Obituary of Judy ELSON (nee Gray)

February 4, 1939 – San Juan, Puerto Rico     

January 17, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta   

Our cocoon is empty- the butterfly is free!

Judith (Judy) Ann Elson passed away on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at the age of 81 years.

Judy was a loving wife to John; and adored mother of Randy and Wendy (Gerry); a proud grandma of Kelsey (Jeff), Dayne and Reid. She will be sorely missed by her family, brother-in-law Bruce (Mary) Elson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She moved to Michigan when she was seven, and settled in Toronto, Canada when she was eleven. She met John in 1958, and they married in 1960. Judy and John moved many times, but primarily lived in Toronto, Ottawa, Edmonton and Calgary.

Judy cherished her family and she enjoyed nothing more than being with them. Spending time together at dinners and on holidays, especially game nights, were big highlights. She and John enjoyed travelling, and in particular, camping, they have been doing it every year for nearly 60 years. They have been to every province, two territories, and most of the US states. They have taken many trips and cruises, visiting scores of notable places in the world.

Judy was an avid bridge player, at the clubs she made many enduring friendships. Any occasion with her was a fun event because of her humour, wisdom and contagious laughter. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome, comfortable and respected. Judy was a fabulous cook and hostess. Known to be a savvy shopper, she will no doubt be waiting outside the Pearly Gates until tickets to get in go on sale.

Many thanks to Dr. Peter Duggan, Jenny Breaks and the rest of the wonderful care team at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, her GP Dr. Michael Christie and the home palliative care team.

At Judy’s request there will be no funeral or public services. As she would say: “Onwards and Upwards.”

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Judy’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, #204, 1608 – 17 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0E3 Telephone: (403) 255-7100, www.jdrf.ca  or to  the Alberta Cancer Foundation, c/o Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 - 29 Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4N2 Telephone: 1 (866) 412-4222.  www.albertacancer.ca/memorial.

In living memory of Judy Elson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.