Obituary of Lorraine Diane Ryan

Lorraine Diane Ryan (née Bédard) July 1936 - April 2021 On April 30, 2021, we said goodbye to our much-loved mom and nana, Lorraine. We held her hand and were serenaded by Michael Bublé as she left us. Her devotion to her family and faith supported her during her illness and provided her comfort and peace in her final days. Lorraine leaves behind her three daughters Lynne (Steve), Michelle (Mike) and Stephanie and her grandchildren Jack, Ethan, Sydney and Olivia as well as her furry friends Otis, Poppy and Shrek. She is survived by her siblings Jeannette (Rey) and Andre (Linda), sisters-in-law Sheila (Ed) and Sherrill (Roger) as well as several nieces and nephews. Lorraine was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Frank, her toddler son, Taylor, and eldest grandson Dillan. Lorraine was born and raised in North Bay by Dora and Orméus(Red) Bedard. As a career educator, she taught for many years in the french system and eventually she began teaching the children of her former students. In her 50’s she returned to school to obtain her Bachelor’s degree and graduated from Nipissing University. Retirement from the profession she loved was difficult for her and it took three attempts before it finally took. Lorraine spent the last 11 years in London after moving there to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She quickly made friends in the French community (Cercle des copains) and the Red Hats who welcomed her and were always on hand to drive her to any functions. She found great joy in these activities and appreciated the kindnesses shown to her. In true Lorraine style, she couldn’t stop learning or teaching and took up Spanish lessons with several of her new acquaintances and taught French at the local library. Although she enjoyed being in London, she missed her family and friends in North Bay greatly. She had many fond memories of her time spent at the Pinewood golf course and lunch with the ladies followed by her drive home with the top down in her fire engine red Mustang. Lorraine took great joy in spending time with her grandchildren riding the carousel and train in North Bay, travelling to watch their sporting events, and entertaining them while their parents had to work. We will cherish our many memories, hand crafted blankets and the recipes she has imparted. We will never be able to play a game of Monopoly without thinking of her. Cremation has taken place and a family interment will take place in North Bay once restrictions are eased. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario @ parkisonsociety.ca are welcome. Online condolences at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009853508570