It is with great sadness that the family announces the death of Gladys Irene Olmstead, daughter of Maude (Bean) and Harry Johnston at the North Bay Regional Health Centre at the age of 93.
Gladys was predeceased by her parents, her husband Reginald, and her son-in-law, Claude Frigon, her sisters Jean (late Joe), Laura, Ruth ( late Irvine), and her brother, Bob (late Kathleen).
She is survived by her children Patricia (late Claude), Wayne (Lyn), Don (Rannveig) and Kimberly (Jason), her grandchildren Beau (Tanya), Coryna, Joshua, Marc (Stacey), Stephanie (Angela), Ryan (Jodi), Kathryn (Steve), Jessica and Jake, her great grandchildren, Hayden, Keldon, Tyler, Jaxson, Emily, Reid, Sarah and Mathew; as well as her sister Grace (late Irwin) and her many loved nieces and nephews.
Gladys worked tirelessly to provide for her family. She started out running a comer store, worked at Producers Dairy, was head cashier and bookkeeper at Dominion before purchasing what became Olmstead Grocery on Main Street. She finished her work years at the LCBO.
Volunteering for and sitting on the Board of the Kirkland Lake Skating Club were rewarding times. So many costumes were created by her hands.
Gladys was a long time member of the Golden Gate Rebekah Lodge of Kirkland Lake.
Golf at the Kirkland Lake Golf Club and at her Florida Community gave her competitive side a chance to shine. She hit a good ball and enjoyed reminding Reg of the rules!
She had a great passion for gardening. She spent many hours creating her beautiful gardens at Kenogami. She missed it very much when she moved to condo life in North Bay. Upon moving into the Empire Living Centre, Gladys joined the knitting group and knit countless pairs of socks and mitts for children's charities.
Gladys, like many other seniors felt strongly the impact of COVID. She expressed her feelings of loneliness and how she missed her family.
In keeping with Gladys' wishes, cremation has taken place, and a visitation will be held on Saturday, June 18, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, and a funeral service starting at 10:30 am at French Family Funeral Home. A private internment will follow at the Kirkland Lake Cemetery.
In her memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Arthritis Society or a charity of your choice.
Sympathy Messages
Condolences to all the family from Kathy and I. RIP Gladys.
- Kathy and John Carhart, on
March 31, 2022
Pat, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. She was such a kind person with a generous spirit. We wish you and your family share good memories at this difficult time.
Take care,
June (Cameron) Wallsten and Chuck
- June Wallsten, on
March 31, 2022
I still remember her friendly smile every time I would go to Olmstead's Corner Store to pick up the paper, a snack or other purchase as a youngster living on Poplar Avenue. My sincerest sympathies to the family.
- John Czuba, on
March 31, 2022
My deepest sympathy. What a blessing to have her for so long.
- Vivien Clarke, on
March 31, 2022
I have such good memories of Gladys as a member of the Golf Club. My sincere condolences to all her family.
- Margaret McCrank, on
April 1, 2022
We are so to hear the news of your mother’s passing. She was always so interesting to talk with —a strong character , definite opinions , and dry sense of humour . She was always so active and will be missed by the many friends she had.
Our sympathy to the family—Brian and Gale
- Brian and Gale Hamilton , on
April 1, 2022
My deepest sympathies on the loss of your mom. My condolences to the entire family.
- Kate Clarke, on
April 1, 2022
So many fond memories of Glady's to remember her by. Condolences to the Family at this very sad time, thinking of you all.
- Rick & Judy (Cale) Gervais, on
April 1, 2022
Our deepest condolences on your loss. Cherish the memories and remember all the good times.
She will be missed.
- Don & Vivi Mervyn, on
April 2, 2022
So sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Treasure all the great memories, may Gladys rest in peace.
- John St. Cyr, on
April 3, 2022
Your mother always boasted about what a beautiful family she had. I know that you all meant so much to her. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
- Michelle & Gerry Blunt, on
April 3, 2022
So sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing.
My condolences to All.
- Tony Antoniazzi, on
April 4, 2022
Wayne, Ryan, Kathryn and Olmstead Family, please accept our sympathies. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
- Bill Glover & family (Lake Kenogami), on
April 8, 2022
Sorry sorry to hear about your loss
My sincerest condolences
- Sherry Faulkner, on
May 13, 2022
Sorry for the loss of your mother. Kim, I remember her hanging out at the arena during our figure skating days.
- Tracey (Day) Daoust, on
May 27, 2022
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