Laurie Beachell passed away on December 6, 2024 at the age of 73.
He was predeceased by his mother Doris, father Alan and sister Bonnie (Hamilton). Left to cherish his memory are his longtime South Beacher, wife Judy McKelvey, brother Jim (Arla), Sister Lee Hogg (Ian), brother in-law Grant Hamilton (Edith), brother and sister-in law Bill and Marie McKelvey, many nieces, nephews, extended family and close friends. Laurie grew up on the family farm in Rosser MB. He loved the country life, and found joy in God’s creation, tending to the animals and spending countless hours in the yard and garden. Family was so important to Laurie and he treasured the hours he spent with his great nieces and nephews. He also cherished his time at the Third Avenue cottage in South Beach, Gimli and spent many summers there since his retirement. He lived in Winnipeg during his University days and his early career, returning to the farm in 1982 where he lived in and completely renovated the home he grew up in.
Laurie graduated from the University of Manitoba (St. Johns College) in 1972 with a B.A. in Political Science. He worked for a short time with the Children’s Home of Winnipeg, the Society for Manitobans with Disabilities, the Manitoba Advisory Council on Recreation for the Handicapped and the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation.
In 1984 he found his true calling with the Council of Canadians with Disabilities where he worked tirelessly for the next 30+ years, coordinating the advocacy, law reform, public education, litigation and international development initiatives of CCD. He was committed to the creation of more inclusive and accessible communities and improving the status of Canadians with disabilities. He served on advisory committees to Stats Canada, Elections Canada, CRA, Finance, and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights to name a few. In 2006 he served on a panel reporting to the Minister of Finance to develop the Registered Disability Savings Plan. He spent 5 years on the Disability Advisory Committee to the Minister of Revenue regarding tax reform and disability. He is a recipient of the Patrick Worth Award from People First of Canada and the National President’s Award from the Canadian Mental Health Association. In 2019 Laurie was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Carleton University “in recognition of his transformative leadership in advancing the equality rights of Canadians with disabilities.”
He represented the disability community on the Content Advisory Committee at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and has been a member of the Museum’s Inclusive Design Advisory Committee since its formation. He also co-ordinated CCD’s 10-year long effort to develop the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Laurie was highly respected by his colleagues and regarded as one of Canada’s leading disability rights advocates. His work made a difference for people with disabilities. He was currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Interlake Association for Community Living.
Laurie’s perseverance and determination were the driving forces behind the refugee sponsorship ministry at Sparling United Church. Without his commitment to filing applications, navigating government requirements and raising the necessary funds, this vital ministry would never have been possible. Inspired by the story of the Mussa family, Laurie worked tirelessly to bring them from the UNHCR Kenya to Canada, changing the course of their lives and future generations forever. To this family he was lovingly know as Grandpa Laurie, a testament to the deep bond they shared. Their brighter future stands as a lasting legacy of Laurie’s hard work, compassion and unwavering dedication.
Laurie was a talented musician, sharing his wonderful voice with the “Bunch of Grapes” (a musical performing group) Rosser and Sparling Church choirs and the Selkirk Community choir to name a few. He was also an accomplished pianist and organist offering his talent to inspire and support worship at Rosser Grosse Isle United Church. His support of the music program at Rosser extended across the spectrum of singing, accompanying hymns on the organ or piano, and organizing music for the choir. Laurie’s dedication to the church in Rosser went beyond music. His quiet service and willingness to lend a hand in any way needed was a reflection of his deep faith and love for his church community. His presence and energy will be deeply missed.
Laurie’s life was a testament to tireless advocacy and faithful service. He embraced the gospel values of service, humility and hospitality making him a dedicated supporter of the ministry and mission of both Sparling and Rosser United Churches. His favourite gospel passage, one by which he lived his life, was Micah 6:8 “He has shown you O mortal what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with your God?”
Laurie deeply valued his faith and believed in simplicity and quiet reflection. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no public funeral service. He made known to many of his friends, family and church members that he preferred his earthly remains to be laid to rest at St. Michael’s Cemetery among generations of Beachells.