Lila Muriel Fripps Heier

Lila Muriel Fripps Heier (nee Webb), born December 14, 1929, in Grandview, MB, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2024. 

Lila was the cherished daughter of Nina and Alfred Webb, and youngest sister of Jack and Jean. Her childhood was filled with drawing, music, skating and summers at Clear Lake. Learning from her parents, she was active in the Grandview community, often singing at local events with her sister Jean, and offering help, like weaving scarves for troops overseas. The welcoming nature of the Webb home was a model of what Lila carried through her life.  

Encouraged by her parents, Lila pursued her passion for sketching and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design (BID) from the University of Manitoba in 1951. Lila married Doug Fripps in 1959 and moved to a wonderful beachside life in Long Beach, California, where their daughters Lynn and Michelle were born. Later returning to Port Coquitlam, BC, they welcomed their third daughter Kelley. Lila was a loving, creative and energetic mom with a generous heart, who inspired those same qualities in her three girls.  During this time, Lila took on leadership roles in her daughters’ school, church, swim team and Girl Guide activities. She continued her work in interior design, taught night school courses, and wrote a column for the local newspaper.  

Lila’s career ranged from designing the emerging oil industry offices in Calgary, to designing executive offices, notable restaurants, and distinguished homes in Vancouver.  Her entrepreneurial talents were recognized when she started her own design firm, Lila Interiors, which was highly successful for over 20 years, earning numerous accolades and awards. 

Lila semi-retired to Langley to help raise her grandchildren, Danielle, Cameron, Sean, Benjamin, Nicholas, Adam, Meghan, Lauryn and Kirsten.  The positive impact she had on them was significant.  She lovingly supported her daughter, Lynn, through cancer and remained a devoted and doting Grandma after Lynn passed.  In 2001, her life was enriched when she married Erv Heier. They spent many wonderful years together golfing, gardening, traveling and enjoying time with their large blended family.  

A vibrant and artistic woman, Lila’s beautiful paintings grace the walls of many homes.  In her later years, in Abbotsford and Chilliwack, she continued to share her warm hospitality.  Her get-togethers were known for their creative decorations, delicious food, lively political conversations, laughter and fun.  Right up until she went into hospice, she was consistently the thoughtful neighbour, bringing treats to the party, or to those who were not feeling well.  She treasured her daily chats with her friends and her dear sister, Jean.

Lila is predeceased by her parents Nina and Alfred Webb, brother John (Dorothy), husband Douglas Fripps, husband Ervin Heier, and daughter Carolynn (Simon).  She is survived by her sister Jean Cronk (John), children Michelle (Will), Kelley (Francis), Dale (Tim), Lynn, Mel (Lynn), Don (Sharon); 21 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. 

Lila’s life was marked by her creativity in interior design, sharing in her community, and her dedication to her beloved family. She will be deeply missed by all.  A celebration of Lila’s life will be held at a later date.