Lorraine Elizabeth Buchanan

      In the song of life, Lorraine Elizabeth Buchanan was surely the composer. A very observant woman who would rather spend her time creating than talking, Lorraine preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around her made sense. In fact, she depended on her sensory world to provide her with concrete data. A free spirit, Lorraine believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. She seemed to know what fit and what didn’t fit in everything she did. Lorraine perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to her, yet she lived with a definite sense of purpose. She was a woman who was always ready to share her creations with those around her.

       Her parents were Dave and Helen. Lorraine was raised in Keswick, Ontario. As a young child, Lorraine was optimistic in her outlook. She sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply her creative energies. Lorraine rarely calling attention to herself, but when she did speak out, her message was clearly understood by those around her.

      Early on in her family relationships, Lorraine showed that she was a tolerant and flexible person, and she got along fairly well with everyone. She was raised with three siblings. She had one older brother, one younger brother, and one sister. She was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

      As she was growing up, Lorraine developed into a person who enjoyed physically doing things, and she took pleasure in using her hands in order to create. Whether it was drawing pictures, working with building kits, or even just tapping out a rhythm to play by, Lorraine liked concrete things. Growing up, Lorraine took part in softball. In her spare time she liked puzzles. However, to Lorraine, the most fun she had was simply playing, and spending time with friends.

      Those who didn’t know Lorraine well might not view her as being an outgoing person, those who called her their friend knew differently. Lorraine was shy and sensitive, a person who never forced her opinions and values on others. Close friends knew that her kindness was unmatched, and once you became a friend of Lorraine’s, you understood how true a friend she could be. While growing up, some of her best friends were Jean York and Lois Latimer. Later in life, she became friends with Lynne Struth, Linda Chilmar, and Linda Plume.

      A person who was sensitive to others’ feelings, modest and tolerant, Lorraine had the ability to become completely devoted to another when that affection was returned. On May 14, 1966, Lorraine exchanged wedding vows with her life partner Bryan Buchanan at the the United Church in Holland Landing, Ontario.

      Lorraine was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to her children. These emotional bonds made her as much playmate as parent. She gave her family unconditional love and kindness, sharing her artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. Lorraine was blessed with two sons, Randy and Trevor. They were also blessed with five grandchildren, Christopher, Brandon, Shyanne, Tyler, and Nicole.

      Lorraine found ways to enjoy what she did for a living. She worked hard and did her best to succeed every day. Her primary occupation was Horticulturist. She was employed for 11 years at Alberta Tree Nursery. Lorraine tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing her will on others.

      Lorraine enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were walks, reading and jigsaw puzzles. Lorraine was content to enjoy her hobbies alone but was also willing to share her interests with others. She was relaxed in her approach to her leisure time because she wanted to savor the present moment.

      Lorraine liked sports. In high school, Lorraine played softball. Recreational sports included softball and curling. Lorraine was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following her favorite events whenever she got the opportunity.

      Because she loved the world around her, Lorraine enjoyed traveling and going away on vacations. It was an opportunity for her to kick back and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Lorraine put her personal trademark on any leisure planning that she undertook. Favorite vacations included Hawaii.

      Lorraine was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of Lorraine’s favorites was Babe, a Chesepeake Bay Retriever. They were best friends for 12 years. Her family was rounded out by her three cats.

      When Lorraine’s retirement finally arrived in 2009, she was well prepared. Even in retirement, Lorraine continued to stay in touch with her old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. In these later chapters of her life, she became active in the community, feeling fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered her and simply enjoying what she had worked so hard to attain.

      Lorraine passed away on July 31, 2010 at Fort Saskatchewan Health Centre, in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta. Lorraine fought a brave battle against cancer. Services were held at First Memorial Riverview Chapel. Lorraine will be laid to rest in Fort Saskatchewan Cemetery.

      Lorraine was a good woman, a kind woman, and a practical woman who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. She leaves behind her a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Lorraine always had much to give and was able to make those connections in her life where her gifts were appreciated. Lorraine was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Lorraine Elizabeth Buchanan.

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Mrs. Lorraine Elizabeth Buchanan, late of Fort Saskatchewan AB, formerly of Keswick Ontario, passed away on July 31, 2010 at the age of 64 years. She is survived by her loving family: her husband of 44 years, Bryan; 2 children, Randy and Trevor; 5 grandchildren, Christopher, Brandon, Shyanne, Tyler and Nichole; 2 brothers, Art and Jerry; 1 sister, Darlene, as well as numerous other family and many dear friends. Lorraine is predeceased by her parents, Dave and Helen. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 6, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at First Memorial Riverview Chapel, 11090 – 86 Avenue, Fort Saskatchewan with Margaret Robinson as Funeral Celebrant.

Donations in Lorraine’s memory gratefully accepted directly to Cross Cancer Institute, 11560 University Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2. Online condolences may be sent through www.mem.com.

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services Riverview Chapel, Fort Saskatchewan, AB.