I just read over at StupidAngryCanajun that Alberta has lost one of her greatest activists for literacy and the arts, as well one hell of a lady. Lieutenant-Governor Lois Hole has died.
I was fortunate enough to work briefly with Her Honour on 2 different occasions while photographing her at an arts fundraiser and most recently at a presentation she made to our local library this summer, and I can vouch for the fact that she was a truly wonderful woman. I was working for the organising committees in each case, so spent time with her as we coordinated group photos with other dignitaries. She was feisty, friendly, and totally committed to the things she believed in. She seemed to magically balance the propriety and protocol of her office with a genuine warmth and interest in others.
A strong proponent of life-long learning, she put her money where her mouth was, devoting tireless hours to creating and promoting literacy programs and awards, and supporting the arts with personal appearances. The last time I photographed her, she had travelled all day from Edmonton to present an award to our local library board for successfully eliminating membership fees. She took a great deal of trouble to visit with those in attendance after her speech, and congratulate them personally for their efforts. She then immediately jumped back in the car to be taken up the hill to preside over a major arts fundraising Gala. Tireless indeed.
She had also served as Chancellor of the University of Alberta before her appointment as Lieutenant-Governor, and was a revered gardening expert and author.
I'm sure there were plenty of hugs awaiting you when you arrived, Your Honour. Rest in peace.
Her legacy will continue for many years...people who really give of themselves never quite die, at least that is how I look at it.
Posted by: Rachel Ann | Monday, January 10, 2005 at 12:16 AM