Liane Birch

Liane's Story

Liane arrived on May 4, 1944, bringing great joy into the lives of her parents Charles Edward Smith and Corrine Adam, and her elder brother Paul. The family lived in Montreal, where Liane spent her childhood.

Liane was a fearless, adventurous child who persued many interests and hobbies throughout her early years, including aquatic sports, synchronized swimming and piano. She was also a very accomplished sewer. 

After high school Liane acquired a business diploma from a local college and enthusiastically entered the world of work. She was an independent, hard working and ambitious young woman, anxious to build a challenging and rewarding career. 

Liane was a no-nonsense, strong willed, very capable young woman and did not tolerate disrespectful treatment from others. When an early boyfriend repaid a loan with a cheque that bounced, he was unceremoniously bounced out of her life. 

After a number of short term contracts in stenographic pools, building her resume, experience and references, Liane was offered a job with TransCanada Airlines (later became Air Canada). Liane's exceptional capabilities did not go unnoticed and she was promoted to the Position of Assistant to the President. Her bilingual skills were also an asset. 

Liane's duties were varied, challenging and exciting. She was asked to represent the company in Paris, at the launch of a new destination, leading to many adventures and memorable experiences. And back in Montreal, she was occasionally called upon to babysot the president's children, also an important and challenging role. 

One day, while waiting for an elevator at Place Ville Marie, Liane was approached by a man who asked "How long have you been here." When Liane said "10 hours" the man replied "That's a long time to wait for an elevator. How about a drink?" And the rest was history. 

Mary Liane Smith and Kenneth Bertram Birch were married on February 21, 1970, and went on to more adventures. Ken also worked for Air Canada, and the couple represented the company in the New York City office for several years. Liane thoroughly enjoyed the New York City life and took full advantage of all it had to offer. 

Ken and Liane moved back to Montreal briefly and then moved to Ottawa, where they bought a travel agency (Marlin Travel). Their business flourished, with government and holiday travel, augmented with referrals from their Air Canada contacts. 

Liane described Ken as a witty, kind, outgoing man who loved a good time, apparently a very good singer and dancer. Liane lost the love of her life when Ken died 13 years ago at the age of 83. 

Liane continued her life at Park Place, and has enjoyed the companionship of many, many devoted friends among her fellow residents. She was a kind, generous, and caring person, always ready to step p wherever there was a need. She had a strong sense of community, and her many contributions to the Park Place Community will not be forgotten. She will be truly missed. 

After a brief battle with cancer, Liane passed away on Thursday October 15, 2026 at the Queensway Carleton Hospital in Ottawa. 

Rest in Peace Liane!