Lynne Lawson

          It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lynne Lawson (née Gundlack), who died peacefully, surrounded by family, on June 26, 2025, in Woodstock, Ontario, just two days shy of her 77th birthday.

          Born in Toronto on June 28, 1948, Lynne was the beloved daughter of Lorne Gundlack and Helen O’Hare.  She first pursued her studies in Home Economics at Ryerson University, where her lifelong passion for food, family, and creativity began to flourish.  Later in life, she returned to school at the University of Ottawa, earning her Long-Term Care Administration Certificate, an accomplishment she was deeply proud of.  Lynne had a long and meaningful career in Long Term Care, beginning at Kingsway Lodge in St. Marys, where she found great fulfillment working with the elderly.  Her career was more than a job, it was an extension of her generous, caring nature.

          Lynne had an extraordinary gift for making people feel welcome and loved. Her home was a constant hub of warmth and hospitality; filled with laughter, conversation, and unforgettable meals.  Her homemade rib sauce, Caesar salad dressing, and famously flaky pie crusts are some of her award worthy dishes.  Family dinners were sacred in her home, often bustling with guests and good food.  She truly thrived when hosting and bringing people together.  Her love of celebrating holidays, especially Christmas is something her family will always remember.  She brought warmth, tradition, and thoughtful touches to every event, whether decorating, hosting family gatherings at home, or finding the perfect gift.

          Creative and resourceful, Lynne poured her energy into countless DIY projects; from sewing elaborate skating and Halloween costumes, to tailoring dresses for her daughters, to lovingly renovating the family home in St. Mary's.  Her talents extended beyond her own household as she also taught cooking classes, generously sharing her skills and passion with others. She was especially proud of her involvement with the St. Mary's Skating Club, helping to organize and support a program that brought joy and activity to her community.

          Lynne was predeceased by her parents, Lorne Gundlack and Helen O’Hare.  She is survived by her brother Lorne Gundlack (Jean), and her cherished nieces and nephews.  She leaves behind her greatest legacy, her four daughters, who were her pride and joy and to whom she gave the most precious gift of all - a deep love for one another.  She will be lovingly remembered by Kate Bailey (Dave), Shannon Stewart (Peter), Alexandra Pys (Andrew), and Mary Elizabeth Lawson (Matthew McGrady).  Lynne was a devoted and adoring grandmother to Jessica Sheldon (Nick), Emily Bailey Griffin (Curtis), Adam Levy (Avery), Megan and Sarah Bailey, David, William and Ryan Stewart, Kayla, A.J. and Luke Pys, and Regan and Finley McGrady.  She was a proud great-grandmother to Maeve and Liam Sheldon.

          Lynne’s family would like to extend heartfelt thank you to the Staff at Woodstock Hospital for their compassionate care and support in her final days.

           Her daughters will be holding a private celebration of life to honour her memory in the way she would have loved most; surrounded by family, stories, and good food.  She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love, strength, and warmth she gave so freely.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lynne’s name to Kids Ability are most appreciated.  

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock has been entrusted with Final Arrangements.  Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at wareingcremation.ca