Obituary of Lois Filce

Filce, Lois Mabel (Fretz) – June 17, 1922 – August 28, 2017.  A lovely lady died today.  She was the essence of LOVE: love of God and Church; love of Bert; love of family and friends; love of teaching and love of gardening.  Lois Filce will be missed by all who knew her but especially by her daughter Joanne and son-in-law Jim Gilleland.  She will be forever remembered by her grandchildren Jeffrey and Shannon Gilleland, Jennifer and Bruce Nicol and David Atkins.  Missing their Great-Gramma are Meghan Atkins and Keira and Jared Gilleland.  She was predeceased by the love of her life Bert Filce (2004), after more than 60 years of marriage, as well as her daughter Kristin (2004) and son-in-law Michael Atkins (2011). 

Born is Beamsville, she lived in this area for most of her life.  She was a member of St. Albans Anglican Church and an adherent of Vineland Missionary Church.  She was a lady of deep faith… a lady who lived her faith every day.  Lois was a letter writer.  Family and friends could always count on a birthday card, an anniversary card or a long newsy letter and always, always a thank you note.  Her beautiful handwritting was admired by everyone.  It was a sad day when she stopped sending letters and cards.  She excelled in her chosen career as a teacher for the Niagara Board of Education for over 30 years, touching the lives of hundreds of Beamsville families through her nurturing of young students.  She was a mentor, colleague, friend and peer support to many in her career.  She retired from teaching in 1982.  After retirement she volunteered for Albright Manor and Meals on Wheels.  She was an active member of the Retired Teachers of Ontario, her two churches, the Lincoln Garden club and a life member of Twenty Valley Golf Club.  She treasured the many friends she made over the years.  The family expresses their apprecation to the staff of Albright Manor and especially to the compassionate, hard working, caregiviers on the 5th floor South where Lois spent her last days.

Visitation will take place at the Vineland Chapel of Tallman Funeral Home, 3277 King St. on Friday from 2-4 and 7-8:30 p.m.  The Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 2, 2017.  Reception in the Fireside Room to follow.  Burial will follow reception at Mount Osborne Cemetery, Beamsville.  If so desired, memorial donations may be made to the Albright Foundation or a charity of your choice.