Stacey L. LePage

July 27, 1963 - March 11, 2023

Funeral Details: April 1st from 1-1:30 pm and 1:30-4 pm at Liberty North Banquet Hall (100 Caplan Ave Unit 1, Barrie, ON, L4N 9J2)

Stacey Louise LePage (née Duff) – beloved mother, wife, teacher, and friend – passed away on March 11th, 2023, leaving a legacy of love and joy.

Born on July 27th, 1963, to William and Paula Duff, Stacey embarked on a life-long pursuit to advocate for social justice and impart profound life lessons to all those around her.  She possessed an unwavering commitment to make the world a better place.

She was passionate about her community, volunteering countless hours with the RVRHC, fundraising for Gilda’s Club, running multiple Ovarian Cancer Walks of Hope, and Culture of Peace events, and fostering international relationships, especially focused on Cuba for whose people she had so much passion and compassion.

Stacey's love for her husband, Kevin, and their three children, Ben, Katya and David, was the cornerstone of her life.  Her commitment to their children’s happiness and well-being was fierce – a mother whose love was infinite.

As a wife, Stacey was the embodiment of love and dedication.  She and Kevin were true partners, supporting each other through chaos and calm.  Their love for each other was singular – the kind that gets noticed, the kind that inspires others, and the kind that is generous.  Together they welcomed anyone in need of love and support into their lives and home – with open arms and open hearts.

As an educator, Stacey went above and beyond to inspire her students to discover their true potential, pursue their passions, and advocate for themselves.  She had a unique ability to connect personally with each student, imbuing their lives and the classroom with compassion, empathy, and a deep understanding of the human experience.

Stacey created new adventures and experiences while living life to the fullest.  Whether she was gardening­, trying a new recipe in the kitchen, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Stacey embodied  joie de vivre.

Stacey was a breath of fresh air, a beacon of light, a safe harbour – our safe harbour.

We welcome family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, students, and acquaintances to join us to toast Stacey’s legacy on April 1st from 1-1:30 pm and 1:30-4 pm, at Liberty North Banquet Hall (100 Caplan Ave Unit 1, Barrie, ON, L4N 9J2).

1-1:30 pm. We are reserving the first half-hour for those who may be immunocompromised – a minimum attendance, “mask on” time where you can be safe.

1:30-4 pm.  All other guests.

We kindly ask that, in lieu of flowers, you consider making a donation to support our cherished family friends in Cuba with whom we maintain a close connection.  Your generous contribution will not only honour Stacey's memory but also make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.  If you wish to donate, please use the following e-transfer address:  lepage@rogers.com.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

CONDOLENCES

51 Condolences
  • Alaister McTurk
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Stacey was my teacher at the BLC for a few years and was a profound influence on me she told me to not be help back and always try my best at everything I do, I was very troubled and her advice helped me move across the country and prove to everyone and myself I can do anything I set my mind to, I’m now a single father of two with a striving successful business and career! Thank you Stacey for all you’re help when I really needed some guidance, rest in peace

  • Rachel Kean
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    I had the absolute pleasure of co-chairing RVH’s Corporate PFAC with Stacey. Stacey was passionate about improving health care for patients and families. Her enthusiasm and her ensuring patient’s voices were heard was palpable.
    I shall miss Stacey very much and will remember her fondly for her commitment and partnership. Her voice will remain with me, particularly her steadfast determination that we listen to patients and do the right thing for them.

    To her family – she spoke so fondly of you all. I know you have lost a great wife and mom. I will hold you all close in my thoughts and prayers.

  • Marilyn Coad
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    I volunteered with Stacey with the Patient and Family Advisory Committee. Stacey took on her role with sensitivity and passion. She was an exceptional leader. I remember we were in a meeting with doctors and she thanked them for not only taking care of her but others and her words brought one of them to tears. There are not enough words to describe Stacey as a truly beautiful human being. I too have a passion for Cuba and we have had a family we help for the past 11 years. We talked about that a lot. I never got to say good bye but she is someone I will never forget. Now rest in peace with the Lord Stacey, your work is done.

  • Gail Cornfield
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Kevin and the three of you, I’m so sorry to hear of Stacy’s passing,but you are right to say that she was a rare woman.

    I loved the glint of mischief in her eyes.

    She will be missed.

  • Chris & Lorraine Sproule
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Stacey was a beautiful person, always spreading love and joy with anyone in her life and especially her family. Her true love for her family was always evident. She will be missed by so many. Wishing her family all the very best in the days ahead.

    Love,
    Chris & Lorraine

  • Deb Van Natter
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Kevin, Ben, Katya and David,

    What a beautiful snapshot of Stacey…’leaving a legacy of love and joy’. My heart is heavy knowing how fiercely she fought and how unfair her passing is. Life is indeed fragile.

    Stacey will live on through each person she impacted, hugged, cheered and cared for including myself. I wish I had hugged her a little tighter last time we saw each other. Peace be with you as you grieve your incredibly special and loved wife and mother.

  • Gary Carty
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Stacey we love you – you are gone but will never be forgotten. Your spirit is way too big to be forgotten. We have spent so long living with you in our lives. We took that for granted – something that would always be there. That all changed six years ago. Good bye my friend – you touched so many so deeply you did make a difference in this world

  • Karyn Carty
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    My dear cherished Stacey ( my sister from another Mister)I miss you and will forever. I am a better person for having had you in my life and as a sister. I am grateful for all of our memories and for our families and hearts being forever intertwined.
    Rest in peace my dear friend.
    Kevin, Ben, Katya and David
    Our love is with you all.

  • Ann Van Schubert
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    I only met Stacey once when I visited her home to see my friend Ben. She could not have been more lovely or welcoming. I only really knew her through the stories Ben related and it was clear that she was a role model for all of us. May your family and friends feel comfort and peace in the days ahead.

  • Lorna Aucoin
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Kevin, Benjamin, Katya and David! I’m so sorry to see this post! My heart goes out to all of you! Your mom was certainly an inspiration to all and a beautiful woman! Sending you all our love and sending big hugs to you during this this very difficult time! 🥰🥰

  • Tracy Luiz Medeiros and family
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    Dear Kevin, Benjamin, Katya and David.
    We are so sadden to hear of Stacey’s passing. She was such a caring, special, and beautiful person. She had been such a help to us many times and the best neighbour and friend anyone could ask for. She will be missed tremendously. Our thoughts and love go out to you.
    Love the Medeiros family

  • Greg Taylor
    Posted on: Thursday, March 16, 2023 Reply

    My deepest condolences. Stacey and I worked together back in 1987 at the Canada Employment Centre for Students in Barrie. She was such a special person… such a great spirit… and fun to be around! I’m sure that she will be truly missed. ❤️🙏

  • Chris St-Jean
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    I remember the days at BLC working with Stacey well. Always even-tempered and ready for a good laugh, but incredibly compassionate with endless patience. Her passing is a shock and a huge loss. Thinking of you, Kevin, Ben, Katya and David.

  • Maddalena Alberga
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    Lives are forever changed because of the beautiful ways in which yours was lived. You are so cherished, and will be so missed.
    Sending all my love to those who’s hearts you crafted with your own hands, your son and daughter may they find healing, for grief is sadness with no place to go, but you Stacey… have left behind an entire garden of beauty for us to lay out grief.
    Because you always made sure everyone had a safe space to feel, to heal, and to be exactly who they are.
    Rest easy Angel.

  • Jo & Michael Prowse
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    What a wonderful woman!
    What a life well lived!
    Stacey fought so hard and now she can rest. She has earned it. Stacey will be greatly missed by the many people that were fortunate enough to have her in their lives. Our hearts are broken for your family We are here for you Kevin.

  • Courtney Willis
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    I feel so fortunate to have met Stacey through the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope in Barrie. I felt her warmth and infectious positivity from the moment we met. She was an inspiration to many. Sending my heartfelt condolences to her family and the community she so wonderfully connected with. She will be fondly remembered.
    – Courtney Willis

  • Alex Keizer
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    Stacey was an amazing teacher and person. She was so excited to see different ways the people learned. I still have all of my songs and verses that I wrote for classes. She was an inspiration outside of the classroom, doing more for me and other students than anyone could have asked for. She will be missed incredibly by a lot of people. My deepest condolences to her beautiful family.

    Rest in Paradise, Stacey.

  • Jane Dewar
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    Thinking of you all at this very tough time. -j

  • Darlene Lepage
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    I was so very sad to hear of Stacey’s passing. I only knew her for a very short time but knew right away she was beautiful soul. She welcomed and embraced my Mom and I like she knew us her whole life. She was a big last puzzle piece of bringing together my Mom with her long lost twin sisters. We will forever be grateful. Such a beautiful obituary written. It says all. She will truly be missed by many people who were blessed to have met her. My thoughts and prayers are with Kevin, Ben , Katya and David. Fly high beautiful angel.

  • Lee Doyle
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    Dear Kevin I’m so sorry to be reading this notice. I’m sending sincere condolences to you , your family.

  • Karen Berthelot
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    Stacey was truly an incredible soul, loving, giving, talented, uplifting and so inspirational. She loved unconditionally with no reservation. Her writing was exceptionally beautiful, raw and emotional and would tug at my heartstrings. I can’t imagine how many lives Stacey enriched and touched. She was a natural teacher and truly cared about her students.

    Lunch hour workouts at Expressfit with Vandie and Stacey were not to be missed! The laughter, encouragement and companionship are fondly remembered.

    To her family, my sincere condolences. May you find comfort in knowing there are many that grieve with you. Stacey’s love for you remains steadfast and she will remain in your hearts forever.

  • Miranda Hunnisett
    Posted on: Friday, March 17, 2023 Reply

    I’m so sorry to hear of Stacey’s passing. She was such a compassionate and kind force of nature at the BLC. She showed us all how it could be done, and for that I am forever grateful. My deepest condolences to her family.

  • Mike Hardie
    Posted on: Saturday, March 18, 2023 Reply

    I also had the pleasure of knowing Stacey as a member of the PFAC at RVH. Most of our members are survivors or caregivers to those who have had significant health issues; and can bring perspective to the treatment and ways to improve our local health care services.
    Stacey was “unforgettable.” Her quiet presence, encouragement and action was quite remarkable in the face of her own challenges; as she fought the good fight. I have no doubt that Stacey is at peace with God in his heavenly Kingdom.

  • Charlotte van Berlo
    Posted on: Saturday, March 18, 2023 Reply

    Kevin and children and extended family,

    Our entire family sends our deepest and heartfelt condolences. We were all lucky enough to meet Stacey and enjoy her lovely presence while she was here.

  • Dwayne Chambers
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    To kevin and family our deepest sympathies and condolences. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you.

  • Sue LePage
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    I am so sorry for your loss. Stacey will live on in all your hearts and memories. She certainly knew how to live life to the fullest. I will carry with me the great memories of our trip to Qatar. Take care of each other. Sue xo

  • John and Dawna Speers
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    Stacy’s path here on earth never wavered. She always showed compassion, support, and love. We read the messages of gratefulness within her blog, we see it on the faces of her students and we hear it from the many people that have been touched by her kindness.

    Our hearts go out to you and your family as you journey along the road of grief. May you find courage and comfort in some small way knowing that loving thoughts and memories of her will forever stay within your mind’s eye.

    Sincerely Dawna and John Speers

  • Sheena Carrigan
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    Kevin and family,
    My deepest sympathies on the passing of Stacey. I met her only a few times, and every time she was the embodiment of a ray of sunshine. Her aura made you want to make the world a better place, which she did with every fibre of her being. I am so sorry for your loss.

  • Mary Rozenberg
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    Dear Ben, Katya and David
    No words can describe how sorry I am for your loss. Mothers have a special place in our lives. Your Mom was an exceptional person and mother.
    May your memories of her bring you comfort as you move forward, carrying her loving, caring spirit in each of your lives.

  • Mary Rozenberg
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    Dear Kevin
    I’m not sure what to say. And no words can describe how sorry I am for your loss. My heart goes out to you.
    I remember the day you married Stacey …. so much love; and that love grew and grew. Stacey was a special, unique and amazing person. Her spirit and caring ways will always be remembered. May knowing that she is at peace bring you some comfort.
    I’m holding you and Ben, Katya and David in my thoughts and prayers.

  • Brenda Leclair
    Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2023 Reply

    I don’t know her , but saw this on facebook and was reading thru , I think she was a lovely lady ! You are fortunate to have known her . God bless the family ❤

  • Tom and Erryle George
    Posted on: Monday, March 20, 2023 Reply

    We are so sorry for the loss of such a special human.

    A life too brief, a heart too kind.♥️

    Our condolences to Kevin, Katya and David.

    Erryle and Tom

  • Megan Baker
    Posted on: Monday, March 20, 2023 Reply

    This world has lost a true angel. She was the most amazing teacher! She would stay after school and give me guitar lessons! She even bought me a capo!

    Ive thought of her so many times in my life. She and Kevin used to let us kids come over and we would play huge games of hide and seek. She would teach us about music.

    She once played Dennis Leary song, which of course we found hysterical, but she taught the meaning behind the music and the words. She helped us open our eyes.

    Truly such an amazing soul, you are missed and always loved. Thank you for caring so much, it meant more than you know.

  • Rita LePage
    Posted on: Tuesday, March 21, 2023 Reply

    She loved to dance and she was good at it—felt the music in her being and moved to it in the most unique ways.

    Poignantly, the music and the dance becomes a metaphor for who Stacey was and how she moved through her life and the lives of those around her—reacting to the beat, advancing through the music, progressing measure through measure, always feeling the melody as she felt the emotion of those in her life.

    I am grateful for the love, and the music, and the dance this untameable spirit brought to my baby brother, Kevin, and their children. Their’s was a home and family of love.

    It’s been a beautiful dance.

  • Alison /Steve Lintner
    Posted on: Tuesday, March 21, 2023 Reply

    Our deepest condolences to the entire LePage family.
    We met Kevin and Stacey several times through social events over the years. We remember Stacey as a kind and patient lady with many interesting stories. She spoke of her passion for Cuba and it was inspiring to hear of her dedication.
    Keep her memory close to your hearts.

  • Sharon&Greg Smith
    Posted on: Thursday, March 23, 2023 Reply

    From the 2023 Raw & Reflective Calendar in Support of Gilda’s Club Simcoe Muskoka

    GRIT
    Poem written by Stacey LePage

    I wasn’t always this person you see today My story is not mine alone to tell –
    You see, cancer took life’s script from me And my character – as well
    I had great plans to change the world To see all I could see
    To do all I could do with life
    And be all I could be
    I studied hard, I earned my way
    I worked, and saved, and prayed That life would shine upon me well So tough times I could evade
    But the script I thought I wrote for me The future I would hold
    No more was I in charge of me
    The cancer stopped me cold
    I had no choice but to read its words And act out every line –
    The plot, the scenes, the entrance cues And none of them were mine
    I played the part, I played my role Reluctantly I obeyed
    And those who watched me play my scene… Were incredibly – afraid
    I bided my time and bit my tongue For deep inside I knew
    That this was not my role to keep And that I would rise anew
    The lines like glass upon my tongue I tasted every word
    I chewed them up and spit them out Like cancer – I would purge

    Then, deep within I felt my roar
    It clawed right through the ground
    It dug in deep and summoned the grit To bellow my own life sound
    A relentless climb, a pause, a slip Then on my feet again –
    I faced my life and what I’d become And realized what I had gained
    I took my hope, I took my faith
    I sifted the sands of time
    I had survived the play, the script, the scene Life’s victory was finally mine
    And as I stood to take a bow
    At the closing of the day
    I looked beyond the stage where I Had once my life been played
    I had control of my lead again My character was renewed
    A new day, a life, a future bold And cancer was now subdued
    A thunderous roar of clapping hands An ovation loud and clear
    The lights arose so I could see
    All those whom I held dear
    There they were just within my reach The people I did love
    Had loved me back and cheered me on Like manna from above
    No
    I wasn’t always this person you see today The story, not mine alone to tell
    Though cancer stole the script from me
    I played my own role well.

  • Jon Beauchesne
    Posted on: Friday, March 24, 2023 Reply

    I attended Eastview with Stacey….a very smart young lady who I knew would go on to do great things 🙂 I had heard a few years back thru mutual friends that Stacey had been ill and so she had been in my thoughts over the years! RIP Stacey and sincerest condolences to Stacey’s family & friends

  • Anne-Marie Villeneuve
    Posted on: Sunday, March 26, 2023 Reply

    Kevin, Ben, Katya et David,
    Je vous offre mes plus sincères condoléances.
    Je suis de tout coeur avec vous et je partage votre peine.

  • Bernie Williams
    Posted on: Sunday, March 26, 2023 Reply

    I am deeply saddened by Stacey’s passing.
    She was a vibrant, caring, sensitive person who gave of herself time and time again.
    She kept a positive attitude even when she had cancer and kept fighting for her family.
    She touched many lives and will never be forgotten.
    Kevin and family, may your home have no more sorrow.

  • Antony & Maureen Gariepy
    Posted on: Monday, March 27, 2023 Reply

    Our deepest condolences to Kevin and family. Stacey was an incredible person. May your many memories together sustain you through the loss. We are praying for you all.

  • Charlotte Parliament
    Posted on: Monday, March 27, 2023 Reply

    Stacey will not be forgotten. She touched so many lives with her energy, caring, positive and loving manner. I met Stacey when I was new in Adult Education and she quickly came my go to person and I still talk about her amazing teaching strategies – and how real she always was with her students. My deepest condolences to Stacey’s family.

  • Myriam Boucher
    Posted on: Monday, March 27, 2023 Reply

    Mes sincères condoléances à toute la famille. Votre maman était une femme forte, une femme exceptionnelle, une mère protectrice, aimante et engagée. Comme elle l’a toujours fait, je suis certaine que votre maman continuera de veiller sur vous.
    My thoughts and prayers are with you during these difficult times.

  • Tony Gunby
    Posted on: Wednesday, March 29, 2023 Reply

    I remember her love of music and dance. She was stoic, optimistic and fun-loving, qualities that must have helped her through the tough times. A life cut too short; rest in peace Stacey.

  • Kevin, Tracy and Zander Peloquin
    Posted on: Wednesday, March 29, 2023 Reply

    We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Stacey. Although we haven’t seen her and Kevin in a while, we always considered them our good friends. Stacey was a force to be reckoned with. She was the team Mom for our Barrie Elites team and took care of those boys as if they were her own. Our deep condolences go to Kevin, Ben, Katya and David. The world lost one of its most amazing humans.

  • Deb Van Bolderen
    Posted on: Thursday, March 30, 2023 Reply

    I always felt lucky to get a chance to cross paths with Stacey. She always had a smile for everyone she met. The words that are written above ring very true: she was among the most caring individuals I’ve known. I will remember her as a strong and gentle woman. My thoughts are with you, Kevin, Ben, Katya and Dave.

  • Brenda Lalonde
    Posted on: Thursday, March 30, 2023 Reply

    What a beautiful tribute to such a caring person. As soon as Stacey heard of my illness (ovarian cancer) she reached out to offer her support. She shared the experience of her own journey to help with mine. Since my first chemo treatment was during Covid and I wasn’t allowed to have anyone accompany me, Stacey offered to face time with me to help me through it. We communicated often, sharing our health journeys. She was such an amazing support and I will miss her immensely. My deepest condolences to her beloved family, friends and those whose lives she touched. Rest easy Stacey. ❤️

  • Tayler Durkee
    Posted on: Friday, March 31, 2023 Reply

    Stacey Lepage was…a gem. A diamond in a sea of pebbles. She really was a truly special human being. She was the best teacher, confidant, friend, just the best human. She changed my life, saved my life, gave me kindness and hope when the world fought against me, showed me my worth when I couldn’t see it. She was a game changer, chain breaker, move maker, and chance taker. She did so much for her community, hell for EVERY community, she helped and impacted communities all over the world. She had so much knowledge and wisdom and kindness and I’m honoured that she shared even some of that with me. She was the sole figure that inspired me to turn my life around. Her approach was unlike any other, her demeanor, just…she was a true educator. I wish everyone knew one like her. She actually CARED. Like, truly cared about each and every single one of her students, and she never stopped learning from us too. She never was high and mighty, never was on a pedestal looking down on us. She took the time to FIRST learn how each of us learned, so she could teach us in a way we’d actually understand. Mind blowing. She took absolutely none of my bullsh*t, saw right through it, and picked at that hard outer layer till she saw the raw human underneath. Then she let me shine. She MADE me shine. She kindly ever so slightly put me out of my comfort zone CONSTANTLY, to make me grow. And I did, thanks to her. I won’t give her all the credit or she’d give me hell, but I really do owe a lot to her. Her lessons she’s taught me didn’t end in school, those lessons have stayed with me and will for life, as well and everything she taught me afterwards, and the last lesson she’s teaching me. Accept kindness. Stop refusing kindness and support in a world where there’s not much left.
    She was someone everyone should strive to be. Full of life, love, hope, wisdom, emotion, talent, joy, warmth, sass, and so much more. Anyone who knew her knows EXACTLY what I mean when I say all of this, and when I say it’ll never be enough to describe a human as awesome as she was.
    Rest in absolute paradise Stacey.
    We miss you more than you know.
    ❤️

  • Michelle Fraser
    Posted on: Saturday, April 1, 2023 Reply

    Stacey was a beautiful soul who exuded light and love.

    Despite what she was going through she took the time to love and care for others in very real and tangible ways. She was a light for me in my darkest time and I am grateful for the difference she made in my life and the lessons I learned through her example.

    I will miss her. I will miss our great conversations. May her legacy live on through the many lives she touched.

    Deepest condolences to Kevin, family, and friends.

  • Jennifer Campbell
    Posted on: Saturday, April 1, 2023 Reply

    Stacey had such a huge impact on the lives of so many friends, students, and colleagues. I consider myself among those who benefited from Stacey’s amazing spirit. Each of the wonderful opportunities Stacey provided me as a student, friend, and a colleague let me grow into the person I am today. Stacey always provided lessons so extraordinary that they created the foundation for life-long learning as well as a deep sense of community and values.

    We all know Stacey represented the very best of the profession, with her talent to connect with people and her serious dedication to community, and that she represented the best of who we can all be with her compassion. Stacey was a truly inspiring person to so many of us and the loss is a deep one. I am thankful to have known this extraordinary human being and so grateful for the positive influence she has had in my life.

    My deepest condolences to Kevin, Ben, Katya, and David.

  • Carole Wright
    Posted on: Thursday, May 25, 2023 Reply

    I just heard today about Stacey’s tragic passing in March, and I am crushed. I worked with Stacey at the Barrie Learning Centre and adored everything about her – she taught me so much personally, and made a positive impact on those students’ lives every single day. I last connected with her in 2021 and then lost touch. I will always remember her calm confidence, her advocacy for the underdog, her intelligence, courage, sly wit, and of course, her generosity.

    Tonight I’ll put on my old Culture of Peace t-shirt, have a glass of wine and toast that fine woman. Repose en paix.

    My heartfelt condolences to Kevin whose home they opened up to me on different occasions, and her lovely children of whom she was rightfully so very proud.

    C.

  • Barb Stuhlemmer
    Posted on: Friday, September 8, 2023 Reply

    We met under a collapsed tent as the result of a tornado. You, friend of the bride, me, friend of the groom. Everyone rushing to help out, checking on the elderly, setting up tables, and rebuilding the tent. We were all in shorts and T-shirts before the dinner had started. It was casual and fun and that was because we met you and Kevin, both of us without kids. We both had travelled from Barrie to be at this wedding. We would never have met if it were not for them, or so I thought. Not long after we met and connected back in Barrie, you moved to Collingwood. We saw each other rarely, and even less as we started having children. One day, 7 years later, we moved to our forever-house. The day we moved in you showed up at our door with a warm welcome.

    “I knew it was you”, You exclaimed as you divulged your secret connecting in the post office that had been the person who registered our address change. “Welcome to the neighbourhood.”

    Kevin, Stacy, and little Kevin and Stacey (Ben and Katya) lived right across the road.

    Over the years we have laughed and cried, had drinks on the front lawn, went for walks, hung out with friends, dug gardens, solved the problems of the world in long discussions, and planned.

    I have always been in awe of you. Your kindness, your ability to share, your intelligence, your insightfulness, your knowledge, your willingness to help, your drive to see people reach their goals. Life for you always seemed to be about others. Even while you fought cancer for 8 years you found a cause that allowed you to be a beacon for others.

    What a blessing that you called me friend. I will miss you. ❤️

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