Obituary of Dianne Elizabeth Stackhouse

I am deeply saddened to announce the death of my wife Dianne Elizabeth Stackhouse (July 12, 1944 - September 28, 2022) at Hillsdale Estates in Oshawa Ontario whilst in the throes of Dementia. This shattering disease is definitely not to be hidden or ignored. But neither should it be permitted to dominate all the memories of our loved ones. Dianne was raised in the Ottawa area where she was the eldest of five. There were perfect summers with her beloved Mom and younger siblings and Dad on the weekends at the Family cottage on the Big Rideau Lake. The Thanksgiving family gatherings at the lake were a highlight for most of her life. Dianne graduated With a BA from Carleton University and later from the University of Toronto with a Masters in Social Work. Her 35-year working career in the health field began at Whitby Psychiatric Hospital where she met her husband Brian McLatchie, followed by many years at the Addiction Foundation in Toronto and finally in the Continuing Care Unit at Oshawa General Hospital. She and Brian purchased a farm outside of Port Perry 50 years ago where they shared in the training and racing of harness horses and the running of a hobby hog operation with both of them also working in full time jobs. But Dianne’s real farm interest was her large perennial garden which attracted numerous tours and even articles in gardening magazines. Dianne also loved travelling. It started with summer tenting trips with her Mom, siblings and cousins. Across her teen years they tented in every Canadian Province. Following her BA and a year of working, she backpacked across Europe with a girlfriend for 6 months. In midlife Dianne began travelling again revisiting her favourite Canadian places, exploring most of the USA, frequent trips back to Europe and new exciting places such as India, Russia, Thailand, Singapore, Bali etc. In total Dianne visited 40 different countries. Dianne also loved to cook. She took multiple cooking course, cofounded a cooking group which lasted 20 years, hosted scores of wonderful dinner parties including an annual meal for up to 50 people to celebrate the Queen’s Plate horse race. She was a compassionate person who cared for everyone including family, friends, patients and complete strangers. She was an interesting person in that she was both a true Lady and also a basic Gal who enjoyed a couple of pints at all types of Pubs. Everyone loved Dianne. She gave a lot and asked for little. She was special. One would be remiss not to acknowledge the wonderful care Dianne received during her final journey with Dementia. Her Brothers Ian and Charles and Sister-in-Law Véronique who came from the Ottawa region on a regular basis for the last 2 years. Many friends were also so kind with special mention to Ed and Joan, Gord and Linda, Rodger and Grace and Helen. Also, of course, the PSWs who cared for Dianne at our home and the wonderful staff at the Pine Ridge unit at Hillsdale Estates. They all helped make it possible for Dianne to complete her final journey with dignity and care. Dianne is survived by her Husband Brian, Brothers Ian and Charles, Sister Donna in British Columbia, Sisters-in-law Véronique and Barbara along with a number of nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Bruce. Dianne’s wish was to be cremated. A celebration of her life will be held next summer in her garden. Arrangements have been entrusted to the WAGG FUNERAL HOME, 216 Queen Street in Port Perry (905-985-2171). If desired, memorial donations may be made by cheque to a charity of your choice. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com