The family of Lois Lake (nee Thompson) sadly announce her passing at Brightshores Health Systems, Owen Sound, on Tuesday July 1, 2025, at age 68. Beloved wife of 40 years to Bruce Lake of Georgian Bluffs, and cherished mother of Vickie Hammill (Norman), Michael Lake (Wendy) both of Owen Sound, and Terri Lynn Cowen (Jason) of Oliphant. Doting grandma of Riddick, Achillies, Avigail, and Addison. Lois is survived by her siblings Paul Thompson, Bonnie Thompson (Calvin), Janice Thompson (Joel) and by her in-laws Don Lake, Marilyn McNabb (Tom), Judy Grieg (Dave), Carol Erwin (Gary) and Cathy Beattie (Steve). She was predeceased by her parents Ken and Mary Thompson (nee Lepard), sister Brenda Thompson (Chuck), infant brother Brian Thompson, and sister-in-law Marilee Lake. She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and friends in the Stonewyck Park community.

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Lois was a woman who lived with her heart wide open—a spirited soul who loved deeply, laughed freely, and gave of herself in ways big and small. Born one of six children to Ken and Mary Thompson, Lois grew up surrounded by the energy, mischief, and loyalty that come with being part of a large, close-knit family. That upbringing shaped her—fiercely loyal, endlessly supportive, and always ready to stand her ground, especially if someone dared to say, “Time for bed.” As she liked to say: “Never tell a Thompson girl to go to bed.” Lois had a gift for connecting with people. Whether it was striking up conversations with strangers or sharing endless cups of tea with friends at the trailer park, she made people feel seen and heard. She loved to be surrounded by others, whether out camping in the woods with her family—despite her dislike of snakes—or gathered around the table for a classic Sunday supper of meat, potatoes, and a store-bought vanilla cake. She met her husband Bruce in a bar in Owen Sound 46 years ago, and that chance encounter turned into a lifelong partnership. Together they raised three children, and Lois poured her heart into being a mother. She was supportive, loving, always worrying (because that’s what good moms do), and made sure each of her children felt like the most important person in the world. Her love was unconditional, her presence comforting, and her sense of fairness unwavering—Lois treated everyone equally, no matter who they were. Lois loved the simple pleasures of life: listening to music, going to the movies, cheering on her favourite Nascar drivers, or keeping up with Days of Our Lives and Coronation Street. She had a special fondness for thrift shopping—always on the lookout for treasures—and an even greater fondness for making them. Her hands were rarely still; she lovingly crafted blankets and teddy bears for children through local charities, spreading warmth and comfort through every stitch. She was fun to be around—sassy, kind, and always up for a good laugh. Her life was built on the bonds of family and friendship, stitched together like her knitting and crocheting: colourful, practical, and full of love. Though she’s no longer with us, the echoes of her laughter, the strength of her love, and the softness of her handmade bears live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Lois was truly one of a kind—an amazing mom, a loyal sister, a beloved wife, and a friend to many. She will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.

Cremation has taken place and arrangements entrusted to the Garafraxa Hill Funeral Home, Chatsworth. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Monday July 7, at 12 noon, with a visitation 1 hour prior, David Fries officiating. Interment to follow at Hillcrest Cemetery, Tara. If desired, donations to the Cancer Society or Chapman House, would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.garafraxahillfuneral.com