Leila Fraser Gashus

Born Lilias Fraser Connel on the 3rd of June, 1935 in Glasgow, Scotland to William Connel and Jessie Dow Howie Connel.

Leila met Ove Kristoffer Gashus at Glasgow University and they married on June 28, 1957. They spent the next nine years in Glasgow and had two children, Karin and Stefan. In 1966 they moved to Nova Scotia and had a third child, Anne-Lise the following year.

Leila is survived by her husband Kris, children Karin (Jack), Stefan(Linda), and Anne-Lise; grandchildren Philip(Danielle), Nyssa(Josh), Sonja(Tiam) and Mikal; great-grandchildren Amelia, Kamden and Zachary and many cousins in Scotland and the U.S.

Leila taught home economics at Halifax Ladies’ College (Armbrae Academy) in the 1970’s, instilling a love of food and cooking in many young women.

Beginning in the 1980’s Leila owned and operated The Doll House and the Paper Garden in downtown Halifax, retailing wonderful toys and stationery until her retirement in 2006.

Leila was a very active volunteer and will be remembered for her work on the boards at the Halifax YWCA, Centennial Art Gallery/AGNS, Halifax Ladies’ College, Downtown Halifax Business Commission, Discovery Centre and the Founding Chairman of Homes for Independent Living.

Leila was an elegant and consummate entertainer, hosting many dinners and parties over the years; a lover of food and beauty, and a giver of sound advice to many. She will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Donations gratefully accepted to the Canadian Cancer Society- Nova Scotia or Armbrae Academy.