In gentle fashion, Lona passed away peacefully July 28,2006. This great lady will be missed by all who knew her, but the memories will be countless and live on forever. Lona was born November 03,1918 in Eston, Saskatchewan and spent her childhood years on the family wheat farm surrounded by her doting mother Isla Ann Cameron and many uncles whom are responsible for creating Lona “The Little Princess”. She spent her teen years during the depression, riding across the plains on her beloved horse and became famous for her freewheeling attitude and zest for life. High school was completed in Saskatoon and then subsequent education at V.G.H. School of Nursing in 1941. Lona graduated as a Registered Nurse, certainly one of her proudest accomplishments. She loved nursing people sick or healthy! Years of public health nursing in Comox/Courtenay, Victorian Order of Nursing for the mid-island, Red Cross Youth health coordinator and finally supervisor of the Homemakers Service in Nanaimo completed her formal years of nursing. She leaves behind a dedicated history of community service. She was predeceased by her loving husband Alexander Edwin Akenhead (Ed)and survived by her two children: Scott (Karen Gadowsky) and Laurel (Bruce Coatta). Her grandchildren: Ryan, Cameron and Adrienne Coatta, Brandon Bufton, Sarah Akenhead-York and Simon Alexander Akenhead were the focus of her life during her golden years. “Granny” had many opportunities to inspire all of her grandchildren with her gentle loving ways, strength and dignity. Countless friends that knew Lona will miss her kindness, sense of humor, graciousness and warmth. Scott and Laurel thank all of you for the love and genuine friendship you gave Lona. Her connection to family and friends was profound. The family wishes to thank Margie Bone and Summer Pooghkay of Arbour Cottage in Ladysmith for the most amazing dedicated, loving care you gave Lona during her final months.Â
Mom we will miss you everyday and will love you forever. A private memorial service was held at the family beach house in Ladysmith. Donations in lieu of flowers to the Health Care Service of your choice will be gratefully appreciated.