It is with deep sadness the family of Lavette Woodbeck (Iwanec) announce her peaceful passing on January 11, 2024, at Southbridge Roseview with her husband and children by her side. Lavette was a loving wife, mother, Baba, sister, aunt and friend.

Born in Fort William on January 25, 1955, Lavette had a warm and adventurous spirit. In 1975 she married her best friend Gary and together they shared 48 loving years regularly welcoming family and friends into their home. Lavette touched so many lives, having spent the majority of her career as a teacher. She started by teaching English as a second language to new members of our community then moved on to St. Patrick and St. Ignatius high schools where she made many lifelong friendships.

Lavette loved to spend time at Shebandowan Lake fishing with her husband, one of their favourite activities. She also had a love of travel which included trips to Ukraine, Bermuda, Florida, Cuba, and Mexico as well as a tour of Europe with her students. Lavette and Gary's ultimate adventure was an African safari that allowed her to experience the wildlife and culture from the pages of her beloved National Geographic magazines. Lavette had a passion for reading, but her life's greatest joy was spending time with her family especially her two grandchildren, Clara and Archie. Lavette's courage, tenacity and devotion to her family and friends will certainly leave a void. You are in our hearts forever, Luba.

Lavette will be sadly missed by her husband Gary, daughter Erin, son Matthew, daughter-in-law Melanie, grandchildren Clara and Archie, brother Gerry, sister-in-law Marilyn Gural (Barry) and brother-in-law Tom Woodbeck along with her many nieces, nephews and "the cousins". Lavette was predeceased by her parents John and Jean Iwanec and in-laws Earl and Joyce Woodbeck.

Many thanks to the countless surgeons, doctors, nurses, rehabilitation, and healthcare staff that provided care to Lavette over the years. Special thanks to Dr. Garon, Dr. Anthes, Dr. Biman, Toronto General Hospital lung transplant team, and good friend Dr. Silverberg for guiding Lavette and her family through her journey.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 26, 2024, in the chapel of Sargent and Son Funeral Home, 21 N. Court Street with Rev. Ciaran Donnelly officiating. Donations in Lavette's memory can be made to the Northwestern Ontario Women's Centre. Please register as an organ and tissue donor at beadonor.ca.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Jan. 20, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for LAVETTE WOODBECK

Sponsored by Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel.

9 Entries

Susan Smith

February 9, 2024

Woodbeck family- so sad to hear about Lavette´s passing. I worked as an SSP under her wing for many years at St Ignatius High School. She was a friend and colleague. I´m sure she´ll be missed by her family and friends. My condolences to all.
Susan Smith

Candyce

January 27, 2024

So sorry for your passing.

Shelly York

January 25, 2024

My sincerest condolences to Gary and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Rita Mannella

January 22, 2024

Dear Gary and family,
I was so saddened to hear of Lavette´s passing. She was a respected colleague of mine at St. Ignatius High School and soon became a dear friend. Her love of teaching was truly reflected in her genuine concern and care for her students. She never hesitated to volunteer to help me with any request regarding a literacy initiative or with just a fun activity for our students in the classroom. Her sense of humour and smile always brightened up our day. I´ll always remember Lavette as an amazing educator, a true friend and a caring human being. She will always be remembered as a special friend to me. I will miss her. May God be with you and your family during this difficult time and may God grant Lavette eternal rest. My sincere and heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Sending my thoughts and prayers ,
Rita Mannella

Richard Bosch

January 22, 2024

Sincere condolences to Gary and the entire family. Lavette was a wonderful, gracious person.

Doug Smith

January 21, 2024

Our love and condolences to Gary and the Woodbeck family as we give thanks for knowing this beautiful soul.
Doug Smith

Ian and Barb McEwen

January 20, 2024

Our condolences to Gary and family

GLADYS

January 20, 2024

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Ric Bodner

January 20, 2024

I´m saddened to hear of Lavette´s passing Gary.She was a very kind and thoughtful lady.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Memorial Events
for LAVETTE WOODBECK

Jan

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel

21 North Court Street, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4T4

Funeral services provided by:

Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel

21 North Court Street, Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4T4