Lois Ann Keenan (née Richardson)
Lois Ann Keenan (née Richardson), 83, of North Bay, Ontario, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at the North Bay Regional Health Centre.
Lois was born in Sault Ste. Marie and spent her early years in Thessalon before her family settled in North Bay. She married her beloved husband, Larry, in 1963, beginning a remarkable journey together. In their early married life, Lois embraced the challenges and adventures of being a player’s wife, moving frequently as their young family grew—living in Rochester, Denver, Victoria, St. Louis, Buffalo, Philadelphia, and Richmond. Later, upon returning to North Bay, she took on the role of a coach’s wife with the same strength and grace.
In addition to raising her family, Lois worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the Y.M.C.A., sharing her love of the water with others, and later became a valued member of the team at H.E. Brown.
Lois found her greatest joy near the water—whether swimming, water skiing, or simply sitting on the dock at the cottage, surrounded by those she loved. She was a wonderful host, opening her home and her beautiful backyard gardens to friends and family, creating countless cherished memories. Lois had an adventurous spirit and a love of travel, organizing memorable trips with Larry, and enjoying a Mediterranean cruise with friends from North Bay.
In more recent years, Lois continued to form new friendships, sharing laughter and companionship over bingo games at Marina Point. Above all, Lois’ family meant everything to her. Each summer, she looked forward to bringing everyone together at a cottage, where she could spend precious time with her grandchildren and pass along her love of the water. She was their biggest supporter—always present, always proud, and always cheering them on in every stage of their lives.
Lois was predeceased by her parents, Murray and Ellen Richardson, and her brother Steve (Jane). She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted husband Larry; her children Craig (Tina), Leanne (Mike), and Cory (Cindi); her cherished grandchildren Dustin, Ryan, Julia (Sean), Matthew, Cameron, Mackenzie, and Larry; her great-granddaughter Emery; her brother John (Peggy); and many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
Visitation will be held at Martyn Funeral Home on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A service will follow at the Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption at 1:00 p.m., with a time of fellowship afterward.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pro Cathedral Roof fund and the Canadian Lung Society
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Lois’ care team at NBRHC. Their compassion, kindness, and dignity shown in her final days brought great comfort to Lois and to all who loved her.
Online condolences may be offered at www.martynfh.com
