Obituary of Lois Eleanor Duke

February 16, 1940 – November 18, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Lois who will be forever missed by her loving husband, Jim, her daughter Natasha Hritzuk (Grant McCarthy), and granddaughter Rosalind Eleanor McCarthy. She leaves her sister, June Morris, niece Christine Pagani and family, and first husband John Hritzuk as well as other relatives and many friends who also fondly remember her.

Born in Alert Bay on Canada’s west coast, Lois grew up in Penticton, B.C., then attended UBC and later, the University of Calgary.  Along the way, she collected various degrees and certificates. Lois’ brilliance empathy, creativity, generosity, kindness, and sparkling personality informed everything she did. An amazing social worker and family therapist, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic promotor of community wellbeing and services, a leader in corporate organizational design and knowledge management, Lois had a true creative vision that shone through everything she touched.

In addition to her academic and professional achievements, Lois was an exceptional artist. Her ability to see and create beauty in even the smallest things characterized every aspect of her life. From her photographs and pottery to the unforgettable desserts (the pies!), crafts and clothes she made, Lois brought a true craftsmanship and aesthetic flair to everything she made. We take great comfort in still being able to surround ourselves with all the lovely things she made for us over the years. Her spirit lives on in our hearts and the beauty that she brought to our lives every day.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held at the Pinecrest Reception Centre, 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa on Saturday, March 30^th, 2024 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Donations in Lois’s name may be made to The Dementia Society.