Lois Jean (Sweeten) Lapadat

Lapadat, Lois Jean (née Sweeten) passed away Wednesday, August 15, in Smithers, BC. Born August 31, 1933, Lois was looking ahead to her 85th birthday. Although she struggled with COPD in recent years, the moment of her passing was unexpected and quick, and took place surrounded by caring members of her community.

Lois grew up in Tappen, BC, on the Sweeten family homestead in early childhood, and later in Salmon Arm. She graduated from Salmon Arm High School in 1952, and attended the Provincial Normal School in Victoria where she trained as a teacher. Eager for adventure, Lois moved north and taught Grade 2 for one year in Houston and 2 years in Telkwa. During this time, Lois met Johnnie Lapadat, the love of her life. Lois and Johnnie married on April 11, 1955, and raised four children.

Known fondly to many as “Brownie,” Lois was passionate about family, community, and volunteerism. A tireless member of the Anglican Church, Lois served as Rector’s Warden, People’s Warden, leader of the Altar Guild, soup kitchen coordinator, manager of the foster child fund, and in many other capacities over the years. Lois worked for the Town of Smithers at the arena, retiring in her 70’s. She fundraised for the Meadows, Relay for Life, and many other causes. She skied, hiked, curled, sold Avon, gardened, made jelly, played cribbage, and liked to read. Above all, she loved her family and always had a kind word, some baking, and a bouquet of flowers for someone in need. She could be seen zooming around town on her bicycle, and recently, on a red scooter.

Lois was predeceased by her husband Johnnie, and her sister Val. She was cherished and will be sadly missed by her sister Carol (Larry); daughter Judith (Rob); sons Lawrence (Teresa), Ron (Sarah), and Tony; grandchildren Katherine (Daniel), Erica, Alex, Laura (Marcin), Nikki, Grace, and Ellie; great grandchildren Elliott and Caleb; and many other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. James Anglican Church in Smithers on Friday, August 31, at 2 pm, with a reception to follow, and then a gathering at the Legion. Flowers will be gratefully accepted or a donation in Lois’s name can be made to a charity of your choice.

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