August 23rd, 1937 – September 21st, 2026
Laura was born 89 years ago in Dornoch, a small town near Mount Forrest, to her parents the late Colin and Alice Ray, where she lived with her siblings the late Cecil and Lorne, as well as Betty and Bruce.
Laura met the love of her life while playing baseball in Tottenham. Howard and a group of young men from Palgrave went to watch the girls play and that is where their story began. Laura made a home run as she met Howard and they set up home base just outside of Palgrave. Laura was only 17 years old when her and Howard purchased their property from a relative. At this time a lawyer was very hesitant to provide loan documentation but a family friend had no concerns helping them get started. They were hands on at building their house so much to the point that Laura while laying insulation fell through the attic into the bathtub on the main floor. No harm to Laura. This house served as their home for over 70 years. Laura and Howard welcomed two daughters – Valerie in 1959 and Deborah in 1962. Laura passed on her love of reading to Valerie and her creativity to Deborah but not her love of talking politics which at many times annoyed her. Laura worked or volunteered the majority of her life. She valued education, dedication and a strong work ethic. She was particularly proud of her only grandchild, Alexander for his artistic talent and obtaining his mechanic license. Laura will also be remembered by Alexander’s partner Samantha (who referred to Laura as Nana) and Valerie’s partner Andrew.
Laura passed away peacefully at Deborah and Alexander’s home supported by an amazing team of Caregivers and a network of Service and Medical providers.
The family would like to thank everyone who supported Laura, as well as friends and colleagues for their compassion, sensitivity, and desire to provide any assistance necessary.
A private family interment will take place on Friday, September 25th which coincides with Howard’s birthday and the day he was buried in 2021.
The family would like any donations directed to the Alzheimer Society of Ontario (www.alzheimer.ca).
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Mary Goral
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your mom, Laura. Working with Valerie, for many years, alongside each other at Humber College, I learned quite a lot about your family. I know how very hard it is to lose a parent. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find peace and comfort during this time of sorrow.
Sincerely,
Mary Goral
Mehdi
Dear Debbie,
please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, losing a parent is really hard.
we love you and wish you peace.
God bless Laura,
Mehdi and Behnoosh
lesley davidson
Debbie – What a beautiful tribute to your mom. I especially love the story of how she met your dad and the love of her life at a baseball game. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. My heart is with you as you grieve her loss. I hope the stories and memories of your mom bring you comfort now and always. Lesley
Sue Armstrong
So sorry for your loss Debbie. My thoughts and prayers are with you. It a very difficult time in life missing your loved ones.
Najeeb Ahmed
Dear Valerie, I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. From our time working together at Humber, I remember our lunchtime conversations about our respective families. I particularly recall hearing stories about your mother caring for your aging father, and years later, I could see that same devotion reflected in her obituary through her deep commitment to family and service. May the many cherished memories of her life bring you and your family comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Joseph C
Hello Valerie,
I am so sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. Your stories about your family you used to tell at work used to crack me up, I could tell that it was a family with a lot of love and care for each other. Grief and loss are not easy things, and every person grieves differently. I hope that you and your family are able to grieve and celebrate the time you had with your mother the ways you all need to.
Melodie Atanowski
Dear Valerie and Deborah,
Your parents always made me feel welcomed in your home. My Mom always enjoyed visiting with your Mom while they were out grocery shopping. I know that you both have many memories and stories. Hold these close to your heart during the days ahead. Our loved ones are never forgotten as long as we remember them.
With prayer,
Melodie and Denny Atanowski