It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Lorna Whitney at the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital in the early morning hours of June 23 with family by her side.
Lorna was born April 29, 1934 in a small cabin in Wabigoon, Ontario to Froome and Gladys Johnston. The youngest of three children. At the age of five her family moved to Fort William where she attended both elementary and high school. From high school she went on to work as a medical secretary at Fort William Clinic. Her most treasured possessions were her three children, Debbie, David and Donny. When her children were in school full time, she decided to go
back to work as a medical secretary for Dr. George Rogan who she greatly admired and loved working for.
It was at the young age of 18 that she would meet the love of her life, Arnott. They came just short of celebrating their 70th Anniversary when Dad passed away in 2024. The loss she felt was unmeasurable as a huge hole was left in her heart.
Mom and Dad had a wonderful life together. Their summers were spent at Cushing Lake camping and fishing. They both instilled the love of the outdoors in each one of us. Mom loved playing board and card games. She would look forward to her weekly bridge games and monthly get togethers with her wine club.
Winters were spent snowmobiling in Lappe and surrounding areas with friends and family for trail rides and ice fishing.
When Dad retired, so did Mom and together they were off on their next adventure. They bought a motorhome and headed down to Texas for many winters making wonderful friends and enjoying the warm weather. Mom and Dad’s second love was traveling. Sailing the Grenadine Islands, going on cruises and traveling across Canada. For many years they enjoyed their yearly Lac Seul houseboat fishing trips with the Duncans’ and Berringers’.
Both Mom and Dad took great pride in their family. A highlight of their life was a trip to Puerto Plata with 22 family members. This was truly a gift for our whole family to all be together with Mom and Dad. They loved to sit back and watch us have fun. Mom had a special and unique relationship with each one of her grandchildren.
Three years ago they decided it was time to move into Chartwell Arundel. They immediately engaged in the music, activities, while making new friendships with both residents and staff. We cannot thank the staff at Chartwell enough for your care, compassion and friendship towards Mom and Dad. To Patti, Chris, Catherine and staff, she loved each and everyone of you. Even through hard times you could always make her smile.
Our family would also like to thank Dr. K. Magee-Adams for not only being her physician but a friend. To Dr. Fiddler, Anne Perrier, Dr. Anthes and Dr. K. Pulkki, thank you for your help in giving her a quality of life through your care.
Special thanks to Gillian, mom’s case worker, for helping put together the services required for Mom. Your professionalism was admired.
Thanks to Carolyn from Bayshore for your loving care and checking inon Mom each day. A special thanks to Raili and Marie for your companionship. Your compassion and friendship was not only appreciated by Mom but our family.
Moms whole life was riddled with pain yet no one knew. Over the past year she had faced many painful days with courage and a smile as she tried to overcome her many health issues that she faced. Thank you everyone for your support through this difficult time. Leaving behind with broken hearts are her three children, Debbie Dubeau (David), David Whitney (Carla) and Don Whitney (Tammi). Grandchildren, Adam Dubeau (Lauren), Greg Dubeau (Bhreagh), Kaitlyn Dubeau (Sean Verescak), Tayler Galley (Kevin), Devon Whitney (Courtney), Ryan and Erin Whitney. Great Grandchildren Leo and Charlie Dubeau, Emma Verescak and Blakely Galley.
Cremation has taken place and a private family internment will be held at later date.
We can now find comfort in knowing they are finally together again.