With deep sadness, we share that Lorna Joan (McNiece) Lusk peacefully and joyfully left us for her heavenly home on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at Bluewater Health, at the age of 90.
Lorna was predeceased by her parents Wm & Eva (Pearson) McNiece, sister Marion McNiece and dear husband of 47 years, William “Bill” Lusk. She was a loving mom to Karen (Jonathan) Barkowsky and Sandra (Dave) Archer, and cherished Grammi to Caleb (Carla), Josiah (Molly), Joanna & Callum Barkowsky and Will, Preston & Ashlynn Archer. Beloved Aunt and Great Aunt to the children and grandchildren of Jack & Joyce Irwin.
Lorna Joan McNiece was born ten years after her older sister Marion on May 1, 1933. She was considered a gift to her parents William and Eva during the Great Depression. Lorna loved living on Sunset Heights farm in Byron, Ontario. Her favourite childhood memories included dressing her cats in doll clothes, and exploring with her cousin. During the winter months all the neighbours came to toboggan down the “McNiece Hill.”
Lorna chose to pursue a career in nursing. Some of her closest friends were made during her nurse’s training years at Victoria Hospital (class of 1955). She loved working at Sick Kids in London, Ontario for twelve years. Her compassion and gentle spirit were a gift to the children and families she served. She also used her artistic talents to paint on the windows of the hospital, in a way that touched the heart of each child. Her ability to express wonder through her watercolour paintings continued to bless others through her whole life.
In her early 30s, when she was volunteering for a weekend retreat at Five Oaks Camp, a man named Bill Lusk was intrigued by this beautiful, young woman and he called her for a date. On September 10, 1966 they were married, and Lorna left her nursing career to move to Plymlach Farm in Camlachie, where she developed close connections with her farming neighbours. They were blessed with the birth of two daughters, Karen and Sandra. Being able to nurture and encourage her girls was her joy.
Lorna loved the Lord and during her years attending Peoples Church she grew in her faith. She built many meaningful friendships as she prayed, studied and taught Sunday School. Anyone who knew Lorna would say that she radiated the love of Jesus.
Her heart continued to expand as she welcomed Sandra’s husband Dave Archer and Karen’s husband Jonathan Barkowsky into the family. Her grandchildren Caleb, Josiah, Joanna & Callum Barkowsky and Will, Preston and Ashlynn Archer were her delight. Her eyes twinkled and her smile beamed when she was able to watch Josiah marry Molly and Caleb marry Carla.
This past year Lorna celebrated her 90th birthday. She had a special year of local travel and celebrations with friends and family. On October 27, Lorna entered the hospital with an infection in her knee. She longed to return to her home at the Archers where she could see the lake, birds and flowers, but God called her home to Heaven to be with Him on November 30, 2023.
Lorna’s family will be forever grateful to Dr. John Matheson and the medical team at Bluewater Health Sarnia for their loving care in Lorna’s final weeks.
Lorna was a treasure. She left heart-prints in the lives of so many. She was tenderhearted and extravagant in her kindness and oh, so very grateful. She reflected the gentle humility of her Saviour Jesus Christ. Lorna’s greatest desire was to point people to God and give Him glory.
Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Peoples Church of Sarnia-Lambton, 3888 London Line, Wyoming, on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 2:00 pm. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Compassion Canada or International Justice Mission (cheques only at the funeral home please).