Obituary of ELLISON – Margaret Agnes Hamilton

May 17, 1916 – August 23, 2009 Margaret Agnes Hamilton Ellison (née Burns) passed away on Sunday August 23, in the arms of family and listening to her favourite Fauré music. Margaret had recently celebrated her 93rd birthday. She is survived by her four children, Darcy (Paula), Shannon, Erin and Kerry (Kevin); two grandsons, Mitchell Christoffersen and Shane McLachlan; and by her younger brother Fred Burns. Margaret was predeceased by her son-in-law Michael. Born in New York City, Margaret moved to Calgary in childhood, returning to NYC as a young woman to study fashion design at Pratt Institute. Marriage to her high school sweetheart during WWII brought a move back to Canada and travel to her husband’s RCAF postings. She adapted easily to life’s new challenges, cooking by wood-stove and working as a sales clerk, but always maintaining her interest in haute couture fashions. Margaret proved a natural mother with the arrival of children. She guided by example and involvement. Teaching Sunday school began an interest in spiritual matters which, along with equal passions for music and Nature, would continue throughout her life. Endlessly generous with time, homemade muffins, love and money, she supported many groups and individuals into her later years, while remaining engaged in activities as diverse as choir, church groups, peace organizations, book club, yoga and hiking. Always an inspiration to her children, Margaret also became a role model and kitchen-table mentor to many others, often generations younger than herself. She will be remembered fondly for her supportive and calming demeanour, genuine interest in others, and for her heart-filled approach to life that brought her true happiness and spiritual peace. A Celebration of Margaret’s Life will be held at Parkdale United Church (2919 – 8th Avenue N.W.) late in September. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Margaret Ellison, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296.