Obituary
On September 18th, Lois Milligan in her 87th year, passed away at home on her own terms much the same way she lived her life. Heather MacPherson, her long-time friend and housemate was at her side.
Lois was the beloved daughter of Russell and Dorothy Milligan; sister of Ellen Souter (all predeceased); and the sister-in-law of Les Souter of Ancaster, Ontario. She was the much loved “Auntie Lo” of Murray (Pat) Souter, Anne Souter (Bill Dawson), Marnie Souter Denton, and Iain Souter (Sherry Phillips); and a cherished “Great Aunti Lo” to John and Laura Souter, Andrew, Cameron and Gordon Dawson, Meg, Fraser and Jack Denton and Evan Souter.
Lois was born and raised in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan where she enjoyed a wonderful childhood that gave her a lifelong love of the prairies. She trained at the Regina General Hospital where she graduated as a Registered Nurse and then headed west for adventure. Lois began working in the operating room in the Penticton General Hospital in the Okanagan Valley and soon realized she loved the OR. She eventually moved to Calgary and completed her nursing degree at the University of Calgary. Lois continued nursing in the OR, in fact she spent her entire career working in that field. She was instrumental in organizing the operating suite at the new Foothills Hospital where she remained in charge for over twenty years. Lois ran a tight ship but was loved and respected by the surgeons and all her OR staff.
She was always a sports enthusiast; hockey and baseball were her passions in her younger years growing up in Moose Jaw. Those changed to curling and golf when she relocated to Calgary. Lois was a lifelong Saskatchewan Roughriders fan, attending almost every game when they played in Calgary along with all the other transplanted prairie types. Her other favorite activity was cheering on her beloved Calgary Flames, having been a lifelong season ticket holder. Dogs were a very important part of Lois’s home life. She had a passion for rescuing animals, and there were always one or two very lucky little white dogs living with her at any one time.
Lois was blessed with many wonderful friends throughout her life. Of particular note was her dear friend Heather who was her main support as her health declined, and her fantastic neighbours – Carol Andrews – as well as the Demuth family, Robert, Ayuko, Yukine and Yuto. Together they were always there to help when needed, especially during her later years. Those who had the privilege of knowing Lois will remember a bright, independent, often stubborn, and at times opinionated woman well ahead of her time. She was an extremely loyal friend, a kind and generous neighbour, a fair and supportive supervisor, and a fantastic and marvellously fun auntie who will be missed dearly.
Cremation has taken place and due to Covid-19, a celebration of her life will take place at a later date.
Donations in Lois’ name may be made to Animal Rescue Foundation (arf.ab.ca/donations/).
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lois Verna Milligan, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Lois Verna Milligan April 14 1933 September 18 2020 (age 87)..
Death notice for the town of: Calgary, Province: Alberta