Lauraine Snell

LAURAINE MERLE SNELL

July 6, 1938 – April 10, 2026

Lauraine was born in Harrietsville, Ontario, the sixth of seven children to Ross (1900–1968) and Ada (Adelaide, 1908–1995) Dafoe. She grew up surrounded by siblings—Don, Hazel, Les, Ila, and Maxine—and spent seven cherished years as the baby of the family before her younger sister Janice arrived. Her father affectionately called his youngest children “little toads,” and for Lauraine, the nickname “Toady” stayed with her throughout her life—a small reminder of the love and laughter that shaped her earliest years.

Lauraine dedicated her entire 38-year career to London Life, where she worked as an administrator. Her commitment and warmth earned her many lasting friendships, despite long commutes—and even the occasional snowmobile ride just to meet her carpool. Those who knew her from those years remember not just her work ethic, but her spirit and sense of fun.

On May 23, 1958, Lauraine met the love of her life, Lloyd Snell. They were married in Dorchester, Ontario, and built a life together rooted in love, partnership, and simple joys. They settled first in London, and later in Port Franks, where Lauraine embraced acreage living. Lloyd would cut the grass while Lauraine took care of the trimming—a partnership that reflected the rhythm of their life together. Their home was always open, often filled with friends dropping by on weekends. When they needed a moment to themselves, Lauraine would pack a picnic, and the two would escape by boat for a quiet day on the lake—her clever way of finding peace amid a full and happy life. “Laze Daze” was framed and hung on the wall, bringing a smile to her face every time she saw it.

Family was at the heart of everything Lauraine cherished. The bond she shared with her sisters was especially meaningful.  Connections formed over a lifetime that no one else could truly replicate. She spoke often and fondly of time spent with Maxine and the Redman clan, and with Hazel and her family. Her love of travel took her west to visit loved ones, to warm winters in Florida, to Christmas in Puerto Vallarta, to road trips in a converted bus, and even on an Alaskan cruise. Wherever she went, there was laughter, dancing, playing games and even a beverage or two.

That same love of life brought Lauraine to ANAF Legion 393 in London, where she found another circle of close friends—including Christine, Adam, Mary, and Tim—working together behind the bar and creating memories that would be retold for years. It was also where Lauraine and her partner Bill “Buster” Bryan spent many enjoyable evenings with friends.  This special relationship later in life rekindled an earlier family friendship which Kelli remembers fondly.  Lauraine and Kelli still had pictures of their great fishing adventures, especially the day that Lauraine caught every fish in the lake except the last one that Bill was finally able to catch.  This relationship brought joy, companionship, and adventure—from winters in the south to summers at the cottage. Together, they created a chapter filled with warmth, laughter, and shared experiences that meant so much to both.

A devastating diagnosis came in 2023 and for Lauriane it brought about significant changes, none of which she was looking forward to.  When the inevitable “bucket list” conversation happened, without hesitation this 86-year-old lady said that she had always wanted to go gliding.  So, we did.  We spent an amazing day with Lauraine gliding over the countryside of her home community.  Her sister, Ila was able to see her as she went over her house.  The adventures never stopped.

When the time came, we chose Glendale Crossing as her final home.  Lauraine came—reluctantly, as she would say “kicking and screaming”—to Glendale Crossing. It was not the path she had envisioned, but in true Lauraine fashion, she chose to make the best of it. With her card shuffler in hand, she found joy in bingo, cards, and especially Euchre, and built meaningful friendships. Her world became her tablemates, the Westminster community, and the many staff who cared for her. In them, she found companionship, comfort, and belonging. They shared conversations, laughter, quiet moments and understanding looks that needed no words at all.

The highlight of her time at Glendale Crossing was a visit from her very special great granddaughter Johanna and her dad, Shawn.  Johanna was such a bright light in her life.  Watching her grow, seeing her smile and knowing she was the best part of our family brought Lauraine so much joy and happiness.  It was a beautiful time for Lauraine to share her treasures with Johanna and the stories behind each one.  Johanna brought homemade blueberry muffins to share with Nana which started a wonder tradition of blueberry muffins and coffee for breakfast. When Johanna’s blueberry muffins ran out, Tim’s became the second choice for Paul and Lauraine to share each morning, until her last.

In her final days, Lauraine reflected with deep gratitude on the care she received. In moments when she needed help, she was met with patience and dignity. In moments of vulnerability, she was given comfort, warmth, and laughter. The compassion and respect shown to her made a profound difference in her life. As she expressed so simply and beautifully: “Because of them, I have felt safe, seen and cared for.”

Lauraine leaves behind a circle of family and friends who will miss her deeply—those nearby and those far away, all of whom she appreciated and cherished. She is survived by her sisters Hazel Perrier and Ila Stevenson; Tammy and Rick Bade; her grandsons Jamie Bade and Shawn Robinson (Jennifer); and her beloved great-granddaughter Johanna Robinson, along with many nieces and nephews.

Lauraine’s life was one of resilience, humour, connection, and love. She found joy in the people around her, in shared moments both big and small, and in creating a sense of home wherever she was. She will be remembered for her warmth, her wit, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life.  When she closed her eyes, the last words she heard was that she was loved and her favourite nephew playing “Someone to Watch Over Me.”

There will be a Celebration of Lauraine’s life Monday, May 4^th,2026 at 1:30 pm. at Glendale Crossing, 3030 Singleton Ave., London, Ontario, N6L 0B6.

Arrangements entrusted with Cremation London & Middlesex. Online condolences shared at www.amgfh.com