Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Colleen, a beloved wife, mother and grandmother on December 7, 2025 at the age of 66. Born in Guelph, Ontario, she was the daughter of Daniel and Aileen Lawler, both of whom predeceased her. Colleen will forever be remembered by her husband and best friend Brian DeBoer, her children Derek DeBoer (Emilie), Rebekah Vettor (Josh), Martha DeBoer (Sara) and Laura DeBoer (Mark) and her cherished grandchildren, Scott, Fiona, Sophie, Scarlett, Cecilia and Malcolm. Treasured sister of Bernie Lawler (predeceased, Kathy) Maryann Lawler (predeceased), Chuck Lawler (Linda), Peggy Lawler Sinclair (predeceased), Patrick Lawler (Joyce) and fondly remembered by Bernie’s former spouse, Mel Lawler. She will be sadly missed by her brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, dear friends and extended family. For 22 years, Colleen dedicated her days to the Wellington Terrace where she welcomed everyone with genuine warmth, offering kindness and compassion to families, residents and coworkers alike. Even the dogs who visited felt her kindness, each one greeted with a soft pet and a treat. Outside of work, she loved going on road trips, exploring new places and going to concerts with her partner in adventure, Brian. She never missed a chance to cheer on the Blue Jays or the Maple Leafs and enjoyed the little things like a warm cup of tea and a good book.  Of everything she accomplished in life, being a grandmother meant the most to her. She lived that role with love, pride, and a joy that radiated through every moment she spent with her grandchildren. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to her family doctor, Dr. Easterbrook for years of compassionate care; to Dr. Lund, and his dedicated team as well as the oncology team at Guelph General Hospital for their unwavering support; and to her home care nurse, Sam, whose kindness and gentle presence meant so much. They are also deeply grateful for Guelph Wellington paramedics Jesse and Sarah, whose kindness, compassion and professionalism meant so much and to the staff at Groves Memorial Hospital for the gentle, respectful care they provided during her final days. Resting at the Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Dublin Chapel, 252 Dublin St. N., Guelph where the family received their friends on Sunday, December 14, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8pm. A funeral service was held in the Dublin Chapel on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 11am. Interment at Marymount Cemetery, Guelph. A reception followed in the funeral home fellowship lounge. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family. Donation cards are available at the funeral home or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com