January 5, 1950 - March 5, 2024
In loving memory ~
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Lois on March 5th, 2024, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Lois was born January 5th, 1950, in Edmonton, Alberta, and her childhood was filled with typical experiences of life on the Canadian prairies. At the age of 13, Lois was diagnosed with cancer. The experience left her with a sense of awe at the power of her own mother's love, and an unstoppable drive for adventure and to live life to the fullest.
Lois' first experience travelling in Europe sparked a passion to see the world that never dimmed for the rest of her life. She returned to Campbell River, and there, working in the Discovery Inn, she met Derrick Harvey and fell in love.
They moved outside of Calgary, Alberta and Lois taught at local public schools and began to develop a variety of life- long hobbies. After having her one and only child, Mackenzie, Lois took a position at Strathcona Tweedsmuir School (STS) and dove deep into a creative and remarkable career as an educator.
After 17 years Lois, Derrick, and Mackenzie made the move back to Vancouver Island, and Lois became the Principle of West-Mont Montessori in Metchosin. In 1995, she was offered a job supporting teachers in Cambodia where she learned the importance of deeply listening.
Her appreciation for other cultures and humility served Lois well as she went on to complete contracts for UNICEF and CUSO in Pakistan, China, Vanuatu, The Solomon Islands, and Tanzania. In all, Lois travelled to 87 countries during her life.
Lois and Derrick have lived in Comox since 2006. Here, Lois returned to the interests she cultivated in her youth: gardening, fibre arts, sailing and cruising, ukulele, walking, biking, exploring, reading, drinking tea, and spending time with friends and family.
Lois was a treasured wife, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend whose virtues of grace, empathy, openness, and love are being reflected in the profound sadness we feel at her passing. Lois will be deeply missed by her husband, Derrick Harvey, her daughter Mackenzie Sillem (Kris Sillem) her grandchildren Sarita and Mowat, her extended family, and her many friends.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Canadian Cancer Society or your local Hospice. A gathering for family and friends will be shared at a later date.
Condolences may be offered at www.telfordtoneffboyd.ca
