PENELOPE ELIZABETH LAWSON
June 27, 1941 – December 31, 2016
The world is a better place because Penny Lawson, our wonderful wife, mother, Nana, aunt, mentor, healer, colleague and teacher walked through it. Penny’s life was a beacon for those suffering from addiction and hundreds have reclaimed their lives through her work.
In her family, she was the sun around whom everyone orbited and the solid centre giving stability, love, warmth and humour.
Penny passed away at Sunnybrook Hospital at the age of 75 after a valiant struggle with cancer. She leaves her soul mate, Dennis; daughter Andrea (Martin); step-son Nicholas (Rebecca); nieces Liz and Tori (Ryan) and their family, Kirra and Jackson; and the light of her life, her granddaughter Phoebe.
A native of Toronto, Penny spent a long and distinguished career as an addictions Therapist and Counsellor. She was part of the development team that founded Bellwood, Dr. Gordon Bell’s final addiction treatment centre, which led in providing innovative services, notably the treatment of sex addiction. As a clinician, she was renowned for having the unique capacity to work effectively with all types of clients. A revered teacher, she mentored countless students and interns, and generously shared her knowledge and experience. Geographically, her work ranged from Nunavut to Trinidad and Tobago.
The family thanks all the caregivers who comforted and respectfully treated Penny through her medical challenges.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 8, 2017 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the R.S. Kane Funeral Home (6150 Yonge St., at Goulding, south of Steeles). A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 9, 2017 at 11 a.m. in the Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Renascent Foundation. Condolences