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Reed Needles posted a condolence
Sunday, August 25, 2013
To All of Lou's family How sorry I am to hear of your loss. I regret to say I have never met any of you, but Lou and I started working together the same year at Hart House, in 1973 - with Martha, Martin, Jimmy, Jan, Linda, Penny, Brian, Gord, John, and all the other wonderful staff at the theatre. I remember Lou with great fondness, since we did dozens of shows together over the years - incredibly long hours, late nights, weekends and holidays. I remember her always with a smile, and indeed, a wry wit, that put everything in its proper perspective. I was very fortunate to have known her, worked with her, and shared so many things : shows, late night prop-making and painting sessions, breakfast/lunch and terrible (!) dinners in the Great Hall, and of course, those dozen crazy years and many dozen crazy shows/cycles/tours with the PLS. My heartfelt condolences on your loss. An unforgettable woman, whom we will all cherish in our memories.
D
Debbie Loughlin posted a condolence
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Stephen and Rebecaa, I only found out today I am so sad to hear this and that I missed the service. I haven't been well mysef and used to run into her at Sunnybrook. She was a joy to work with always. Debbie Loughlin
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Katherine Belyea posted a condolence
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
My deepest condolences for your loss. While I only knew Lou for a couple of years, it seemed like she would always be there at the Drama Centre. She has been a pillar of support since I became PLS's office manager, her voice on the phone a familiar and reassuring presence. I always looked forward to receiving one of her witty remarks or wry smiles, and I will treasure the memory of sitting down with her to chat about theatre and stage management. As so many others have said, it's still hard to conceive of carrying on without her.
A
Anne Fleet posted a condolence
Monday, July 29, 2013
Stephen and Rebecca, I was so saddened to hear of Lou's passing. I have fond memories of spending time with her at dinners at Karen and Dan's house. I had the pleasure to get to know her a little, and to know from Karen that her family and the theatre were her two greatest loves. It is all the wonderful memories of your mother that will help to get you both through this very difficult time. You have my sincerest condolences. xo Anne
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Joanne Mitchell lit a candle
Sunday, July 28, 2013
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Lou was a wonderful strong woman. I cannot imagine the DC without her there. My memories include opening night receptions, anything props related, and always popping into her office for a quick chat. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family.
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Patsy Bolton lit a candle
Thursday, July 25, 2013
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Dear Steve, Rebecca and and family, I want to let you know that my thoughts are with you both. I was glad to have met your mother Steve at such a happy time as your marriage.
Look after yourselves,
love Patsy
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Michael Sidnell lit a candle
Saturday, July 20, 2013
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In memory of a dear friend to whom I owe so much, and to whom the University of Toronto and the Drama Centre also stand deeply indebted. Lou was the hub of a succession of creative communities, consistently, expertly and generously enabling and fostering their interactions, their aspirations and their achievements. With her loss her own wonderful achievement emerges more clearly. It will be active for long time and long-remembered.
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Christopher Innes lit a candle
Friday, July 19, 2013
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Lou was a great friend and always very helpful. I have know her for at least 30 years, it is a great loss. We will all miss her!
D
David Klausner lit a candle
Friday, July 19, 2013
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Lou was the best. I don't know what we'll do without her.
J
Janet Bessey lit a candle
Friday, July 19, 2013
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Dear Stephen, Rebecca and Zillah and Murray, It was with great sadness and yet so many wonderful memories that I read of Luella's death. She touched the lives of so many people throughout her career and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
With love from Lou's den mother.
Janet Bessey - Hart House Theatre Manager - Retired
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Trent Scherer posted a condolence
Friday, July 19, 2013
So I, like many I'm sure, met Lou at the Drama Centre while doing my Masters. I was fortunate enough when I moved back to Toronto in 2005 that Lou needed a help with a conference and I needed a job. Working with Lou for the next five years doing front of house and box office was a great time. Even when I didn't need the money anymore, I needed my Lou time. There was a lot of decompression sessions over the years and I have missed them greatly. I was happy to see her again for her birthday. I'm sorry I can't be at the funeral but my thoughts have been with her for the last couple of weeks. Much love Lou. Don't worry, the till is balanced.
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Resh Budhu lit a candle
Friday, July 19, 2013
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I was thinking that I can hardly imagine the Drama Centre without Lou and then thought, "Actually, Lou will always be part of the DC." She is so indelibly a part of the place, that every memory I have of it somehow involves Lou- Her no-nonsense, practical and endlessly resourceful approach to getting things done, her infinite patience in mentoring so many of us (with a hint of bemusement when we tended to get ahead of ourselves) and her solid friendship and support throughout everything. And those specific moments: the late nights when we would collapse in the lobby after the chaos of opening night reception, laughing over some ponderous thing with her and Rob, and all of those conversations where Lou would discuss her two greatest loves, Stephen and the theatre. It's been a rare privilege, my friend… Thank you for so very much. Love, Resh
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Stephen Farrow lit a candle
Friday, July 19, 2013
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Lou was the beating heart of the Drama Centre - the first person I met when I arrived in Toronto, and invariably the first person I said hello to when I walked into the building and the last person I said goodbye to when I left. She offered me a job, and she offered me her friendship, and I was (and am) grateful for both. She was an excellent mentor, a great friend, and the best boss I ever had, and working with her through countless performances and events at the DC was a joy, and my privilege. She loved the Drama Centre, she loved us students - even if we sometimes exasperated her - and to know her was to be the recipient of an infinite number of little kindnesses, so many that they could never be fully repaid. I am so, so sorry to learn of her passing; my very deepest condolences to Stephen and her family.
J
Joanne Massingham lit a candle
Friday, July 19, 2013
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Lou...you will be so very deeply missed by everyone who knew you. Peace, love, and comfort to you, and to your family.
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Nina and Natalie Kaye posted a condolence
Friday, July 19, 2013
Dear Stephen and Family, All of our sympathy is with you at this time. Lou was a wonderful presence at the Drama Centre where both of us attended as students. We were lucky to benefit from her warmth and stalwart support. Infinitely capable, generous, and with a kind heart, Lou was respected and loved by the whole DC community. Respectfully, Nina and Natalie
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Laura Bonfigli posted a condolence
Friday, July 19, 2013
There is a deep sadness in me as I write this. I am so glad to have had the chance to visit Lou in the spring at the drama centre where she made an impact on thousands of lives over the years - my own included. She was darkly funny, kind, generous of spirit, forthright and an incredible support (both personally and professionally). She spoke with intense love about her son and later her daughter in law. I am so proud to have called her a friend and I mourn this loss. My deepest sympathies go out to all who loved her.
C
Claudia Sommers Brown lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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I well remember Lou, all the way back to the Days of Yade. A classic Stage Manager personality -- cool, competent, practical, unflappable crisis juggler; supportive of the production, therefore tolerant of the artistic temperaments. So many things deserving of a thank-you over the years. Rest in peace.
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Maria Clara Galery lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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I am very sad to hear you've left us, Lou. You had a lot of character. My condolences to your family.
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Parvez Patel lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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I am very sad to hear this news and very sorry that I have not seen Luella in many years. I had the privilege of meeting here when she was the Stage Manager for Skule Nite 8T2. She was not only the best Stage Manager we could have had but she was also one of the warmest most generous people I have ever met - just like Gord. She and Gord will be in my prayers tonight.
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Juliane Brown lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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Like others here I met Lu through the PLS & Chester Cycle in the '80s & admired her practicality & kindness through other Cycles & many Drama Centre shows in the '80s & early '90s. She was a mentor to students & non-students alike. Even though In have not worked on a DC show for 20 years , I still automatically dial her extension if I start to phone a UofT phone number starting with '978'. Condolences to Stephen, Becca & family.
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Tabitha Keast lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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What a shock to hear about Luella's death, and what a sharp absence she leaves at the Drama Centre - but also what a great legacy. Reading through just a few of these memorial messages shows what a strong and lasting impact Luella had on all those whom she met. I only knew her for a handful of years at U of T but she humanized a huge institution; what a warm and wonderful lady.
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Victoria Shepherd lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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I first met Lou in the late 90s, during my PLS days, and later reconnected with her when I rehearsed a Fringe show at the theatre a few years ago. A friendly and warm woman. I can't imagine the space without her. My thoughts and prayers to her friends and family.
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Robin and Amy Whittaker, Fredericton NB lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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Wherever Lou is now it's about to get a whole lot more organized. And before long, they won't remember a time without her. Who could imagine the Drama Centre without Lou. Her support from one year of students to the next was bottomless and uncompromising. Our thoughts are with you and your family, Steve.
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Gordon Woodbury lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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Although I have not seen Lu for a long time, I have wonderful memories of her from my theatre student days. She was a strong, vibrant woman with great integrity and character. She was truly the heart and soul of Hart House Theatre for many years, and I know she will be missed. This is a great loss -- my thoughts go out to Lu's family and friends.
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Toby Malone lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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Throughout my time at the Drama Centre, Lou was always the heart and soul of the place: always with a kind word, a smile, and a thundering dose of reality. I loved that Lou never sugar-coated anything yet would bend over backwards to help people, and in my last interactions with her earlier this year she retained that caring iron fist that I appreciated so much. Rest in peace, Lou - I can't imagine the DC without you. xx
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Cordula Quint, Sackville, NB lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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Lou was simply a force of her own right! Strong, resilient, always resourceful and more often than not saving the day when the "theatrical goings" got tough! I am very sad I did not get to see her since leaving Toronto years ago. I am missing her in my heart and thoughts.
L
Louise Nichols Sackville, NB lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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The first time I met Lou was when I worked on the first PLS Chester Cycle production in 1983. She inspired my interest in theatre -- always supportive, perceptive with a great sense of humour. The last time I saw her was at the 2nd Chester Cycle production in 2010. She looked well and happy. I will miss her.
J
Jamie Ridler lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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Sending love and light to Lou, her family and all who loved her. She was a guiding light to so many, including me. I am blessed by the time that I spent with her.
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Brian, Neilia, Jonah and Brandon lit a candle
Thursday, July 18, 2013
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In memory of a strong women and devoted mother.
Rest in Peace, Lou .
B
Becky Bridger posted a condolence
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Lou was an amazing friend and colleague. She was always there when you needed her. I will look back fondly on our many late nights in the box office, the afternoon lunches, and our great talks on our drives home (because you know that she would always take you home). My condolences to you Stephen, Becca, & Family.
L
Lionel Pilkington posted a condolence
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Dear Stephen, I am writing from Ireland where I have just this minute heard the sad news of your mother's death. I am so sorry that your mother has passed away. Even though it is well over 20 years since I last saw her, I remember her great kindness to me when I first enrolled as a doctoral student in drama at UofT in 1981. Lou and I had been in sporadic email contact for the past 10 years but I had not been aware of her illness. I had always hoped that I would see her again on a trip to Canada. I remember Lou as a kind and good humoured person with great energy. My sympathy to you at this difficult time. Lionel (Pilkington)
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Evan lit a candle
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
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Her gift of friendship, so freely given, shall be treasured forever, just as she shall be missed and mourned.
My deepest sympathy to Stephen, Rebecca, Zillah and family.
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Rebecca Biason lit a candle
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
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Lou, you will be missed more than you know. You were more than kind to me, and I wish I could have known you longer. Thank you for the rides you gave me home, and thank you for giving me the chance to work at the theatre. Thank you for listening to me and giving advice. I wish I would have come by more often to chat. Rest peacefully.
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Rebecca Biason posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Stephen I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. She was a wonderful woman and will be sorely missed. Prayers and love to you and your family.
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Anne Fleet posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Anne Fleet made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
Steve, Rebecca and Family, you have my sincere condolences at this sad time.
S
Stephen Johnson and Wendy Warnken posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Stephen Johnson and Wendy Warnken made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
In memory of Lou, who fought long and hard and so courageously.
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Nancy Copeland posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Nancy Copeland made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
Hart House Theatre was very important to Lou, and we shared many conversations about it, as well as about much else, when I was at the Drama Centre to teach my classes. My sincere condolences for your great loss.
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Felicity Sidnell Reid posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Felicity Sidnell Reid made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
Though it is many years since we saw Lou, I and my children remember her with great affection. She will be very much missed. With deepest sympathy to Stephen and Rebecca
M
Michael Sidnell posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Michael Sidnell made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
In memory of a dear friend to whom I owe so much, and to whom the University of Toronto and the Drama Centre are also deeply indebted.
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Natalie Rewa posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Natalie Rewa made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
Dear Stephen and Becca, Lou made doing theatre special at U of T and giving an academic paper at the DC to become a real performance event. Her development of conference protocols and superb equipment supported talking about theatre and facilitated another kind of performance, sometimes connecting virtually clear across the country. This is to support her legacy of a strong commitment to student theatre at U of T. with love and affection, Natalie
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Jenn Spry & Tim Vant posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Jenn Spry & Tim Vant made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Lou touched so many lives, including ours and she will be greatly missed. We can't imagine the Drama Centre without her.
L
Lezlie Radomski posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Lezlie Radomski made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
Thinking of you during this very difficult time. You are in my prayers.
D
Dave, Larysa, Veronica and Sebastian posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Dave, Larysa, Veronica and Sebastian made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
Steve & Bec, We are very sorry to hear about your loss. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies. Our thoughts are with you in this tough time Love from, The Waterloo Wood Family
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Cordula Quint posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Cordula Quint made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
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Trent & Joe posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Trent & Joe made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
I have heard a number of stories over the years from Lou about her past and her love of Hart House and I have a few memories of working there with her and seeing shows with her.
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Trent & Joe posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Trent & Joe made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
I know how much Gordie loved Gilda.
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scotiabank,arnprior posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
scotiabank,arnprior made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
We are very sorry to hear about your loss. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies.
B
Becky posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Becky made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
I am so sorry to not have spent more time with your Mom this past year. She was truly a fantastic person. Lou was so proud of both of you, and all that you have accomplished together. My condolances.
M
Marg Bannister posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Marg Bannister made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
My thoughts are with you Steven, Rebecca and family. Lou - such an amazing woman with her generousity, thoughtfulness & passion for work, family & friends.
D
Doug Floyd / Hart House Theatre posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Doug Floyd / Hart House Theatre made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
My deepest sympathies to you in this difficult time. I am going to miss Lou so very much. She was such a supporter of the Theatre and helped me through some difficult decisions over the years. I am so sorry for your loss.
R
Robin and Amy Whittaker posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Robin and Amy Whittaker made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
We are so saddened to hear that Lou has passed away. She was always so helpful and resourceful. She made such an important contribution to the lives of the students at the drama centre. She was always someone we could count on. We will miss her so much. Lou, you will always be in our hears and in our thoughts.
L
Louise and Glen Nichols posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Louise and Glen Nichols made a donation to University of Toronto Hart House
Warm sympathies to Stephen and family. Lou was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed.
L
Linda and Laura and family posted a condolence
Monday, July 15, 2013
Linda and Laura and family made a donation to GILDA'S CLUB GREATER TORONTO
Dear Stephen and Becca we are so sorry for your loss, Luella will be missed by all of us. Sending all of our love and hugs to you Love Linda, Paul, Laura, Donny, Joan, Matt, Berta, Eric, Lindsay, Dan and Tori xoxo
