Obituary of Daphne Joyce Hallman (nee Sheppard)

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Mum, Daphne Joyce Hallman (Sheppard), on Friday, January 3, 2025, with her children by her side. She will be dearly missed by her children, Terry (Jayne), Murray (Vicki), Janet Stemerdink (John), Ray (Helga), and Lawrie (Janice).

Daphne took immense pride in her family and was a devoted grandmother to Lisa Hallman (Karl Looper), Christopher Stemerdink (Valerie), Kristin Nikolauzyk (Jeff), Corey Hallman (Sunnie), Derek Hallman (Shae), Amy Cox (Darin), Ryan Hallman, Matthew Stemerdink (Christa), Carie Ali (Myron) and great grandmother to twenty-one cherished great grandchildren. Daphne was predeceased by her beloved husband Howard in 1988, her son Ronald in 1960, her parents John and Emily (Green) Sheppard, brother John and sister Eileen.  

Daphne was born on April 11, 1925, in the charming seaside town of Bognor Regis, England. In 1943, at the age of 17, during the trying times of World War II, she married the love of her life, Howard Hallman, a dashing RCAF Lancaster pilot. Embarking on a new journey, Daphne, a teenage war bride, immigrated to Canada, sailing with their young son Terry to meet Howard and to start their new life together, settling in his hometown of Kitchener. Their Stirling Avenue home became a cherished place where Daphne resided for an incredible 76 years.

Daphne had a beautiful singing voice and loved to dance, especially ballroom style. She was an incredible knitter from age 4-96, had a passion for gardening and delighted in the many birds visiting her feeders. Always a champion for her children and grandchildren, Daphne offered unwavering support, cheerleading and wise advice over her lifetime. Daphne volunteered countless hours to the KW Braves Lacrosse Club and the 404 KW Wing. 

Her life was a testament to love, kindness, and unyielding humor. Daphne brought joy and warmth to everyone she met and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at University Gates, Johnston Neighbourhood, for their sensitive and compassionate care.  Daphne’s blown kisses were a thank you to her devoted PSW’s.

Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, on Friday, January 10, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held in the Funeral Home's Chapel on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. A link to the livestreamed service will be available on the funeral home's website. A Reception will follow in the Fireside Reception Room. Private interment will take place at Woodland Cemetery, Kitchener. 

In memory of Daphne and in lieu of flowers, donations to the MS Society of Canada or War Amps may be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, Waterloo at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.

Rest in peace Mum, Grandma, Great Grandma. Your love and legacy lives on in our hearts.  

“Out of darkness can come light….so let that light shine bright”  - Catherine, Princess of Wales