Eva “Louise” was born on Thursday, September 15, 1938, and was welcomed by proud parents, George Edward “Leslie” and Eva Winnifred Dollie (Bonner) Waghorn. The Waghorns called Owen Sound home, and Louise was soon joined by younger brothers Ted (1941) and Leslie (1946). She went on to attend Hillcrest Public School before enrolling at O.S.C.V.I. and graduating in 1957. Following high school, Louise entered the nursing program at Owen Sound General & Marine Hospital. She formally graduated in 1960, and immediately began working in the maternity ward of the hospital.
In 1967, Louise married Ernest William Breen. Three years later, the Breen family grew with the arrival of Will, and their family was soon made complete with the addition of Mike in 1973. Louise loved being a mother and took great pride in these responsibilities. In the early 1980’s the Breens called London home, whereby Louise spent this time at home with the boys. A few years later, the family returned to the comfortable confounds of Owen Sound where she returned to nursing and providing for her young family. In 1989, Louise and Ernest’s marriage dissolved and she settled into being a single parent. She continued in her nursing career until her retirement in 1998, at the age of 59.
When it came to free time, Louise enjoyed spending time outdoors in her flowerbeds as well as caring for a variety of plants in her home. She liked to play the piano and spent countless hours knitting a variety of creations. Louise was an avid hockey fan and was a proud supporter and season ticket holder of the Owen Sound Attack. I am told Louise was not afraid to let the refs have it, whether in person or on TV!
She was a collector of many things but was particularly known for her collection of English ceramic cottages and anything Christmas. It should be no surprise that Christmas was Louise’s favourite holiday as I am told she could deck out an entire house with ease. Think of the Griswolds (National Lampoon’s) Christmas Vacation… that was Louise! Louise also loved spending time at the beach, particularly Sauble. As a child, the Waghorns often spent time relaxing at Lake Huron, which was later followed by a family cottage, and just day trips, whereby many memories were made. When the boys were young, Louise also volunteered her time as a Beaver leader and remained in this role for many years.
In the late 1990’s Louise relocated to Tara and moved in with her bachelor brother, Les. They were close and supported one another, which proved to be important as they grew older. They were there for each other in all of life’s ups and downs. A few years later the two moved to Chesley, whereby Les was closer to work and they settled into a new community once again. In her free time, Louise thoroughly enjoyed reading with murder/mysteries and thrillers being favourites. It should be no surprise that James Patterson’s books were must-reads for her.
Louise also had a soft spot for pets. Through the years the family enjoyed several pets, but Fergie, her cat, and her grand pups were always favourites. These later years also meant the arrival of two grandsons, Alex and Connor, whereby Louise got to watch them grow. She cherished the time spent with her family and always looked forward to the next family gathering or get-together. Sadly, Louise’s world forever changed in January 2017 when Les passed away suddenly after a brief illness. With the support of family and close friends, Louise slowly transitioned back to life on her own. She soon downsized and called Old School Rd. in Chesley home.
Although not much of a traveller, in 2018 Louise set out on the trip of her lifetime to explore the West Coast of Canada. After a solo train ride to Winnipeg, she met up with Will and Adele, and experienced the Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer, before taking in the aquarium and botanical gardens in Vancouver and then travelling to the Island where she went whale watching. Shortly after the pandemic set in, which like many, resulted in more challenges for Louise. Like most of us, television became a great companion and pastime whereby she thoroughly enjoyed anything on HGTV as well as watching the Blue Jays and a variety of other sports.
Louise was a kind and caring woman with a gentle soul. She was very nurturing, caring deeply for those special people in her life, and often could be found with a smile on her face. She will be dearly missed! Sadly, in recent weeks Louise’s health declined and she passed away with Mike at her side on Sunday, January 22, 2023, in her 85th year.
Loving mother of Mike (Stacy) of Ayr and Will (Adele) of Yellow Grass, Saskatchewan. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandsons, Alex, and Connor as well as grand pups Vader and Chewbacca. Louise was predeceased by her brothers Les “Butch” Waghorn, Ted and his wife Judy Waghorn, and her parents Leslie and Eva (Bonner) Waghorn.
Visitation will be held at Rhody Family Funeral Home on Sunday, January 29, 2023, from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:30 p.m. A reception will follow the service. Interment in Greenwood Cemetery, Owen Sound.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to The Kidney Foundation of Canada or Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
