The Wilberforce gals
We are saddened to hear our former neighbor has passed. We always had the best chats on the sidewalk as the kids played around us. Rest in peace Lena!
WILBERFORCE, Lena
1936 - 2024
It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of Lena Louise Wilberforce (nee Lariviere) on Saturday, October 19, 2024 in Rockland, Ontario.
Lena was born and raised in Kirkland Lake where over the years she worked at the telephone office, the Bon Air, the Commodore and the Don Lou. In her later years, she became a PSW and worked at Teck Pioneer Residence until her retirement. She will be fondly remembered for her love of music and her amazing piano playing abilities. She was a gifted self-taught piano player who could play anything. She started playing at a very young age at various community events alongside her father, a renowned fiddle player in the area. Her family will cherish the memories of Christmas carols around the piano, and leading sing songs at various family gatherings.
Lena was predeceased by her husband Wayne, her parents Beatrice (nee Rozon) Pearce (Frank) and Paul Lariviere, and sisters Patricia Sheaves and Laurette Lariviere.
Lena is survived by Debbie McGill, Vicky Wilberforce, Connie Wilberforce and Cathie Janssen (Mark Turpin). Lena is also survived by her grandchildren Shauna and Kristina McGill (Ryan), Stephany Janssen, Kylie Harding and Wayne Wilberforce. She also leaves behind her beloved great-grandchildren Carter, Evynn and Aby. Lena will be fondly remembered by Cliff and Colleen McGill, brother in law Alex Sheaves, and her stepsister Sheila Ferguson.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Heritage Funeral Complex in Orleans, Ontario. As per Lena’s wishes, there will be no service at this time. Interment to follow in Summer 2025 in Kirkland Lake, Ontario. In lieu of flowers donations in Lena’s name can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
- To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. Thomas Campbell
Write your sympathies or tribute
19 messages received
The Wilberforce Family and Friends
Great memories of Lena, she was Special..Condolences to all Family members, so sorry for your loss.
May my support
warm your heart
Debbie and Shauna
It’s so hard losing a parent my deepest sympathy to you both. I’m sure your mom and grandmother is playing beautiful music in heaven. My condolences to your family.
Wilberforce family
So very sorry to hear of your loss. She was a great lady and she will be missed.
Wilberfor e family
I am sorry for your loss
Wilberforce Family
What can I say about Lena? She was such a hoot. We did our PSW training together. She always had me laughing. What a great lady.
My condolences to the family and my deepest sympathies.
Connie & Family
It is with great sadness that I hear of your mother's passing - My deepest condolences to you Connie and your families. May She Rest in Peace
Debbie & Shauna
Deepest condolences for the loss of your mother and grandmother. Our thoughts are with you.
Wilberforce Family
Debbie,Vicky ,Connie and Cathie please accept my prayers and best wishes on the loss of your lovely mom. Stan & Sabrina Skalecki
Family
Condolences to all sorry for your loss.
May my support
warm your heart
Wilberforce girls and Shauna
Sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom and Grandma. Deepest condolences to the whole family.
Debbie, Shauna and family
I’m so sorry to hear of your dear Mother/Grandmother’s passing. I remember working with Lena at the Don Lou and she always had me laughing. My condolences to all the family. RIP Lena
Connie, Shauna and families
I’m so sorry to hear of Lena’s passing. She was a very lovey lady. I know you will all miss her so much. Take care.
Wilberforce Family
So sorry to hear of Lena’s passing . Condolences to the family.
Deb & Shawna
I am sorry for your loss, please accept our condolences Her release from this world frees her while her passing makes your heart ache. I hope you can take some comfort from my heartfelt, loving message. I'm always ready to talk, if you need me please call.
The Wilberforce family
We were very sad to hear of Lena's passing. I always had fun chatting with Lena when I made my trips to KL. Our condolences to the girls and extended family. Here's a link to a Wilberforce picture from our reunion in 2002.
https://prnt.sc/NBy3LIqD3K1C
Connie
Please accept my condolences for your loss.
Lena`s Entire Family
My deepest condolences go out to you all on the loss of your beautiful mom. I remember her from the Goldland neighbourhood and have to say she was one of my favourite customers.
The Wilberforce family
So sorry to hear of your loss. Always enjoyed meeting and chatting with Lena. My sincere condolences to al.
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