We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Lillian Elaine McFarling, 84 of Sault Ste. Marie on Monday, June 15, 2020 at home with her family by her side.
Beloved wife and soul mate of the late Donald McFarling. Loving mother of Jennifer (David Aaltonen) and Joanna (Robert MacDougall). Treasured grandmother of Eamon, Declan and Martin MacDougall. Born May 28, 1936 to the late Erna and William (Bill) Armstrong, in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario. Dear sister to Barry Armstrong (Dianne), sister-in-law to Jennine MacLeod (late John), Fern Sandvik (late Einar) and Beth Kearns (late Harold, late Walter Bedryk). Elaine will be remembered fondly by several nieces and nephews.
Elaine grew up in Sault Ste. Marie, on Kohler Street and spent her summers at The Pointe. She had many friendships that she nurtured and cherished. Elaine began her teaching career immediately after graduating from grade 13 when she travelled by train to her first teaching position in a one room schoolhouse in Glendale, north of Searchmont. In the absence of an official train stop the conductor would slow the train and call out, “jump Teacher, jump”. Many adventures (and misadventures) happened in Glendale such as tossing the wash basin (an era when all students washed their hands prior to entering the school) onto the visiting superintendent and cancelling class one day to lead the students in a search of a lost fawn. Elaine pursued her education by attending Teacher’s College in North Bay, and took additional courses at the University of Toronto and completed her Bachelor of Arts in 1976 from Laurentian University at Algoma University College. Elaine taught Kindergarten in numerous schools in Sault Ste. Marie and concluded her teaching career as a special education consultant. As an educator, a mother and a grandmother she believed in the words of Dr. Suess, “ Oh the Places You’ll Go: You have brains in your head, You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. “
In retirement she and Don moved to Gros Cap where special friendships developed with their neighbours on the hill. They loved to golf and had many adventures travelling all over North America, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. Elaine was an active volunteer in the community with Christmas Cheer, curling, golfing, palliative care, St. Andrew’s United Church and Alpha Delta Kappa. Elaine leaves a huge void in her family and was a great role model for how to enjoy life, friends and family.
Her family wishes to thank family and friends for their support, Dr. Voutsadakis and all the kind staff at the ADCP, Drs. Buehner, Bignall and Hill, and nurses Brandi and Leo for the compassionate care they provided. Special thank you to Sylvia and the residents of UUSI KOTI for their caring friendships and support.
Due to the present restrictions on gatherings with Covid-19, a private service will take place with Rev. Park officiating. Memorial donations (payable by cheque or online) to St. Andrew’s United Church or Sault Area Hospital Foundation would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. East 705-759-2522). Those who wish may visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave memories and condolences as a keepsake for the family.