Our Sincere condolences to Marg and family. We had the pleasure of Earls company in Florida a few years ago. Hoping all the beautiful memories will comfort you at this time.

  41. Faye Skinner

    Marg and family:
    My sincere condolences to you and your family.
    Earl was always such a joker. He loved to dress up in costume at the dining program. He had a great sense of humour.
    He will be missed by his family, friends and the community.
    Faye Skinner

  42. Judy White

    I have many happy memories of time spent together.
    Deepest sympathy to Margaret and family.
    You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  43. Rob Hartle

    When I learned of Earl’s passing the first thought that came to mind was “salt of the earth”. I googled it, because it seems like a bit of an old fashioned expression. As I read the long list of words associated with someone who is considered the salt of the earth, “a very good and honest person, solid, dependable, unpretentious, friendly and straight forward” it seemed as though his picture could have accompanied the definition.
    Add to that Earl’s deep devotion to his family and you realize that he was kind of an old fashioned guy. Not sure they make them like that anymore.
    He was super cool with me and my family. Like everyone else we always felt better after spending time with him.
    Godspeed Earl.
    Sincere condolences to the family.

  44. John and Donna Hammond

    Dear Marg and family. Sad to hear of Earl’s passing. We really enjoyed being your across the street neighbours on Somerset and loved our chats with Earl . He had an excellent sense of humour and a touching compassion towards dogs. Rest in Peace, Earl.

  47. Joe and Marilyn Kenda

    Marg and Family,
    So sorry to read of the passing of Earl. Sending our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Earl was a very kind and friendly man. Know that our prayers and thoughts are with you.🙏🏻💕

  49. Don and Edith Lewis & Family

    Marg and Family

    Our condolence to you all in loss of Earl.
    He always had time to chat, he will be missed.

  51. Bob and Carol Johnston

    We were so sorry to read about Earls passing. He was a very enthusiastic sport fan and always loved talking sports whenever you were in his company.
    Sincere sympathy to Marg and all the Horner family at this difficult time in your lives
    Bob and Carol

  52. Dianne Waun

    Earl was a loveable tease and big fan of “dog runs”, and I will miss him. It was fun being neighbours on Somerset Street in the early days especially. Condolences to all of Earl’s loved ones.

  53. David Cooper

    My deepest sympathy to you, Marg, Debbie, Brian and your entire family. What a great man Earl was. I have such fond memories of the great times we had together. May you cherish your memories forever.

  54. Jim Chapman

    Margaret, Debbie, Brian and Families;
    My deepest sympathy to all of you!!
    I have good memories of Earl and his “Hornerisms”. He always had a friendly greeting and a clap on the shoulder.

  55. EVelyn Gaunt

    Dear Marg, Debbie, Dwayne, Brian, Suzanne and families
    My deepest sympathy is extended to all of you. You have many memories to share and these will help you through the days ahead. I will miss Earl at the family gatherings that I have been fortunate enough to share with your family over the years.
    My sincere condolences to all.
    Ev Gaunt

  56. Betty Beer Vanrooy

    Dear Marg, Debbie & Dwayne, Brian & Suzanne, and families,
    Sending you sincere condolences and fond thoughts at your time of grief. Earl was a wonderful man, caring husband and dad, and he will be missed.
    Fondly, Betty Beer

  57. Don & Charlene Oesch

    Marg & family
    Our deepest sympathy in Earls passing. Have great memories of both of you from your Zurich days. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.

    Don & Charlene

  58. Lu & Pete

    Deb, to you and your mom and the rest of the family. I fondly remember my baseball talks with Earl years ago. He was one of a kind, so friendly. Our love and condolences to you.

  60. Mary Ducharme

    Dear Marg. and family so sorry to hear of Earls passing.
    Many fond memories of Earl’s visits and your kindness
    when you lived in Zurich.
    My deepest Sympathy
    Mary Ducharme

  61. Jerry and Alice MacLean

    Sympathy to Marg and Family,
    Earl was always a happy talkative man as we knew him.Was never in a rush…lots of time to chat. Will miss seeing him in town and at church.
    Jerry and Alice MacLean

  62. Robert & Shannon Watson

    Marg, Bernie, Suzanne & Families
    Earl will be missed, yes, he was a true fan of all the kid’s hockey and ball games he watched. He always had good advice too. He will be missed. Robert & Shannon

  63. June E Morenz

    I am sending my sincere condolences to Marg and family on the loss of Earl. I remember him well from Dining for Seniors. Never saw that man without a smile or laughing. Cherish your memories.

  64. Brian &Lynda Sanders

    Dear Marg Brian Deb & families
    Earl was always so fun Had some great games of cards Some great memories along the way Our sympathies are with all of you
    Hugs Brian & Lynda

  65. David and Donna Van Allen

    So sorry to the whole family for your loss. Earl will be remembered for his enthusiasm around sports and his ability to connect with children. Earl will be fondly remembered and missed by many. Take comfort in the wonderful memories.

  66. Glenn Gascho

    Many great memories of Earl watching our ball team the Oil Burners. You could hear him above everyone else. Our deepest condolences to the family. Glenn & Carol Gascho

  67. Bob Merner

    Marg and family. Sorry to hear of Earls passing.Will always remember our fun conversations at hockey and ball games. Fond memories. Pip and Tootie.

  69. Cathy and Fred Sterns

    Hugs to Marg and prayers for all Earls family. Don’t know if dogs go to heaven but I can imagine Duke and Curly welcoming him there, tails wagging. Earl was so kind, a true friend to us in Florida.

  70. Lorraine & Bill Eybergen

    Our deepest condolences to Marg and the whole Horner family.
    Earl was always happy to see you. His upbeat way of living brought joy to everyone around him.
    He will be greatly missed.

  71. Harv & Evelyn Vincent

    Margaret, Debbie, Brian, Susanne and families
    Sincere sympathy in your great loss. Earl was such a kind man and loved by all who met him.
    Praying for God’s peace and comfort for each of you during these difficult days.

  72. joe farwell

    We are very sorry to hear about Earl’s passing. Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
    Joe and Melinda

  73. Mark&Judy Cronyn

    Marg, Brian, Suzanne, Deb, Dwayne and Families.
    So sorry to hear of Earls passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time.
    Hold all of your wonderful memories close to help you through.
    RIP Earl
    Mark&Judy Cronyn and family

  74. Marilyn Taylor

    Marg and family
    Sorry to hear of Earl’s passing. May happy memories help you through this difficult time.

  75. Michelle

    Brian, Suzanne, and family. I am so sorry to hear about this. I always loved listening to Earl as he watched the boys play hockey. He was a great man and I loved speaking with him as frequently as I could. He will be very missed.

  76. Janet Gaunt

    In his near 90 years Earl put a great deal of life in those years and that’s what counts. We are going to miss him.
    Cliff & Janet

  77. Al and Heather Beattie

    Marg, Brian, Deb and families,
    Our sincere condolences on Earl’s passing. Although we can’t be with you, as we are managing a family health situation, our thoughts are with you. We remember the “happy hours”, card games, and the happy times at CW. Earl was one of a kind – a caring gentleman. RIP He will be missed.

  79. Dave and Jean Marsh

    Dear Brian and family. Jean and I are thinking of you and your family during this time of your father’s passing. May the countless memories of a life well lived help you through the days ahead as you begin to come to terms with the loss of your loved one.

  80. Wayne and Sonia Greb

    Marg and family – sending our condolences to all of you at this sad time in the loss of your dear husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather Earl. Keeping all his memories in your hearts forever.
    Wayne and Sonia Greb

  81. Tracey Thompson

    Marg, Debbie and Brian,

    Earl always made me feel like part of the family. He truly was a patriarch of the Horner family. After Helen passed, I will forever be grateful for his kindness and compassion he expressed to me.

    I am so sorry for your loss.

    Tracey Thompson

  82. Gayle and Jurgen

    Aunt Marg, Deb, Bryan and families, our deepest sympathy to you all. Sending hugs and hoping your wonderful memories will help to ease the pain of your loss.

  84. Cliff &Elsie McDonald

    Sorry to hear of Earls passing, he was a great talker about everything when seeing him and Marg at A&W for coffee.

  85. Dave Frayne and Cathy Cade

    To the Horner family:
    Sorry to learn of Earl’s passing, he was always proud of his family, friends and community. A familiar face at coffee in the morning.
    Our condolences to all.

  86. Pat Hunt

    Sincere condolences to the entire Horner/Mathers family. Always a treat when grandpa Earl came to Streetsville back in the day. Fond memories of the whole street watching the team Canada game over the holidays. Cherish your memories.

  87. Tony /Marlene Bedard.

    So..so sorry to hear of Earls passing ..To. all of his fmily ..Earl will sure be remembered for being a fan of anyones child involved in sports.. And Marg. was right there along side him with her smiles.. Hewill be missed….Hugs to all of you.!!

  88. Andy & Mary Currie

    So sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to everyone. We never had the pleasure of meeting Earl, but have heard many stories from Natalie of the great man he was. May you all take comfort from your memories.

  90. Doug Kyle

    Marg, Debbie and Brian
    We are sorry to learn of Earl’s passing. We will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Condolences to all of you at this difficult time.
    Doug and Sharon Kyle
    Mary Jacobe

  91. Jeff Hoffman

    Sorry to hear of Earls passing… will miss our hockey chats whenever I saw him… condolences to all the Family

  92. Peggy Wilkinson

    Margaret & Family:

    I am so sorry to read of Earl’s passing, my thoughts go out to you and your family during this difficult time… I will miss our chats at the grocery store….

    Peggy Wilkinson

  94. Glen and Donna Greb

    Dear Marg, Deb and Dwayne and Brian and Suzanne, Glen and I were saddened to hear that Earl passed away. We were long time friends and shared in their family celebrations through the years. Please accept our heartfelt condolences at this sad time. Glen and Donna

  96. Dr.Reverend Kurtis Finkbeiner

    Marg I’m so sorry for your loss of Earl thinking about you at this difficult time

  97. David and Michelle Smith

    Earl treated me and every other kid on the street like they were his own and never said no to us. His kind and fun loving nature made him a go to adult while growing up. Some called him the Chief and suited him well.
    We won’t forget that signature smile Earl.
    Our deepest sympathies to Marg and family.

  99. Bob Edith Hodgins

    Sorry to hear of Earls passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. Keep your memories close to your hearts to ease this loss.

  100. Wes Hodgson

    Marg and the Horner Family sorry to hear Earls passing he was a true friend and we always had a great relationship he will be missed

  101. Karen & Randy Stanlake

    Brian and family,
    So sorry for your loss. Take comfort in the stories being told in the coming days.
    Accept our sincerest condolences.

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