Lila Muriel Fripps Heier
December 14th, 1929 ~ May 28th, 2024
Lila Muriel Fripps Heier (nee Webb), born December 14, 1929, in Grandview, MB, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2024.
Lila was the cherished daughter of Nina and Alfred Webb, and youngest sister of Jack and Jean. Her childhood was filled with drawing, music, skating and summers at Clear Lake. Learning from her parents, she was active in the Grandview community, often singing at local events with her sister Jean, and offering help, like weaving scarves for troops overseas. The welcoming nature of the Webb home was a model of what Lila carried through her life.
Encouraged by her parents, Lila pursued her passion for sketching and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design (BID) from the University of Manitoba in 1951. Lila married Doug Fripps in 1959 and moved to a wonderful beachside life in Long Beach, California, where their daughters Lynn and Michelle were born. Later returning to Port Coquitlam, BC, they welcomed their third daughter Kelley. Lila was a loving, creative and energetic mom with a generous heart, who inspired those same qualities in her three girls. During this time, Lila took on leadership roles in her daughters’ school, church, swim team and Girl Guide activities. She continued her work in interior design, taught night school courses, and wrote a column for the local newspaper.
Lila’s career ranged from designing the emerging oil industry offices in Calgary, to designing executive offices, notable restaurants, and distinguished homes in Vancouver. Her entrepreneurial talents were recognized when she started her own design firm, Lila Interiors, which was highly successful for over 20 years, earning numerous accolades and awards.
Lila semi-retired to Langley to help raise her grandchildren, Danielle, Cameron, Sean, Benjamin, Nicholas, Adam, Meghan, Lauryn and Kirsten. The positive impact she had on them was significant. She lovingly supported her daughter, Lynn, through cancer and remained a devoted and doting Grandma after Lynn passed. In 2001, her life was enriched when she married Erv Heier. They spent many wonderful years together golfing, gardening, traveling and enjoying time with their large blended family.
A vibrant and artistic woman, Lila’s beautiful paintings grace the walls of many homes. In her later years, in Abbotsford and Chilliwack, she continued to share her warm hospitality. Her get-togethers were known for their creative decorations, delicious food, lively political conversations, laughter and fun. Right up until she went into hospice, she was consistently the thoughtful neighbour, bringing treats to the party, or to those who were not feeling well. She treasured her daily chats with her friends and her dear sister, Jean.
Lila is predeceased by her parents Nina and Alfred Webb, brother John (Dorothy), husband Douglas Fripps, husband Ervin Heier, and daughter Carolynn (Simon). She is survived by her sister Jean Cronk (John), children Michelle (Will), Kelley (Francis), Dale (Tim), Lynn, Mel (Lynn), Don (Sharon); 21 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
Lila’s life was marked by her creativity in interior design, sharing in her community, and her dedication to her beloved family. She will be deeply missed by all. A celebration of Lila’s life will be held at a later date.
Messages:
Lila was a cherished friend from our days in PoCo till her passing. Our two families had many happy times together while we raised our children. I will miss her friendship, her radiant smile and her laughter and her wonderful messages, especially at Christmas. My condolences and love to her family that she loved so much. Barb Pettie and family
We were fortunate to know Lila as our neighbour here at The Douglas. She was thoughtful, generous and fun-loving in her own stylish way. We miss her at our gatherings and feel deeply for your loss.
Lila was a cheerful member of our weekly Games here in the Douglas. She would bring her newly baked cookies or chocolate, nut clusters and they were much appreciated. We miss Lila and I'm glad I had a chance to enjoy her company.
I express my deepest sympathy. The Bible promises that your loved one will come to life again on a beautiful paradise earth when death will be no more in John 5:28, 29 and Revelation 21:4.
Our backyards shared a border in PoCo and I have fond childhood memories of Lila making me welcome when playing with Lynn or Michelle. No doubt she’ll be missed and remembered by you all as you recall a life well lived! Laurie
We’re so sorry for your loss. Lila was a warm, funny and kind presence at so many of your get-togethers. Big hugs to all of you.
I am so sorry for your loss. Lila was an amazing person with a wonderful sense of humour and such warmth that it was a joy to be around her. We are sending our hugs and prayers to all of you.
I had the pleasure of knowing Lila through her daughter Lynn. She was an amazing vibrant woman, who would light up the room when she walked in. Her generous nature was experienced by all of us lucky enough to be in her life. She had a quick wit and was someone who I loved having a conversations with. I am also very fortunate enough to have several of Lila’s painting which I will treasure always. She will be dearly missed and the world is a little less bright when we lost Lila. Condolences to her incredible family who carry on her legacy! Hugs to you all! ❤️
Our condolences for your loss, Michelle. It's a bittersweet time...the loss of someone much loved but also the assurance of seeing your Mother again, in Eternity! ...with love to you and your family