LAUGHLIN; Heather Mae (nee Mckee)
Heather was taken from us all too soon in a tragic accident on Sunday, 16 August 2015. She leaves her loving husband, Michael Laughlin of Bracebridge, ON and daughter, Courtney Maureen Huth of Chilliwack, BC, step children Bradley and Ainsley Laughlin, as well as many brothers, a sister, many nieces and nephews and a huge extended family of friends. Family was so important to Heather, she was "the glue" that held her family together. She worked at keeping in touch and connecting with her family whenever she could. Friends were also her family and she was in for life.... as her sister*friend of 40 years, Jody Burns can attest to. Life was not always easy for Heather but she was tough and rose up again after every challenge. She found peace and a special family within the congregation and with pastors Jim & Sharon Gaetz at the Church on the Southside. They embraced, accepted, guided and loved her unconditionally which helped her to truly change her life in the best possible way. Her sister in Christ, Tracey McDonald was a huge part of that family as a 'mom' to Courtney as Heather wanted. Heather did not pray for an easier life, she prayed for the strength to endure a difficult one.... and endure she did.... with grace. She worked hard at many jobs throughout her life, and each new job was a new challenge for her to expand her horizons, learn and grow. She was grateful for those who worked with her and mentored her and helped her to gain confidence in herself. Her most important and special role was to be a mom to Courtney who was the shining star in Heather's life. She felt truly blessed to have been given such a special gift. Heather was so proud of who Courtney became and happy that she found love and happiness. Heather was a bright spark in the lives of all of us but that sparkle remains in all of us and our memories of a very special lady. Let those memories be a balm to your hearts and souls as you mourn.
Heather's celebration of life will be at The Chilliwack Coast Hotel. Friday, September 4 at 2:00 PM. Courtney's request is family and friends wear bright colors to honor her Mom and if you'd like to bring a photo of Heather to donate to a book she's creating.
In lieu of flowers a donation to BC Cancer would be appreciated.
"What we held once we can never lose.... all that we love deeply becomes a part of us" ~ Helen Keller