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
Nora and Jim McEwen
Martin, Rachèle, Damien, Kloé & Myriam
It’s difficult to find words for this. Ours sincere and deepest condolences for all the family! Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Aunt Laura...your smile, kindness, passion, compassion, and your love for family, without forgetting your enthusiasm for nature and flowers will forever remain in our hearts!
Lucie Lebrun
I will always remember Laura as a bubbly and life-loving person. Her children were the light of her life and she would love to share tidbits of what made her proud of them.
My sincere condolences to her family and her friends.
Carol Railer
It was such a pleasure working with Laura she was a delightful person. My condolences to her family.
Nancy Jarman
Mrs Duke, Wendy and Len… I only heard of Laura’s passing recently. Thinking about Laura brings back many memories of Wedgewood Court, neighbourhood friends, the school bus, babysitting, and more. Please know that my thoughts are with you and all the family.
Mir Abolfazl Mostafavi
It was such a pleasure working with Laura.
My sincere condolences to her family, friends and her colleagues .
Uncle Dick
I'm going to miss you kid.
Ellen and Joe MacLellan
Our condolences are very late in coming as we just learned of Laura’s passing. She was a beautiful woman inside and out, with a kind and generous soul. Laura and the Dukes were very much a part of our family growing up, and will always have a special place in our hearts. Rest in peace
Nancy Wrenshall and Glen Dennie
So sorry to hear of Laura's passing. She was a beautiful soul who will be missed by her family and friends. Our sincerest condolences to her mother, Dawn and the rest of her family. Rest in peace, sweet lady.
Teddie Laframboise
I met Laura when our sons Corey and Austin became friends in elementary school. They stayed friends for life and Austin just attended Corey's wedding. Laura was a special person. She was one of the mother's who was different. She was different because I never felt judged by her. You knew she did not care if I was in my farm clothes and my hair was messy. She liked you for who you were not if you wore diamond earings and a big gold chain. It was amazing the way she and Fern made a life together for themselves. I am so sad. I had no idea she was sick. Love to all you kids who I knew at one time and condolences from the de Ste. Croix-Laframboise family.
Our most sincere condolences to Laura’s family; in particular, Robin, Travis, Diane and Corey. Your mom was so proud of each of you! Cherish your special memories. In time may they bring you some comfort. Kindest regards.