- Winnipeg Free Press Passages
- All Titles
Search:
Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday

EILEEN MACFARLANE (OLSON)
Born: Feb 15, 1953
Date of Passing: Aug 14, 2013
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryEILEEN MACFARLANE (nee OLSON) February 15, 1953 - August 14, 2013 Eileen Macfarlane, avid traveller, fashionista and lover of nachos, died on Wednesday, August 14 surrounded by her close family at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg. Eileen was born in the Inwood area of Manitoba and was predeceased by her parents Alex and Elsie Olson. She attended Rondeau, a one room school house, as a young girl. In 1993 she relocated to White Horse, Yukon where she spent the last 20 years of her life working for the most part at Taku pub where she was affectionately referred to as "Red". Best known for kicking ass and taking names, you could always count on her to have your drink ready and waiting before your butt hit the barstool. Her laughter was infectious and witty remarks were never in short supply. Eileen enjoyed the outdoors, hiking, golfing, Harley's, playing "Dustball" (a.k.a. baseball) and wrestling (the sport...yes really!) but most of all she liked travelling the world. She had a soft spot for Mexico (where she visited repeatedly) and a sore spot for Hawaii, except Wayne Newton (sorry Honolulu) and had an incredible talent for making loyal friends everywhere (and I mean EVE-RY-WHERE) she went. She rarely complained, was the first to try something new and had a life-long love affair with clothing and unique jewelry (whether she wore the pieces or not). Eileen is survived by her son Colin (Deirdre), grandson Seamus, sisters Barb (Jim) and Marilyn (Bob) and brothers Pete (Marni) and Warren and was greatly loved and will be forever missed by all of those she left behind...from her close friends in White Horse to the baseball team she played with, to her extensive family. The world will be a little quieter and a lot less colourful without Red. Following Eileen's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held. VOYAGE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORIUM, (204) 668-3151.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 24, 2013
Condolences & Memories (7 entries)
-
Certainly one of the best persons I've ever met working behind the bar. An excellent friend way beyond that scenario, and missed here, now all the more. 'bye Eileen !!! R.I.P. - Posted by: John Layman (Yukon friend) on: Aug 27, 2013
-
Marilyn and family - I am so sorry to hear of your sister's sudden passing and I want to extend my sincere condolences to you and all of your family members. - Posted by: Glen Acheson (Family friend) on: Aug 27, 2013
-
Thanks for keeping tabs on me Eileen. As you did all your regulars You are sadly missed. - Posted by: Steadman (Taku patron) on: Aug 27, 2013
-
Eileen poured many cocktails for the patrons of "the Taku", many friendships were made and she witnessed them all, I'm sure she saw some hair pulling too. At one point I saw her daily as many other people living here or just hanging for the summer did. It was the local meeting place on the corner of 4th and Main, every Friday night it was standing room only!! Her smile and voice were noticeable and she worked at the best damn place in town. "The Taku" has been gone for many years and I'm quite certain that she's sittin' on a bar stool, checking out who's coming through the doors, next! Giver' Eileen and wherever you are, make sure you show them how to chair dance, Yukon style!! - Posted by: Maxine from Whitehorse (Friend and patron from the Taku) on: Aug 27, 2013
-
I am sorry to hear your dear sister has passed! Vicky sent me this obutary and I am so grateful to reconnect with all of you. Feel free to call or email as I would love to connect with you! I live in Victoria and would love to keep in touch! I remember many a joy filled time at your parents home and the many giggles,l oving food and shared friendship! I still love banana sandwiches! Take care and blessing to All! Josie:) - Posted by: Josie Brocker (went to school with sister Barbra and Eileen) on: Aug 26, 2013
-
So long blip, was nice to have known you. God speed. - Posted by: Corrie Van Dyke (friend) on: Aug 24, 2013
-
To Eileen's family - we are so sorry for the loss of a sister, mother, grandmother and friend. Thinking of you at this difficult time. Anne and Ivan Victoria, BC - Posted by: Anne and Ivan () on: Aug 24, 2013