It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lorie McArthur. She will be deeply missed by her Husband and best friend, Kevin, and their children Duncan and Juliana.
Also left to mourn her loss are her siblings: Wynne (Errol) Widdis, Vern Yakimishyn and Lana (Kirk) Toth; as well as her brother in law Peter McArthur. She will be missed by her nieces and nephews Aaron (Kathryn) Widdis, Colleen (Joao) Borralho, Eric Widdis, Casey Toth, a large extended family and many great friends.
Lorie is predeceased by her parents Kay and Bill Yakimishyn and In-laws Peter and Betty McArthur.
Lorie was born in Lamont Alberta on September 6, 1959, the 3rd child of four. She attended Austin O’Brien High School. She graduated from the U of A in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts in Canadian Studies and a Masters of Library Science in 1984. Her varied career gave her the opportunities to work as a librarian for Athabasca University, the Provincial Archives, Alberta Education and then later as a Policy Analyst with the Alberta Government.
She married Kevin, the love of her life in 1988, and found great joy in being a mother to Duncan and Juliana. Being involved in her children’s lives was important to her, motivating her to be a dedicated volunteer in their many interests. She stayed active in their schools while serving as a member of the Parent Advisory Councils.
Lorie found great inspiration and solace in her religion and volunteered as a leader in Vacation Bible school at St Thomas More Parish and participated in Scripture Study.
Lorie had a passion for the outdoors. She enjoyed skiing, canoeing, biking, hiking and gardening.
She loved music, sang in several choirs and played saxophone and recently the harp. She always found her happy place while baking and practicing yoga.
Lorie inspired all of us with her courage and positive outlook as she battled breast cancer for more than 15 years. It was a big part of her life, but not what defined her.
The family wishes to thank numerous people who supported Lorie and the family as Lorie went through this brave journey; truly too many to note with the gratitude and appreciation appropriate to their contributions. These kind acts of compassion made all the difference to Lorie and her husband and children. We are truly blessed for their support.
Funeral Mass for Lorie will be held on Thursday, February 1, 2018 at 11:00 am at St. Thomas More Parish, 210 Haddow Close NW, Edmonton, Alberta.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cross Cancer Institute or a charity of your choice.
Tribute wall - a place to share your memories and condolences
Darlene Kindiak, Stoney Creek, ON
Dear Lorie,
During my early years at U of A, I will always remember my visits to the house with Lana. You always had a new book to discuss – it could be an author’s intriguing word, a captivating phrase or a striking story-line. There was always something you wanted to share with your youngest sister. As Lana would respond with a puzzled look, or unengaging comment, you would almost always say, in such an endearing soft manner, “Ohhhhhh Lana.” The pattern was consistent and typically ended with a quick sibling glance and a quiet smile.
Your passion for reading, particularly “the classics” and historical culture, and the ability to create a FULL conversation on any piece of work, was truly your gift. Your great appreciation of master writers takes me to reflect on Beethoven’s final masterpiece, “Adieu to the Piano.” Just as Beethoven came to accept his hearing loss with the writing of this classical piece, you too also came to accept your battle. In the end, there were no tears.
Thank you for your courage and strength to role model what we all must learn to accept in each of our respective journeys of life.
May you rest in Peace,
Vichnaya Pamyat !
Stephanie
Such an incredible amount of love for this woman. Not only has she been like a second mother to me for 15 years, but she has also always been my biggest supporter and has always been an active role model for me. For any of you who were lucky enough to meet Lorie, I’m sure you remember her contagious laugh, her kindness, her incredible view on life and the light she brought to any room. I’ve always considered Lorie’s house my ‘safe place’. When i was mad at my parents (or they at me!), I would tell them I was going to go live with Lorie because she loved me more. And she fed me… I think Lorie loved my big appetite because I would eat not only my serving but also most of Juliana’s. Lorie never missed a birthday or special occasion, she always made me special.
I never ended up getting the chance to tell Lorie how grateful I was for everything she had done for me while growing up, but I believe that after being close with someone for so long, she would have known how much I loved & respected her. As a child you dont understand how much someone does for you and the sacrifices they make; I can only begin to appreciate the influence she had in my life on so many levels. She truly was my hero. I will love and honor her memory forever and miss her deeply. ❤️
MaryAnn Saskiw
I remember a beautiful person and a life! Lori touched
many lives and she will be deeply missed! With sympathy!
To you Kevin and Duncan, Julianna. Also Wynne & Errol
and Family. Condolences to Vern. Lana, Kirk & Casey.
Take care, remember the good times together and your
fond memories.
Love,
MaryAnn & Family XXOO
,
Anna J.
May Our God of all comfort be with you at this moment of grief – Isaiah 41:10. May you draw comfort and hope from His promises to resurrect the dead – John 5:28 and destroy death forever – Revelation 21: 3 – 5. As we look forward to this promised paradise, i wish you God’s peace.
The Makowecki Family
Lorie was a beautiful person that will be missed. Sending you all our deepest sympathies and prayers!
Denise Bourque
Kevin, Duncan, & Juliana. Our heartfelt condolences on Lorie’s passing. May the love and memories keep you strong in this time of sorrow. Lorie was such a wonderful person. Her smile will always remain in my heart.
Denise Bourque & family
Mackey Family
Dear Lana, Kirk and Casey,
Our deepest sympathy for you and your family. It is never easy saying goodbye to a sister and aunt, even when you know she can now rest peacefully. Thinking of you with all our love.
Violet Yackimec
Kevin, Duncan and Julia, Lana, Wynne, Vern and families, I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of Lori. I always enjoyed visiting with her at family functions. May your memories of this wonderful woman bring you peace.
Violet, Connor and Jade
Darren and Brenda Rudy
I’m so sorry to read your sad news. My deepest sympathies to your families. I will really miss her smile and kind ways.
Lana
I love you.