In Loving Memory

Genny was a woman who lived fiercely, loved deeply, and touched the hearts of everyone she met. Genny was born on March 2, 1971, in Fernie, BC. It was a Tuesday, and she was the second child born to Monty and Valerie. From the moment she arrived, she was special—Genny was the first of their children to have blue eyes. She was welcomed into the family by her older sister Adrienne and three younger siblings: Tyler, Lexa, and Beth. The family lived in Fernie until Genny was nine, when they moved to Abbotsford, BC, in July of 1980.

Genny went on to attend Alexander Elementary, Abby Junior, and Abby Senior Secondary Schools. Even at a young age, she displayed a passion for a variety of activities. She took highland dancing lessons and competed at the provincial level, loved watching sports, and even became the manager of her high school football team. Genny also became a cheerleader, learned to play the French horn, and immersed herself in the arts through theatre, preferring to work behind the scenes and manage plays and musicals. Throughout her life, Genny demonstrated a wide array of talents and interests. She worked in many different places, including McDonald's, a vet clinic, and a high-fashion men's clothing store in Seven Oaks. But it was in the world of cosmetology where she truly found her calling. Genny worked as a stylist at Gismondi Hair Salon and Magic Cuts, and later became an educator and manager at hairdressing schools in both Canada and the U.S.

In 1990, Genny's life took another significant turn when she moved to Edmonton, Alberta, and gave birth to her son, Ryan Harvey, on November 5. Though she gave Ryan up for adoption soon after his birth, she remained an active and loving presence in his life, visiting him regularly in California. The bond they shared was unwavering.

Genny lived in the lower mainland of BC for most of her life, and she formed deep, lasting connections with the people she met along the way. She loved fiercely—cherishing her family, friends, and the experiences she gathered throughout her journey.

In 2005, Genny met Jon Orloff, the love of her life. They embarked on an international relationship that lasted over 15 years before they were married by Elvis Presley in Las Vegas. Genny moved to Washington in 2015 to be with Jon and his two boys, Nick and Mitch, where she worked in various jobs while building strong, loving relationships with her neighbors and friends.

In 2018, Jon was diagnosed with cancer, and Genny stood by his side, fighting alongside him until his passing on December 23 of that year. After Jon’s death, Genny embarked on a new chapter of her life, buying a little trailer named “Doris” and setting off on an adventure across the United States. Along the way, she made new friends, and eventually, she found her new home in Paris, Tennessee. In Paris, Genny found peace in the quiet charm of her southern home, complete with a veranda, crown molding, and a large fireplace. She filled her home with warmth, often cooking delicious meals for others and hosting gatherings that made everyone feel welcome.

This love of cooking led her to open GG’s Picnic Basket, a small soup and sandwich shop where she created new dishes like the Tennessee Reuben and celebrated Canadiana week. She poured her heart into this business, always striving to serve her community with a smile and a full plate.In November 2024, after injuring her back, Genny had to close the shop temporarily to recover. Despite the pain, she continued to push forward, determined to return to the work she loved. But in December, her health began to decline, and she developed a severe cough and mobility issues.

Genny passed away on December 27, 2024, after suffering a stroke. Genny was a woman of great strength, resilience, and love. She may no longer be with us, but her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the love she gave, and the memories she created. She leaves behind a family, friends, and a community that will never forget her. Rest in peace, Genny. You will always be loved, and you will always be missed.---This eulogy offers a reflection on Genny's life, highlighting her accomplishments, passions, and the love she shared with others. It's a tribute to her memory and the indelible mark she left on everyone who knew her.