Hello Bunnyhug.
My father's family (the Brophey's) were all located in the southern Ontario area- Grand Bend and Parkhill so it is likely that there is some connection between your family and mine. During my visit to see my parents in London, Ontario at Christmas my father gave me a "Brophey" family history document that his aunt had created in the 80's. I'll take another look at it and see if there is reference to a family of 12 children and let you know what I find out!
Alison