Lois Verstraete

Lois Evelyn Verstraete passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the age of 95. Lois was born on the family farm just outside Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan, on January 26, 1928, to Charles and Dorothy Antcliffe. She was pre-deceased by her parents, her husband Stanley Gordon Verstraete, her sisters and their husbands,  Francis and Jim, Jean and Paul, Dorothy and Albert, Marjorie and Jack; as well as her brother Jack. Lois was also predeceased by one grandchild, Tina; and one great-grandchild, Christopher. Lois is survived by her sister, Eileen and her husband Walter; her daughter, Kim and her husband Greg Barrett; her son, Danny and his wife Joanne; eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren, as well many nieces and nephews. 

Mom learned the importance of responsibility at a young age, remaining at home with her mother and younger sister Eileen to care for the farm while her dad and older siblings enlisted to support our country during WW II. Upon completing high school, she attended Psychiatric Nursing training in Weyburn, which began a lifelong nursing career of service to others.

Upon completing her studies, Mom eventually found her way to the Tuberculosis Sanitarium in Calgary, where she met her husband-to-be, Stan, who was a patient in the hospital. Mom and Dad married April 5, 1957. Lois and Stan were always quick to help or lend a hand to anyone that needed assistance, as evidenced by her years of volunteering, which continued well into her late 80s, after a nursing career that spanned four decades.

The birth of Kim and Dan added a new dimension to life in the Verstraete home. Our many family adventures and trips to visit extended family will always be remembered. The passing of years and the arrival of grandchildren added a whole new opportunity for Mom to reinforce her and Dad's belief in the importance of gratitude, compassion and lending a helping hand wherever you could make a difference. The role of Grandma was embraced, and the bonds that developed with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly remarkable and will last a lifetime. Because Mom was so progressive, understanding and engaging, everyone gravitated toward her; she was always a willing listener and supporter; people just enjoyed her company, sense of humor and wise counsel.      

Life in the Verstraete home was busy and, at times, chaotic, but it was always filled with love, encouragement, and support. We often joked in our family that we were a matriarchal system. We were, Mom was the backbone of our family, and no matter the circumstance or challenge, she always ensured that everything was taken care of. A role that she championed on her own for the past 30 years since Dad's passing.

Mom lived a very rich life based on her devotion to family, friends, and anyone she felt she could assist. She exemplified an unwavering faith in God, a refusal to be negative and a powerful spirit that remained present until her passing. Mom was an adventurer who loved travelling, trying new experiences, and enjoying life. She believed it was a gift to be cherished and lived to the fullest. Most of all, she loved her family.  

Lois (Mom) will be missed; she was loved by many. When vascular dementia started to impact her, she once again made the practical decision to go into care, concerned that she would not be a burden. She made many friends during her almost seven years in the memory care unit. She continued to do her best to demonstrate her faith and unyielding drive to be grateful, positive, and appreciative each day. Mom's legacy is a shining example of a life well lived; she made a difference in many people’s lives, and now that she and Dad are reunited, they can resume their adventures.

 “Mom, if we could make a wish and make that wish come true, every child on earth would have a mother just like you.

Every house would be a home where peace and love reside, and the happy sound of laughter would be often heard inside.

Mankind would come together, all our hearts would be as one. And all the world would know of God and Jesus Christ his son.

Love would fill all life with joy, fear and hate would flee. Peace would reign forevermore, and war would cease to be.

The earth would be as heaven and a glorious sight to view if only all the world could have a mother just like you.”

                                                                                                                                                            Author unknown