Avis Marlene Loy
February 12, 1942 – March 31, 2021
Avis was born in Lloydminster, SK to Carmel and Hazel Baker of Unwin, SK. She spent her early years at a rural school named Booth School. After that, she attended high school in Marsden, SK. Avis then went on and continued her education at Robertson Business College in Edmonton, AB. Upon completing her secretarial training, she worked for the Lonsdale Accounting Firm in Lloydminster. In 1962 she married Jim Loy and started her life as a farm wife. This included supporting a normal farm operation as well as some new experiences. One of her favourite stores was her introduction to eviscerating chickens; much to the enjoyment of her mother-in-law and another lady from town who could describe the operation in the goriest of detail. What fun they had challenging this new novice of a farm wife. As well as raising two children, Avis became quite involved in community life. She taught Sunday school for several years in the United Church at Marsden, as well as being an active member of the United Church Women. With raising two children, she became an excellent seamstress, making many clothes for herself and her kids. One of her volunteer contributions to the community was being part of a group to raise the funds to build a small covered skating rink, which is still there today. Another major position she enjoyed was being a member of the editorial staff that compiled and produced the original history books for the area, Big Manitou Country 1905-1980. This required many hours of labour and a huge amount of dedication to see this project through to completion. It was a great success. Avis was also an integral part of the photography business that her and Jim operated for a period of 14 years. She worked with the clients and set up the posing arrangements while Jim took the photos. Avis also managed the studio with all the reordering, framing, and photographs. In essence she was the early version of photo shop. Both Avis and Jim really enjoyed their time in the photography business. A large part of that enjoyment came from meeting and working with new people. Each and every job was a new experience and always a happy occasion. Lately her passion was designing and making greeting cards. She only ever sold two of them and hated herself for doing so. She would much rather make them as a personal gift and give them to family and special people. To be made and given in love. These attributes have made her a special person in many of our lives. She will be missed, loved, and remembered forever in our hearts. Avis passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 with her husband, Jim, by her side. She will be buried beside her daughter in Olds Cemetery. She leaves behind her husband of 57 years, Jim; son Korbin and his wife Laurie; son-in-law Jason and his wife Michelle; grandchildren Ashton, Colby, Jayna, Kale, Shelby, and Johannes; and first cousins Doug, Karen, Jim, and Debbie. Avis was predeceased by her parents and daughter Anita. A private family service was held the evening of Saturday, April 3 at the Heartland Funeral Services Chapel in Olds. In lieu of flowers memorial tributes may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or a charity of choice. Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Olds entrusted with arrangements. 403-507-8610 Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com.