Obituary of Laurie Danis

The family of Laurie (Laurette) Danis (nee Varga) are very sad to share the news of her passing in Calgary, Alberta on February 16, 2023, on her 79th birthday.

Mom was born on February 16, 1944 in Zelzate, Belgium and immigrated to Canada at a very young age. Her family settled in Southern Alberta and Picture Butte would eventually become her true home, even though she moved countless times (we don't think our Mama was truly happy unless she was packing up her house). She graduated from Picture Butte High School in 1962, earning a Governor General's medal for her writing skills (something she passed along to both of her girls).

Mom had alot of professions over the years from BC Tel operator, Royal Bank teller, Overwaitea cashier, and Walmart pharmacy clerk, but the one that made her the happiest was owning Cranbrook Florists. Her talent for creating beautiful arrangements and true masterpieces was passed down to her daughter Christine who carries that torch so lovingly. It was a passion that connected the two of them so deeply.

Mom met her one true soul mate and protector, Mike, and they were married on August 31, 1997, for 25 amazing and glorious years. The love they shared was truly amazing to witness and he will miss her every single minute of every single day for the rest of his life.

Mom's true purpose and calling in life was to become a Nanny. She lived her life for her grandchildren. She loved them fiercely, was so very proud of all their accomplishments, was their biggest cheerleader, and would talk anyone's ear off about them if given the chance. She will be forever missed by grandsons Riley and Jake and granddaughter Makenzi.

Laurie had a whole troop of nieces and nephews whom she loved beyond measure. She had special bonds with Tamara, Michele, Jerry, Mate, Ken and Cory. She will also be missed by her best friend Vicky and her children Deshannan and Todd whom she loved very much.

She also took on the Mom role to little brother Dick and little sister Rita. They have many great memories of their childhood because of their big sister Laurette and credit her for many of their positive attributes.

Mom/Nanny touched so many people. She had this very natural way of making a person feel safe and unconditionally loved. The next thing you knew, you were pouring out your heart and soul and had a new friend for life. The massive group of friends who loved her is hard to tally.

Laurie not only loved unconditionally, she was also courageous, brave, very witty, loyal, spicy, and above all else, remained positive, even in the midst of a storm. She loved her family fiercely and always seemed to put everyone else's needs and feelings before her own. To truly and accurately describe our Mom would be a very hard thing to do because she was so many amazing things! Those who knew her, cherished her. She will be missed by so many!

Left to mourn Laurie are her husband Mike (Papa), daughter Deanna Byman (son-in-law Randy, grandson Riley, and granddaughter Makenzi), daughter Christine Danis (son-in-law Marc and grandson Jake), brother Dick Varga, and sister Rita Tarasoff (brother-in-law Hank).

Laurie was predeceased by her mother Emily, father Bert, brother George, father and mother-in law Len and Mary, and infant son Barry.

Rest easy now Mom, Angels Bless and we love you to the moon and back big bunches xo

Psalm 34:18
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Special heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses of Unit 62 at the Foothills Hospital, most notably Dr. Liberty Liu and nurses Nicole, Brittany, and Maria.

A celebration of life will be held on April 1, 2023 in Picture Butte, Alberta at the Prairie Tractor & Engine Museum (104071, AB-843) from 2-6pm. Come hug each other and tell stories about our Mom.