Elaine Barbara (Ilsley) Cathcart

In Loving Memory of Elaine Barbara Cathcart (Ilsley)

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Elaine Barbara Cathcart (Ilsley) on Thursday, September 21, 2023, in Cochrane, Alberta. Her legacy of love and resilience will forever inspire us.

Elaine was born December 15, 1934, in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, to Vera and Charles Ilsley. Growing up in a bustling household with seven siblings, she forged enduring friendships and cherished family bonds that would sustain her throughout her life’s journey.

On May 20, 1960, she married Alexander (Alex) Cathcart, embarking on a shared journey that led them to establish their family in Calgary, Alberta. A proud mother of three, Elaine instilled in her children a blend of humor, a thirst for adventure, and the spark of lively curiosity. Her home was a welcoming space not only for family and friends, but also for every animal, great and small. She welcomed the arrival of her seven grandchildren with joy, becoming a source of inspiration for each of them.

Graduating from the Regina College of Nursing in 1956, Elaine was a dedicated nurse. Elaine’s continual thirst for knowledge led her to earn not one, but two additional university degrees – a BA in Economics and a BA in Social Work, both from the University of Calgary. Elaine spent her Social Work career as a devoted advocate for vulnerable women and families. In retirement, Elaine became a passionate advocate for the environment and worked hard to preserve wetlands and habitat.

The Rocky Mountains were Elaine’s sanctuary, where she embraced nature through hikes and ski adventures. Annually, she embarked on canoe expeditions with her lifelong friends, losing herself in the beauty of the wilderness.  Elaine loved her time with her Cochrane Walking Group and the friendships it provided and the support these wonderful ladies extended to her as she became unable to join them.

Elaine travelled the world with her husband Alex, where she immersed herself in the tapestry of cultures and histories that each destination offered.  Her heart resonated with the melodies of Theater Calgary and the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, where she found solace and inspiration. Engaging with loved ones over discussions of literature and politics, Elaine’s intellect remained a beacon of curiosity and insight, even as Alzheimer’s gradually dimmed its brilliance.

Her generosity, infectious optimism, and insatiable hunger for adventure left an indelible mark on all fortunate enough to know her. Elaine’s legacy is etched in the hearts of those who were privileged to share in her journey. May her memory be a guiding light, reminding us to live with the same joy and love that she so beautifully exemplified.

Elaine was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Jocelyn, sisters Vera and Winnifred, and brothers Bert, Roy, Charles, and Horace. She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her husband Alex,  sister Phyllis and sons Duncan (Allyson) and Neil (Sharon) as well as grandchildren William (Daria), Jacob, Shaw, Ava, Sarah, Heather, and Aiden. She is also survived by sister-in-law Joan Ilsley, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

We express appreciation and gratitude to Elaine’s caregivers Shannon and Julie for their compassionate care and to all the wonderful and loving staff on 800 Unit of the Bethany Care Center in Cochrane, Alberta.

In lieu of flowers, and if you wish to do so, consider making a donation to  The Nature Conservancy of Canada or the Cochrane Humane Society.

A Celebration of Elaine’s Life will be held at Flores and Pine, 254028 Bearspaw Road, Calgary, Alberta on November 12, 2023 at 11:00a.m.

Arrangements entrusted to Flo Simpson, Funeral Director, Cochrane Country Funeral Home – cochrane@piersons.ca 403-932-1039