Pediatrician
Dr. Lynn Straatman passed away on Nov. 28, 2025, after a brief but valiant battle with cancer. She died peacefully surrounded by her family.
Lynn completed her pediatrics residency at Hospital for Sick Children, specializing in cardiology. Lynn moved to Vancouver, B.C., where she became a clinical assistant professor in the division of cardiology at University of British Columbia with joint appointments in pediatrics (adolescent medicine) and palliative care. She was the medical director of the Heart Function Clinic at Vancouver General Hospital. She also chaired the Vancouver Coastal Health Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Steering Committee, leading initiatives to address barriers for BIPOC physicians and gender equality for physicians. Lynn led the ON TRAC program — a provincial collaboration that supported youth with chronic conditions transitioning from pediatric to adult care — work that earned her the HEABC Top Innovation Award in 2015. Lynn was clearly a champion for her patients and equity in health care.
Apart from her career accomplishments, Lynn is most fondly remembered for the care and commitment she showed to her family. She leaves in mourning her son, husband, parents, sister, brothers and many friends. Lynn carried herself with a quiet optimism and a kindness that made people feel seen and supported.