Obituary of Lorraine Jean Atkinson

Died suddenly but peacefully at home in Kitchener on Thursday, July 6, 2023 at the age of 84 years.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, George Atkinson (1998).

Survived by her children, Sheila (Andrew Sheppard) of Barrie, Arwen (Vashti King) of Toronto, Jim of Muskoka and David of Kitchener, her grandchildren, Brendan and Kelvin Sheppard, her brother Brian McGowan and several cousins.

Born in Toronto, daughter of Archie F. McGowan and Agnes Young Hughes. She was a nurse (Toronto General Hospital School of Nursing), a devoted parent, a deeply committed wife, an avid gardener, a dedicated long time volunteer, a life long learner and deeply committed to her neighbours, her church communities, her friends and her faith.  She loved music, singing in her high school musical and later in community choirs. Though passionate about her vocation as a nurse, she chose to dedicate much of her life to being a mother and homemaker, always present and enabling many opportunities for her family, including two full year sabbatical trips to England.  Summers were spent at the cottage on Lake of Bays, often absorbed in cottage jobs, sanding, painting and pruning.  She celebrated her two grandchildren, giving gifts towards their education, a legacy they deeply value.  She was a long-time Anglican, and more recently participated in an Orthodox faith community.  Throughout her life she poured her energy into the community and spiritual life of the church and other Christian causes, supporting various missionary friends and giving of herself in many quiet leadership roles and generous hospitality.  Following the death of her husband she accomplished a significant goal, studying theology and earning her Graduate Diploma in Christian Studies from Regent College, Vancouver. 

Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Monday, July 10, 2023 from 7–9 p.m. The funeral service will take place in the chapel of the funeral home on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. Interment at Mount Hope Cemetery, Waterloo.  Friends and family are welcome to gather following the interment.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to the Ray of Hope Kitchener Waterloo donations@rayofhope.net or a charity of your choice may be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com 

May her memory be eternal.