

After experiencing complications from surgery in November 2022, Lori faced a challenging rehabilitation. In 2024, she was diagnosed with cancer and passed away at home. Lori is predeceased by her father Ben Sr. Elwell and brother Tom Elwell. Left to grieve and honor Lori is her husband, Kevin of 47 years, and their two sons Garett (Nikki), Myles, Chad (Sarah), and Billie. Her mother Irene, brother Ben Jr. (Wanda), Kathy (Tom's wife), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and in-laws.
Lori was born into a loving, hardworking third-generation Saanich family. Growing up on Casa Linda Drive, Lori attended Royal Oak School, where lifelong friendships blossomed. Her childhood was filled with adventure at her grandparents Eric and Sally Elwell’s farm, where she and her brothers rode the farms friendly bull with a makeshift saddle from fruit boxes. Summers brought trips to Basin Bay “Camp” on the peninsula, where her grandfather Eric and father Ben Sr. fished while Irene and kids enjoyed the beach. Closer to home, she played ball with neighbors in the field between the Youngs’ and her grandmother Sally’s house, rode horses with her best friend Cathy, and explored Elk and Beaver Lake. The family’s camping trips to Weirs Beach and all over Vancouver Island instilled in her a lifelong love for nature.
Lori met Kevin through friends and neighbors when she lived on Casa Linda Drive. Their paths crossed more than once, leading to love and marriage in 1978. Their adventure started at the "Pink Palace" in Deep Cove, then moved to Cadillac Avenue, Santa Anita Avenue, and finally Hector Road, where they built their home next to her parent’s farm. Lori worked for Butler Bros. performing data entry until she left her employment to become a full-time mom to her first-born son Garett, followed by Chad a few years later. Their arrival marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to her family. Being a mom was the role she treasured with her heart and soul from the moment her babies arrived. The joy continued with the arrival of fantastic daughters-in-law and much-anticipated grandchildren.
Lori retired from the Province of B.C. accounts, where she was a valued employee and befriended by many co-workers. She enjoyed her work never hesitated to help a coworker when asked. Lori also made good friends with her “Bus Buddies” who shared the daily commute. They were a daily part of her life and made the trip more enjoyable with lots of laughs. In retirement she enjoyed frequent walks with her girlfriends throughout the Victoria area. Whether it was family or friends, work or play, Lori was committed, generous, and warm, always there for everyone with no strings attached.
Lori devoted her life to her family, cherishing time spent with her parents and assisting with the family farm and lakeside cottage. In her later years, she also took on caregiving responsibilities. Lori's greatest love and happiness came from her sons. She was deeply involved in their lives, attending school activities and sporting events, and even taking late-night car rides with them. Lori made herself indispensable, offering unwavering support to her family without limits.
Lori held a passion for decorating and gardening, creating a warm and welcoming home where all occasions were celebrated, and no one was forgotten. When her sons married and the grandbabies arrived, it marked the biggest reward of Lori's life. As Lori's health began to fail, she would light up brightly at the sight and sounds of her grandbabies. She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.
At Lori’s request, no formal service will be held. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated healthcare professionals, who treated and cared for her. For those wishing to honor her memory, condolences may be shared with the family, and donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.
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