ETHEL FLORENCE LAIDLAW

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

• From a young age, I always thought my grandma was the coolest/ hippest lady I knew. I spent many summers at Victoria beach with her and have many memories, watching thunderstorms, turning on the radio to listen to Coast to Coast, watching movies, playing cards, golfing, and enjoying the beautiful beaches. As I grew older I still remained close to grandma, a phone call every week and a glass of wine every odd Sunday. I looked up to her and was astounded by her ability to have such a positive outlook on life. She experienced numerous tragedies in her life and didn't dwell on them; she seemed to find the silver lining in every situation. Grandma, I was fortunate to introduce you to Amy and spend time with you before moving to BC. I will cherish the last words you spoke to me and talk fondly of you in the years to come. - Posted by: Laura Laidlaw (Granddaughter) on: Feb 16, 2017

• My deepest condolences to Ethel's loved ones! I didn't know Ethel that long but formed a friendship with her quite quickly. She was a sweet and loving person and was extremely lucky having such a wonderful family! I feel honored to have looked after her for a short period of time. Thank you for the recognition. May you all hold on to all those memories that you all have of Ethel. May God bless you all. Melissa from 4E - Posted by: Melissa (RN/FRIEND) on: Jan 22, 2017

• I met Ethel in 2011, 2 days after I moved to the same block. We hit it off superbly right from the start. Ethel was never a complainer and would help anyone and everyone if she could. We had many good laughs whenever we went shopping or to doctors, etc. She called me "her adopted daughter" and I called her "my adopted Momma". Curling will never be the same to me as it will always remind me of Ethel and her enthusiasm for watching it on TV. She loved seeing her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was so pleased to introduce them to her friends. She was the best! Forever, your adopted daughter xoxox - Posted by: Judy Stutzke (Friend) on: Jan 16, 2017

• I got to know Ethel spending time at Victoria Beach over the years at mother-in-law Mary's (posted) cabin. I had opportunity to visit with her briefly after she was admitted to St Boniface Hospital. After some tears, we had some good laughs reminiscing about times at VB and life in general. But her eyes lit up the most as she talked with love and pride about her family, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ethel, lovely lady, rest in peace. - Posted by: Eloise and Jeff McCulloch (Friends) on: Jan 16, 2017

• Ethel was always an inspiration to me. With all of the lemons she was dealt in life, she made lemonade. The glass was always half full. I treasure all of the times we shared at Victoria Beach and the time we spent as roomies. She was so easy to be around. I shall miss her terribly as I am sure you all will. With lots of love to you Ethel. Rest in peace until we meet again. - Posted by: Jackie Cantin (Friend) on: Jan 15, 2017

• My favourite memory of Ethel was when she joined us at our annual Victoria Beach cottage tea party. The grandchildren were always delighted to serve tea and goodies from a real tea pot and into real china tea cups. Ethel happened to stop by during one of our parties, we gave her a flowery hat, and she took on a role of a very special visitor to join the fancy table. There was a hippie from out of this world present, Papa Walter was a diplomat from Russia, Didi Rita was a proper lady, and the aunties were busy giggling at the ridiculous antics. All the time, the little ones were graciously serving tea and making sure they served Ethel, our special guest that year, in a very proper manner. I'm not sure Ethel knew what she was walking into, but she played along to the delight of both the kids and the adults. Lovely memory of a very special lady indeed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Gary, Jan and family. We will miss Ethel very much. - Posted by: Kathleen Barrett (nee Boyd) (Victoria Beach friend and neighbour) on: Jan 14, 2017

• Ethel was one of my dearest friends. We shared many wonderful times together as well as many sad times. We bonded just after her dear husband Bud passed. We were both single ladies and one day at the cottage I needed a hot water tank. Ethel gave me one that she was not using and would not take any money for it. We understood how difficult it can be (Not having a man around the house so to speak). Ethel was a compassionate listener as well as a generous helper. My fondest memory is going to Elk Island with her to pick blueberries. We shared this experience a number of times and I was always amazed by her energy and zest for life. Goodbye dear friend, I hope to see you again some day. - Posted by: Mary Andres (friend) on: Jan 14, 2017

• I lived beside Ethel for 9 years and always found her to be warm, friendly and someone who also went through 'Shingles' and freely shared her stories. She was always warm and friendly, I will miss her. My thoughts are with her family and her granddaughter who Ethel introduced to one day when she was visiting. RIP Ethel Bill - Posted by: Bill Keith (Neighbor) on: Jan 14, 2017