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LAUREN NICOLE WHITBURN
Born: May 12, 1983
Date of Passing: Dec 21, 2021
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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 service will be held at a later date, when it is safe for us to gather.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ronald McDonald House SWO London House in Lauren's memory, or to a charity of your choice.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 08, 2022
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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Lauren was such a mentor to me and so many in Mary kay got to know her more on our leadership events and seminars. Such a loss of such a vibrant woman will miss you. Prayers and strength to all her family. May you rest in peace beautiful Lauren till we meet again. - Posted by: louise mccann (sister sales director marykay cosmetics) on: Jan 11, 2022
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I met Lauren in high school at Oak Park where we shared classes, athletic involvement, and many mutual friends. Lauren was beautiful, brilliant, confident, and honest. I admired so many things about her. Later in our adult years, although I didn’t see her as she had moved away, I admired her strength and love as a Mother. Through social media, and her wonderful Mother Sharon, I kept up with her life. I loved hearing about her children, her success as an entrepreneur, and most of all as a resilient, strong, independent woman. She had a charm and grace about her, and I feel grateful that I knew her. I am deeply saddened by her passing and the loss her entire family will feel. Her wonderful qualities will live on through her beautiful children. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. - Posted by: Michelle Wren (Classmate and friend) on: Jan 11, 2022
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So sad to hear of your terrible loss. We send our deepest condolences. Ken and Marilyn Whitehead - Posted by: Ken and Marilyn Whitehead (Friends) on: Jan 10, 2022
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Dear Tom, Sharen and Dana, I am so very sorry to read of Lauren's passing. The picture of her is beautiful and it show how vibrant she is. My heart is broken for your loss and the heart break you are going through. Your grandchildren will have a wonderful mother to remember. My prayers are with you and may you find peace at this very difficult time. - Posted by: Alice Reimer (Friend) on: Jan 09, 2022
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Sharon, Tom and Dana, we cannot express the pain and sorrow we felt when we heard of Lauren's passing. Kiera and I have very fond memories of time spent with your family. You have never been far from our thoughts and you will continue to be. Our hearts are breaking for you and although no words can really help ease the loss of Lauren, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. With sympathy and love Dalia and Kiera - Posted by: Dalia and Kiera (family friends) on: Jan 08, 2022
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Dear Sharon, Words can’t express my sorrow for you and Tom in losing your beautiful daughter Lauren. I remember meeting her at Westgrove school with your granddaughter Kallie in her car seat.She was gorgeous, friendly and bubbly. I am so saddened by your lost and sending you a Gwen hug. In friendship, Gwen Sutton - Posted by: Gwen Sutton (Friend ) on: Jan 08, 2022