SIM is sad to report that MLIS alumna, Lise Fortier, has passed away.
Lise Fortier, age 47, born and of Saskatoon died on June 2nd, 2023. Lise is survived by her husband, her parents (J-Michel & Dorothy Fortier), her sisters (Paula & Laura Fortier), her nephews, her niece, and loving in-laws.
After graduating from Bishop J Mahoney HS in 1993, Lise studied at USask. She then attended Dalhousie University to pursue her goal to become a librarian. Lise worked at Saskatoon Public Library for over 25 years. She enjoyed working with the public and providing them with the services they needed.
Lise loved stories in all formats: books, movies, TV shows, and told. Hearing stories and recommendations for books, movies, and TV shows from friends and strangers always entertained her. It was a great way to expand her knowledge and expose her to new interests.
Gaining new experiences was something Lise sought. Learning new skills was always a pursuit. Lise learned how to sew, which allowed her to add dresses to her already extensive collection and to create items for her home. She had a friend teach her how to cross stitch so she could make fun gifts for the people she knew. She also took Spanish lessons to use on her travels. Lise looked for adventurous activities to try as well, like ziplining in the mountains, surfing, and white-water rafting. She was open to new experiences. Lise enjoyed cooking and baking. She kept growing her recipe collection. She and her husband were fond of supporting local restaurants and searching out new places to eat. On their travels, they would seek out good places to eat with a focus on local cuisine. Sometimes Lise would be inspired to try to make similar meals at home, as long as it was not too complicated. Lise loved food.
Lise was lucky to make good long-time friends, many who live in other parts of Canada. This allowed her the opportunity to visit almost every province and territory, all except the Yukon. She loved to travel and explore new places. Lise’s husband was a wonderful travel planner and arranged for them to visit many of the destinations that they wished to see. She also had some friends who would travel with her or invite them on their excursions. They knew Lise would often take them up on these offers. Lise had fond memories of traveling with her family to Maui and spending time with her in-laws in Mexico. She appreciated these moments to spend time with family in new environments and have shared adventures.
A prayer vigil will be held on Wednesday, June 7th at 7:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, June 8th at 10 a.m. Both are to be held at St. Anne’s Catholic Church on Lenore Drive. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Friendship Inn (https://friendshipinn.ca/donations/), Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre (https://saskatoonfoodbank.org/donate) or Saskatoon Public Library (saskatoonlibrary.ca/donate-now).
Richard Dennis says
I was lucky to know Lise for a bit. She always brought more light to the room. The world is a a little darker with her not in it.