1936–2015
Mount Pleasant Cemetery
Plot A Lot 581
Lois Lilienstein was born in Chicago in 1936 and grew up with a love for music that would one day transform children’s entertainment. Moving to Toronto in the 1960s, by the late 1970s she had joined forces with Sharon Hampson and Bramwell Morrison to form the iconic trio Sharon, Lois & Bram. The group’s playful harmonies and infectious energy captivated generations of children in Canada and around the world. Their music wasn’t just fun; it was a celebration of childhood, family and imagination.
In 1984, the group launched The Elephant Show on CBC, a program that quickly became a cultural phenomenon in Canada. With its cheerful mascot, catchy tunes and warm-hearted hosts, the show invited children to sing, dance and dream. Lois stood out for her gentle humour and genuine connection with young audiences, making her a beloved figure in homes across the country.
Beyond television, Lois and her partners recorded albums that became staples in family collections. Her dedication to creating joyful, educational music earned her admiration far outside Canada’s borders. When Lois passed away in 2015, tributes poured in, honouring her as a trailblazer in children’s entertainment and wellbeing. Her songs, and her spirit, continue to echo in the joy and laughter of children everywhere.
Sources:
• Wikipedia – “Sharon, Lois & Bram”
• Wikipedia – “The Elephant Show”
• Toronto Star Obituary (via Legacy.com)
• Britannica – “Sharon, Lois & Bram”
Photo: Anne Delong CC BY-SA 4.0
