Lorraine Steel

Mom was recently predeceased by her husband, Bruce in May, 2023. She is survived by her family of 4 daughters, Debra, Lynn (Allan), Carol (Randy), and Lori (Jordan); 7 grandchildren (Derek, Clarissa, Tanis, Todd, Matthew, Alexis and Landon), 11 great grandchildren and her brother (in-law), Lance Steel and many nieces and nephews.

Born in Stony Mountain, Manitoba in 1932, Mom was the only child of James and Lena Sellars. Growing up in a small farming community, Mom didn’t share a love of farming, but rather had different goals in sight. One, to pursue a career in banking, and two, being an only child, she wanted to raise a large family. She met those goals and married her high school sweetheart, Bruce, in 1952. They went on to share 70 years of marriage and enjoyed watching their daughters grow their own families.

Mom was a devoted military wife and mother. She eagerly went along for the ride, adventuring throughout Canada from one posting to another, raising their 4 girls from Coast to Coast. Eventually Mom and Dad landed in Brentwood Bay, B.C. where they lived and enjoyed 43 years together in their home. Mom wanted a place large enough where all could gather to celebrate important events over the decades and she did just that - she was the ultimate host! She spoiled us all! Big family dinners were always a passion, and she would ensure everyone would have something special they enjoyed on the table. She was a fabulous cook and was especially well known for her homemade apple pies!

Mom had a long career in the banking sector starting as a teller in Winnipeg in 1950 and retiring as an Accountant in Sidney, B.C. in the 1980’s. Always one to stay busy and explore various ways to express her artistic side, Mom was so incredibly talented particularly in cake decorating, knitting, and paper tole as just some of the many interests she had. Puzzles and bird watching were among her favourite pastimes. Mom’s love of gardening was passed along to her girls (at least to 3 of us!). She embodied the nesting of home and garden and over time planted and nurtured a beautiful landscape of plants she loved.

Most of all, family was everything to her and she cherished her girls more than anyone. Mom’s natural kindness, compassion and loving nature made those close to her very fortunate.

Upon the recent loss of our Dad, Mom courageously embraced the opportunity for one more adventure and made the decision to move to Stony Plain, Alberta where 3 of her daughters reside. Stopping along the way in Kelowna, BC, it was there that Mom decided to settle with her youngest daughter and family, for what sadly became her final months. Mom enjoyed quality time with her family, and where she spent hours bird watching, playing games, and most of all, laughing - our Mom loved to laugh and we will forever miss her bright, beautiful smile.

Mom, we will miss you more than words can express. You shone a light on our family that will never fade. For that, we are forever thankful. Rest peacefully.

I am Always with You

See the dove rest

In the arms of the tree

Know I am at peace

My burdens set free

Hear the dove sing

Amid blossoms anew

A song for your heart

I am always with you

See the wings rise

To the blue sky above

As comfort surrounds you

In the warmth of my love.

And watch the dove fly

With the sun shining bright

Then know I am home

As I soar toward the light

At Lorraine’s request no formal service will take place. Our family with gather to celebrate Mom’s life and legacy at a later date.

Our family would like to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Joanna Bielby, the Palliative Support Team and the staff at Kelowna General Hospital for their kindness, care and compassion shown to Mom and the comfort provided to our family in her final days.

Lorraine was a strong supporter of the B.C. Heart and Stroke Foundation, and our family gratefully requests any donations to be made in her name.