Born in Timmins, Ontario on March 1, 1950, Lani Ashenhurst grew up in Clarkson and went on to call several places home, including Vancouver, Stratford, and Ingersoll, as well as London, where she met Mau, the love of her life and partner for 35 years. In each community along the way, Lani developed enduring friendships, which meant so much to her. A consummate performer, storyteller and lover of the arts, Lani graced many stages, including the Arts Club Theatre in Vancouver and the Grand Theatre in London, bringing warmth, wit and dedication to every role she inhabited.
A lifelong lover of dogs and horses, Lani found joy in the simple, steadfast companionship of animals. Even more deeply, she held family close to her heart, nurturing ties across generations with her signature blend of kindness, quirkiness, humour and practicality – what those who knew her fondly call “Lani logic.”
Lani was predeceased by her mother Rita, father Carl and sister Charlie. She was also predeceased by her beloved partner Mau – whom she lost the month before her own passing. We take comfort in the thought that Mau and Lani are now reunited – along with an excited entourage of their past dog companions.
She is lovingly remembered by her brothers John (Brooke) and Jim (Lila); her nieces Erin (Jason) and Corinn (Paul); her nephew Rob (Gabriela); by her sisters-in-law Carroll (Carmen), Frances “Frankie”, Jacqueline (Gary) and Murielle (Randy); and by many “grand”-nieces and “grand”-nephews, all of whom she doted on with great pride.
Her legacy is a living one – carried forward in the relationships she shaped and the example she set in putting her loved ones above all else.
Details for a celebration of life will be shared by the family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity meaningful to Lani’s love of animals or the arts.
