Paul & I send our sincerest sympathies to you Rick, & all the Cheney and Poole families on the loss of Laurie... an incredible lady. I've known laurie since high school and my husband, paul, has known her since our very first date together, and I am so happy that we've stayed in touch through all these years - times we'll treasure always . She cherished her Ricky and her family sooooo much - you were all in our conversations everytime we got together ... she just raved about you all & how special you were to her. I will miss our walks together with our non-stop talking , our Caesar Salad lunches and all the other memories ...to cherish, always. In our hearts forever girl. Cathy & Paul Burke xo

I have not seen Laurie since the end of high school, but was hoping to reconnect at the North Park reunion last year. Sadly I did not see her there, but I was still hopeful of finding her again. I have been remembering the 60's when we were in the Brant Figure Skating Club - I started a couple of years after she did, and she was my skating buddy and idol (along with the others of that era - all lost touch since I moved to England in the 70's). Am so proud that she continued to skate and inspire others. So lovely to see how loved she was, though not at all surprising, as she indeed shone very brightly. We will meet again some sunny day.

Dear Rick & Family, We wanted to be in touch to let you know how much we appreciated Laurie. We especially admired the work she did with young people. We enjoyed the Grieve family picnic she planned and also when her cousin Lillian Torelli opened her apartment building for an open house on our last visit to Brantford. Laurie made us feel so welcomed and was so loving to all. In memory of Laurie we will send a donation to Global Recordings Network Canada. Love, Aunt Eileen & Uncle Ken

This picture was taken at my house right after we got back from Walmart . We had gotten two matching shirts ,when we got back she found my halloween wig and put it on ,we couldn't resist to take a few pictures. When I looked at this picture I ran to my room to look and see if i still had my shirt and as i dug through my clothes tears ran down my cheek's . I picked up the exact same shirt. .Auntie Laurie was what i called her she wasn't my aunt but made a great impact on my life .She was an amazing srapbooker and my mom and I would join her on her trips around for scrapbook supplies. We had gone to at least 5 stores that day but brought more memories than scrapbook supplies . She wanted to learn how to decorate cakes at balk barn and to my great surprise she brought me along.I was the youngest one there but enjoyed every minute with her. Along with scrapbooking and cake decorating she was a fantastic skater. I was fortunate enough that I got to do summer skating with her. All though she wasn't my coach she was always there for me. Like she always said to me " you had me at hello" but the truth was she had ME at hello too .

-Mikaela,11

It feels repetitive to say anything since so many people have said the same things about Laurie over and over again: passionate, positive, loving, caring, vibrant, full of energy, always smiling, remembered everyone's name, "the lady in the red coat." When I started the canskate program (88?) Mrs Cheney was in the midst of taking over from Mrs Sheere. She took my hand and lead me away from my mom onto the ice to "test me" and find out what ribbon colour group I would be in. She was so comforting and made it so much fun. Later, I myself coached in the Canskate program as well and always admired Laurie's passion for coaching. She made you want to be your best. She always had a creative vision -and a way of bringing people around to her way of thinking- I have no other explanation for how I ended up in a giant Bunny Outfit helping keep little can-skaters on track during the Winnie-The-Pooh edition of Flashing Blades! No matter who you were or what level Mrs Cheney always demonstrated pride in every skater, and his/her accomplishments. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and I can still hear her voice (loud and clear above the noise of 30+ little children) listing the week's "ribbon/badge graduates" and then directing them: "OVER YOU GO TO RIBBON ROW!" Years later I had Laurie coach me for artistic (She was a PATIENT woman too haha) - even if she did threatened to "rip my lips off" a time or two, she always made me laugh and kept things interesting! I spent several years working at Lions Park, and when I was at the concession stand she would ALWAYS make an effort on her way to the coaches room to stop and say "Hi hun" or "How ya doin luv?" She NEVER forgot a face or name: about a year ago Laurie and I became "Facebook friends"- she saw my fiancees name and immediately messaged me (and my mom)- "He was a skater too right?" (even though he probably only skated for a year or two in 1986!!!) Everyone will have their own special stories or Laurie Cheney "sayings" or memories, but everyone will agree she truly had a Zest for life, made everyone feel important and loved, and the our lives will never quite be the same without her. Love you Mrs Cheney, Thanks for everything, While you're watching over me, help me to be more like you :) <3 <3 *HUGS!!!*

In Kristen Ryder's message she said, "She brought people into her

home, and essentially her life, right from the start. She made people

feel comfortable and like family." I can attest to that.

I met Laurie only once. It was at the second annual Western Ontario

Coaches' Dinner Meeting and Awards Ceremony in London at the Western

Fair Sports Centre. When I look back in my scapbook, there is a group

shot with Laurie and I in the photograph. It was Friday April 30th,

2004. I was at the meeting because I was the WOS Volunteer Coach Award

recipient. Laurie and I sat together for the dinner and the meeting.

We introduced ourselves to each other. She immediately took me under

her wing. She said to me, "I read your nomination write-up and I

really wanted you to win". I was awestruck. We chatted about so many

things. She told me about her son Aaron's tragic passing. She told me

that she admired all the work that Dianne Rouleau and I did to

memorialize the death of our student, Victoria D'Agostino. I felt an

instant kinship with her in 2004 and I never forgot her. It is only

since last night at the funeral home (October 1, 2010) and today that

I have learned so many more things about Laurie and how special she

was to so many people. I wish I had gotten to know her better before

she left us.

Yesterday I got word that Laurie had passed away. I knew I wanted to

go to the funeral home to offer condolences to her family on the last

night of visitation. I wanted to tell them how I met Laurie. I'm glad

I did because when I got there and saw all the scrapbooks Laurie had

made and when I spoke to her family, I feel that I did get to know her

a bit better. I feel so lucky to have met such an amazing person as

Laurie, if only for one dinner meeting. Her husband Rick said to me,

"She had that effect on people".

When I read the various stories on this message board, I am more and

more convinced that my life was touched by an angel in meeting Laurie

Cheney.

God bless you, Laurie. You said that Aaron was your angel in heaven

and now you are ours too.

To Rick and family..our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. We are so sorry to hear about Laurie...always a bright, cheery smile and kind words to say, always a hug at those Eagle functions and dancing up a storm on the dance floor. Hold in your heart the wonderful memories and the love that can never be replaced. We wish you well. Tim and Lisa Rose (Eagle Precision)

Dave and I would like to express our deep sadness of the loss of "Laurie". We offer our deepest condolences to all of her family. It is everyones loss to see the passing of such a beautiful and vibrant lady taken at such a young age. Laurie and I had a deep connection as we shared the lifelong heartache of the loss of our sons, which one can only really relate to when living a daily battle with it. We feel honoured to have known Laurie and it is with the greatest sadness that we say GOODBYE LAURIE, REST IN PEACE. Dave & Jeanetta

We are so very sorry for the the Cheney family, at their loss of Laurie. There will be a void in the dog world, Laurie's friends will miss her smile, her sense of humor and her willingness to help others. I will miss our ringside chats and sharing a laugh about about silly things like our bad hair cuts. She was such a warm lovely person. Sincerely Mike & Sandy Gelinas

Rick; Wishing you comfort at this sorrowful time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Chris & Pam

May long weekend. Early morning. The Elmo knapsack is on a chair ring side. A very cheery happy smiling face greets us with big warm hugs. Ribbons are efficiently organized as is the trophy table, prizes and judge's books. The Specialty Judge meets much praised Ring Steward and at the end of the Specialty agrees with us: that was indeed the World's Best Ring Steward! Thank you Rick and Cheney family for sharing Laurie with us one day a year. We are better people for having the opportunity to have her touch our lives with her friendship, sportsmanship, love and hugs. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sincerely, The Terrier Breeders' Association of Canada

I was deeply saddened to hear of Laurie's passing this week. She was a wonderful, kind and vibrant person. I first met Laurie as a child when she worked for my uncle in Paris in his insurance office. I later reconnected with Laurie when my daughter Ashley began to figure skate. Even though my daughter represented another skating club Laurie always had kind words of encouragement prior to competitions and whenever we saw her she would always ask how her skating was. From afar at the arenas at competitions we always knew that Laurie was around because you could pick Elmo out of a crowd. Loved her elmo.. Laurie and I had talked a few times about her illness and her truly positive attitude was an inspiration for many. I know that it will be tough but the beautiful memories that you have will make each day a little bit brighter. Laurie will never truly be gone, she will be remembered by so many people as the kind lady with the beautiful spirit and smile and her friend named Elmo. God Bless your family. The sky is shining brighter tonight and every night from now on as a beautiful new star has arrived Laurie and Ashley McEnhill

My name is Darlene Jeffrey(nee Rizzetto) and Laurie was my skating coach for 5 years. She was always so beautiful to me especially when she wore that fabulous blue mascara. To a 10 year old, I remember thinking that she was so exotic with that colour. She was always so full of life and she would believe in me when I didn't believe in myself. I remember Laurie doing a layback spin when she was 8 months pregnant with Daniel. If you are reading this Daniel, not only was I your moms student on the ice but I along with my childhood best friend Kim Gretzky were your baby sitters too. Your mom was a beacon of bright light to all who knew her and I pray for you all through this hard time.

To Laurie's family My deepest condolences on the loss of such an incredible person. All of my children, and two of our granddaughters, skated with the Brant Skating Club and each of them hold dear memories of Laurie. Getting to know Laurie through the many years of our involvement with the club and my person involvement with being one of the many past presidents that worked with her I can say that her smile, her giggle and her many encouraging words will stay with us always. Kathy

Rick, Danny, Nat and family; We first met Laurie when we were just four years old, at the Paris Figure Skating Club. She was pregnant with Danny at the time so learning to stop became one of the first lessons of many she taught us so that we wouldn’t keep banging into her. She was our coach for over a decade and our friend and we have so many great memories of her. On one particular occasion we remember Laurie picking us up for morning ice time and she was driving stick with her skates already on because we were late, omg…she was pretty good at it too. Then there were the days where we all wore crocheted (by Laurie) nose warmers that wrapped around our ears because the arena was so cold….they never really caught on. Spring, summer, and winter skating, competitions, we always felt so proud to be one of Laurie’s kids. We remember when she met Rick, she would travel around with his pillow in the car so that if she couldn’t be with him she could at least smell him, so cute. As life goes we drifted apart and back together again as if no time had past at all. We will remember her as a fun free spirit, always with a warm smile and a hug. She was a great influence on our lives and we feel very lucky and privileged to have known such a person as Laurie. She will always be in our hearts, our thoughts are with you. “Laurie…show us your nuts ;)” Meg and Beth Glaves

To Rick and family: Paul and I wish to extend our deepest condolences to you and your family. Without a doubt you and Laurie have touched our family greatly over the years with your Golden Retrievers. Over 14 years ago we were introduced to you by Wayne when we were looking for a companion Golden for D.J., another Golden we had, loved and eventually lost. You introduced us to Mercedes. Since then we have had the opportunity to give forever homes to Bentley, Brooks, Smokey and Seeker, all lovingly brought into our world by you and Laurie. Mercedes, Smokey and Seeker are still with us and remind us daily of you and Laurie and your love and affection for these animals. Thank you. Our sympathies go out to you and pray that Laurie's life, memories and love bring you everlasing peace. Susan and Paul Gillen (Mercedes, Smokey & Seeker too) Woodstock, Ontario

I am so sorry to hear about Laurie. I thought she was a wonderful person. I had met her and Rick through my mom Carol and Wayne. She was always so happy to be around and always lifted your spirits. She had attended corn roasts and my birthday. She was always the life of the party and a pleasure to be around. She will be greatly missed! Take Care Rick and Family

I met Laurie and Rick at the Monarch Shows when Wayne & Carol introduced us. I was so very sorry to read on the golden list about Laurie. To Rick and all of her family I send my deepest condolences.

I have known Laurie for only a few short years through our fabulous scrapbooking community. Elmo, as we all call her, was a treasured person within the "turtle" pond. She was such an amazing woman and an inspiration to us all. I also got to know her better through my plannings for Crop for the Cure. She was such an incredible support to me and to our event. I cannot believe that she will not be there next year. There will be a hole missing in my day that is for sure.

Elmo was loved by all that knew her and I feel blessed to have been able to call her my friend. I am happy she is at peace now but at the same time hurting because she isn't here. Although she is gone she will never be forgotten.

To the family she loved so much - my heart goes out to each of you. You will carry her in your heart forever though so she will never be too far away.

Rick and Laurie were two people I met when I first ventured into the world of golden retrievers and conformation shows. I will always remember Laurie for her kindness and her endless smiles. She will be missed by and remain in the hearts of many. My deepest sympathies to all. Cheryl Webster Hallmark Golden Retrievers

As one of many young girls who grew up in the Brant Figure Skating Club, I always held Mrs. Cheney as one of my favourite coaches. She always brought a smile and warmth and FUN to the cold ice rink for so many years. Our family bought our golden retriever from the Cheney family, too. Laurie will be missed and our thoughts and prayers are with you. From the Borbely Family

Our deepest sympathy to the family, we will never forget the early years. Shine on Laurie. God bless.

Rick and family, we were so saddened to hear of Laurie's passing. We were so glad to see her at the Partlo Family Reunion. Even in the midst of her good fight, she told Kevin that she was praying for him every night. We will never forget those words or the positive attitude that truly inspired us to forge ahead. We are thinking of all of you.

Mrs. Cheney, as we called her in our household, taught our kids how to skate. My son, who is now 20 years old, was a reluctant figure skater and wanted to play hockey. Mrs. Cheney would go through the lesson and then when everyone else was done she would say.. can you catch me Nick? They would skate around and around until he could not go again!

After all those years ago, when we would run into Mrs. Cheney at the arena or the store, she would remember the kids names and details about them that I hardly remember!

I always said if Nick ever made it to the NHL... he would dedicate the first chapter to Mrs Cheney! I can only imagine the lives you have touched!

This photo is from Flashing Blades 1994... with my two oldest on the right.

I had known Laurie at the shows before I knew her name. She was always so friendly and fun to be around, and had a smile that was contagious! My friendship grew with her when my then 2 year old daughter noticed her at a dog show with an Elmo backpack on her back. She wanted to have one too to wear to the shows just like Laurie! And being a little girl, my daughter loved jewelry. This lead to her fascination with the necklace that Laurie always wore with Aaron's picture inside. Every time that she saw Laurie she wanted to look inside it, and Laurie was always happy to show my her her Aaron. One day, Claire spotted Laurie and wanted to look in her necklace. I told her not to bother Laurie as she was ring stewarding at the time. Laurie turned to me and said, "I always have time to share my picture of Aaron." I will also remember the long talks that we shared about Princess Margaret Hospital and the 18th floor. My husband goes there as well, just a different door. Though she was fighting cancer herself she was trying to cheer me up regarding my husband. Such a tremendous lady! Classy, fun, helpful...a friend. I will remember her with great fondness!

Laurie held a special place in our hearts for as long as we've known her, we will miss her smile, her visits and was so glad that she was a part of our life. She was an extraordinary person, if anyone could put a smile on your face, it would be... Laurie. She will remain in our hearts forever. Our Deepest sympathies to the family.

I was very sorry to hear of Laurie's death. She coached my daughters and I remember her on the ice in her red coat.

I love you aunt Elmo :'( love colby

Hi Rick: I was so shocked and sorry to hear that Laurie had passed away this week. I regret so much not contacting her when I heard she was sick a couple of years ago. It's not right that we let our own personal things get in the way of connecting again with someone who was so special and considered a good friend. I thought about her often and hoped that she would recover knowing just how strong and vibrant a person she was. I had heard from another friend in the past few months that Laurie had participated in some experimental treatments and was doing very good, and that maybe she was going to beat her cancer. I guess that is why I was so shocked to hear the news this week. I didn't realize she had taken a turn again. My Mom has been battling cancer since February and it has consumed a large part of my life, as I know your care of Laurie would have as well. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy to you and the boys. We loved our beautiful Chevy and we are so thankful for our years of friendship with you and Laurie. I know she will finally be at peace to be with her beloved son again. Love from Jo-Ann and Dan.

Dear Aunt Laurie. You are the sweetest, kindest, unselfish person I have every had the honor to know. When I was little I wanted to grow up to be just like you. I will miss you more then words can say. But, the love I have for you will remain ever strong till the end of time. Please know that we will be there to help Uncle Rick, Danny and Nathan just like you guys were for us when dad passed. Love you Forever and Always Suzie

Laurie was a ray of sunshine to everyone she met. I loved when she would come to the store to scrapbook, because she lit up the room, with her zest for life and her love for her family and friends. You all need to know that you were her world and she loved you so much. We would joke in the early days of her treatment that she was going to beat this because she was young, fit and fabulous. And to me that is how she will always be. Prayers and thoughts are with all of you.

Rick and Family, my heart goes out to all of you, so srry for your loss,the world lost a very great person, her heart warming smile will be missed by all.

NO words can say what were feeling now, Laurie touched so many people, friends and families whether it's through skating, neighborhood get togethers, her smile could light up any room, our thoughts & prayers go out to Rick and family. Love Debbie, Gary, Briitany & Toni Timothy

Rick and Family - I will miss Laurie with all my being. She was one of my best friends and supporters in the dog show world. The 3 whole days she and I spent this July and August were SO special - we celebrated and we bonded even more in our friendship. We kissed, hugged and said I love you after each day, knowing we might never see each other again in this world. I know she is in Heaven with our good friend Liz Edwards, as well as her beloved Aaron. I am sure she and Liz will continue to watch over Dakota and me and will be supporting everything we do until I see them again in Heaven. HUGS TO YOU LAURIE!

I'll never forget Mrs.Cheney... she was my skating coach back in the day, and an awesome coach at that.She knew exactly what to say to pump me up and get me motivated to complete my dreams. We shared the love of skating and of Elmo. I'll never forget my first major competition was so scared and nervous to go out and do my brand new routine. Mrs Cheney sat me down and said to me " Ashley i know your nervous, but girl you have what it takes to make it. You look amazing when your on that ice now get out there and show everyone you can do it! Just like me and Elmo know you can" after that we laughed for a little bit she gave me a big hug and kissed my forhead and i went out and did just that! Laurie was the best coach i ever had and even know it has been a while since i last seen her I'm going to miss her alot!! R.I.P my dear Coach

My dear friend Nate, My heart felt condolences to you and your family. Regards, Warren Miller...

Laurie was an incredible woman. Her smile touched everybody. A few years back I had ran into her at a time in my life when I needed some advice and she was the perfect person to share. She said the most beautiful things and made me feel like everything was going to be o.k. And then just 2 short months ago, I ran into her again and she was right! We must have talked in the Walmart for almost 2hours! She was such an inspiration! May she rest in peace! Thinking of all of you. The Hamilton Family

I remember visiting Burford to see Nate, and we stayed with Laurie and Rick. One morning, when the boys were still sleeping, Laurie asked if I wanted to go for the best breakfast in town. Of course! So, off we went to the local truck stop, where we ate until we were full, and chatted about life. She was such great company. She was always so positive and full of light.

On the way home from a great breakfast, Laurie insisted that we drive by their property where they housed a trailer home, only, she couldn't find it! It made both of us laugh for what seemed like hours, that she couldn't locate her own "vacation" home. :) She talked about how she wanted to have us up again so we could have bonfires and spend more time together. She brought people into her home, and essentially her life, right from the start. She made people feel comfortable and like family.

I only saw Laurie a few times since I've been friends with Poole, but those few times were special. She was an amazing person. The relationship between Laurie and Nate was special and full of love, and I am grateful that I was around to observe their relationship.

I will never forget her smile, her dogs, or her energy. Miss you, Laurie, RIP <3

Rick, Nathan and Family, Laurie truly was one of kind. I was truly blessed to have had her in my life as a child and young girl. My family was even more blessed to have one of your 4 legged children enrich our lives. Many Memories to keep close to our hearts. You and Laurie will always be in our hearts. Our Angel goes to heaven with golden wings! Go "Dazzle" Me Laurie! Cara, Ray, Mitchell and Madisyn Reavely

Cathy & Paul Burke made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

Sincere sympathy to Rick & the Cheney & Poole families. We are heartbroken to know your hardship during this time, of loosing such a special lady. I've known Laurie since our highschool years & my husband paul has known her since the day of our first date together... & she's been in our lives ever since. She cherished her family so dearly, and I know she'd want us all to remember her with a smile in our hearts... her magnificant presense will be missed forever by us all. I am proud to have known her as our friend. My one wish is that , if there is anything we can do in any way - we'd cherish that honour to help any of you and she'd be pleased that we did - and she knew I'd keep a place in our hearts-and arms wide open, for you all... Forever in our hearts Laurie. Huggs xo Cathy & Paul Burke & family

Kerri Poag made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

During this difficult time I would like to extend my most heartfelt sympathies. I was one of the many skating students who were 'dazzled' by Laurie's presence both on and off the ice. I am thankful we were able to spend an afternoon together last winter at a skating competition where we enjoyed many laughs and many memories. I will truly treasure that day and each of the fantastic memories I have of this amazing lady.

Ken and Mary Peach made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

with our sincere condolences to Rick and family, from your neighbours, the Peach family.

Kevin & Kate Mowry made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

To the Cheney Family, we are still so saddened about Laurie but she is in good hands now and she will always be remembered.

Jim, Heather, Brianne, and Shauna Searle made a donation to Canadian Cancer Society

We are very sorry to hear about your loss. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies.

Brian, Mary, Nicole, Brianna and Richard Kerr made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Words cannot fully express what an inspirational and wonderful lady Laurie was to many. She always had a smile and a warm touch for everyone. She will be greatly missed.

Patricia Lough made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

Krista Robb made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

We are very sorry to hear about your loss. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies.

Marc Lougheed, and Krista Illies made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

We had the pleasure of meeting Laurie at the Good News Football Annual Pool Party this past summer. She was not only a lovely person, but had an amazing sense of humour and we can see where Nathan got it from. The apple does not fall far from the tree indeed. We are very sorry for your loss, she will be missed. Marc Lougheed & Krista Illies

Courtney Silverthorn and Gail Hawes made a donation to

During this difficult time we would like to extend our most heartfelt sympathies. A great coach, and a wonderful lady, Laurie will be missed, and always remembered as being a smiley, passionate, positive, and loveable person! When we look up to the sky and see clouds shaped like Elmo, Mickey Mouse - or just about anything DISNEY - we will smile, and know without a doubt, that Laurie is with us.

Janet Swim (Judy's younger sister and sister-in-law of Denny) made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

Rather then send flowers, I feel that making a donation is a wonderful way to have Laurie's legacy continue for the benefit of others and to express gratitude towards Princess Margaret Hospital. To all her family members - please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Sincerely, Janet

Jennifer, Rebecca, Opal and Claire McAuley made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

We will forever cherish the time that we spent with Laurie, she was a wonderful friend. Our thoughts are with you as we offer our deepest condolences.

Christine Guy made a donation to Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation

I remember her smile and arms wide for a hug, always welcoming. Remember the happy times you had, however short. Her love for her family was ever present, you had to just look into her eyes and see it in her gestures. God bless you Rick and family.