Obituary of Lena Margaret Bobier

Lena passed away peacefully at the Ottawa Civic Hospital on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the age of 93. Beloved wife and best friend of the late James Bobier for 62 years. Loving and devoted mother of Steven (Jo-Ann) Bobier, Deanna Kerr, Deborah Bobier and Darlene (Jamie) Pilon. Cherished grandmother of Ryan (Brittany) and Dylan Bobier, Curtis (Caleigh), Nicholas (Emily) and Justin Pilon and Robert and Danielle Kerr and proud great-grandmother of Walter Bobier, Sawyer, Jackson, Lena, Brooks, Clare, and Colby Pilon. Lena is also predeceased by her siblings Rev. Reynolds (Eliza Jane) James, Gerald James, Lola (Wilfred) Featherstone, Lillian (Clarence) Hobbs and Lorne (Helen) James; her sister-in-law Elizabeth (Denis) Roy and brother-in-law Sydney (Audrey) Bobier. She will be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, along with the James and Bobier Families. Lena will be remembered by many as a skilled professional secretary, her faith in God, and her church. 

Lena grew up on the family farm along Faulkner Trail in rural Kanata, where her childhood was filled with fun family experiences. As the youngest child, she often felt spoiled by her older siblings. She loved to recount stories of traveling to church by horse and cutter, bundled up in blankets with heated stones from the oven. School was a one-mile walk away, and she lived during a time when making a phone call required knowing the right number of rings. Lifting the receiver to listen in on others’ conversations was not uncommon back then.

After school, she would bring the cows in for milking, managing the task without the aid of a dog. Her foray into driving began at the age of 13, as her Uncle Wilfred taught her how to shift gears and brake in his 1930 Chevrolet. Uncle Lorne gifted her the first pair of skates she ever owned. Music played a vital role in family life; her mother played the violin, her sister Lola and father both played the piano, Gerald played the saxophone, and Reynolds the banjo.

Completing Grade 13, including Latin courses, was a source of pride for her and proved useful during her business studies at National Business College in 1951. Her professional journey began at Mortimer Printers and later took her to the National Film Board in 1952, a time she remembered fondly. She went on to work as a medical secretary at the Ontario Hospital (Rideau Regional Centre) and later applied her secretarial and librarian skills at Eric Hutcheson and Lombardy School. Remarkably, she ensured she knew which bus every child was assigned to.

Her love story began in 1952 when she started dating her future husband James Bobier. They became engaged in June 1954 and married on August 13, 1955. Together, they lived in the home that her husband had built. As a devoted mother, she often shared memories of ensuring her children enjoyed fresh air, placing them in a baby carriage outside.

This captures the fond memories and milestones of her life.

Mom was deeply involved in the Anglican Church, finding fulfillment in her participation with the Women's Group B. In 1971, she served as a Brownie leader, earning recognition for her remarkable organizational talents. Mom cherished her regular gatherings with her Canasta group, which brought her joy and connection. Alongside Dad, she explored the world through travel, capturing memorable moments through her passion for photography. Their shared adventures often included skiing trips and lively social events with dear friends. Some of the most treasured family memories came from time spent at the cottage, where relatives gathered, and from the cherished annual tradition of skating on the canal followed by a potluck dinner.

In 1994, Mom demonstrated her love for family and genealogy by publishing "James Roots and Branches," which chronicled the James family history with updates over the years, highlighting holiday traditions, births, and celebratory milestones. The Bobier Book followed in 1995. That same year, she and Dad joined the Mississippi Squares, a square dancing group, adding another cherished chapter to their social lives. Mom often worked late into the night, sewing or typing, displaying her dedication and meticulous attention to detail.

Mom embodied the essence of motherhood, always present for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her organizational skills and eye for detail were complemented by her sense of style and a social nature that made her beloved by all who knew her. As Dad’s caregiver in later years, her strength and compassion shone through. Music held a special place in her heart, and she eagerly anticipated the annual James family reunion each summer. We are thankful that Mom was strong and taught us lessons that we will carry throughout our lives and that she will always be with us.

Friends may pay their respects at the Blair & Son Funeral Home, Smiths Falls on Friday, August 29, 2025 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. There will be a funeral Service at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, Smiths Falls on Saturday at 11 a.m. Interment will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or to St. John’s Anglican Church.