Vernon's Teach and Learn family is once again mourning the loss of a loved one.

Lynella Henke lost her battle to cancer, mere months after losing one of her daughters to a tragic accident.

"We are heartbroken to announce that our sweet Lynella passed away early Sunday morning," the store posted to social media Nov. 5. "Although she has been sick for four months, this abrupt end was very unexpected, but we are encouraged to know that she is at peace."

A service takes place at Creekside Community Centre Friday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon.

Lynella founded the toy store with her mother Mavis in 1990, when she was in Grade 11.

"I loved working here," Lynella told after it was named the retailer of the year by Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada.

Starting out selling primarily educational materials for teachers, as Mavis was a teacher, Lynella grew the business to the successful downtown business it is today.

But she didn't do it alone; her husband and three daughters are the other stalwarts of the 30th Avenue business.

Now it is just Trevor and two daughters.

Lynza Henke, 14, died after being hit in a downtown crosswalk July 20, 2024.

The young girl's death shook the community and the Downtown Vernon Association named a business award after her.

The Lynza Legacy Award was presented to Lynella Oct. 2.

"We are deeply heartbroken," the DVA said in response to the news of Lynella's death. "She was a light for many and for the community. She will always shine bright, in our eyes."

Lynella was presented with Business Leader of the Year Award by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce recently.

"We're very thankful for all the support and the help," Trevor said of the community having their back at the store that lights up everyone who walks in. "My daughters and I will continue to keep that vision going."

Prior to opening Teach and Learn, Lynella was a sales clerk at Bakers Dozen and a circulation rep at the Vernon Daily News