Obituary of Ingrid Susan Althouse

ALTHOUSE, INGRID SUSAN – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Ingrid (Lundrigan) Althouse, 77, of Bedford, Nova Scotia on Friday, October 25, in the comfort of her home.

Ingrid leaves behind her cherished daughters: Susan Graves, Paula Althouse (Colin Fitchett), Nancy Althouse, and Holly Althouse; grandsons Brandon and Brett Graves; sisters, Gudrid Hutchings, Sigrid Fitzpatrick (William), and Astrid Lundrigan Cohen; sister-in-law, Nancy Heath (Dick); as well as Joseph Hutchings, Wayde Graves, and special godson and nephew David Hutchings. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and her beloved dogs, Adore and Whisper. Ingrid was predeceased by her husband Paul Althouse, her parents Arthur and Ida (Johnson) Lundrigan, and Paul’s parents, Holland and Mildred Althouse.

Born and raised in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Ingrid attended school at Edgehill in Windsor, Nova Scotia, returning home each summer to be with family. She furthered her education at Dalhousie University, where she earned both an undergraduate and an education degree. It was there that she honed her remarkable multitasking skills by regularly playing bridge while balancing her studies. It was also where she met the love of her life, Paul. After they married in 1970 and moved to St. John’s, NL, Ingrid taught grade 2 until she became a mother. They settled in Corner Brook in 1974, where they raised their daughters and became integral members of the community.

Ingrid embraced volunteer work, supporting various church activities and being involved with her daughters’ endeavors. Her most rewarding role was with Girl Guides of Canada. She was a Sparks Leader, Brownie Leader, and the Area Commissioner for Girl Guides for Western Newfoundland (long after her children were involved). Teaching, guiding, and helping youth was her passion.

Ingrid was not only a gifted teacher but also an incredible homemaker. She loved to cook and bake, using her exceptional culinary talents to express love and gratitude. Skilled in sewing, she crafted many Halloween and theatre costumes, Christmas outfits, and curtains for her daughters’ homes. She could wallpaper and paint with precision, hang art like a curator, and fix just about anything. Though Ingrid was quiet by nature, her wit, intelligence, and contagious laugh brought joy to those around her. She loved playing cards, listening to her daughters’ music, and welcoming friends and family into her home.

The heart of Ingrid’s life was her family. As a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she demonstrated her unconditional love through her presence, care, support, and guidance. Steadfast and level-headed, she was the rock of her family.

During the last seven years of her life, Ingrid battled a debilitating disease, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), with grace, dignity, and perseverance. Her resolve to face and accept her physical challenges, while maintaining a positive outlook on life, showed her determination and will to live. Her strength and humour, especially in the face of adversity, taught all who knew her invaluable lessons. Her absence will be felt deeply.

The family is grateful for the exceptional care Ingrid received from her dedicated caregivers. Raman, Eileen, Amelia, Aman, Elaine, Belle, Rizalina, Maria, Jagroop, Kessa, Nacola, Zeel and Sofia – thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 6th, 5 to 8pm, and the funeral service will take place on Thursday, November 7th, at 2pm. Both will be held at JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive,Halifax. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), https://www.msacanada.ca/donate-to-us/