Obituary of Godelieve Lava

In Loving Memory

Mrs. Godelieve Lava, of Harvest Crossing, Tillsonburg passed away at the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 in her 95th year. Godelieve, retired tobacco farmer, accomplished many things in her life. Together, Godelieve & Oscar raised four daughters who have each become accomplished in their chosen fields. When they married, they welcomed their new sons-in-law with open arms and treated them like they were their own. Grandchildren as they arrived were the light of their eyes, attending as many of their various events as they could and baby sitting or taking them on trips. When one of the grandchildren got married, she welcomed her new granddaughter the same way. Godelieve was involved in the local area with the Catholic Women’s League of LaSalette, as a member and served a few years on their executive. She was an excellent baker and she took up cake decorating. There were many couples in the area that she made and decorated their wedding cakes, some of which were quite elaborate. She also obtained her private pilot license and took family and friends on rides in their private plane. She and Oscar enjoyed many flights and became involved with the Ontario Flying Farmers. She was their newsletter editor for a few years and won awards for best newsletter on an international level. Godelieve became an accomplished quilter, making and giving many quilts of various shapes and sizes. She was also an excellent seamstress, making authentic period uniforms. Godelieve and Oscar traveled many places once they retired from farming, taking various cruises to Europe and the Mediterranean, then traveling the roads with their RV. Former Godelieve Maria Maertens. Beloved wife & best friend of the Late Oscar Lava (2015) for over 62 years. Loving mother of four daughters: Brenda Bozso (Steve), Denise Guth (Michael), Sandra Kitching and Debra Thibert (Marc). Cherished grandmother of Bradley Bozso (Alex), Dakota Kitching, Katryna Thibert and Kyle Thibert. Dearest sister of Julia Dewaele (Late Jim, 2014), Erma Dedeyne (Cam), Margaret Vandendreissche (Late Etienne, 2022) and Robert Maertens and sister-in-law of Jacqueline Van Houcke (Maurice) and Norbert Lava (Late Jane, 2020). Also survived by many nieces, nephews and in-laws. Predeceased by her infant son, Oscar Roger Lava Jr., by her parents, Maurice & Romanie (VanGampelaere) Maertens, and by her sister, Margaretha. Friends may call at the MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, Delhi (519) 582-1290 (www.mfh.care) for visitation on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life Service in the Chapel at 4:00 p.m. Inurnment in Our Lady of LaSalette R.C. Cemetery at a later date. Memorial Donations can be made to the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Foundation (Palliative Care Unit) or the Charity of your Choice and will be gratefully appreciated by the family.