Lou died peacefully at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital on November 29.  He was born in Murdochville, Québec on March 5, 1966 "Don't forget".  Pre-deceased by his mother Denyse in 1981.  Also, pre-deceased by his uncle Louis, tante Jeanette, tante Hélène, and his grand-parents.  He is survived by his father Alex, Tante Marie, and siblings Ann (Vladan), Marie (Rick) and Robbie (Sarah).  He is also survived by his nieces Sophie and Katherine, nephew Philip, aunts, uncles, cousins, and great nieces and nephews.

Lou had Down syndrome but this did not prevent him from leading a full life.  He moved several times with his family from Murdochville (1966), Valleyfield (1967, 1973), Rouyn-Noranda (1970), and to Oakville (1976).  Lou loved life.  He enjoyed singing, dancing, bowling, swimming, playing the drums, listening to operas, going to the movies, coloring with his markers, playing with legos, giving speeches, attending musicals, and sports events.  His love of water and swimming started at an early age. Lou spent many summers at Haldimand beach in Gaspé, at his grandparents' chalet, spending hours in the sand and in "la grande piscine à Grand-Maman".  Lou loved animals especially Pushka, the family dog.  He liked to eat and his favourite foods included perogies, cheesecake, ice cappuccinos, and his grandmother Anyu's Dobos Torte etc.  He spent hours anticipating and preparing for parties and holidays.  His favourites were Christmas, his birthday "March 5th! Don't forget!", and Halloween.  Halloween became an annual event at the family home, where the basement was elaborately decorated into a haunted house (costumes required). Lou will be remembered for his quick smile, infectious laugh, sense of humour, and outgoing (if sometimes stubborn) personality.

We wish to thank the various healthcare professionals who played a crucial role in supporting his living in the community for as long as possible. Further thanks to the dedicated teams at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital's Emergency Department and Palliative Care Unit for their compassionate care towards Lou.

Members of the family would like to express their appreciation to the staff and management of Community Living Oakville for their strong support and care over the years.  Lou had several outstanding primary support workers and became very close to Shawna in the past few years.  Shawna was exceptional and indispensable to Lou and his family.  Special thanks to Ryan, Lou's music teacher, who encouraged his appreciation for music.

A funeral service will be held at St. Andrew's Church in Oakville (47 Reynolds Street) on December 12 at 2:30 PM followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Community Living Oakville and indicate that the donation is in the memory of Lou Balogh.