Obituary of Louise Sifton (nee Lyle)

August 5, 1929 – October 10, 2023

Of St. Thomas, ON, age 94, with family by her side at the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital on Tuesday, October 10, 2023.  A truly peaceful passing following a life well-lived. Beloved wife for over 60 years to the late Lyle B. Sifton (Dec. 8, 2014).  Dearly loved mother and a great role model to Elizabeth “Beth” Connor (late Gerry) of Orillia, Rebecca “Becky” O’Shea (Dr. Michael) of Lewisville, TX, Brent Sifton (Georgia) of St. Thomas, and Jennifer Petterson (Nathan) of Willow Springs, IL.  Proud grandmother of Lara Wheeler (Matt), Blake Sifton (Chloe), Michael O’Shea, Caitlin O’Shea, Alex Petterson, and Lyle Petterson.  She adored her great grandson, Wynne Wheeler, and his hugs.  Louise is also fondly remembered by her sisters-in-law, Donna Lyle, and Eleanor Lyle, as well as her nieces, nephews, and their families.  Her loved brothers, Bruce Lyle and Hugh Lyle predeceased her. 

Louise was born in St. Thomas on August 5, 1929, the daughter of the late Alexander and Jessie (née Futcher) Lyle. Her early years were fondly spent growing up on the family farm near Middlemarch. She attended St. Thomas Collegiate Institute (S.T.C.I.) and Alma College, St. Thomas. A Registered Nurse, Louise was a 1953 graduate of Wellesley Hospital, Toronto. To her nursing classmates she was known as Lucy. She was also a graduate of the University of Western Ontario, London. Louise and her future husband Lyle were baptized as infants at Knox Presbyterian Church, St. Thomas on the same day, October 6, 1929. She joined the church on June 1, 1943, and this year marked 80 years as a member. Louise was a Past President of the Ladies Division of the St. Thomas Curling Club, a member of the Alma College Alumnae, and the Wellesley Hospital School of Nursing Alumnae Association. For many years, she enjoyed curling and was an avid bridge player.    

Relatives and friends will be received by the family at the Sifton Funeral Home, 118 Wellington St., St. Thomas (519-631-1160) on Friday, October 20, 2023 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.  Louise requested a private family funeral service be held at the funeral home. Interment will be made in Elmdale Memorial Park.  If so desired, please consider a memorial donation to the St. Thomas Elgin Food Bank, Christmas Care St. Thomas, or the charity of your choice.