Eileen Ashdown

Eileen M. Ashdown passed away peacefully at St. Martha's Place in Banff on Tuesday December 8, 2009 at the age of 87 years

Predeceased by the love of her life, Larry in 2002, she is survived by her sister Marguerite Madden and her two children, Gary (Jackie) and Cathy, her four grandchildren Adam, Angela, Chad and Desiree and numerous loving nieces and nephews as well as her sister-in-law Marguerite Holloway. Eileen was predeceased by her sister Doris (Harold) Williams and two brothers Frank (Dorothy) and Eric and her brother-in-law Frank Madden.

Eileen was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec the youngest child of Mary and George Holloway. After the war she met Larry and he instantly became her soul mate. Marrying in 1949 gave them lifelong love and happiness together. Their love for each other shines through in their children, Gary and Catherine and in their relationships to their extended family and many dear friends.

Eileen was a talented artist and enjoyed taking classes with Donna Jo Massie. For many years, Eileen and Larry were active members of the Ralph Connor United Church and the Canmore Seniors Association as well as the Three Sisters Branch #3, Royal Canadian Legion.

Eileen was extremely proud of her grandchildren. She always welcomed them in her open arms and enjoyed sharing her love of life, laughter, and her quick wit.

Wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt. Loved by all.

Eileen was known for her beautiful smile and twinkling blue eyes. Eileen made everyone she met feel special. She lovingly touched many lives.

Funeral service for Eileen was held Tuesday December 15, 2009 in the Ralph Connor Memorial United Church in Canmore. Interment with her beloved husband in the Field of Honor, Canmore Cemetery, will take place in the Spring 2010.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the Community Care Program staff, Dr. John Michalyshyn and the nurses and staff of the Canmore Hospital as well as Dr. Lynne Marriott and the caring staff of St. Martha's Place in Banff. Your love and respect for Eileen will never be forgotten.

Friends wishing to remember Eileen may make donations in her memory, to the Canmore and Area Health Care Foundation, Community Care Program, 1100 Hospital Place, Canmore T1W 1N2 or to St. Martha's Place memorial fund, PO Box 1050, Banff T1W 1H7

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.