Isabel passed away peacefully at Sunrise of Vancouver at the age of 93. She was born in Balquhidder, Scotland. She is predeceased by her parents Neville and Mary Lyon, older sister Grace and husband John, younger brothers Allan, Neville and his wife Barbara. Isabel is also predeceased by her husband Romuald, infant son Edward, great grandsons Emmet and Ford Lakowski, and daughter-in-law Elizabeth Chavez (Greg).
Isabel grew up in Innellan, Argyll and attended Dunoon High School. She went on to graduate from Glasgow University with a Master’s in English and History. Isabel came from a musical family joining her father and brothers to sing in amateur operetta performances while at University. She began teaching after University.
Isabel married Romuald Lakowski, November 7, 1952. They were blessed with 16 children, 13 born in Scotland. Isabel and Ronnie were team players sharing responsibilities. Isabel edited many of her husband’s research papers, did the family accounting and paid the bills.
Isabel is survived by her children: Ronnie, Barbara (James), Leo (Rhonda), Isabel (John), Paul (Shelimar), Greg, Leonora (Marc), Josef Matthew, Dorothea (John), Conrad, Marissa (Randy), Bernard (Bronwyn), Adrian (Jeanne), Veronica and Ted (Margot). She is also survived by 42 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren.
Isabel was known for her high, clear, soprano voice and for many years sang with the Immaculate Conception Choir for Sunday Mass, Easter and Christmas. “ She kept a song in her heart and on her lips” (Fr. Paul).
Isabel will be missed by her family and all who knew her. She was a courageous, gentle, compassionate and vibrant person.
Her funeral Mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Dunbar Vancouver on April 20 at 10 am, interment to follow at the Gardens of Gethsemani.