Mrs. Elizabeth "Liz" Lake Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Lake, 80, of Pittsfield, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, surrounded by family. Liz, as she was known to friends, was born on October 22, 1941 in Norfolk, VA to Thomas and Odessa Holland Harcum. At the age of 18, Liz met a young sailor, her beloved Ralph, and the two were married and lived in Pittsfield where they raised their three daughters. Liz held many positions in the workforce throughout her life. At the age of 15, Liz worked in a local drug store at the soda fountain—professionally known as a “soda jerk.” In her early adult years, Liz was a Switchboard Operator for New England Telephone. Later, she held a management position at AOK Business Services in North Adams, and she also worked at Coyle Printing and Mailing in Pittsfield. But the job Liz loved the most was that of mother and grandmother. Her love of family was especially demonstrated through her cooking and baking. One could always find her working tirelessly in the kitchen during family gatherings and celebrations, and the love she shared in this way will always be a treasured memory for her daughters and their families. Over the years Liz and Ralph enjoyed many activities together including square dancing, motorcycle riding, bowling, camping, and playing guitar. Liz also enjoyed sewing, gardening and being a leader to her daughter’s Brownie troop and Sunday school classes. Liz was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Pittsfield and Lenox for many years. Her most treasured memories though were of the 20+ years she and Ralph spent winter vacationing in Florida. She always spoke lovingly about the friends they made there. Elizabeth was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Odessa Harcum, her sister Judith Hinchey and her beloved husband of 60 years, Ralph Lake. She is survived by her daughters, Deborah Gaylord (David), Kimberly O’Brien (Jim) and Christine Lake. Elizabeth leaves behind eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren, William Bonney, whom she loved like a son and her cherished dog, Buddy. A private funeral service for Elizabeth Ann Lake will be held at the Dwyer-Wellington Funeral Home. At the family’s request there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the ALS Association MA Chapter and Hospice of Western & Central Massachusetts.

Mrs. Elizabeth "Liz" Lake

October 22, 1941 - July 6, 2022