Obituary of Elsie Speers

<h1>Elsie Speers</h1> 1923 - 2008 Elsie was born on December 21, 1923, the eldest of four children of Andrew and Nellie Speers (nee Cushing). After a brief decline in her health over the last two weeks, Elsie died on August 5, 2008 at Forest Heights Long Term Care Facility at the age of 84 years. Elsie is survived by her sisters Barbara Hall and Kathleen Speers, her brother-in-law Alvan Hall, her niece Mary Sauer and husband Lee Sauer, nephew Doug Barker, and many great nieces and a great nephew. Elsie was predeceased by her parents, Andrew and Nellie, her brother Jim Speers and her brother-in-law Arnold Barker. Elsie was diagnosed early in her life with severe epilepsy which prevented her from attending school or obtaining employment or enjoying many of the freedoms that those with good health take for granted . In the many years since her diagnosis, great strides have been made in the treatment of epilepsy from which Elsie benefited in the latter part of her life. Elsie enjoyed assisting with domestic duties within the home she shared with her mother (while living) and her brother Jim, until the last several years when she moved to Forest Heights Long Term Care. While such a move has been experienced by many individuals as limiting and a loss of freedom, Elsie took the move in stride; settling in, making friends with other residents and staff. Elsie was always willing to try a new activity and gladly participated in most of the resident programs. The staff always enjoyed her cheerful nature and sense of humour. This was evidenced by the many staff who stopped by her bedside within the last two weeks to speak words of comfort and encouragement to her. Her cheerful and uncomplaining spirit remained with her until the end. She will be sadly missed by her own extended family as well as her family at Forest Heights. A private funeral will be held for the immediate family with interment at Woodland Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Erb &amp; Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com Elsie’s family wishes to thank all of the staff at Forest Heights Long Term Care for their care and concern during Elsie residency at Forest Heights.