In loving memory of Lauren Nicole Whitburn

Fin : 31 mars 2022

Lauren's daughter, Kallie Wagenaar was diagnosed with a chronic kidney disease in 2020. A few short weeks ago, in early December, 2021, she was diagnosed with cancer on top of her kidney disease. RMHC-SWO has helped our entire family through this incredibly tragic time by providing a safe place to mourn together and be with both Kallie and Judah. This House has provided a safe haven for Lauren and the kids on and off for well over a year, and we know Lauren found it hard to put into words how grateful she was for everyone at RMHC London. Lauren Nicole Whitburn May 12, 1983 - December 21, 2021 Our lives were devastated when Lauren was tragically killed in an auto accident while travelling from Thunder Bay to Winnipeg Tuesday, December 21, 2021. She was on her way to spend much needed time with friends and family, or ‘her people’ (in her words). Lauren was predeceased by her maternal and paternal grandparents, and is survived by her incredible children, Kallie and Judah Wagenaar. She is also survived by her parents, Thomas and Sharen Whitburn, and her sister Dana Arsenault and husband Sheldon. Lauren was born in Winnipeg to our Air Force family, and attended primary schools in Winnipeg, MB, Belleville, ON, St. Albert, AB, and Germany. Later graduating from Oak Park High School in Winnipeg. Following high school, Lauren attended Providence College in Otterbourne, MB, graduating in 2004 with a Bachelor of Social Sciences. Lauren, always a gifted athlete and lover of sport, excelled in softball but was a major force in basketball. She was a star player on her Oak Park high school team, eventually going on to play on the Manitoba Provincial team, as well as with Providence College. Lauren started as a consultant with Mary Kay cosmetics in 2004. Her passion, intelligence, work ethic and undeniable charm quickly earned her a promotion to Director where she excelled. Lauren inspired and mentored so many women throughout her life and tenure with Mary Kay. Lauren later started her own Life Coaching and motivational speaking company, ELL Coaching Company, which for anyone who knew her was more a ‘calling’ than a career. Lauren lived her life with passion, conviction, empathy, and was an inspiration to countless people. Using her social media platforms and followings to diplomatically advocate and educate on causes and stories near and dear to her. Lauren was a rare combination of brilliant and funny, righteous and outspoken, she was an advocate for so many. Lauren was always real; she did not hide who she was, what she thought, or how she felt. It was because of this, and so many other beautiful qualities, that Lauren built strong relationships everywhere she went and became the ‘go-to’ person for her best friends. There is a gaping hole that can never be filled, for everyone whose life she impacted. Lauren was always late, and often losing things, which you think would be frustrating for those around her, however she had that charm and a way with people that made these quirks endearing. Above all, Lauren was the ‘pillar of strength’ and fierce mama bear for Kallie and Judah. She is gone far before her time and work has been done. Her wisdom, love, and memory will live with all of us forever. A Celebration of Lauren's Life will be held at a later date when we can all be together.