January 5th, 1961 - August 13th, 2023
It is with great sadness that we have let our sister, Lynda Cookman, go to be with her Mom and Dad. She has passed in her 63rd year, after a long and wonderful life.
She is survived by her siblings; Chris Bailey of Kitchener, Jane Keating of Salem, Jo-Anne Wooddisse of Fergus, Richard Cookman of Toronto and Peter Cookman of Elora. She is survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Her life began at Brampton Peel Hospital where the Dr. offered to have her transferred to Orillia, which had an institution for individuals with Down syndrome. Our Mother was horrified and said absolutely not. “She will live her life with us as a normal family.” - Doris Cookman, and that she did.
She attended school every day at Sunnidale, Guelph and was taken in a yellow school bus by Mr.& Mrs. Noonan. She loved them and her bus. Then on to high school at John F. Ross, where she graduated with her cap and gown and a dance for joy across the stage with family hollering and hooting.
Then came a move from her home to Community Living, where she shared a home with three other ladies. Her education continued at Arc, where she learned the art of baking and computers, and also worked at Second Cup. She also achieved many trophies and awards in the Special Olympics.
Her greatest joy was when her house mother arranged to take her to Disney, where she travelled on her first airplane and had four days at Disney World. She would like to tell you all about Mickey and the beautiful castle and princesses.
Her next adventure was moving to Wellington Terrace where she had the best care and love from all the staff. Their care for Lynda was exceptional and we know she could be feisty.
Huge thank you to Dr. Stickney and all the staff who worked so hard to give her a quality of life. Walnut Grove, you all are wonderful and our family thanks you from the bottom of our hearts.
Lynda has been cremated and family will gather later for a celebration of life. We are so lucky to have Wellington Terrace Home for Seniors in our County and hope Centre Wellington continues to support this exceptional home!
Arrangements entrusted to Graham A Giddy Funeral Home
