Vivian Grace (Pile) Stronach

In Loving Memory of Vivian Stronach

Vivian Stronach, a long-time resident of Oxtongue Lake, passed away peacefully on August 3rd, one month after celebrating her 88th birthday at Huntsville Hospital. Born in Toronto, she grew up in East York and met her soulmate, Bob Stronach, through a mutual friend. They embarked on their journey in life together early and were blessed with five children. Vivian and Bob instilled in their family the values of empathy, a love of nature, resourcefulness, and the art of listening to one another. Their loving children are Ken Stronach (Barb), Anne Marie Switzer (Paul], Theresa Teixeira (Michael), Michelle Stronach (Greg Lashbrook) and Bob Stronach (Asako).

The couple shared a passion for dancing and would light up any party they attended. As soon as the music started, they would take to the floor, ruling it with their lively Jive moves. They were inseparable, and even after Bob's passing, Vivian believed he was still by her side. They cherished each other for 46 years.

Vivian had an adventurous spirit and loved to travel. With Bob, she explored the Caribbean during spring breaks. After his passing, she spread her wings, planning winters in various destinations such as Florida, Cuba, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia, and Italy.

Her impact on everyone she encountered was profound and immeasurable. Vivian's love for her family knew no bounds, and she selflessly gave back to them in countless ways. Her great-grandson Ben beautifully expressed, "I will miss you forever." She was adored by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who are Susan Stronach (Dan Wark), Dawn Marvin (Dan Kramer), Eric Switzer (Jessica Farber), Tom Switzer (Amanda), Steven Stronach (Jenn Beherends), Savannah Lashbrook (Cody MacKinnon), James Lashbrook (Kristyn), Ciara Teixeira, Ashley Teixeira, and Lucca Stronach. Vivian cherished her great-grandchildren, Izzy Switzer, Georgia Wark, Ben Switzer, Josh Kramer, Sophie Kramer, and Lily Switzer.

Vivian and her family have been an integral part of Oxtongue since 1967. She and Bob spent many summers at the lake and in retirement (1995] moved there permanently.. When her children were small, she ran the Oxtongue Lake Swim races.  Her home was always open to all.  There was always a warm meal and good company.

An artist at heart, Vivian loved to paint with watercolors. Her talent was discovered at an early age when she was invited to attend the first of its kind art class led by Arthur Lismer at the AGO. She later ran an art group at the Dwight Seniors Club, sharing her passion with others. Vivian's artwork adorned the walls of her home, the homes of her friends, and was even sold locally.

She enjoyed playing cards and rarely missed a Tuesday euchre or Thursday bid euchre gathering. Vivian was an active member of Stewart Memorial United Church in Dwight and the Dwight Lions club.

Though born in Toronto, Vivian considered Oxtongue her true home. When her eyesight began to fail, she sold her beloved home on the lake and moved to Huntsville. Her love for the area was passed on to her children, as most of them have homes or cottages in the area.

Vivian Stronach leaves behind a legacy of love, joy, and kindness. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have known her. A memorial service will be held at Stewart Memorial United Church to honor her memory on August 26 at 11:00 and as per her wishes followed by a party for friends and family..

May she rest in eternal peace, forever dancing with her beloved Bob.

In lieu of flowers to honour Vivian a donation in her memory would be gratefully received to either the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or Stewart Memorial United Church in Dwight.  (Etransfer lobunitedchurches@gmail.com please type in comment Vivian Stronach. Or write a cheque to Lake of Bays Pastoral Charge and write in Memo Vivian Stronach and mail to LOB United Churches, Box 196, Dwight, On P0A 1H0)