LAURIE SHARLAND

July 23, 1936 – January 16, 2020

With a heart full of love for the family she adored, Dolores Patricia ‘Laurie’ Sharland passed away peacefully at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on Thursday, January 16, 2020, at the age of 83 years. Laurie will be lovingly missed and forever cherished by her husband, Leonard; daughter, Raeann; granddaughters, Jessilyn (Dan) Forigo, Jennafer Yuhas and dear family friend, Theresa Wiebe. Also left to mourn her passing is her brother, Stan (Betty) Biffard; sisters-in-law, Agnes Biffard and Marylou Sharland; nieces; nephews; her rodeo and travel families as well as many friends. Laurie was predeceased by their only son, Leonard Lee; parents, Henry and Hulda Biffard; sister, Marjorie Blair as well as sisters and brothers-in-law, Leona and Maurice Knowles, Marion and Frank Bagshaw and Don Sharland. Mom loved life and lived it to the fullest. Countless hours were spent volunteering, in Mom’s words, “because of the love of your community and the belief in the organization you are volunteering for.” She loved working with young people and coached many in swimming, bowling and baseball. One of her greatest passions was the time spent with the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede of which both she and Len are Life Director’s. Laurie was Chair of the MHES Queen Committee for 35 yrs, Chair of Miss Rodeo Canada for 14 yrs and continued her involvement with MHES until her passing. As tour coordinator with Kabet Travel for 25+ years, Laurie and Len enjoyed many adventures and built lifelong friendships travelling to the Canadian Finals Rodeo, National Finals Rodeo and numerous other destinations. Laurie often said “you don’t volunteer expecting recognition” but went on to receive honours and awards too numerous to mention. Family was the most important part of Mom’s life and she loved nothing more than our family dinners. Her greatest joy and favourite title was Grandma to Jessilyn and Jennafer, teaching them so many things and to “always use manners, always show respect” and if you want to play outside “go see your Papa”. Included in Laurie’s activities were racing stock cars, coaching sports, volunteering with Medicine Hat Cubs and Tigers, Leaders of Tomorrow and Senior Games. She enjoyed a good crib or rummy game, tending to her flowers and visiting with friends.

There are people who touch the lives of others in a unique way.

Knowing them brings us joy and inspiration and when they are gone,

Memories of what they have done stay with us,

encourage us and comfort us.

A celebration of Mom’s amazing life will be announced at a later date. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be directed to the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation or a charity of your choice. (Condolences may be expressed by visiting www.cooksouthland.com) Honoured to serve the family is

Cook Southland Funeral Chapel Crematorium & Reception Facility, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455 www.cooksouthland.com “Locally owned & directed”