Born July 12, 1955, passed away on Thursday, December 18, surrounded by love.
The second of five children, Gini was born in Hamilton, Ontario to Ron and Joan Lewis (predeceased).
Gini is survived by the love of her life, Trevor, and her four children Lee Ann (Ben), Melissa (Christopher), Jessica, and Bryan (Megen), and will be forever loved by her eight grandchildren. Gini is also lovingly remembered by her siblings Patti-Lynn (Rick), Terri (Dominic), Andy (Denise), Rhonda (Dave), her nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of extended family who were deeply important to her.
In 1992, Gini and Trevor moved to Orillia with their four children and opened Sunshine Carpet and Flooring — a name that couldn’t have suited her more. Gini was often the bright spot in her customers’ days, serving generations of families with care that went well beyond flooring. Always with an idea, a suggestion, or the perfect paint colour, she had a gift for helping people turn houses into homes — a gift that Trevor, Lee-Ann, Jessica and her Sunshine staff proudly carry forward today.
Orillia also brought lifelong friendships that spanned decades with new connections formed through work, volunteering, and community life. Her friends were family in every sense of the word, and their love, laughter and loyalty meant the world to her.
For her family, Orillia truly became home following Gini’s first cancer diagnosis in 1995. The kindness of friends, customers, and the exceptional care she received from doctors and staff at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital became an early catalyst for Gini’s deep commitment to making her community and the lives of others, brighter, healthier, and full of love.
A passionate and tireless community builder, Gini was a key fundraiser for the first mammography machine at Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Before her second cancer diagnosis in 1997, she officially joined the Foundation Board, where she supported fundraising and hospital expansion efforts for 11 years before later turning her focus to physician recruitment and retention.
In 2005, Gini was elected to the Board of Directors of the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce, serving on multiple committees and championing local business and community economic development. She never missed a Terry Fox Run and was a passionate advocate for sharing how funding of cancer research through the Terry Fox Foundation supported a better quality of life for her and so many others. More recently, she was a dedicated fundraiser and advocate for Mariposa House Hospice — a place that would become eternally special to her and to our family.
Beyond her formal volunteer roles, Gini spent countless hours connecting with others facing cancer, offering comfort, perspective, and hope to patients and families navigating their own difficult journeys.
A lifelong champion of shopping local (or just shopping), Gini couldn’t walk through a store without running into someone she knew by name. She’d ask about the latest project in their home, their golf game, or their children and grandchildren — always with genuine care and interest in the lives of her neighbours, customers, and friends.
Woman of the Year. Citizen of the Year. Pan Am Games Torchbearer. Lady Daffodil. Mentor. Award-winning business owner. While these honours recognized her impact, Gini’s favourite title was Nama.
Sophie, Charlie, Raegan, Ruby, Archer, Hazel, Neil, and Westley will forever cherish memories of their Nama’s snuggles, surprises, and unconditional love — a love that went all the way to the moon and back.
Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many doctors, nurses, caregivers who have been part of Gini’s journey for the past 30 years. Particularly, we’d like to thank Dr. Sara Rask, Dr. Kim McIntosh, Dr. Jaskaran Kang and the incredible staff at Mariposa House Hospice, whose care, compassion, and steadiness carried Gini and our family through the hardest days.
The family will receive friends at Hawk Ridge Golf Club, 1151 Hurlwood Ln. Severn, on Monday December 29, 2025 from 2 – 5 p.m. to celebrate Gini's life.
In lieu of flowers, or for those wishing to express sympathy, memorial donations in Gini's name can be made to Mariposa House Hospice supporting their Capital Expansion Campaign and the compassion and care that she so deeply valued and will be received by Carson Funeral Homes – L.Doolittle Chapel 54 Coldwater St. E Orillia (705)326-3595.
Condolences
Nancy Harris and Tony Reid
Dec 29, 2025Remembering an outstanding person, community supporter and family member, whose courage, warmth, integrity and endless capacity for love reached wide and deep, and touched and inspired so many of us. A brief anecdote speaks to her qualities: years ago during a visit to my home to measure for flooring, Gini's cancer diagnosis came up as we chatted. She mentioned her treatments, and said: "Whatever I have to go through, I want to do it well". I was moved and impressed, and continue to feel that way as the fulfillment of that promise to herself has unfolded. With caring thoughts to her family, and to her many friends, clients and contacts; all privileged to have known her. Sincerely, Nancy Harris and Tony Reid
Marc Boysen and Annette Power
Dec 29, 2025Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the whole family. Knowing Gini for over 30yrs as a client who became a dear friend, I have so many fond and meaningful memories of Gini. Gini and Trevor were there on a trip when we became engaged, in fact Gini took a picture to remember the moment. Gini was a warrior in all things in her life, her family, her children, her grandchildren, her friendships her health and her business. Gini was an inspiration to all of us, her integrity, character, her generosity, spirit and love for life. We will miss her dearly. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you at this time. May Gini rest now and may the memories you have bring you some comfort at this most difficult time. Marc & Annette
Tony Strmec
Dec 28, 2025I am saddened to hear of Gini,s passing. My Heartfelt condolences go out to the Stringer,Lewis and Card families for the loss of such a kind ,thoughtful and strong family member. I know she will always be missed by family friends and colleagues .God Bless
Howard and Sherri-Ann Bloom
Dec 25, 2025Trever, Jessica and Family, We are so sorry to hear about your loss and we extend our deepest sympathy. We wish you peace and strength at this difficult time.
Don and Chris Atkinson
Dec 23, 2025Since moving to Orillia it has been a privilege to know Gini through the OSMH foundation and her business. She was a courageous and beautiful person, a force in the community. Our deepest condolences to Trevor and the entire family.
Patti Scott
Dec 23, 2025Trevor, to you and all the family, my deepest condolences on Gini's passing. The world has lost a beautiful soul and bright light. Gini truly was one in a million and an inspiration to so many. My life is certainly richer for having known her. Keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Christine Winchester
Dec 22, 2025I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Gini, a remarkable woman whose strength, kindness, and generosity touched countless lives. Her passion for life and unwavering spirit inspired so many, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. My thoughts are with Trevor and their children during this difficult time.
Ross and Jaimie MacLeod
Dec 22, 2025Our deepest condolences. We will keep your family in our prayers during this difficult time.
Susan and Jeff Clark
Dec 22, 2025Dear Trevor, sending heartfelt condolences to you and your family ❤️
Darold Hack & Lynne Mawdsley
Dec 21, 2025So sorry for the loss of Gini; an amazing woman. Our deepest condolences to the entire family at this difficult time. Hold all your many memories of this wonderful lady close to all your hearts.
John Webet
Dec 20, 2025Gini, was simply an angel on earth, everything about her was beautiful and wonderful.
Lynn and Doug Johnston
Dec 20, 2025We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Gini, are thoughts are with you and your family at this time . Doug and Lynn Johnston
Randy & Charlotte Hawes
Dec 20, 2025We want to extend our deepest sympathies to Trevor and family on the loss of Gini. Such a wonderful person! We will always remember Gini in our memories.
Tracey Brown
Dec 20, 2025I’m sorry so for world’s loss of this incredible woman. My deepest sympathy to Melissa and family. May your memories bring you comfort and strength during your mourning.
Janet Maclennan
Dec 20, 2025My family and I are deeply saddened by Gini’s passing. Her compassion, joy for life and generosity knew no bounds. After a devestating house fire at our home at Christmas, through the kindness of her parents, Gini arranged for us to stay at her parents home for four months. Her families kindness will always be in our hearts. Our deep sympathies to Trevor and family.
Moreen Stiles
Dec 20, 2025I am so sorry to hear this news. My deepest condolences to the family.
Jerry & Ann Ward
Dec 20, 2025Sophie & Family Sorry to hear of the loss of your loved one.
Jeff and Lisa Ward
Dec 20, 2025Our deepest sympathies to Sophie and your family for your loss.
Sue Knight
Dec 20, 2025Trevor, Lee Ann, Melissa, Jessica, Brian and Family, Gini showed us that nothing is impossible. Her 30-year fight was a testament to the human spirit and from the moment I met her in 1996 to carpet our newly-finished basement, she has been my inspiration. She leaves behind a legacy of business excellence, charitable devotion, and a family that truly radiates her compassion and strength. She was, and always will be, an inspiration to us all. Rest in peace Gini, we will miss you my friend.
Mark Taylor
Dec 19, 2025Thinking of Gini’s family, her daughter Melissa and her family, I know how missed Gini will be. Understanding from Melissa the passion Gini poured into life and those she loved, the impact of her presence will always remain.
Jan Rutherford
Dec 19, 2025Trevor, Jessica and Family, Our sincere condolences to your whole family. Gini was so kind and warm to everyone. She was a wonderful parent to work with during the my days at Couchiching Heights. Always thoughtful and wise. Wishing you warm memories and comfort that will come with time. Jan Rutherford & Parri Bylow 🕊️
Melissa Black
Dec 19, 2025To Jess, Your mom was such a kind and caring person and always made me feel welcome since I've known you over 20 years. She always told it like it was and she had a big heart and her family was everything. I'm here for you if you need anything. My sincere condolences to your dad and siblings. May you all find comfort in each other during the days ahead but know she is always with you and is so proud of her family. She will be missed but never forgotten. Rip Gini
Charlene Taylor
Dec 19, 2025Gini has left us all feeling a little incomplete. She had the most loving heart, embracing life and all who had the privilege of knowing this small but dynamic leader, advocate, wife, mom, nama and friend. Gini's light shone bold and bright and her light will continue to shine through her legacy, her children, grandchildren and friends. Forever loved forever missed.
Sue Hutton
Dec 19, 2025My thoughts and prayers are with the family, after this great loss. She has left a legacy of inspiration and hope.