Laura Hilfer of Ontario, Canada, was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of thirteen. After intensive treatments, she was declared cancer free, but her and her family’s happiness was short lived as the disease returned again four years later.
Heartrendingly, this young and beautiful soul lost her battle to cancer on January 20, 2016.
Her family shared the devastating news on the social media through the Facebook page dedicated to Laura’s progress and struggles while she was still alive.
“She fought bravely and all of you would have been so proud of her. Her poise, her courage, her strength and her pure spirit shone through right until the end,” her family wrote.
The Nelson High School student was loved by many. She touched the lives of everyone she had encountered, and it was now her friends’ turn to show her just how much she meant to them.
They covered her casket with notes, expressing their gratitude, their love, as well as their sorrow that came with her passing.
Their wish was that Laura receive a love-filled farewell worth of a beloved friend and student.
Not only her classmates and teachers, but her family, neighbors, and even the hospital staff all penned tributes to her on her casket.
When they saw their daughter’s casket, Laura’s family were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support.
One of the messages read, “You were musical. You were artistic. You were understanding. You were my bestest friend.” Another read: “Very brave and strong. You will always be a hero.”
Laura’s favorite color, purple, was on display at the church and on people’s clothes.
Sadly, Laura left this world, but the outpouring of love from her local community was heartwarming to see.
May she rest in peace.
What Your Typical Day Was Like During ‘The Golden Age’ Of Commercial Flying
From the 1950s to the 1970s, flying was a luxurious experience. Aviation historian Graham M. Simons recalls it as a time of elegance, with spacious seats and stylish crew. Passengers dressed up, adding to the sense of occasion.
Flight options were limited and costly. A round-trip ticket from Chicago to Phoenix in 1955 cost $138, about $1,200 today. Aviation expert Guillaume de Syon notes that flying was four to five times more expensive than now, making it accessible only to the wealthy.
Airlines served lavish meals with delicacies like caviar and foie gras. Some even hosted fashion shows on board. Former flight attendant Suzy Smith remembers serving beluga caviar during flights.
Flying felt like a cocktail party. Passengers dressed formally, and relaxed security allowed unusual items like pet birds in shoeboxes. This freedom contributed to a laid-back atmosphere.
Pan Am epitomized luxury and glamour. Former employee Joan Policastro recalls star-studded flights with exclusive lounges.
Flight attendants had strict appearance standards, wearing high heels, white gloves, and corsets. Airlines imposed rules on appearance, hair length, weight, and marital status.
Despite its end, the Golden Age of flying is fondly remembered. Groups like World Wings, former Pan Am employees, cherish memories of when flying was an adventure synonymous with luxury and excitement.
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