Liane Regendanz, admired and respected in Owen Sound’s music, art and activist communities, died on Saturday, June 5. Although she and her husband, Michael Craig, only made their home here in 2014, Liane was energetic in promoting numerous causes: the Gitche Namewikwedong Reconciliation Garden, Georgian Bay Centre for the Arts and several musical events at Heartwood Hall. And meanwhile she continued her battle with numerous cancers which, over a decade, continued their relentless attack. She was not for slowing down!
In Toronto for eighteen years, Liane was Executive Director of St. Stephen’s Community House, based in Kensington market 
in Toronto, which offered a wide variety of social services for children, teens, seniors and adults facing social, housing and addiction issues; nine locations plus five daycare centres with over 250 employees. She knew how to get things done!
Now it is over, as explained below - but not really because two Celebrations of Life will be held in Owen Sound and Toronto in the fall when Covid restrictions permit; and an exhibit of Liane’s photographs of India is being organized for the fall at Grey Gallery. Liane was an extraordinary woman who was often called a force of nature!
Dear family and friends,
Our darling Liane passed away this morning at 5:00 am. She died as she lived, with courage, wisdom and grace. A classy lady to the end!
She spent the last few days reaching out to the many people who love and respect her, but regretted that she didn’t have enough time to respond to every email. Her eyesight and trembling hands made emailing especially difficult. We deeply appreciate all the support you have sent our way.
In recent months, Liane renewed her commitment to Zen meditation with great teachers Patrick and Nancy. Her friend Liz Rykert read to her from the Tibetan Book of Living and Dying. She freed herself from the cares of the world and the sense that dying is losing. She was at peace.
Yesterday in her wheelchair she chatted with friends on our deck, then lay down for a six-hour sleep. Last night it was clear that she was ready to let go. The nurse gave her a sedative to reduce the pain, and she became quite calm in her partial consciousness. The family is grateful to the Owen Sound hospital and local agency, Care Partners, for the caring and competent support they delivered.
Liane died at dawn when the sun came up and the sky over our Sydenham river was brightening. Deb Douglas, our dear friend from Quadra Island, BC, who has been with us for this journey of the past month, observed that the birds were tweeting and, truly, a sudden breeze ruffled the trees and Liane’s spectacular garden.
To all of Liane’s legion of friends who have sent emails, food, flowers and other positive vibes, thank you so much. I can’t promise to respond to every message, but I do read and appreciate each and every one.
Many, many people have asked, “What can we do?” The truth is that we have been kindly and generously supported by friends far and near, including the many, led by Kit Pineau, who brought food to us every night in recent weeks. So how can you pay tribute? If you want and are able to make a contribution, please consider a donation to Liane’s Fund for Youth Opportunity at St. Stephen’s Community House, which is now part of The Neighbourhood Group. Here’s the link to Liane’s donation page: https://www.sschto.ca/Youth/Liane-s-Fund .
Personally, I have been blessed to spend the best ten years of my life with Liane. She opened my eyes and heart, and even boosted my moribund sense of humour. Thank you my love,
Michael Craig
