It is with great sadness that the family of Lorna Evelyn Boyko (née Ross) announces her passing on September 4, 2025, at the age of 82.
Lorna will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 57 years, Ernest (Ernie) Boyko; her children Cynthia (David) and Stephen; and her cherished grandson Gabriel. She is also remembered fondly by extended family, many lifelong friends, and countless former students and colleagues whose lives she touched.
Lorna was predeceased by her parents, Evelyn (née Chase) and Robert Ross, and by her beloved sisters, Sandra and Nancy.
Born in Aylmer, Ontario, on May 13, 1943, Lorna was the eldest of three daughters. From a young age, she showed a passion for cooking and fashion, designing and sewing many beautiful garments—including her own wedding dress.
She graduated from the University of Manitoba with a degree in Home Economics in 1965, followed by a teaching degree in 1966. Lorna married Ernie on December 26, 1967, after first meeting at university. The two were inseparable for 63 years.
In 1969, they moved to Ottawa and later settled in Chelsea, Quebec, where they made a warm and welcoming home in the Gatineau Hills for more than 30 years.
Lorna began her teaching career with the Western Quebec School Board in 1969, educating generations of students at Philemon Wright High School and Hadley Junior High until her retirement in 2004. She taught a variety of subjects—including Foods and Nutrition and Housing and Design—and was appreciated by students and colleagues alike. She was always delighted to run into former students and hear about their lives.
Beyond the classroom, Lorna was the kind of person who always lent a hand to a friend in need. She was a gracious hostess, an exceptional cook, and a woman for whom food was truly a love language. She also loved to travel and was a voracious reader, but her greatest joy came from creating a welcoming home and gathering family and friends around the table.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at the Civic Hospital, Queensway-Carleton Hospital, and Bruyère’s Saint-Vincent Hospital for their dedicated care.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at Beechwood National Memorial Centre (280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa) from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Ottawa Food Bank. Messages of condolence may be left at www.beechwoodottawa.ca
Digital Guestbook
Chisholm Pothier
Dave Crapper
May you rest in peace, and may your family and friends find solace in warm memories and fond recollections.
Kevin Drysdale
Lorna was a talented and dedicated teacher and a genuine person.
Jim Wright and Donna Thomson
Our deepest condolences to Ernie and his family.
Phillip Stevens
My sincere condolences Ernie and to your family as well.
Peter Jarrett
We did not know her that well, but I do remember spending one NYE together as well as several Canada Day celebrations. Rest in peace.
Douglas Hedley
My sincere condolences to Ernie and his family. Lorna was 6 days younger than me!
Ernie, thinking of you and the years we worked together. Sincerely, Douglas
Mitzi Ross
My sympathy to you Ernie and your family. May Lorna rest in peace.
Rosemary Campbell
Ernie, so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved wife Lorna. My condolences.
Geof Botting
Ernie and family, Sian and I extend our sincere condolences at this difficult time.
Condolences to Ernie and family. Sounds like a life well lived and I can’t imagine the hole left in yours.