Liza's Story
1940 - 2011
Adventurous | Joyful | Giving
"It's not always what you say, it's how you make someone feel."
FAMILY
Daughter: Kim
Grandchildren: Elijah, Leila
Partners: Pat Johnson, John Shippam
Liza Shippam lived a vibrant and fulfilling life, deeply rooted in her family’s pioneer traditions and driven by her passion for education, community, and creativity. Born in Beaverlodge, Alberta, in 1940, Liza’s early years were shaped by the warmth of her extended family and the influence of her mother, Isobel, a dedicated teacher. Growing up on the family farm, she developed a deep love for animals and the outdoors, spending her childhood horseback riding, exploring, and helping with farm chores. These formative experiences instilled in Liza a strong sense of connection to nature and the values of hard work and family.
Liza pursued her education with determination, attending university in Missoula, Montana, where she earned her teaching degree. Early in her career, she worked as an intern teacher in Tuktoyuktuk, immersing herself in the unique culture of the North, and later lived for a year at the Ramstein Airbase in Germany with her first husband, Pat Johnson. Her teaching career flourished over 34 years, primarily in the Vernon School District, where she became known for her innovative teaching methods, her dedication to her students, and her classroom filled with small rescue animals that made learning a joy. Liza also served on the board of the Vernon Teachers Association and played an active role in mentoring student teachers.
Travel and adventure were central to Liza’s life. She explored destinations like Mexico, Thailand, Turkey, Egypt, Greece, Scotland, and the Caribbean, always returning with stories and experiences that enriched her perspective. She embraced opportunities to connect with nature, whether hiking local mountains to collect moss for her terrariums or spending time with her horses. Liza’s adventurous spirit was balanced by her creativity, which found expression in her art, crafts, and baking. She enjoyed making paper maché, macramé, and terrariums, and her recipes for treats like chocolate zucchini cake and berry pies became family favorites.
LEGACY & IMPACT
Liza’s dedication to her community was unwavering. She volunteered with numerous organizations, including the Vernon Performing Arts Centre, the North Okanagan Therapeutic Riding Association, and the SPCA, where she led large animal rescues. She organized book clubs, birthday luncheon groups, and the first RCMP Musical Rides for Vernon, showcasing her commitment to bringing people together. Her roles as president of the Vernon Riding Club and Pony Club further reflected her passion for fostering community connections and sharing her love for animals and the outdoors.
Family was the heartbeat of Liza’s life. She found love again with her second husband, John, whom she married in 1981 after building a log house together in Lavington. They shared a life filled with farming, breeding horses, and raising their daughter, Kim. In 1987, the family moved to a property on Okanagan Lake, which became Liza’s dream home and a cherished gathering place. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006, Liza faced her illness with strength and grace, continuing to nurture her relationships and remain active in her community until her passing in 2011. Her legacy lives on through her contributions to education, her community service, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness, creativity, and vibrant spirit.
