Gill: Elnora (Hurlburt), Nov. 17, 1920 - Nov. 16, 2018

Elnora was born November 17, 1920, on the family farm five and a half miles from Empress to her loving parents, William and Viola (Ferrier) Hurlburt. Elnora was the second oldest daughter of the family, with two younger sisters.

Elnora had a great childhood in her very loving home. Elnora’s mother was a dressmaker before she married and made the clothing for the entire family. Elnora spent as much time as she could outdoors with her father and the animals. Elnora loves animals, especially horses as they are her favourite. She was the tomboy of all the girls, she says. In their early school days, all the girls were boarded out to school in Empress. When they were old enough, and the weather was good, they would ride their horses to school. Elnora completed school until grade 10. From there, all of her sisters went on to become teachers.

In March of 1942, Elnora married the love of her life, Carl Gill. Together, they had two wonderful children Arthur and Violet. They made their own family farm just up the road from Elnora’s family.

Elnora was very active in the United Church. She was a CGIT Leader for many years. In her free time, Elnora loved to read and listen to music. Old westerns and love stories she enjoyed reading most, however, she would read anything. Gospel and country were her favourite types of music to listen to. One of Elnora’s greatest enjoyments was being outside, whether it be with the animals or working outdoors. She has always loved gardening and was an avid gardener until the age of 96 years old. Elnora continued to admire the flowers and garden outside her window at the Care Centre.

Elnora and her family did not do much travelling. It was difficult to leave the farm, as they were quite busy. However, Elnora did take her mother on a bus trip through British Columbia once and occasionally, she went to Medicine Hat or Calgary to visit relatives.

Elnora moved into the Oyen Long Term Care in January 2017. They always enjoyed seeing her warm smile and friendly face.

Elnora died at the Long Term Care Facility in Oyen November 16, one day before her 98th birthday.

Elnora is survived by her children Arthur Gill and Violet Lohr, eight grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom she adores very much.

Burial Service was held November 21 at 1:00 p.m. at the Empress Cemetery. A luncheon followed at the Empress Friendship Centre hosted by the Empress Community.

Pallbearers were Randy Gill, Christian Patterson, Ryan Petterson, Kevin Rosenbargo, Kevin Perich and Syd McCurdy.

MacLean’s Funeral Home in care of arrangements.