Holly Therou passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 4, 2025 after a battle with early-onset dementia. Though her illness took much from her in recent years, we take comfort in the many joyful memories of a life well-lived.
Born on December 23, 1956 in Edmonton, to parents Archie and Irene. She grew up with her sisters, Donna (Samson) and Karen (Strand), in a loving home filled with laughter and delicious Ukrainian food.
Holly spent her career as a travel consultant, thrilled by the discovery of new places and cultures. Her love for adventure was shared with her children, John and Julie, with whom she traveled the world and created lifelong memories. Holly also found joy in the simple pleasures – golfing, attending plays at the Fringe with Ray, and baking for her family.
She was overjoyed to expand her family with the addition of a son and daughter in law – Lukas Zechel and Jen Therou – and grandchildren Mabel, Sawyer, and Stanley. Though her time with them was shorter than she hoped, her legacy will forever be carried on through them.
Holly is survived by her devoted husband, Ray Therou, and her children and grandchildren, who will miss her deeply. Her presence in our lives was a gift, and we are forever grateful for the years we had with her before her illness.
A public service will not be held; the family will be honoring Holly privately. In lieu of flowers or attending a service, the family requests that donations be made to organizations supporting dementia research in Holly’s memory.
Ray, Julie and John ..sending you our prayers and most sincere condolences and wishing you and your families peace and the comfort of treasured memories of Holly.
I am sad to read of Holly’s passing, Ray, your steadfast care of her these last many years was admirable. May your memories of her help to bring you through this awful time. I will carry her sparkling eyes and bright smile with me always. My deepest condolences to you and your family, Ray.
Shocked and saddened to read about
Holly, Ray.
Thinking of you.
Ray, I am sorry to hear of Holly’s passing and the terrible journey that you family went through. Thinking of you
Holly and Ray, my school friends! So many good times, fun parties that don’t happen anymore and friendships without judgement. Going to school carefree and happy. I will remember you forever and hope your family can find peace in the happy times you had together.
Got out my 74’ yearbook and saw that Holly signed it “Stars and Sunshine”, your buddy Holly. Good motto.
We reacquainted at a travel work week in Cancun some years ago and caught up quickly on our families and lives. I will keep that memory close.
You will always be “Nil Sed Optimum”. (Nothing but the best.
So sorry to hear about Holly. She was always a ray of sunshine who seemed to have a smile for everyone. She was a great supporter of our basketball team who pretended to enjoy watching our games! I feel fortunate that our paths crossed in this lifetime. My deepest condolences to Ray, John and Julie.
I always admired Holly and impressed by her many abilities. She not only was she a wonderful sister-in-law but a competent and reliable go-to travel agent for the ATA. Ray, your care and attention of Holly right to the end was remarkable. She raised two amazing children, John and Julie, who will miss her deeply. Holly, you can rest now.
Ray, John, Julie and Families
I’m so very sorry to hear of Holly’s passing. My heartfelt condolences to all of you.
So many years of friendship, and memories from high school through spending time together when our children were young. Memories that are cherished. Holly will always be remembered with a smile, and love. Rest In Peace, Holly.
I hope the memories and love that you share as a family will help you as you move forward through this difficult time.
Colleen Crighton
I was so sad to hear that Holly passed. Please accept my condolences during this difficult time. I have so many happy memories playing at your house when I was younger, and our road trip to Lake Louise.
It is always hard and sad when someone who was part of our life at one time or another passes away. My husband Paul knew Ray and Holly during the school years. I joined the group later and spent time together playing board games, skiing, camping; you name it. A good time was had by all.
It is good to know that Holly and her family spent wonderful times together and left them with wonderful memories. We wish you PEACE during this difficult time. Holly had a beautiful smile and engaging spirit. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Paul and Donna Borejko (Aaron and Kelly)
Dear Ray and family,
We are so very sorry to hear of Holly’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Bruce and Pam
My condolences in Holly’s passing. I will always remember her truly beautiful smile. She brought a lot of happiness to all that knew her.
Dear Ray and Family. So sorry to hear of Holly’s passing. I speak for Jim and I as he is away this month. Our heart felt condolences from our families to yours. Take care as you navigate this life without her. Love from the Cornish and Ritchie families.
We were so sorry to hear about Holly’s passing. Our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.
Brenda & Murray
Sending hugs and condolences to you all. May Holly rest in peace and Ray and the family be comforted by happy memories of the good time spent together.
MaryAnne and Jim Pollock
A beautiful picture and beautiful write up for a very beautiful cousin!! We loved our Edmonton visits to the Topilko home and I have many fond memories of all three sisters that lived in the “big city”.
Hugs to all of Holly’s family
From Lloydminster Ewanowich Family