Maureen (Smith) Lake

Our beloved Maureen passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of her family on Monday November 25, 2024 at the age of 86.

Wife of the late Fred Lake, loved until her last moments by her children Jane (Derek), Maria (Fred) and Robert (Jenny and family); grandchildren Katie (Keith), Sara (Myles), Hannah (Alex) and Thomas; her great-grandchildren Jack and Walker, as well as extended family Margaret, Nigel, Keira, Daniel, Casey, and their families. Also loved and missed by her sister Jean (Peter).

Born just before World War II in London, England, Maureen was raised by her parents Kitty and Bert, along with her older sister Jean. The family relocated to Exeter in the Southwest of England where Maureen eventually met her husband Fred while she worked as a hairdresser and he was stationed in the army camp close by. While raising their three children, Maureen went back to school and qualified as a nurse. As a family, they later made the life-changing decision to emigrate to Canada where Maureen continued her nursing career. Maureen and Fred enjoyed a decade together in Canada, where they built a happy life, and welcomed two grandchildren before his passing in 1992.

After Fred's passing, Maureen transitioned her career from nurse to unit secretary at York Central hospital where she worked until she was 73 years old. During this time, she continued to build lifelong relationships and enjoyed travelling with family and friends.

Maureen deeply cared about people, and even in retirement, dedicated her time to helping others through volunteer work at Inn From the Cold. Never one to have idle hands, in the last months before her passing, Maureen knitted dozens of scarves for her loved ones.

Maureen was an exceptionally loving and supportive Mum, Grandma, and GiGi. She always loved to talk about life, and gave great (and sometimes unfiltered) advice. Maureen will be forever loved and missed.

Cremation has been entrusted to Low & Low Funeral Home in Uxbridge. A celebration of Maureen's life will be held at Low & Low Funeral Home, Port Perry Chapel, 1763 Reach Street, Port Perry on Sunday February 9, 2025 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM.  As expressions of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Inn From the Cold in Newmarket would be greatly appreciated by the family. Friends may send condolences or make donations at www.lowandlow.ca