The family of Elsie Finlay sadly announce her death on April 26th at the Victoria Royal Jubilee Hospital after a short illness. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother Bill Skyrme and is survived by her sisters June Parks and Shirley (Bill) Cherwak, nieces Susan, Margo, Barb, & nephews Brad & Brent and their spouses and families, her special son Collin (Joanne) and their sons; her special daughters Leah, Janice & Marina and their spouses and families as well as her closest and dearest friend Waldi, many relatives in Britain and many, many dear friends.
Elsie was born May 30, 1928 in Tisdale, Saskatchewan and came to Port Alberni in 1934. She attended local schools, graduating; her first job was at the Plywood Mill. She and her friend Velia started a business, the Mode Style Shop in Alberni. After selling the shop, Elsie attended Sprott Shaw College in Vancouver, completing her secretarial course and then worked for the Arthritis Society in Vancouver. She then decided to travel to Britain and worked there for three years; returning to Port Alberni in 1959 to work at the WCGH in the clerical departments, marrying Ian in 1961. Elsie retired in 1993.
She loved to travel, one of her last trips was to Antarctica, her favorite place was Scotland. She enjoyed sports – ice curling, skiing, and her daily walks around the dyke with Waldi & “Molly”. Elsie loved to bake, her shortbread was famous; gardening was another passion. She volunteered at the Seaman’s Haven and for the Lifeline.
A Celebration of Elsie’s life will be held Saturday, May 14th – 1:00 PM at the Best Western Barclay Hotel, 4277 Stamp Avenue, Port Alberni.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Elsie’s name may be made to WCGH Foundation or Ty Watson House. Stories and condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.yatesfuneral.ca