It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lorna Milani (nee Baarup), on April 8th, 2024, at the age of 94 years.
Lorna was born on May 7th, 1929, to Otto and Mary Baarup in Fairford Manitoba. In 1942 Lorna and her family moved to Port Arthur eventually becoming a hair stylist with her twin sister Leona. She would go on to meet Peter Milani marrying him on August 16th, 1952. Lorna and Peter would welcome three children Lynda and twins Rory and Shelley.
Throughout her life, Lorna touched the hearts of countless individuals with her spirit, generosity, and warmth. Her dedication to her family was unparalleled, creating lasting memories with them, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Lorna was deeply involved in her community, always lending a helping hand to those in need. Lorna was an active volunteer with Catholic Action Centre, St. Vincent De Paul where she worked up until last year. She volunteered her time at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation, golf tournaments and fundraising ticket sales. For years Lorna donated her time to Meals on Wheels in addition to helping at the Da Vinci Centre - setting tables and serving at the spaghetti dinners embodying the spirit of selflessness and empathy. Her impact extended far beyond her immediate circle, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of crossing paths with her.
Lorna possessed a vibrant spirit and a love for travel and adventure. Some of her favourite travel destinations included California, Hawaii, Spain, Barbados, Florida, and Las Vegas with her special friend Leonard Pessotti. A dream of Lorna’s was realized in 2011 when she visited Italy and toured the country with her grandson Michael. Always the life of the party Lorna loved music, dancing, meeting people, telling stories, and having a laugh.
One of Lorna’s favourite pastimes was getting together with her card club members of 55 years. She will be sadly missed by Diane, Cherie, Susan, Louise, Theresa & Denise.
Lorna had a very creative spirit. She crocheted and created beautiful pictures by petty point. She also had a keen fashion sense evidenced by her style. Her love of beautiful clothes, shoes and purses always received compliments when she was out. She also made sure to never leave the house without having her nails done in her signature bright orange nail polish.
Lorna is survived by her children Lynda, Rory (Mary) and Shelley (Robert); sister-in-law Julie Milani, grandchildren Jamie (Janelle) Michael (Andrea) Darcel (Luke) Bradley and Matthew, great grandchildren Marcus, Alex and Milla, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, who will carry her memory in their hearts always.
Lorna is predeceased by her parents Otto and Mary, twin sister Leona, brother Archie and her husband Peter. She was also predeceased by her son-in-law Joey Gerolami.
A special thank you to all the wonderful staff at Sister Leila Greco who cared and supported our mother during her time there.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shelter House, Thunder Bay in memory of Lorna Milani. https://www.shelterhouse.on.ca/donate/
As per Lorna’s wishes there will be no service held.
"Those we love don't go away;
they walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed, and very dear."
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
