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Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday
ELAINE AUDREY WILLIAMS
It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Elaine Williams, who passed away peacefully with family by her side at the age of 93 years. Elaine was predeceased by her husband, John; parents, Alfred and Aileen Tempest; and brother, Ron Tempest.
Elaine is survived and lovingly remembered by her children, Leslie O'Shaughnessy (Bob), Laurel Carpenter, and Lynne Williams; grandchildren, Jenna Ostrowerka (Thomas), David O'Shaughnessy (Sinead), Michael Carpenter (Carly), Patrick O'Shaughnessy (Blakeley), and Ryan O'Shaughnessy (Nadia); and great-grandchildren, Audrey Ostrowerka, Isla O'Shaughnessy, John O'Shaughnessy, and Mac Carpenter.
Elaine was born in Winnipeg, MB, and grew up in the Crescentwood neighbourhood. She attended Rupertsland School (now part of Balmoral Hall) and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Manitoba. Elaine worked for Eaton's and the Winnipeg Public Library but spent most of her career employed with the Manitoba Department of Education as a correspondence teacher, a role she retired from in 1986.
Whytewold was a very special and memorable place for Elaine. She spent her summers there as a young girl, and it is where she met John Williams in 1947. Their first date was at Winnipeg Beach, where they took a stroll on the boardwalk and rode the rollercoaster several times before returning home on the Moonlight train. They married five years later, in 1952, and remained happily married until he passed away in 2019. They raised their three beautiful daughters in the East Kildonan neighbourhood of Winnipeg and continued to spend their summers in Whytewold, where they eventually built their own cottage, which Elaine endearingly named the "Latin Quarter". Upon retirement, they moved permanently to the "Latin Quarter" and spent many years wintering in Arizona. In their last years together, they resided at River Ridge Retirement Residence in Winnipeg. In August 2023, Elaine moved to Aspen Heights Retirement Residence in Calgary to be closer to her family.
Elaine was an avid bridge player. She also loved to read and listen to opera and classical music. As a young girl, Elaine was fortunate to journey across Canada and the U.S. with her parents and brother on several occasions, and as a result, she developed an enthusiasm for travel. Two of her most memorable adventures came later in life when she visited the U.K. (the homeland of her father) and took a trip with John to Italy (the homeland of his father).
Elaine was highly intelligent, strong-willed, and had a witty sense of humour. She was devoted to her family and never missed an opportunity to celebrate or send well wishes for birthdays and other milestones. Elaine will be greatly missed by all who knew her, especially her family and many cherished friends. We take tremendous comfort in knowing that she is at peace and reunited with John, her beloved husband.
In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal service.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Elaine's family at www.MHFH.com.
In living memory of Elaine Williams, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 29, 2024
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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My mother was Elaine's cousin. When my parents had their 50th wedding anniversary in 2001 Elaine sent a beautiful letter about memories of her visit to Evanston, Illinois and visiting my mother Sylvia and her brother Harrison and their parents (her aunt and uncle) Gertrude and William Tempest. When Elaine did not receive a Christmas card from my Mom in 2009 she tracked me down in Denver, CO to confirm her fears that my mother had passed away. Since that time we corresponded regularly exchanging Xmas cards and sharing family news. She sent me a beautiful picture of her on her 90th birthday. I didn't get a Christmas card from her this year and I was concerned so I looked up her obituary. So very sorry for your loss. Although I never met Elaine I had a soft spot in my heart for her and thoroughly enjoyed our correspondence and family connection. - Posted by: Carolyn Abman (Elaine's cousin Sylvia Tempest Frank's daughter) on: Mar 22, 2025
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I'd like to offer condolences to Leslie, Laurel and Lynne on the recent passing of your mum. Although it's been decades I'll remember your mum and dad as two of the most wonderful, genuine people anyone could be fortunate enough to know. Brent - Posted by: Brent M (Friend ) on: Jul 22, 2024
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Leslie, Laurel & Lynne, My deepest condolences. My Mother and Dad (Ivy & Hugh MacColl) so enjoyed their friendship with your parents. Your dear Mom and I have corresponded over these past years. I know how difficult the move was for her, but, she was so glad to be closer to you. May your fond memories of her and your life together give you peace and comfort. Deepest Sympathy, Laurel Jones Ottawa, ON - Posted by: Laurel Jones (Friend) on: Jul 04, 2024
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My thoughts are with all of you at this very sad time. I will miss my chats with Elaine, especially the ones that included a glass of red wine! She was so fortunate to have three very caring daughters and she appreciated you more than you know. Deepest sympathies to you and your families. - Posted by: Maggie (friend) on: Jun 29, 2024