Lorne Christopher Wallace
May 7, 1962 – May 20, 2023
The real estate industry is mourning the loss of Lorne Wallace, the founder and chairman of Lone Wolf Technologies, who passed away unexpectedly on May 20, 2023. Lorne was a respected figure in the field, known for his visionary approach and profound impact on real estate technology. His sudden departure leaves behind a legacy of innovation, dedication, and love for his family.
Lorne’s influence
Lorne co-launched Lone Wolf Software in 1988 in Cambridge, Ont. The company introduced a financial software program that revolutionized real estate brokerage management. Lone Wolf’s offerings evolved over the years, providing stability and personalized support to countless real estate offices in Canada and the United States. Today, Lone Wolf boasts over 200 employees and services nearly 10,000 offices across North America.
Throughout his career, Lorne Wallace was committed to empowering brokers and agents. He understood the importance of financial control and developed Lone Wolf into the pre-eminent accounting software package for the industry. Lorne’s expertise as a chartered accountant, combined with his passion for the real estate sector, positioned him as a trusted advisor and mentor.
A lasting legacy
But Lorne’s impact extended beyond the confines of his business. He was a staunch supporter and friend of Real Estate Magazine, recognizing its ability to impact the industry and inform readers, Founding Editor Jim Adair shared. From the early days of Lone Wolf, Lorne endorsed REM and attributed part of his company’s success to the magazine’s influence.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lorne Wallace was a devoted family man. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Kelli, and their five children, along with nine adoring grandchildren. Lorne and Kelli cherished their family time, and together, they enjoyed travelling, gardening, and engaging in philanthropic endeavours. Lorne’s dedication to his loved ones was evident in his role as a father, grandfather, and husband.
Lorne Wallace, his wife Kelli Todd, and their nine grandchildren. Image source: everloved.com
As noted by those who shared their memories of Lorne, his passion for life was infectious, and he touched the hearts of many with his friendship, loyalty, compassion, and hard work. He was not only a successful entrepreneur but also a role model for others. Lorne’s commitment to sharing knowledge and helping others succeed earned him the admiration of entrepreneurs and industry professionals alike.
In recent years, Lorne faced health challenges, including a battle with Myelofibrosis, a rare and aggressive form of leukemia. Determined to find a cure, Lorne’s family launched a search for a stem cell donor. They sought to raise awareness about the urgent need for donors, emphasizing that a simple cheek swab could potentially save a life.
Stem cell donation is a non-invasive procedure, similar to donating blood, and Lorne’s family encouraged individuals within the eligible age range to register and get tested. The response to their plea for donors was overwhelming, highlighting the impact Lorne had on the lives of those around him.
Although the stem cell transplant was successful, his wife Kelli shared in an email that he developed fungal pneumonia that could not be controlled.
Celebration of life
A celebration of his life will be held Thurs. June 1, at Whistle Bear Golf Course in Cambridge, Ont. The family has asked attendees to RSVP.
Lorne Wallace will be remembered as a true legend in the real estate industry, a visionary who brought stability and innovation to brokerage offices across North America.
In his biography on his company’s website, Lorne recounted a poignant childhood incident that profoundly shaped his character and influenced the man he would become.
“I was lucky to have a number of mentors who influenced my path in life, starting with my grandfather, who, at the age of 12, let me cut the lawn on my own for the first time. He included the admonishment to not touch the center spindle the blades were attached to because it got really hot and I could burn myself. So sure enough, an hour or so later, I ended up in the kitchen sniffling as my grandmother held my burnt finger under the running water. I was 12, after all, and curious about how hot it was.
“My grandfather came into the room, looked at the finger, looked at me, looked back at the finger and took one last look at me and walked out. Without saying a word, he taught me what it was to be a man and be responsible for my actions. I’d like to think I’ve led my life dedicated to being responsible for my actions and for how they affect the people around me.”
Thank you for the beautiful article about my Brother.
He truly was a visionary leader in the Real Estate Technology Industry and in life.
The sadness we feel as a Family is overwhelming.
Our parents absolutely devasted.
Lorne ( Chris as we called him) is missed more than words can say.
He was always a big supporter of the REM paper and we appreciate your kind words.
I was fortunate enough to have been a client of Lone Wolf as a partner in Family Realty in the late 80’s. His management team and ours attended dozens of trade shows and conventions over the years across Canada. We shared many dinners and enlightening conversations. Jamie Johnston and Lorne were the top experts in the Real Estate Industry. Those were Happy Times!!