Our family was so happy that Mick found Lorraine;  After he met her, his life path changed for the better. Together, they formed a wonderful partnership and raised an incredible family.  

  I think Lorraine knew how much I loved her; each time I visited them, I made a point of saying that she was the best thing that ever happened to Mick, and thanked her profusely.  

I visited them in almost all the places they lived, beginning with Saskatoon. Lorraine was still working  as manager at the bank, and Mick was finishing his studies and driving taxi. I was always so impressed at Lorraine’s  organization skills, tenacity and steadfastness, qualities she applied to every facet of her life:  her job, her household, raising her children, and in the end, fighting this dreadful disease, the only thing that could deter her from her path. 

  I remember for example, the resolve she had after David was born to eliminate those extra baby fat pounds she had gained in pregnancy. She had established a regimen for herself on that treadmill, something like 45 minutes per day, at 6 in the morning, if I recall,  and achieved her goal  in record time.  I was so inspired by her success that I, too, bought a treadmill, but mine, unfortunately, sits unused in my basement .

    Lorraine made every house they moved to a home. Each time I visited, evidence of her children’s artwork and successes were plain to see.  She was so proud of them.

When I visited them in Winnipeg three years ago, I  felt that she loved this home the best because her children each had their own room, loved the schools they were at  and were excelling at their swimming, basketball  and academics.  I remember how happy she was to drive the Toyota Prius home from the dealership that day;  every member of her family had a comfortable place to sit.  Lorraine was happiest when her family was happy. 

    Lorraine, you  were taken from us too soon, but you will always be such an inspiration to us  for the way you lived that short life. You could have risen to the top of any field you chose because you were the kind of person who wanted to be the best you could be, no matter what the task. You chose the most important job of all,  to be the best wife, mother, daughter and sister that anyone could ever hope for. 

We will miss you, but you will be forever in our hearts.