Surrounded by the love of family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Laura Diane Duke, 61, Monday, June 7, 2021. She fought valiantly in her crusade against pancreatic cancer, but it was not to be.
Born in Ottawa, Ontario, she was the youngest daughter of Dawn (Cleator) and the late Donald Duke. She is survived by her loving partner Mark Powell, daughters Robin Cole (Patrick), Diane Cole (Kevin), sons Travis Cole (Ariane), Corey Duke-Laplante (Jamie-Lee); grandchildren Beatrix, Jackson, Lukas, and Charleston; mother Dawn, sister Wendy Meilleur (Len); extended family and friends. Laura was predeceased by her husband of 19 years, Fernand (Fern) Laplante, who passed away in 2015.
Laura was the most courageous, loving, insightful, and compassionate soul who is now, and forever will be, missed by all. She was the best Mom, Grandma, wife, partner, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. In addition to that, she was an accomplished editor, librarian, master organizer and wellness ambassador. She touched so many in her life and we know she cherished all those she met.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to the entire medical team, palliative hospice support team, and medical professionals that allowed us to have a little more time with her. And thank you to all for the support, communication, pictures and kind thoughts offered throughout her battle: Laura received it all and will continue to be cherished by her loved ones.
In view of the current COVID-19 restrictions, no public funeral is planned. In terms of flowers, we ask that you choose to keep them in your home, in her memory. Laura loved her flowers, but more importantly, her caring nature enjoyed sharing them with all those that she loved. If a donation is to be made in Laura’s name, the charity Pancreatic Cancer Canada could be considered.
The kiss of the Sun for Pardon,
The songs of the birds for Mirth,
One nearer Laura’s heart in a garden,
Then anywhere else on earth.
Digital Guestbook
Jacqueline and Yves Caissie
Val Urchison
Laura, you will be deeply missed by all your family and friends. It was always nice to catch up with you. Xx
Diane Urchison
Those we love are never really gone for we have our memories to hold onto. A departed soul..."Travelling On", rest in piece, Laura.
Astra Groskaufmanis
My deepest sympathies to all of you. May you find strength and support in each other's company and in your memories of Laura. She is greatly missed by all her colleagues at Canadian Science Publishing. Her ever-present smile, energy and enthusiasm were infectious. I'll think of her in my garden often!
Melanie Slavitch
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Laura only a short time at CSP, but she left a big impression: strong, kind, empathetic, spiritual, curious, fun. A beautiful woman with a beautiful soul. I'm grateful to have known her.
Josephine E Sciortino
My deepest condolences for your loss. I only knew Laura for short time. Her workstation at CSP was next to mine and she was always so kind and thoughtful. Grateful to have known her.
Tanya Samman
I'm very sorry for your loss. I enjoyed knowing Laura at CSP, and her absence will be deeply felt. She will be missed.
Brian Huels
My deepest sympathies for your loss. I know we will all miss her smile and sunny disposition at CSP.
Rachel Pietersma
Extending my condolences sympathy to all Laura's family and friends. I started working at CSP around the same time as Laura and appreciated her friendliness and sense of humour.
J.M. Dormon
Laura was a valued colleague whose loss is felt by all who knew her. She will not be forgotten.
My sincerest sympathies to her family.
Our deepest condolences to all families Laplante and Duke. We have good memories of Laura.