Suddenly, on April 2, in the evening, Larissa left us in as dramatic a fashion as she lived her life. She leaves behind her parents, Terri Tomchyshyn and Brent Taylor, her sister Adriana, and her love Patrick Caines. She will be missed by aunts, uncles and cousins in Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Alberta, British Columbia, Missouri and Massachusetts. Her two favourite pups, Chance and Mischief will also feel her absence.
Larissa attended Banting Alternative High School and Algonquin College where she studied Office Administration. As a young girl and teen Larissa was a dancer enjoying tap, jazz and especially hip hop at Miss Pat’s Classical Dance Academy. She was also a springboard diver with the Nepean Ottawa Diving Club. When her interest in competitions waned, her coach asked her to try coaching. She was a natural and has coached many kids throughout the rest of her life. She saw many of her divers become competitive and successful in their diving careers. She was proud of all of them and they were inspired by her to do well.
Larissa never wanted to be defined by the life changing circumstance of her heart transplant. It did however, dramatically change her attitude and her knowing the precious gift she had been handed. She lived her life to the fullest- loudly, unapologetically, brashly, usually with a bright smile to be shared with anyone in her sphere. She inspired so many people with her story and her positive attitude in any situation.
She was all-in, all the time, loyal to a fault with those with whom she claimed a friendship; and they were in the hundreds. She would be protective, critical, helpful and empathetic. She had no regrets. Her legacy is her sparkling smile, and positive nature to always keep going with stubborn certainty that everything will work out as it should. Larissa would expect everyone to be an organ donor. She has paid it forward by donating her eyes, tissue and bones. This, too, is her legacy.
Friends and Family are invited to Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue, on Sunday, April 7th from 5 to 7:00 PM. A Prayer Service Vigil- Ukrainian Panachyda will take place in the Sacred Space of Beechwood at 7:00PM. A Funeral Liturgy will be held at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Shrine, 952 Green Valley Crescent, on Monday, April 8th at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute.
Digital Guestbook
Karin Selst-McDermott
Robbi-Lynn Fitzpatrick
Terri, Brent, Adrianna, Patrick, family of Larissa. Please accept my deepest condolences on Larissa’s passing. Shock and sadness can only describe the feelings I have right now. We met Larissa when she was only 8 years old. Together, Larissa and Megan got into their fair share of trouble. Lessons were learned and forgiveness was given and we all moved on. She will always have a special place in my heart as one of Megan’s best friends through their school years. Even though they drifted apart, it didn’t mean out of sight, out of mind. We always spoke highly of Larissa. I ran into her one day as she was coming from the gym. It was so nice to see her and her ever present smile.
Rest In Peace Larissa, we will never forget you.
As a side note, we are all organ donors.
Please take care of yourselves during this difficult time.
Robbi-Lynn Fitzpatrick
Meagan Lewis
Larissa. Where do I even begin. Your smile was contagious. Your heart was so big. Your beauty radiated. You were truly a one of kind, live life to the fullest, force to be reckoned with. Truly an angel upon earth. My heart goes out to your family at this time. May they be comforted in this time of loss. May you be at peace among the stars my dear friend. God bless. ?
Maribeth Jaworski
There are no words.
Vichnaya pamyat.
Maribeth & family
Caroline Xavier
Words are a limited comfort during this very difficult time, therefore know my prayers are with you as well. I am truly sorry for the loss of this beautiful soul. She lives in others...and in your heart always ??? Love Caroline X
Don and Brenda Prytula
May you rest in peace Larissa....you brought so much joy to the people you touched. We were blessed to have been able to spend some time with you this last fall. Your smile, laughter and zest for life will forever be with us. "veechnaya pamyaut"
Karen Charron
My deepest sympathy to the family. Larissa was bigger than life, tougher than nails, and the most positive person. She played the odds and attracted the positive. She never dwelled on the negative and always worked harder to overcome the obstacles. She loved her family and knew they were there for her. She valued friendships and always had time for a good cause. Larissa will not be forgotten. She influenced friends & families and she gave hope to patients who needed inspiration. Larissa was the poster child for positive change, questioning status quo, and not looking for a plan b, instead leaving the dream. Larissa changed me. Her storey will continue to be told and will continue to inspire. I will miss you kid!
Lindsay Voldock
You had one of the most vibrant, wild, free spirits I’ve even seen. I will hold our memories close to my heart for always. My sincerest condolences to Larissa’s family and to her boyfriend. Riss was loved by so many people. She touched many lives with her nurturing and positive vibes. Xo
Sheila Norris-Elye
Terri and family,
My heart aches for you at this horrific time. May the prayers and caring thoughts from family and friends encircle you with love at the loss of your beautiful and beloved daughter.
Sheila Norris-Elye
Nancy E. Black
Words are so adequate in this situation....please accept my condolences and sympathies for your devastating loss. I hope you will be able to draw strength and peace from all the very joyful, beautiful memories of such a remarkable young woman who embraced life with enthusiasm and exuberance. I am holding you in my heart. With love and good wishes.
Dear Terry,
We’re so sorry for your loss. We are thinking about you and your family at this time.
Lots of love, from Karin, Andrew, Andrea, Collin and Thomas