It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Lori’s passing on August 29, 2017. She passed away peacefully in her beautiful home surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Lori was born in Vancouver and raised in Ucluelet, BC. She attended the University of Victoria and began her teaching career in Tofino in 1977. She married her husband Tom in Ucluelet in 1980 and in 1983 gave birth to their twin daughters Heather and Leah in Victoria. Throughout her over 30-year career in education in Victoria, she taught at many School District 61 Elementary Schools. After completing her Masters of Arts in Leadership at Royal Roads University, she went on to work as an administrator, serving as Vice Principal at Vic West and Campus View Elementary Schools, and as Principal of Tillicum Elementary School for over a decade.
Lori’s life was full in so many ways. She was a committed teacher whose thoughtful approach to education, and dedication and attention made it possible for her students to excel in the classroom and beyond. She was a respected administrator whose leadership united the many colleagues with whom she worked and inspired the countless young educators whom she mentored. She was a supportive, fun loving, and attentive confidante to her many friends. Most importantly, she was a committed and loving partner to her husband Tom, a proud and devoted mother to her daughters Heather and Leah, and most recently, an adoring Nana to her grand daughter Florence.
Lori loved nature and the outdoors, cherishing her time at the lake with family and visits to the rugged beaches of the Vancouver Island’s West Coast. She loved family travel, visiting favourites such as Palm Springs, Maui, France, and Cancun over the past few years. She had a great enthusiasm for an active lifestyle, enjoying vigorous walks with many beloved walking partners, and a variety of activities at her cabin including kayaking, biking, and stand-up paddle boarding.
Lori was sick for only the last 3 months of her life. Like in all other areas, she faced her sudden illness with dignity, optimism, and determination. Her strength and hope in the face of this ultimate challenge, as well as her fierce love for her family, will forever inspire us. Her passing is a deep loss to the many communities that she impacted and was a part of: the School District community, her community of friends, and her large family.
Lori is predeceased by her parents Mary Niemi and Leo Suo and survived by her husband Tom, daughters Leah (Ben and grand daughter Florence) and Heather (Mark), sister Louanna (Terry and nephew Ryan), brother Paul (Kay), and a large and loving extended family.
We wish to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses, and counsellors at Victoria Hospice who helped us care for Lori at home.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2017 from 3-7pm at the Beach House, 5109 Cordova Bay Road, Victoria, BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Victoria Hospice or, as Lori would likely encourage, to any charity one feels passionate about.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
35 Responses
To Lori’s Family: We just learned of her passing in the Times Colonist this weekend and are deeply saddened by this incredible loss. Both of our sons attended Tillicum School (from 2006 to 2014). We fondly remember Lori standing out in the school-yard greeting children and parents in the morning. I remember how she always made time to meet with us whenever we needed to talk about our kids with her. I was struck by her intelligence and compassion. Honestly, I felt like my kids were in such good hands with Lori at the helm of Tillicum School. She made a big difference in our lives and I just wanted you to know that. We will think of her often.
We have recently learned of Lori’s passing. We have read her obituary. An accomplished lady. Our sincere condolences go out to all the family.
Brian and Shirley Baird, Ucluelet
Heather, Leah, and family.
We were heartbroken to hear the news of your loving mother Lori. You are both the reflections of your mother’s kindness and strong spirit. We send our love to the whole family.
Nancy, Karen and the Fedoruk family
I worked as an EA at Tillicum from 2006-2011. Of all the schools I spent time in I never met a principal as committed to the success and inclusion of all children, regardless of their challenges. Lori shaped the culture of that school, and I always felt supported and valued in my role there. I have fond memories of lunches with her in the basement “office” of the school meals program. As an educator she touched hundreds of lives with her commitment and dedication, with her kindness and compassion, and with her willingness to fight for support for the kids who needed it most, and I’m sure the ripples of this will continue for years to come.
Of the 13 principals I had over the years Lori was by far the shining star. She had the best sense of humour and was endlessly supportive. Her ability to connect with children (and adults) was extraordinary. She enriched the last 10 years of my career in so many ways and I will be forever grateful. I can’t imagine Tillicum without her.