Such a lovely, charming and genuinely gracious woman. Elsie had a humble way about her, rendering a feeling of ease and love when she was present. Soft spoken, but with wise and practical things to say, Elsie was never at a loss for words when the time came, especially during those family gatherings where laughs, good food and great company were shared. I can remember Thanksgiving, Christmas and the one-on-one encounters where she would favour looking on quietly and enjoying the energy of others, rather than being the center of attention; however, when encouraged to set aside that gallant modesty, she usually had a good story, quip or honest piece of advice to share, and that was truly the mark of a special person.
I would be remiss in my recollections of Elsie if I did not mention her incomparable, and frankly annually anticipated batches of Christmas treats, letting those select recipients know she was thinking of them. If ever a person could be summed up by the food they shared with those around them, I feel Elsie was certainly well represented by her famous "puppy chow". Sweet, uplifting, substantial and politely insidious in how easy it was to become accustomed to enjoying it. In much the same way, spending time getting to know Elsie, sharing those special moments in time with her was like a handful of puppy chow: she was sweet in her tone, uplifting in her spirit, substantial with her words and politely insidious in rising to the occasion, especially when this could be followed by a good joke when the time was right! She always left you wanting more, a rare and special gift.
Elsie truly was a kind, good natured, person, she was someone I always felt privileged to know and fortunate to share time with. So much love to her family and closest friends, the loss of a kind soul is never easy, but remembering that kindness, the good she engendered and instilled makes her memory a lasting and meaningful one.
With great love and respect,
Robert Cote, Alex De Asis and Tre (the dog)
