Obituary of Marina Joan Lawrence

It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of a loving wife, mother, daughter, and friend. On Saturday, January 23^rd, 2021 surrounded by her family, Marina Lawrence peacefully passed away at her home at the age of 65. Dear wife of Dave Darwent. Proud mother of Emily (Marsden) and Katherine (Dillon) and stepmother of Craig, Courtney (Nick), Tristan, and Christopher. Cherished daughter of Blazenka Tennier (Keith). Best friend since childhood to Janice DiMillo (Ed). Marina was preceded in death by her father Phillip and brothers Darko (Vickie) and Kresimir.

Marina valued family, friendship, and fun. The door of Marina’s home was eternally open, whether it be to long-term guests or runaways – but her favourite way to host was through dinner parties: wine and laughter overflowed, and she cooked enough to feed an army. A typical Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving at Marina and Dave’s was large and loud – but Marina’s unmistakable and infectious laugh always resonated over the din. 

Marina’s ability to connect with others is unmatched. Strangers she approached on the street, her neighbours in Strathroy, salespeople and waitstaff, and, most notably, the many global communities through her work at Centennial College. Marina’s success recruiting international students to study in Canada was attributed not only to her drive and work ethic, but her love of people and her true capacity to understand what they need. From Istanbul to Mumbai, Marina connected with and impacted people. Though she was one of the very few who can actually say they travelled the world, Marina would be the first to tell you there is nowhere she would rather have been than with her husband Dave in their little slice of heaven in Arcadia, Florida.

In keeping with Marina’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private Memorial Service will be held. Visitation will be held at DENNING’S OF STRATHROY on January 29^th, 2021. Registration is required as we have limited capacity at the funeral home due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please click on the link below to register or call 519-245-1023 for further information.  A livestream of the service can be viewed here

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Metavivor (https://www.metavivor.org/) in Marina’s memory. Share a memory at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com

Visitation: https://signup.com/go/icHqOxb