FLORENCE EFFIE BUCHAN-TERRELL

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FLORENCE EFFIE BUCHAN-TERRELL Peacefully at the home of her daughter on Sunday, January 15, 2006 at the age of 88, Effie left us as she had lived so fully, with dignity, modesty and a fierce independence. She was predeceased by her husband of 37 years, William George Walker, who also succumbed to cancer in 1986. Effie is survived by her eldest son, Robert David and wife Marylyn of Oshawa; daughter Wendy Rae Tomlinson of Nepean; son William Grant and wife Nancy of Oakville and grandchildren, Christopher and Sara, Michael, and Allison and Hillary, respectively. Effie was born in Winnipeg, MB, spending her early years in Bird's Hill and North Kildonan, the second youngest of seven children of Samuel and Florence Tomlinson, with brothers John and Ernie, and sisters, Kay, Janey, Margaret and Maude, all of whom predeceased her. Effie worked in the family market garden business as a child, and then as a hairdresser after graduating high school. She met George (Buck) before the war, and they shared a love for big band music at local dances. They married in Toronto in 1939 as Buck enlisted in the RCAF for service in the war. In raising David, Wendy and Grant, Effie was often managed by herself, as Buck was on the road during the week as a service representative for Ford for many years. She seemed the perfect mother to us, always supportive, strong and understanding when she ran the household during the week, and as loving wife and mother when Dad was home on weekends. She played badminton, bowled, curled and more than anything, was an avid contract bridge player and skilled crossword puzzle solver, two activities that kept her sharp as a pin. With Buck's passing in 1986, she came to Ottawa from Winnipeg to be closer to Wendy. She adapted to life without Buck with determination, and enjoyed family visits and trips, and making meals at her apartment. Effie would take one or two bus connections (even during the worst of Ottawa's winters) to play bridge or volunteer at local senior centres. Whatever her family was interested in, she was interested in, be it gardening, soccer, craft fairs, baseball, school studies, or wood carving; her good natured enthusiasm was contagious. Effie had lots of Lancashire resolve in her petite frame, yet she was also thrilled with new things, experiences, tastes - whatever was offered, she was always gung-ho. That was Effie. She rarely complained about anything, except for the weather: she hated the heat. She was very grateful for all those who were able to see her the last few months when her previously robust health was finally compromised by cancer, her main concern that she not be a bother to anyone. Effie will be missed, yet her strong values, resolve, undemanding love and joy for life live on through our memories of her. A life well done, with dignity and modesty, from beginning to merciful end to the peace she so richly deserves. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Service and reception will be held at Pinecrest Cremation Centre at 2500 Baseline Road, Ottawa (613-829-3600) on Wednesday, January 18 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. In memoriam donations may be made to the Ottawa Humane Society. Thanks to the palliative care doctors, the Bayshore Care nurses, and the Friends of Hospice for their kindness and understanding.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 18, 2006