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Vanessa Potter-Matos

December 27, 2024

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Vanessa Pauline Potter-Matos, at her home on Friday, December 27, 2024, with her husband Alberto by her side. Vanessa fought cancer with bravery, but like so many others succumbed to the relentless disease.

She was a friend to many and was admired and respected by everyone who came in contact with her. Vanessa worked as a social worker at Western and Area Youth Services in London, Ontario. She was passionate about her equestrian hobby, showing horses in competitions until she could no longer actively participate. She would spend countless hours on the farm that she loved so dearly.

Vanessa was predeceased by her mother, Elizabeth “Betty”. She will be forever missed by her beloved husband Alberto and father Richard.

Visitation will be held at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Saturday, January 4, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Vanessa’s memory are asked to consider Breast Cancer Canada.

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Our deepest sympathies in the passing of Vanessa. To Rick , Alberto and family may her warm and strength be the memory to warm your hearts as you remember her. We are sure that she will be surely missed. Sympathies Jack and Joanne

~ Jack and Joanne St Louis

Vanessa was such a kind and generous person and will be deeply missed by all of her friends in the Coldstream Library Book Club. She was passionate about reading, and she not only shared her love of books with us, she shared herself and her experiences with us too, and made many thoughtful and insightful contributions to our discussions. She was also a great listener, had a wonderful sense of humour and was so empathetic and kind to everyone. We have lost a wonderful friend. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.

~ Sherry Schofield

A donation has been made to Breast cancer Canada.

~ Armando and Dorothy Matos

Alberto and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Vanessa was such an amazing person and role model. I always enjoyed my time hanging out with her and I admire the strength and courage she had. I will cherish all of the fun memories we had together. Sending thoughts and prayers your way. -Kayleigh

~ Kayleigh Lawn

Sincerest condolences to Vanessa’s loved ones - she was such a bright light and a kindred lover of all animals. She will be missed as she is gone much too soon. Such a lovely and kind human being!

~ Anna Szczurko

So sorry to hear of your loss Alberto & Richard. Our prayers are with you.

~ Dale & Nancy Drew

A donation has been made.

~ Don & Kendra Dubeau

Alberto and Rick: Very sorry for your loss of Vanessa. She was the world to both of you and we know that you will be lost without her. Treasure all of your memories for years to come. Our deepest sympathies, Don & Kendra Dubeau

~ Don & Kendra Dubeau

Alberto and Rick words seem so inadequate at a time of such great loss . My heart goes out to you both . I can imagine Vanessa reuniting with Betty and see the beautiful smiles on their faces . May time and memories comfort you and may you continue to feel Vanessa's love from beyond.

~ Carolyn Dalgity

A donation has been made.

~ Boanerges Matos

Vanessa was a very positive, proud and passionate person. She always had a smile on her face and held her head up high. She loved her family, friends and animals deeply. She faced all of her life’s challenges with two pillars by her side; Alberto and Rick, you have both been so strong through her journey. We want you to know we are here for you both. Love 💕 Dino & Sarah

~ Dino & Sarah

One of my dearest friends! Thank you so much for being a light in my life and sharing yours with me! You will be missed soo much. I am so happy to have the great times crafting together. Xoxo

~ Sam Wagler

My heart breaks for you all, Alberto and family. I have so many wonderful horsey memories of Vanessa, and it was the highlight of this past summer, to see her riding. She will be very much missed in the horse circles and beyond. Xoxo

~ Lori Kirkpatrick

Vanessa, you were a guardian angel watching out for me when I didn't even know I was in trouble. Your love and support got me through to safety and a happily ever after I am so glad I was able to share with you this past summer. You are truly a dear friend whom we are all to grateful to call our own. To Rick and Alberto our deepest condolences.

~ Rose Fletcher

Dear Uncle Rick and Alberto, We are deeply sorry for the loss of Vanessa. Her memory will forever be a part of our family. The times we shared together were full of laughter and love, and I will always cherish those moments. Uncle Rick, our heart aches for you. Losing a daughter is beyond words, and Vanessa’s spirit will always remain with us. Alberto, we can't imagine the pain you’re going through. Vanessa loved you deeply, and the bond you shared was truly special. May you find strength in the beautiful memories you created together. You are both in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We will get through this together, holding on to the love we have for Vanessa. With deepest sympathy, Love Jay, Jenn, Madeline and Sarah

~ Jay McGuffin

A special moment of joy that I was lucky enough to share with Vanessa, Alberto and Whitney

~ Deb McFadden

Rick and Alberto, We are deeply sorry for your loss. Ness is a mentor to many, she always had amazing and honest advice. Her ability and strength to fight this crap and stay so positive is motivation for many. She will be missed!

~ Rob and Karen Brock

There are no words to express my shock or deepest condolences. Vanessa aka Ness was always such a bright spirit and inspiration

~ Tracy

To Richard, Alberto, family and friends, we wish to express our most sincere condolences. Vanessa was a wonderfully courageous woman who endured more than most could. Your endless love and support made this possible for her. Vanessa shared her passion of horses and horse sport with her mother Betty. They were both fully dedicated horsewomen and enjoyed a life filled with horses. I will always remember the warmest cheek hugs from Vanessa and her wonderful smile. She will be dearly missed by many.”

~ Debbie McFadden

I only got to know Vanessa in the past few years. She was a kind, fun loving and happy soul. And a fighter to the end. May she rest in peace. My thoughts are with all of her family and friends.

~ Jacqueline Bunt

A truly remarkable woman, friend and role model. Vanessa I will forever miss you… your wit, your honesty, your spunk & sharing books (and their reviews!!) with one another. Alberto and Richard, my love to you both; may your love and happy memories carry you forward.

~ Jessica Elsing

Thank you for being such a supportive and incredible friend. I am so sorry you were dealt this hand in life. You will be greatly missed.

~ Micha Zandri

I had the honour of knowing Vanessa. She was a quiet kind sensitive and intelligent woman. Her loss is so deeply felt. Vanessa you were a true friend and I will miss you forever. Alberto and Rick, I cannot imagine the terrible loss you feel. But you both loved a remarkable woman.

~ Vanessa Potter

To know Vanessa was to love her. She was such a wonderful friend who filled my heart with warmth. Her positivity, dedication to those she loved, and love for life were truly admirable. I will forever smile when reflecting back on our Heemans trips, heart to heart chats, and adventures. My heart goes out to Alberto and Rick - thank you so much for sharing such a beautiful person with us all. We are better people for having loved her.

~ Jennifer Larocque

Services for Vanessa Potter-Matos

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

January 4, 2025 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

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Breast Cancer Canada

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