Monkley née Fitzpatrick

Laurie was born to Elma and Jack Fitzpatrick in Langley, B.C. With siblings named Morley, Marvyn, and Marlene, “her parents couldn’t pick another ‘M’ name”, is what she used to say. Everyone knows the story about Kathleen for her middle name. When the family moved to Cache Creek, Laurie made friends and liked to hear the “drive-in theatre” from her house.

With family in Ashcroft, there were always family and friends close by. Laurie endured many trips to Saskatchewan and decided that she would not become a farmer. She was not a fan of the stormy weather, loose pigs, well water and we wouldn’t dare mention an outhouse to her.

Moving to Kimberly was wonderful for Laurie as she made new friends, and kept in touch with old friends, as she was an avid letter writer. She also loved to read. She had fond memories of snowy days when everyone would drive up to the school and have a blast tobogganing in the snow. Elma enjoyed driving around town in her Chevy Vega and everyone would wave to her as they passed by.

As a young woman, Laurie moved to Victoria and became a BC Tel operator, where she was asked how to cook a turkey and other wild questions. Laurie made friends everywhere she went. Later on, she moved to Burnaby, transferring jobs with Telus. She never lost her typing skills of ninety words per minute.

Laurie met John through friends and in the early stages they would talk for HOURS on the phone, getting to know each other. Eventually their relationship progressed, and Laurie moved in with John and was introduced to wild meat, while hunting and camping in Prince George. After living together for a while Laurie was wondering if John was ever going to propose. He did shortly after, and they were married in 1997. During that special time in their life, Terry and Jake Bergen were their landlords and became close friends. They really stepped up and were gracious hosts to Laurie’s parents among other things.

Laurie always made an effort to stay connected to friends, taking many ferry trips back to Victoria to visit her dear friend Lisa Clark.

In 1999, they were blessed with a beautiful son. Sean was the most wonderful gift, with both Laurie and John on cloud nine with the love of their baby boy. Laurie and Sean would look into each others’ eyes and that bond became unbreakable.

Laurie and John bought their family home and spent twenty-four more happy years together.

They lovingly called their family “We be Monkley 3”. They also welcomed a few cats to snuggle with, over the years.

Laurie was predeceased by her parents Elma and Jack and sister-in-law Connie.

She is survived by her loving husband John, son Sean, siblings Morley (Debbie), Marvyn, Marlene (Rob), and many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

In the end, Sean and John were there for Laurie, caring for her through all the doctor and hospital visits. It is hard to say goodbye after so many years, the memories, the love, and then left with sadness. Laurie will be remembered in our hearts.

From John:

Our dear Laurie. We start our life so small, and we grow with the love of our family and friends. We grow and navigate the ups and downs and twisty turns of life. Our love grows and a child is probably the most love we can ever have. We navigate that love the best we can. In the end, we know that we have loved and were loved. Laurie, we will miss you forever.

With all my love,

John

From Sean:

How do I put into words all that you did for me. A mother’s love is the best way to describe how you cared for me. I’ll never forget the feeling of being hugged by you. You live on through me. I love you mom.

Your loving son,

Sean

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coquitlam Animal Shelter. Donations may be made via phone 604.927.7387 or via on-line (Link to SPCA). Please click the “In Memory of” box and fill in Laurie’s name and use the email address, RSVP@ANORAlife.com, so that John will be notified.