Obituary of Audrey McQuaig

Audrey Lyons McQuaig With great sadness, we announce the passing of Audrey Lyons McQuaig on Saturday, January 25, 2014. Beloved mother of Peter, Linda, John and Wendy. Grandmother of Kate, Laura, Margot, Jacqueline, Jay, Jennie, Murray, Amy, Anna and Max and great-grandmother of William, Bennett and Hunter. Dearly loved sister of Gloria Frey and Jarvis Lyons. Predeceased by husband Jack (after 63 years of marriage), son Don, father Sigmund Lyons and her cherished mother, Bunny (nee Singer) Lyons. Audrey loved her years at Branksome Hall, Camp Tanamakoon, as well as her service during World War II for the Women's Royal Naval Service, known as the "Wrens." Although barely out of her teens, Audrey worked in operational intelligence in Ottawa, helping to plot the movement of German submarines in the north Atlantic and transmitting warning signals to Allied convoys. After the war, she got her MA in child psychology at U of T, where she met future husband Jack and helped him establish the McQuaig Institute of Executive Development. In addition to that collaboration, they soon had five children. Audrey also worked in the travel business, where she made lifelong friends and greatly enjoyed travelling. She was never without a camera, keen to capture every moment. She was also rarely without a cat, particularly her beloved Mr. Wiggles. She had an engaging smile, as well as a warmth, gentleness and sincerity that will be deeply missed by all. Special thanks for terrific support from Odeline, Minnie, Maria and the Cedarhurst caregivers. A service to celebrate Audrey's life will be held in ARMOUR HEIGHTS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 105 Wilson Avenue on Wednesday, February 12 at 4:00 p.m. If desired, donations made to the United Way, 26 Wellington Street East, Toronto M5E 1W9 would be greatly appreciated. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.