Lori and Ira Townshend

In loving memory of Ira Townshend (February 9, 1930 – October 17, 2025) and Lori Townshend (née Schille) (July 27, 1934 – September 28, 2025).
Ira and Lori passed away peacefully just weeks apart in the fall of 2025 at Comox Valley Hospital. Their families gratefully acknowledge the compassionate care provided by Island Health and hospital staff. They will be laid to rest together in the niches at Courtenay Cemetery. No public service is planned.
Ira and Lori shared more than four decades of marriage, living in Comox and wintering in Yuma, Arizona. They enjoyed visiting with their large extended families, including a number of great-grandchildren who brought them great joy. Both loved to travel and explore, often by trailer or motorhome. They cared deeply for each other and lived long and full lives, leaving many fond memories for their family and friends.
Ira
Ira was born in Prince Edward Island and was the oldest of five children. In his mid-teens, he unsuccessfully tried to enlist for military service and then worked his way across the country as a miner, underground worker, including a stint as a trapper. He liked to share tales of his many early adventures and family history. After returning home, he decided to join the military. His RCAF military career spanned over two decades and took him around the globe as a flight engineer in the Argus marine patrol aircraft. His early training in aero engine mechanics was instrumental in his later business ventures and jobs that included boat sales and service, marine engine repairs, oilfield drilling and supplies services. One of his favourite careers was commercial salmon fishing along the West Coast. 
Ira’s hobbies and interests closely intertwined with his work – fishing, boating, hunting, gold prospecting and exploring the back roads in Arizona and Vancouver Island.  He loved the outdoors.  In the winters Ira spent endless hours with his retired friends prospecting for gold in the hills around Yuma. Back home, he longed to be on the water, even in the most terrible weather. His many boating adventures that ranged from Vancouver Island to Alaska brought him into danger but somehow, he managed to survive. He will be remembered as an early riser, a persistent character, for his endless energy and enthusiasm for exploring. Ira was a social person who valued his many friends and family.
Lori
Lori lived a full and remarkable life. She was born in Scott, Saskatchewan to a large family with seven siblings. 
Lori proudly served as a corporal in the Royal Canadian Air Force, traveling throughout Europe during her service. She held many responsible positions on various committees and helped to plan a variety of social gatherings. Later, she worked at a local radio station in Courtenay and ultimately dedicated her career to social services with the government.
A woman of many passions, Lori enjoyed gardening, walking, reading, photography, and testing out new recipes. She had a gift for making friends everywhere she went on her many travels. Lori loved to celebrate the small moments and always had a great sense of humour, finding the bright side in every situation - "c'est la vie!"
Generous by nature, Lori supported many causes close to her heart. Her laughter, kindness, and love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.