Hallman, Laure

August 4, 1940 — February 29, 2012

Laure Elizabeth, beloved mother, adored grandmother, cherished sister and loving aunt departed this world on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the age of 71. She left this life as it began, surrounded by family and everlasting love. Laure was born on August 4, 1940 in Camrose, Alberta. She was the youngest child born to Ruth (nee Cox) and Wilfred Laurier (Duke) Knaut. She spent her formative years thoroughly enjoying the perks and benefits that being the much loved baby sister of Rod, Marge and Nancy reaped. As a young woman Laure attended Camrose Lutheran College where she forged meaningful friendships, many of which would continue for over 50 years. Laure made homes in both Calgary and Edmonton before settling her family on the shores of Sylvan Lake in 1971. She had spent blissful, glorious summers in Norglenwold since she was a small girl and felt blessed to be able to raise her own children there. Laure had an immense love of life and she shared it freely. Friends and family were always welcome in Laure’s home… when her home was full, her heart was full. In 2006 she bid farewell to her beloved Sylvan Lake and relocated to Kelowna B.C. where she quickly established cherished friendships and revelled in the graciousness of the Gallagher’s Canyon community. Laure loved her family, she loved her friends and she loved Palm Springs! Whether she was on the back nine or singing karaoke at the clubhouse she treasured her winters in the desert and was thankful that she was able to enjoy the life of a snowbird for over 20 years. The hearts of her family ached with her this past December when it became apparent that Palm Springs 2012 was not to be. She was truly grateful to have remained relatively healthy throughout her final journey thanks to the love, support and prayers of so many. Her quick wit, generosity of spirit, uncompromising determination and great love of family which characterized her life, never wavered and was with her to the very end. If the true meaning of life is in fact to love and be loved, then there is no doubt that Laure’s life had deep meaning. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Sandra Langin (Shaun) of Kelowna, BC and her loyal son, Alan Hallman (Anne) of Calgary, AB. She will forever be in the hearts of her grandchildren, Amber, Michael, Chad and Paige. She also leaves her brother Rod (Shirley) Knaut of Camrose, AB and sister Marjorie Church of Kelowna, BC along with twelve nieces and nephews. Laure was predeceased by her parents, Duke (1961) and Ruth Knaut (1984), sister Nancy Chrustawka (2006) and precious granddaughter Zoe Hallman (2004). At Laure’s request a private family service will take place. Laure’s family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and eternal gratitude to Auntie Marge for the many months spent watching over and caring for her deeply appreciative sister. Her selfless devotion and unwavering faithfulness was a joy to watch, an example to be emulated and a true gift that will never be forgotten. Sincere thanks to Dr. Peter Butterworth whose kind and gentle bedside manner continually offered comfort and support not only to Laure but to her family as well. Thanks also to the supportive staff at the Kelowna Cancer Clinic, the nurses of Ward 4A at the Kelowna General Hospital and the tireless, compassionate nurses and volunteers of Central Okanagan Hospice House for affording Laure the privilege of spending her final days as she lived her life, with grace and dignity. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be directed to the Central Okanagan Hospice Association #104- 1456 St. Paul Street Kelowna, B.C. V1Y 2E6.