Obituary of Mary Jean Holm - Laursen

Mary Laursen (nee Hill) Mary Jean Holm-Laursen passed away peacefully at home in Shelburne, surrounded by her family, on February 22, 2018 in her 56th year. Beloved wife of Robert Holm-Laursen for 30 years, and loving mother of Kayla and Justin. Youngest of the 5 “Hill Girls”, Sharon (Dennis) Middlehurst of Ingoldsby; Mavis (Bruce) Wilson of Toronto, formerly of Redickville; Bonnie (Graham) MacDermott of Dartmouth, NS; and Marilyn Hill (Bud Adams) of Waterloo. She will be sadly missed by the Holm-Laursen family: mother-in-law Olive MacPherson (nee Strong) of Matawatchan; and Rob's siblings Brian (Marjorie) of Lower Sackville, NS; Ken (Pat) of Griffith; Darlene McIntyre (Steve Zaks) of Scarborough; and Rick (Rosemary) of Oshawa. Predeceased by her parents Jean (nee Little) (1993) and Elwood Hill (1995) and fathers-in-law James Holm-Laursen (1999) and Floyd MacPherson (2016). Mary will be sadly missed by her many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncle, friends, and co-workers. Mary was known as Mary Jean and MJ in her childhood, Mary as an adult, and Mare to many of those close to her. She grew up working and playing at her family's campground, Rock Hill Park, a popular venue for both country and rock music events. Mary attended Georgian and Humber Colleges and then worked for the Toronto Transit Commission. After marriage, Rob and Mary moved to Rob's home area of Matawatchan, then in 1992 moved to Mary's home town of Shelburne. Mary was extremely proud of her 20-year career and the enduring friendships she made at Chrysler Canada in Brampton. Mary was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in June 2016. A special thank you to Mary's compassionate caregivers. This definitely was a team effort of more than 40 professionals and so many family and friends who visited, helped out, provided meals, listened, laughed and laughed some more. Rob spent the last 9 months as Mary's 24/7 caregiver, becoming competent and confident as he lovingly cared for Mary. Kayla and Justin were integral to their mother's care as well. Thank you to the whole community for supporting Mary at the fundraiser in October 2016 and the ALS walk in June 2017. Mary will be remembered for her cheerful disposition, sparkling smile, infectious laugh and especially her dignity and grace throughout her journey with ALS. Cremation has taken place. All friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life Service in honour of Mary at the Shelburne Legion, 203 William St., Shelburne on Saturday, March 10, 2018, visitation 1:00-2:00 p.m., service at 2:00 p.m., reception following. Rev. Stephanie Pellow officiating. The ALS Society was a tremendous help in providing equipment and support. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the ALS Society of Canada would be appreciated by the family.