Linda Lorraine Larsen

LARSEN, Linda “Lorraine”

July 29, 1949 – February 21, 2023

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our wife and mother Lorraine Larsen (nee De La Mare) in the early morning of February 21, 2023. She was embraced by the love of her family.

Born in New Westminster, Lorraine was raised in Surrey BC.  She grew up with her parents and siblings on a beautiful property in Colebrook that overlooked Mud Bay.  She had fond memories of her childhood raising animals, growing vegetables, and playing with her cousins who lived on neighbouring properties.

Lorraine graduated from Princess Margaret Secondary in 1967 and studied Education at Simon Fraser University.  She worked as a salesperson and gift wrapper for Woodward’s department store as she earned her degree.  She was a devoted Woodward’s customer until they closed in 1993 – which her family lovingly teased her about.

Lorraine met Terry Larsen on a blind date in 1971, shortly before she was to leave on a 4-month South Pacific cruise.  Their love story began in letters they wrote while she was away.  Once Lorraine returned from her adventure, they didn’t leave one another’s side. They were married on February 5, 1972, for 51 years.  They built a house in Surrey, BC where they raised 2 children Michelle (Sean) and Keith (Jolene) and doted on 3 grandchildren, Jacob, Brad, and Silvia.  Nothing filled Lorraine with more pride than family and she was considered ‘Mom’ and ‘Grandma’ by many neighbours and friends of her children. 

Lorraine loved to travel and spent many vacations and cruises in Alaska, Australia, Caribbean, Fiji, London, Mexico, Rome, and across Canada.  Some of her fondest memories were times spent in the Cariboo camping above the Fraser River dancing to the music of her nephew and his band. She also enjoyed many summers at Pender Harbour on the water and playing games.

Lorraine was a vibrant woman who loved life. She was always laughing, happy and full of energy that knew no bounds.  She had a wicked sense of humour.  When she wasn’t helping others, she was cooking, gardening, playing games, or singing.  

Lorraine was involved with and helped to organize large events for the BC Chefs Presidents Ball, Canadian Chef Educators and Semiahmoo Music Society.  She was a Past Director of the People’s Law School.  After her retirement she attended many Canadian Chef Educator and BC Culinary Arts Conferences with Terry.

As a beloved Teacher for 35 years (plus 10 years as a TTOC) in the Surrey School District, Lorraine had an impact on hundreds of children.  Everywhere she travelled she ran into families of those she taught. Past students regularly reached out to let Lorraine know the influence she had on them and how much her kindness meant to them as children.

Lorraine is survived by her siblings Dianne King and Kelly De La Mare, brother-in-law Ray Winquist and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Wilf and Nelly De La Mare, sister Donna Grout and sister-law Sandi Winquist.

Our family would like to thank the staff at Northcrest Care Centre, Connect Langley and Laurel Place for the care and comfort they provided Mom over the past 6 years.

Lorraine loved to entertain and each year she and Terry hosted a Canada Day party for family and friends.  A Celebration of her life is being planned for July 1, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Lorraine Larsen can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or any foundation that benefits children.