Jul 13, 2013
Love you always Mom
DROPKO, Laurette Evelina nee D’Aoust December 15, 1931 – July 10, 2013
It is with great sadness our family must announce the passing of Laurette, age 81 on July 10, 2013. Although diagnosed with crippling fibromyalgia (F.M.S.), myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.), chronic fatigue syndrome (C.F.S.), and numerous internal problems she continued living her life fully right to the very end. Her intelligence, friendly manner and caring nature will be greatly missed and remembered by her husband Albert, one son Andre, three daughters, Contessa (Colin Jewall – Kelowna, B.C.), Denise, Lise and grandchildren Nigel, Nathan, Dana, Ayla, Kisa and Cezanne, one brother Dr. Bernard D’Aoust (Norma) and many other relatives and friends. She attended St. Mary’s High School (an all girls school) where she excelled in all studies, dancing, singing, acting and C.Y.O. outdoor activities. After graduating in 1949/1950 she took time off to travel, marry and raise her family, sing with the church choir and act and sing with the Edmonton Opera chorus. While her children attended grade school, she attended classes at the University of Alberta and graduated in May 1975 with a Bachelor of Education degree – with Distinction. Her successful English teaching career at O’Leary High School came to an unwanted end in 1988 when her illness was the direct cause for a disability forced retirement. From 1988 to 2002, with assistance and guidance from peers, school board, medical professionals, legal professionals and Edmonton East M.P. (Ross Harvey) she fought a long battle with Insurance Companies (Group Disability) and Canada Pension Plan Disability Agency. She exercised all her options for appeal and in doing so won the right to entitled benefits and at the same time brought about change in their definition and change in their application for short term – long term disability. A win-win situation for all paid productive members in our society who may become disabled. During the same time period and with guidance from Dr. Hyde (F.M., C.F.S. illness – Toronto) and local family physicians and specialists she became involved in the initial development of the Edmonton C.F.S. group and the C.F.S., F.M., M.E. library at the Grey Nun’s Hospital. When alive she always gave to the needy and to her favorite charities and now in death she continues to give. It is her request that her body be donated to the University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine for study and research and her wish that no service be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to the needy or charity of your choice.
The newspaper obituary can be viewed here. There is also a guest book that can be signed or viewed as well as a few photos I have added.
<< Older Posts Home Newer Posts >>
Such a short life with pain and suffering.
Our condolences to you and your family.
So sorry to hear about your Mom. Hugs to you and the rest of your family at this sad time.
Looks like your mother had a big impact on many people’s and will be well remembered. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Ruth and Kevin
That should say on many people’s lives.
I’m thinking of you in your time of sorrow. Your mom is relieved of her suffering and I’m sure she’ll always be with you in your heart…
Sorry to hear about your mom but she is at peace and no more pain.. Hoping your recovery is improving.. Take Care!!!
What a wonderful legacy your mom has left behind – cherish her memories always – thinking of you and your family!
[…] appropriate, but the when the pain of loss is fresh little can be actually done. She posted this memorial to her mother […]
As much as you all will miss her, she is at pain free, and at peace.
She was quite the fighter, you always say you are your father’s daughter, I think you are very much your mother’s daughter.
I know what it’s like to lose a mom. You’ll never stop missing her, but the pain does fade and you’ll cherish the memories.
Very sorry to read of this. My condolences.
Such a wonderful tribute to your Mom. Sounds like she was an amazing woman, just as you are.
She is now free of pain and at peace. Am sure she would want you to focus on your healing and getting well.
Vaya con Dios beautiful lady.
Hi Contessa: Just read Desert Diva’s mention of your mother’s passing and wanted to send my condolences and prayers for her, and you as well. My mother was French also – her family was from Québec but moved to Plattsburg, NY when she was very young.
Your mother was truly a fighter of worthwhile causes; I’m sure there are lots of people who are very thankful to her for her efforts to change wrongs for people with needs.
I’m also a surgical nurse so do understand your “issue” with the hematoma. I hope all goes well with that too. when was the surgery done? When was the first hip done?
mary-pat
Sorry to hear about your mom. No matter the preparation you can do mentally about losing a loved and knowing that it will be soon due to age and illness, it is always a shock and not easy to deal with. Our thoughts are with you guys and your dad.
Do you plan on going to Edmonton when you are healed up and visit your dad?
So very, very sorry to hear of your loss! It must be a difficult combination for you, your mother’s passing and your post-surgical complications. Emotional upheaval. It’s good you made the Edmonton trip when you did and now you have to take care of yourself first before even considering anything else. I hope your health will improve steadily and solidly. You are very lucky to have had a mother in your life for 60 years. It’s a special bond that lasts forever.
I’m still in Latvia, returning home Thursday this week.
hugs to you,
Ena
My dear Contessa and Colin,
We are very sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. Please accept our deepest condolences.
The passing of a loved one is never easy, be strong.
Love
Hélène and Barrie
We are so sorry to hear about you mom. You must be proud of her accomplishments.
I guess you will be fully recovered by the time you return to Stone Island…..what an ordeal to have to go through….but it will be worth it, right?
Hello to Colin – Love to you both
Dear Contessa:
We are solidarity to you because your mom was dead. We hope you will be in a good health (hearth and body).
Hugs to Colin and to your relatives
Isela, Chris, Heriberto Jr and Heriberto Sr.
HI CONTESSA,
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR E-MAIL. THANKFULLY YOU SAW YOUR MOTHER AND WE ABLE TO SAY YOUR GOODBYES AHEAD OF TIME. I KNOW HOW MUCH YOU WILL MISS YOUR HER BUT SHE IS AT PEACE NOW AND NO LONGER IN PAIN. THAT’S WHAT IS IMPORTANT. YES, WE FEEL THE LOSS FOR MANY YEARS BUT WE HAVE SUCH WONDERFUL MEMORIES AND THOSE ARE WHAT KEEP US GOING. WE DON’T WISH ANYONE TO LIVE ON SUFFERING MAYBE FOR OUR OWN SELFISH REASONS BUT THAT’S NOT BEST FOR OUR LOVED ONES. YOU HAVE TO BE STRONG FOR YOUR FATHER AS HE IS THE ONE WHO WILL BE FEELING THE BIGGEST VOID. HE HAS LOST THE LOVE OF HIS LIFE AND HIS SOUL MATE. THE LOSS IS NOT EASY FOR ANY OF YOU BUT ESPECIALLY FOR HIM. REMEMBER, HE IS GOING TO NEED YOU TO BE THERE TO LISTEN TO HIM. JUST LISTEN AND LET HIM EXPRESS ALL HIS EMOTIONS AND FEELINGS. COLIN WILL DO THAT FOR YOU TOO.
YOU ARE ALL IN MY PRAYERS WHICH ARE THAT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HAVE THE STRENGTH TO GET THROUGH THIS. IT’S A TOUGH TIME BUT WITH TIME, THE TOUGHNESS DECREASES. YOU’LL ALWAYS REMEMBER AND LOVE YOUR MOTHER.
OUR LOVE,
LIBBY AND SKIP
Hi Contessa,
Our deepest sympathies go to your and your family.
Love,
Elmer and Lora
Contessa,
So sorry to hear your Mom has passed away. Always difficult to lose a parent, esp. our Moms. I’m sure you are thankful for the opportunity to visit with her in Edmonton and say your farewells.
Take care and hope your healing from surgery continues without setbacks. Pat
Dear Contessa and Colin:
It has been a few days since I have read your blog so we are late in
sending our condolences. Our deepest sympathy to the passing of your
mom.
Even though it was expected it is extremely sad when it happens.
Karen and Lyle
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of your mother Contessa.
No matter how long she had struggled with poor health, it is still a very difficult experience for you, let alone for anyone, to endure especially since you are bound to stay here due immobility from the surgery.
I am hoping that your siblings and father are managing. I am sure they miss your counsel and contributions. There is very little to say that will bring you comfort at this very difficult time Contessa. I am deeply sorry you have lost
your Mom. Please take care of yourself.
H.
My sincere condolences on the death of your mother. I pray that may her soul rest in eternal peace. Thanks for sharing her obituary.
Hi Contessa. I have been thinking about you. I’m so sorry to hear of your Mum’s passing. I was most interested to read about her life, particularly her involvement with the disability issue and the ensuing positive outcome for everyone. Also, the legacy of her body going to science is wonderful. I am glad that you have been able to arrange it.
I know you are strong to get through these rougher times…please know I am sending you love and healing thoughts and prayers.
With my love
Mary