November 15, 1919 - October 17, 2020
Elsie passed away at Peace Portal Senior's Village in Surrey, where she had resided for the past six years.
Predeceased by parents Richard and Margery Gilholme, husband Don, sisters Mary and Jean, brothers William and Richard. She is survived by sister Margaret Smith, brother Bob Gilholme (Mary) and extended family of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Elsie spent her first ten years in rural farming areas near Newcastle, England.
In 1929 the family immigrated to Canada to homestead near Vermilion, Alberta. Elsie completed her education, travelling by horse to a one room school.
She was a Nursing Assistant at the Ponoka Mental Hospital near Edmonton, before joining the Army in 1942. Posted overseas to London, England, in 1944. Following discharge in 1945, she trained in secretarial work and was a long time employee of the Royal Canadian Legion and later Farm Credit in Edmonton.
In 1974, Don and Elsie began retirement in Naramata, BC, followed by their final move to Surrey, BC, in 1985.
Elsie was a very caring person who took great pride in her extended family and following early passing of her mother, became the unofficial matriarch.
Her family appreciate the care and friendship provided by Staff at Peace Portal Senior's Village as well as C.N.I.B. The family is grateful to Dr. David Anderson (Rtd) her long time physician who predicted she might reach 100.
A private family service will be held in near future. Donations in Elsie's memory should be made to a charity of your choice.
For online condolences please visit www.victorymemorialpark.com
Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre