It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Lawrence Parth.
Lawrence was born May 6, 1948, to Louis & Jean Parth of Longbow Lake, Ontario and has gone on his final patrol September 7, 2024.
Lawrence is predeceased by his wife Svea Parth, parents, Louis and Jean Parth, his in-laws Herb and Freda Bergman, Verna Burke, sister in-law Mavis Weare, Brother In-Law Frank Bergman and grand-daughter Brooke Van Dam.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his partner Janice Burke, daughters Candace (Mike) Van Dam, Carla (Chris) Parth, Lisa (Tyler) Imeson, Grand-Daughters Mercedes (Dylan) Miller, Kaydence Imeson, and Great- Grand Daughters Juniper and Birdie Miller. Along with sister’s in-law Lynn (Karl) Korella, Annette Bergman, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Lawrence grew up on Longbow Lake Rd, on the family homestead, enjoying life the forest and lake had to offer. After the loss of his father, he had to step-up and look after himself and his mother. He applied for a job with the Ministry of Transportation – Longbow Lake Yard. Bert Husband was the hiring supervisor and although Lawrence was only 16 years old (below their hiring age of 18) Bert turned a blind eye and gave that kid a chance. Bert was and always will be an important person in Lawrence’s life.
This began his lifelong career at the Ministry of Transportation, he was carpenter’s helper for Bert, then quickly moved up the ranks to Labourer at Patrol 6 where he worked for Roland Derouard, and then on to heavy equipment operator and eventually supervisor.
Lawrence loved his role at MTO and looked forward to seeing his work buddies and competing each year at the annual driving rodeo. Fun times were always had by all, unbreakable friendships and unforgettable memories were the result, and they helped carry him and brought him enjoyment until the very end of his days.
1970 happened and with it came a whirl wind romance and marriage to Svea Bergman, who he affectionately referred to as his “Twiggy”. They were married on July 4, 1970.
The next 38 wonderful years were filled with 3 daughters, hard work, building a home on Storm Bay Rd, Friday night card games, and FISHING!
Oh the fishing, Lawrence loved to fish, trips with Merv “Trapper” Howard, and Stan and Daisy Burke where always in the works. Hillock Lake, Moore’s Bay, and Silver Lake were amongst his favourite haunts. No matter the lake you could be certain of one thing the yell of “Red Fisher” indicating a fish on was sure to be heard echoing over the water. He was sure to teach and share his love of fishing with his girls as well.
Of course, in between the fishing there was always work to be done and he took great effort and pride in instilling a strong work ethic in his girls and insisted that they were capable of looking after themselves. He also made sure that they knew that they should not be afraid to try anything, the only limitations were the ones you gave yourself and quitting was never an option. He was very proud of his girls and their accomplishments and reminded them of that until the very end.
Lawrence was able to retire in his mid-forties. He then went to work with his brother-in-law Frank completing carpentry work at places such as Big Narrows, the City of Kenora, and Nethercutt’s to name a few. He was never idle. He and Svea also enjoyed the company of Floyd and Paulie Triskle, Bill and Elenor Reid, Lynn and Karl Korella. Many good times were had, and the memories were a treasure for Lawerence.
Unfortunately, Svea fell ill in 2005 and after a courageous battle with cancer passed away in 2008. Lawerence spent the next year of his life adjusting and trying to figure out how to live life without her. Then he met a special person, who became his very special partner for the remainder of his days. 13 years through thick and thin Janice Burke has shared a life with him. The joys, the heartaches and all the in-between.
There is no doubt of their love for one another or how fortunate and grateful Lawrence felt about Janice and their relationship. Not many people have a chance to have such great love even once and he got to experience it twice. This is a gift he leaves this world knowing and a spiritual peace he would not have known without her.
Lawrence wanted to make sure that a special thank you be given to Judy, Cindy, Louis, Lana, Barb, Cathy, and Susan who all helped look after and care for him in his home. He loved and appreciated you all.
Thank you to Dr. Kowal and Dr. Carlisle and the staff at Lake of the Woods District hospital, you all did your best to ensure his comfort, and for that he was grateful.
Lawrence had no regrets in life and wanted everyone to know he had a life well lived, filled with happiness, joy and family he was very proud of. He will be watching over each and everyone from his fishing hole in the sky. “I’ll see you when you get here” Lawrence
Time has taken me away from you, but I am not very far,
I’ll be watching you through the sunshine and from the brightest star,
I will be watching all of you from my fishing hole above,
So take good care of each other and carry all my love,
If you’re ever wondering if I’m there, this is where you start,
Look inside yourself I am right there deep inside your heart,
I will always be your father, your guide and best friend,
So anytime you need, close your eyes and I’m right there back again.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, September 17, 2024 from 11:00am – 1:00pm at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre.
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