Condolences
Thoughts are with my best friend Jen, as well as the rest of the Nassichuk, Lindsay, and Hoelscher families, as they gather this week in Iowa to celebrate Lorna's life. Given that Jen and I were pretty much inseparable growing up in Calgary, I spent much of my childhood in Lorna's home. The sound of Lorna's cheerful and calming voice, which filled the home with positive vibes, is a prominent memory. To me it sounded like she was always singing, whether it be calling us to come downstairs in the morning to "break-the-fast" or strumming away on the guitar singing Don McLean's American Pie (which caused me to become fascinated by that song). I always felt welcome in Lorna's home and loved spending time there. She always encouraged Jen and me to be who we really were and never held us back, even though we didn't play like the other little girls did. One day in particular stands out when we spent an entire one of John's baseball games digging huge holes in the dirt behind the field, destroying our clothes and becoming absolutely coated in mud from head to toe. I thought we would get in trouble, but Lorna thought it was great. She was different (in a good way) and it seemed like she never really worried about what anyone else would think. I will be forever thankful to Lorna for instilling a sense of loyalty and Grace (pun intended) in my friend Jen that has resulted in us remaining as close today as we were back then. I also see those values passed on through Gabby, in the loyalty of her friendship with my daughters. I am thankful that my life was touched by Lorna and will remember her for a life well-lived.
Although saddened to read of Lorna's passing, I very much appreciated reading her obituary with a beautiful accompanying photo. I knew Lorna as a fellow teacher at Varsity Acres Elementary School in the late '60's. Not only was Lorna an excellent teacher, she was a great inspiration to novice teachers, such as myself. And then with boundless enthusiasm, she took on the role of mothering John & Jennifer. Apart from teaching tips, I learned a great deal from Lorna about many aspects of life, everything from soy bean farming in Iowa to mending socks in a very peculiar way! Over the years, I've often wondered if Walter and the family are still wearing these never-ending socks! And I've wondered if John & Jennifer grew up with much of a wardrobe, as Lorna's wardrobe was amazingly minimal! As well as being kind and wise, Lorna was inspirational and fun to be around. A memorial verse I happened upon while walking on Nose Hill one day expresses my thoughts about those who've passed: "Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near; so loved, so missed, so very dear."
With sincere condolences to Walter and family and very best wishes for continuing on as Lorna would want you to do,
Marlene Harris
Hazel and I were very sad to hear of Lorna’s passing. Hazel was grateful for all of the time they spent chatting on the phone - especially the Monday before she passed. Hazel and I had fun shopping at Ant Hill Fabric store years ago with Lorna as she was so knowledgeable about everything sewing. Hazel and I send our deepest condolences to Walter, Jennifer and John and are grateful Lorna was in our lives.
We were saddened to hear of Lorna's passing. Henriette and I have been thinking of you - Walter, John and Jennifer (and Gabriella). Please let us know if there is anything that we can do at this sad time. We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming Celebration of Lorna's Life.
Sincerely, Grant and Henriette
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