Anderson, Elma Elinor

1921 - 2006 The family of Elma Anderson sadly announce her peaceful passing at the St Joseph's Hospice April 25, 2006. Elma, aka Oma, was the wife of David for almost 65 years; mother of Coralie Leslie, long-time good friend of Ruth Tabor. She shared life with two sisters, Helen Van Staveren (London) and Rita Whitlock (Thunder Bay). Daughter-in-law, Barbara Kemeny (John Stevenson) gave Elma three grandchildren, Juan Anderson (Kasia), Nikos (Cayla Hubbard) and Theo Mantis, and great-granddaughter Haeli Anderson. Merrick Anderson, son of Keith, lives in Toronto. Elma also leaves many in-laws and nieces and nephews. Elma was born in Echo Bay, Ontario November 9, 1921, moving to then Fort William around age 6. Here she lived out her life with the exception of the war years in Halifax and another four in Chapleau in the late 1950s. She attended Francis Street Public School and FWCI. She was in training as a nurse when she met David, and husband and family became her focus. While raising her family, she and David worked together at tourist camps near Rossport, then Chapleau. After returning to Thunder Bay, Elma worked at many other different jobs, with her longest employment at the Mary J Black Library, retiring in 1985. Elma enjoyed people and life and had many friends. She had an infectious, hearty laugh and loved entertaining. She was also very active with First Church United groups and committees, until illness curtailed these activities. Elma now joins those who predeceased her: parents Cora and Douglas Garratt, brother Keith Garratt, son Keith Anderson, son-in-law Ian Leslie, grandson Zaak Mantis, first born daughter in infancy, and brothers-in-law Bill Whitlock and Peter Van Staveren. Elma was compassionately cared for in her final battle by the Regional staff of ICU, and then St. Joseph's Care Group. Barbara stayed with her all the time she was in the hospice. For this care, her family is very grateful. A memorial service in celebration of Elma's life will take place on Saturday, 13 May at 1:00 at First Church United, Brock and Ford Streets officiated by Reverend Kent Gibbons. If anyone so wishes, donations to St Joseph's Hospice or the Alzheimer's Society, or a charity of choice would be appreciated.