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Stephen lit a candle
Monday, July 25, 2022
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Mz. Coumans was my creative writing teacher in high-school in 2011. She was my favourite teacher and made me interested in writing. Rest in peace ❤️
-Stephen A
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PAUL PARKER donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Thursday, February 4, 2021
Keeping Louise in our prayers. We grieve with her family.
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Shannon McGuigan uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, January 23, 2021
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I have struggled to put into words how much of an impact Louise has had on my life. It was a simple, “you’re an underachiever” comment that lit a fire and changed me from a floundering teen, to someone who cared. Louise was magical - she could open up worlds for her students and transport you through her memories and stories as if you were there. She was a caring, kind, no bull woman. I loved to listen to her stories and the way she would stare off, lost in her thoughts. Her passion for English was palpable and inspired many students to explore literature and music (and Casablanca). As an adult, I was blessed to become friends with her and visit both her and Peter. The love they have for each other is something most only dream of. Louise made every day an adventure and always found joy in the simplicity of life. She was more than a teacher and I will carry the lessons she taught in my heart forever. My deepest condolences to Peter and the boys. To lose such a light makes the world seem darker. May her memories bring us all some light.
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Peter Coumans donated to LONDON HUMANE SOCIETY
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
In memory of our beloved louise
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Peter Coumans donated to BREAST CANCER SOCIETY OF CANADA/LA SOCIETE DU CANCER DU SEIN DU CANADA
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
In memory of our beloved louise
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Peter Coumans donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
In Louise's memory.
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J.L. Richards & Associates donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Wednesday, January 20, 2021
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The family of Louise Ann Coumans uploaded a photo
Tuesday, January 19, 2021
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Larry Vanier posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Dearest Louise,
Sandy came home from her first night of UWO children’s lit class in 1988 and said she had met a kindred spirit! … who became our lifelong friend … and part of our family.
You were always a willing participant in our activities even if they weren’t your forte such as cross country skiing and even catcher for our slow-pitch No-Stars.
Your ever presence on Friday nights and summer days continued over the years and when you married my best friend Pete it cemented the relationship further. You were there for us for on all occasions both happy and sad. You were unsurpassed in kindness, generosity, dedication and love.
I miss you so but I take solace knowing you are with Sandy, two kindred spirits together again.
J
Joey Kuhlman uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Louise was my friend for 40 years. She had a brilliant and creative mind, she could stand before a mountain vista and choose instead to marvel at a tiny wildflower at her feet, beautiful music would make her tilt her head to one side and close her eyes in bliss, and her wit would have made Noel Coward proud (she loved that man). Every good book that I open, every butterfly that floats past me, and every aria that I listen too will remind me instantly of her. I will miss her terribly and will always love her dearly.
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Joey Kuhlman uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Auntie Lou was my mother’s friend long before she was mine. As I grew up and my memories of her move from fuzzy to clear, her love and support are evident in all of them. I am awed and inspired by Louise’s ability to take wonder in the world around her and delight in the glories of food, music, literature, and people. Auntie Lou was a role model for so many young people, including myself. I hope to continue to make her proud in what I choose to do. I know that she is not gone, because I see her in the little delights of the world, especially in those that other people might miss. She continues to inspire me to live deliberately and love those around me.
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Danielle McCann posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I am grateful to have had Mrs. Coumans as my high school English teacher in Grades 10 and 12. She was one of the wittiest teachers I have ever had and she never failed to make us laugh. She taught me so much and I am so saddened to hear of her passing. One of my fondest memories of Mrs. Coumans is from my grade 12 creative writing course. Each morning, Mrs. Coumans would make coffee in her French press and let us make hot chocolate while we did quizzes on grammar. Her classroom was always bright and welcoming and her many British music and cat posters, gave only a hint of her fun personality. She will be so greatly missed. Rest in peace, Mrs. Coumans.
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Dawn and Corinne posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Our hearts are aching for your loss Peter and family! We spent many times chatting about everything and deep discussions about authors. Louise was awesome. Hugs to each one of you. She will be missed by so many but will be welcomed by a special friend in heaven!
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Beth-Ann posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Mrs. Coumans taught me Writer's Craft when I was in Grade 12. Her quick wit, passion and kindness helped to inspire me to go to University for English and become a teacher. She will be greatly missed.
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Alyssa Manicom posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
My deepest condolences to Mrs. Coumans’ family. She was such an incredible teacher. I just adored her and looked up to her. She lit up everyone room she walked into. I specifically remember her making a coffee at the beginning of English class in her signature coffee press and cracking wise jokes as she waited for students to take their seats. She helped me discover my love for creative writing and I can’t thank her enough for that. She just embraced who she was and encouraged everyone to be their goofy, genuine selves. She will truly be missed.
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Mark Regan posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear of Louise’s passing. She and I began our teaching careers at Regina Mundi College, working in the English Department. She was had such a positive, and steady presence about her. It was readily apparent she loved literature, the arts and inspiring her students. I will always remember her wit and skill with words. She will be missed.
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Julian Choi posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Mrs. Coumans was one of the greatest teachers I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. She was funny, incredibly passionate, caring, and warm. You could always see how much she cared for her students and wanted them to succeed. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
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Ash Larizza posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms Coumans was the first teacher I came out to. I was in her writers craft class and I wrote a short story about a girl I liked. It was one of the first opportunities to actually talk about how I felt and get it out. She was so supportive and even recommended some queer women authors I could read. Having her support and feeling comfortable being myself in her class made a world of a difference when I was starting to come out, especially being at a catholic school and having religious family. She battled cancer for so long but you would never know because of how strong she was. She made a bigger impact on my life than she probably ever knew. Her impact will live on through all her students for a long long time.
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Heather Dunton uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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I’m not even sure where to begin. Louise, my sisters and I have known and loved you since we were little, you were like an Aunt to us, and a best friend to our Mom. She was so clever, hilarious, and a great source for advice (and venting!) As the years went by and we lost Mom, I got married to my Josh and we all grew even closer, having Pete and Lou over for our Friday nights, many-a-pool-party, and so many celebrations. Then she became Nana Lou to Josh and my baby boy Jack - such an important part to his little life, filling him with all the love and support and “doting” that my own mother couldn’t be there to do. We are forever grateful to have had her in our lives and will miss her dearly. We are surrounded by memories of the good times we’ve had with her and will cherish them always.
Cheers to you, our Lou.
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Les and Judi posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Peter we are sorry to hear about your loss. Louise was a kind and thoughtful neighbour. We enjoyed the birds she encouraged to our backyards .
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Francesca Toso posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Mrs. Coumans was my grade 9 and 10 english teacher at sta. she never failed to crack a smile on everyone’s face during class, she always made class enjoyable — with her meat hammer jokes, and cat posters. she was an amazing teacher and person. she will be forever missed.
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Taylor Rusland posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
To the Coumans family I really am sorry for your loss!!!
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Doreen O’Brien uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Dear Louise:
You had such a big impact on my life. You taught me to be original, not a pale copy of everyone else. We didn't do or like anything that was conventional, we went our own way. We wrote international spy novels and cast our classmates in the sitcoms of the day. "I'm not normal, I don't want to be normal!" I've carried that desire to be original with me every day since, in big ways and small. Thank you, Louise, and God bless you.
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Meaghan Smith posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise brought joy to every room she entered. I loved watching her speak about literature she loved, England, cats, Holden Caulfield, Jason, Mark, Steven (who I have not met, but know all about because of how much she loves you), and Peter. She spoke with intention and had such a hilarious quick wit. I loved listening to her speak. I was lucky enough to have been both her colleague and her student. She taught me so much about how to move in this world. She listened intently and loved deeply. I can still hear the exact pitch and tone of her voice in my head and hope I always do. I was lucky to have known her.
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Melanie Denomme posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise was such a pleasure to know. She always had a way to make you laugh when you weren't expecting it. She loved her animals to the moon and back and loved the people around her even more. She was an inspiration and an amazing woman to know. I am so sorry for your loss.
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Jenna Banks posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
My sincerest condolences go out to the Coumans family during this difficult time. I had the privilege of having Mrs. Coumans as my English teacher in high school for 2 years, and I can honestly say that she was one of the most influential teachers I have ever had. Her quick wit and passion for literature were truly admirable, and I am confident that she has made a great impact on many of her students’ lives. She was truly a lovely human being and will be greatly missed.
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Melissa Toso posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
An amazing teacher and person gone too soon. I had the pleasure of being in her classes during my time as STA. My condolences to the Coumans family.
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Connor Feher posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms Coumans was and still had an amazing impact on my life, no matter what she always found a way to make me laugh or make me feel better, she will always be remembered to me as an amazing and caring mentor. Rest in peace.
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Amy Watt posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise, I remember you as a mentor and a friend. I loved getting to know you through your funny notes and lessons that you put together with so much personality and creativity. I still make all of my grammar quiz's in the Coumans style, though with fewer mentions of cats, and less of a grasp on music of every generation. I loved and admired you even before I got to know you well in person. Then I loved you even more! You have made a difference. You will be missed.
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Erin Thompson (Dias) posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I am so sorry to hear about this loss. She was an inspirational teacher and taught many valuable life lessons as well.
Deepest condolences to the family and everyone who had their life impacted by her.
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Bridgette Grant posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
My condolences. Mz Lawler was my favourite teacher of all time. I was lucky to have her for three English courses at RMC in the 90s. RIP
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Christine posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms Coumans was one of my favourite teachers (2006). She taught me many things about creative writing I remember today and she always made me laugh. I am so saddened to hear of her passing. Sending the family much love and peace during this difficult time.
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Katelyn Vanier uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Louise was and will continue to be a huge presence in my life, and the lives of my sisters. She my mom’s closest friend, always around when my sisters and I were growing up. We called her “The Friday Night Lady”: player of Scrabble, Avid Reader, Drinker of Fine Wine, Cat Rescuer, Beatles Fan, Saviour of Sad-Looking-Plants-In-Greenhouses. She always had the best stories, which she would sometimes tell more than once - we didn’t mind. She was fiercely loyal and endlessly kind. When my mom passed, our families remained close and carried on with all the traditions my Mom and Louise loved. Louise continued to look out for my sisters and me, in addition to her family and the countless other lives she touched - that was her way. She was a regular George Bailey; a giving spirit. I will miss watching 6 hours of Jane Austen with her, of carolling parties, of family celebrations, discussions of love and animals. She was full of love, spunk, and clever jokes (a lot of which she laughed at before she finished telling them!). I love you so much, Louise. You’ll always be in my heart. “See you on the Christmas Tree.”
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James Firth posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I had Mz. Lawler for grade 12 English in 1999. I very much enjoyed her class and the love she showed towards her students and literature. I too have taken the path of education and have been teaching for 10 years. I thank her for being one of those special educators at RMC whom left a lasting impression on all that knew her!!
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Hugh & Anne Timmons posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Peter, My condolences to you and your family. I taught with Louise at RMC and being an expat we immediately bonded. We had some great conversations about music and of course all things British. I'm sorry I didn't keep in touch this past year. Anne and I will remember her in our prayers. Rest in Peace Louise.
Hugh & Anne Timmons
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Andrea Tamasi posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms. Lawler was one of my all time favourite teachers, and someone who inspired me to pursue both writing and teaching my own life. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. My thoughts are with her family and friends. She was a wonderful person.
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Sarah posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I am getting my English degree because of this woman. I am heartbroken, she was such a wonderful teacher and a genuinely kind hearted person.
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Emily Denomme posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise taught me grade 9 English and creative writing, and she was the best high school teacher I ever had. She taught me how to write and and how to think about literature in a way that still deeply affects me. Her enthusiasm and passion nurtured my own love of reading. She was also incredibly funny and a joy to be around both in and outside of the classroom. Thank you for the learning that you have passed on to me. You will be missed.
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Antoinette Grech posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
This news makes me so sad. I had the privilege of working with Louise at RMC and STA; she was such a beautiful woman, inside and out. Her students absolutely loved her too. She will be greatly missed.
God Bless all of you.
Antoinette Grech
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Alex, Gloria, Adam, Courtney and Tyler Westerhout posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of dear Louise. It was a pleasure to spend time with her over the years and enjoy her generous and fun-loving nature. Her journey here on earth has ended far too soon.
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Haley Browning posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Mrs. Coumans was one of my favourite teachers. Her passion for being a teacher, her students, and for English made her such a memorable part of my high school experience. She appreciated the smallest things in life and taught her students to do the same. She was a beautiful person to have the chance to meet and will be missed.
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Tammy Denomme posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
How do I squeeze a 30 year friendship into a condolence message? Louise, my friend, I love you and I will miss you. You were fun, brilliant, positive, loving, funny, warm, and wise. The best thing about being your friend was the way you made the ordinary so special. We loved books, gardens, and ideas together. I am so grateful for all of the time we got together and sure wish we could have had more.
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MacKenzie Merchant posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I had the privilege of knowing Mrs. Coumans as my English teacher. Mrs. Coumans was the kind of teacher that made English exciting and thrilling. She constantly filled the classroom with laughs using her sarcasm and amazing sense of humour. Although her sense of humour was unmatched, I will always remember her kindness and her strength. I will never forget her. She will be dearly missed. My deepest condolences to those who were closest with her.
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Amanda Dobbie uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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It is difficult to sum up what Louise has meant to our family and the void there now is with her absence. She happily joined in for the happy celebrations, holidays and get togethers and offered support and guidance to me during a more difficult time. This friendship was extended to my girls when they arrived. She was a wonderful great-aunt to them, writing them letters, helping them complete their first school assignment, patiently listening to a 4 year-old explain every piece in her beach glass collection and sitting in a cramped closet allowing that same 4 year-old to show her all of the different designs her Lite-Brite can make. I can easily go on, but I think this paints the picture of her generousity and kindness. If you know our family's history, then you know that Louise was an exceptional person and we were so lucky to have her join us.
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Liz Santolupo posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
To know Louise is to love her. She coloured the world with beauty and goodness. Above all, I will remember and hold dear the summer of 2020 in the backyard gazebo - you, me and Tammy - ice coffees in hand and the blending of our voices and laughter. I will miss you.
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Andrew Damen posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Such sad news. I knew her as Ms. Lawler, and she was easily my favourite high school teacher. She made us laugh, she made us think and she made us love literature. She made us better. She was an absolute gift to her students. She is one of the reasons I am a teacher now. My sincere condolences to her family.
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Paul Hicks posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
In reading some of the guest book entries it's very clear that I'm only one of many people to whom Ms Lawler was a positive influence. On the odd occasion you reflect on the people who've had a big impact on your life, and for me Ms Lawler was one of those individuals. My condolences to Ms Lawler's family, friends, colleagues, and students (both past and present).
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Joanne Coumans uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Louise was always uniquely herself, with a splash of purple in her hair and the coolest clothes. She was also always good company and ready to lend an ear. She must have been an absolute favourite teacher for the hundreds of students she had in her classroom over the years. She made an effort to find a way to connect to each one.
Louise had a ‘teapot cupboard’, an herb garden, a pet squirrel named Robert and a mischievous grin.
How could I not adore this woman?
She’s left great gaping hole in the Coumans family. How lucky we were to have her for the time we did.
Love you Louise.
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Katrina Allott posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Mrs. Coumans was one of the best teachers I have ever had. I had the pleasure of being in her grade 9 English class. I looked forward to it everyday. She had the best sense of humour. She truly cared about each and everyone one of us and genuinely wanted us to do well. My condolences to her family and friends. My peers and I at St Thomas Aquinas are deeply saddened by this terrible loss.
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Val and Joe Morrissey posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
She sure will be missed by many in different walks of life. We came to London in 1973 and she became a member of our house almost immediately, first as our best baby sitter and then as a wonderful friend. We enjoyed many afternoon tea visits here often with her mother. Over the years she was a great joy for all our family.
Peter - Please accept our sincere and deepest condolences,
With love,Val and Joe
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Leanna Christie (Belusic) posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Dear Mz Lawler, I am so saddened to hear of your passing. I'm grateful to have connected with you, discovered Barbara Pym, & discussed which Gregory Peck movie was best. Though I didn't end up becoming a teacher, I did end of becoming a mother and I will never forget that you wished me happiness in this path that I never expected. I loved your classes so much and even held onto my notes about Stig being murdered with an axe. I'm glad you got to enjoy time with your beautiful family and I hope you had a deep knowing of how much you affected the lives of so many of us, students and friends. xo Leanna
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Kimberly Lajoie posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
My heart is broken as God welcomes another Angel home. Louise was an amazing friend and colleague for many years and inspired the lives of so many She loved her family so much. My prayer for all of the family to heal and find peace
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Bridget Morrissey Miko uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Louise has been a constant presence for almost my entire life. I have loved her as mentor and idol and as a dear friend. From generously allowing us to eat all the chips as our babysitter, to keeping us enthralled with her hilarious stories and adventures, to introducing me to Betsy, Tacy and Tib, and the amazing "Alive," to inspiring me to continue my education, staying in touch through years of school and travel and change, onward to attending my wedding, loving Jim and then loving our boys and recently sharing Christmas shopping binges and baseball games. There is not a time in my life that Louise has not been with me. She and Peter have become very close with my parents over the last several years and I know they will feel the loss deeply. Peter and family - we loved her and will miss her. Wishing you peace at this difficult time. Bridget, Jim, Noah and Caleb
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Noah Austin posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms. Lawyer/Mrs. Coumans was my favourite teacher of all time. I will miss her greatly.
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Natasha Lett posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms. Lawler was one of my favourite teachers. She will be sadly missed but fondly remembered for the lasting impact she had on her students.
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Mary Liz Chen posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise was an amazing woman. Her wit and intelligence were always refreshing. She was an excellent teacher who found that delicate balance between challenging the students and showing them deep caring and compassion. The students universally loved her classes and her colleagues respected and admired her. She will be missed. My sincere condolences to her family and her dear friends.
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Adriana Carpanzano posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Mrs Coumans was one of the smartest people I ever had the honor of meeting. She never taught me directly, but boy did I learn a lot from her. She was one of the reasons I wanted to go into English for my undergrad.
I remember her as always having a book in her hand, maybe one she's read multiple times. She could always speak on how brilliant the book was, and convince anyone that it was just that. I will always remember her dedicated help to the shows at STA, and how often she would cheer me up when it got stressful. I will always, to this day, remember when we finished Little Shop of Horrors and she hugged me and said. “You're such a good kid." Sometimes that's all a kid needs to hear in highschool.
Mrs Coumans, thank you for your bright soul, the earth truly needed more people like you.
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Melinda Morgan uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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I had the pleasure of working with Louise for many years , in fact we shared the same side of the English office at STA. She was brilliant, witty and loved her job. She made me laugh daily with her yelling “what the f?” Or sneezing in multiples of 6 (always). She loved Peter, her boys, her pets , literature and her students . She will be missed .
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Melinda Morgan posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Ms. Lawler was a passionate and inspiring teacher. She, along with Mrs. Santoulopo, are the reason I went on to get an English Lit degree. She cared about her students, made real connections, and clearly enjoyed what she did. I loved her creative writing course, and am grateful she put up with my 20 page short stories when the assignment called for 10.
Even though I hadn’t seen her in 20 years, I missed her wit and charm, and I miss it more knowing she isn’t still sharing it.
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Julie & Keith McLean posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
It has been amazing knowing Louise! Such a gentle and kind soul to Evan, Grace & Christian. She would often pause to observe my kids family dynamic and commented on how she could relate to Grace being the only girl growing up as the middle child. She was never bothered by their loud and boisterous play, instead she would always smile and tell us she loved hearing them. We are all thinking about you Peter and your family during this time. The kids are processing it all and are trying to come up with ways to show you they care.
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Nana Tirolese posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I was very sorry to hear the sad news of Louise's passing. Although I didn't know her personally, I learned from Janet what a kind, caring and beloved family member she was. You are all in my thoughts at this difficult time.
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Hannah de Roux posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I am deeply saddened to hear of her passing. Mrs. Coumans was one of my favourite teachers I’ve ever had. She always lit up the room and made class enjoyable. She helped me through a lot and I am so blessed to have known her. To the family, I am so sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace.
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Francesl Mooney-Humphries posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I first met Louise, my cousin, on her first trip back to Sheffield, UK, in 1973 - I was 16, she 14 - and we hit it off immediately. We shared a love of literature, the same sense of humour, and an enthusiastic approach to life. From then on I eagerly anticipated her many subsequent trips to the homeland; and in between we exchanged many long, rambling letters - all of which I still have.
To me you were more like a sister than a cousin Louise. A hugely important part of my life. Though heartbroken you are gone, your voice and in particular your laugh ( Lord, how we laughed) will stay in my head till the end of my days
I love you Louise.
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Shelley Malone posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise loved life, literature, music, teaching, and her friends, but all of those paled in comparison to to her love of family and those she loved like family. When I met Louise, she often shared delightful stories of her beloved mum and dad, her brothers, their wives and their children. She beamed with love and pride every time she spoke of her nieces and nephews. She delighted in sharing stories of her sister friends in England, Texas and London. And just when I thought she could not possibly find room her in heart for more love, she met Perfect Peter and his sons. She quickly loved them beyond measure and took such pride in becoming a wife and mother.
Louise, I will miss your strength, your smile, your quips and your passion for what matters in life. “i carry your heart with me(i carry it in my heart) ...” ee cummings
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Larry Vanier uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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Dearest Louise,
Sandy came home from her first night of UWO children’s lit class in 1988 and said she had met a kindred spirit! … who became our lifelong friend … and part of our family. You were always a willing participant in our activities even if they weren’t your forte such as cross country skiing and even catcher for our slow-pitch No-Stars. Your ever presence on Friday nights and summer days continued over the years and when you married my best friend Pete it cemented the relationship further. You were there for us for on all occasions both happy and sad. You were unsurpassed in kindness, generosity, dedication and love. I miss you so but I take solace knowing you are with Sandy, two kindred spirits together again.
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Allan McPherson posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
My thoughts and prayers go out to Peter and his family. Louise was perhaps the smartest student I ever taught. Certainly brighter than her teacher. I loved Louise for her independence and her wit - she was wonderful. I was so very happy when she showed up years later as an English teacher in our system and in my English Department. It was always a pleasant occasion years later when we would run into each other at school or teacher events. I was so happy when she married. Although I never had the occasion to meet Peter, I always thought he must be quite a guy to capture Louise. It's always heartbreaking when one reads about a former student's death, but this news has hit me hard. Once again, my condolences to the family. You have lost a wonderful lady.
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Cathy Adams uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 18, 2021
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I always thought that Louise had to be a special person to capture Peter's heart after my sister died and she was. I can't remember all of the occasions that I had with her, but do remember that she always joined, no matter what we were doing, with a big smile.
My family is very fortunate that Peter & the boys brought her into it and I know that she will be missed by all of us.
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Janet “Stuckenhaus” Haigh, B.C. posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise was, in so many ways, my hero: smart, witty, quick to laugh, and share a conspiratorial giggle with you, widely read (she could quote lengthy literary verses with ease), and overbrimming with a joyful love of animals, young children, teens, and the tragic romantic in life. She was my best friend at the U. of Ottawa teachers' college we attended for one magnificent, memorable year during which she dubbed us all "stooge'ent teachers". We would swap tales of our bumbles in front of classes during our practicum sessions, and laugh ourselves silly at the antics of our classmates, profs, and selves. She was a fiercely loyal friend, and hearty advocate of young people. She introduced me to the tragically gorgeous works of Vera Brittain, WW I poets, and to so many other writers ... her knowledge ran deep and wide. To hear of the lasting impact she had on her former students gladdens my heart: to read from one that she hugged them and said, "You are an amazing kid!" rings so true of her character. Louise, we know you abide with us still: thank you for the treasures of your friendship and love. Save us a seat in the great beyond, and know this for a fact: you were bloody brilliant in every possible way. Much love eternally, dear Louise, ... and may Peter, Mike, Richard and all her beloved family members celebrate her mightily for the joy she brought and shared so generously. May peace be yours.
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Meg posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I am so sad to hear about Mrs. Coumans passing. I loved having her as my teacher. She was one of the best parts of my high school experience. She sparked my dream to be an author when she told me I had potential to be a writer. She helped me through a dark period in my life by providing kindness and guidance. Without her I don’t know if I would still be here. My heart goes out to her loved ones. She was such an amazing soul.
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Karen Hunt posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Louise is my neighbor. I watched her from a distance fight for her life. She was always gracious and kind and inquiring of others, in spite of her own personal battle. I’ve always been in awe and inspired by her courage and her character. RIP Louise. You made the world a better place.
J
Jodie Rogers posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
My deepest condolences to you Mike and your family. The love you had for your sister did not go unnoticed. May you find peace in your fond memories you have.
Be well
Jodie
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Debbie Popovic posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I was so sad to hear about the passing of beautiful Louise. We always had many great conversations and laughs every year at the Vanier carolling parties. Your kind heart and beautiful spirit will never be forgotten.
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Janet "Stuckenhaus" Haigh posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
I managed to find some gems of Louise and our "stooge'ent" teacher gang, back in 1989-90, when we were all fresh-faced, eager, idealistic new teachers in training. She was always such fun at parties: the middle photo here if of us all piled on her bed, taken in her small flat on Cooper Street in Ottawa (you can see her proudly displayed portrait of Willie Shakespeare on the wall). She had such classy ways, and always looked a picture! Louise was ever quick to laugh and contribute witty hilarity; I found it such fun to try to crack jokes with her, as she laughed abundantly with such gusto. Yes, Louise, you certainly made the world a happier, joyful place!
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Kevin Noble posted a condolence
Monday, January 18, 2021
Kevin Noble
So sorry for your family's loss. Louise was and still is a light in all of our hearts. She gave so much to her family, friends and students. We could easily see this even though we did not spend a lot of time with your family. Sending lots of hugs, Cathy, Kevin, Jessica, Brenden and Chris
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Noble Family donated to BREAST CANCER SOCIETY OF CANADA/LA SOCIETE DU CANCER DU SEIN DU CANADA
Monday, January 18, 2021
So sorry for your family's loss. Louise was and still is a light in all of our hearts. She gave so much to her family, friends and students. We could easily see this even though we did not spend a lot of time with your family. Sending lots of hugs, Cathy, Kevin, Jessica, Brenden and Chris (Noble)
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Monique Prendergast donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Saturday, January 16, 2021
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Liz & Mike Santolupo donated to BREAST CANCER SOCIETY OF CANADA/LA SOCIETE DU CANCER DU SEIN DU CANADA
Saturday, January 16, 2021
Our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
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Peter Legge posted a condolence
Thursday, January 14, 2021
Lousie was a lovely person and a dedicated professional. I worked with her for many years but only got to really know how special she was at the end of her career. So many of the kids loved her. She was kind and accepting but no-nonsense at the same time. A rare and admirable combination. She will be missed. Love and God bless you Louise.
Peter Legge
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Joe Newsome posted a condolence
Thursday, January 14, 2021
With deep sadness I send my thoughts and prayers to the family of Louise. To me, she was Ms Lawler: a teacher who inspired, encouraged and remains a great memory from my time in Regina Mundi College. She immersed us in The Great Gatsby and the words of the author F. Scott Fitzgerald best capture my thoughts on Ms. Lawler: ‘You never knew exactly how much space you occupied in people’s lives.’ Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam. (Joe Newsome)
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Thursday, January 14, 2021
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Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Louise Coumans.
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