Florence Lanmark

Florence Madeleine LaHaye Lamarche (Lanmark) August 22, 1920 to July 9, 2021. On July 9th, our beloved maman, grand-maman and tante was called by the angels. She was the last of her five LaHaye siblings to pass peacefully.

To her grandchildren, Emilie and Matthew, Florence was one of the “strongest, smartest, most remarkable person they knew”. She gave them the gift of knowing a second language, the love of mastering the piano, and the example of being resourceful and fiercely independent right to the end.

To her many nieces and nephews in Quebec Florence was “a forward thinker”, “very intelligent”, “cultivated”, “an amazing godmother”, “possessing strong energy” and “passionate in languages, history, fine arts, politics and music.”

To her only child, Sylvie Elaine Lanmark-Kaye, Florence was an “ageless wonder”. She was active and youthful beyond her years as well as sharp and quick witted until her passing. Florence enjoyed discussing literature as well as golfing and skiing with her dear friends well into her late seventies. Our ageless wonder also confidently drove until 99 years old. Even when she turned 100, Florence was rarely seen without a French crossword puzzle in hand, a McLean’s article to debate or a clipping from the Globe and Mail to discuss. Florence was very influential in the community from organizing Yoga classes and instructing French in Kelowna, to performing the recorder for seniors along with spearheading a French literature club in West Vancouver.

To her son in law, Randy Kaye, Florence was an adventurous pioneer and an astute business woman. She was admired for leaving Quebec for Kelowna in the 1950’s to build the Ritz Music Shoppe and Ritz sixplex apartment with her late husband George. Then, without any hesitation, Florence uprooted in 1999 to co-purchase a home with her family on the North shore to enjoy her grandchildren and new adventures.

Goodbye dear Florence. You will always be remembered for your poise and elegance, your sense of humour and love for your family. You will be dearly missed.

A celebration of Florence’s life will be held on Sunday, August 22nd, at 11:00 a.m. at Hollyburn Funeral Home 1807 Marine Dr, West Vancouver. In Florence’s honour please wear a hat and/or bright colourful clothing.

In keeping with Florence’s wishes, there will also be a Catholic mass and interment on August 28th,2021 at 11:00 AM at the Church of the Ascension, 887 Wembly Road, Parksville BC. V9P 2E6. 1- 604 922-1221

Finally we will be putting together a book about Florence and would like to include your tributes or souvenirs about her. Please send your tribute about Florence with a photo to www.hollyburnfunerals.com