After 90 years, 9 children, 57 years of marriage and immeasurable impact on so many people, Elmer died peacefully August 31 in Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown, PEI after a brief stay. His wife Bernice (MacPhee) and five of his children were able to be at his bedside. In the days preceding his death, a dozen or more family members gathered in his room to talk, laugh and tell countless stories filled with irreverent Celtic humour. No somber faces nor maudlin whispers for him – the outstanding hospital staff were so accommodating. He couldn’t speak to join in but was fully aware, and could nod in agreement or shake his head in denial; even let out a breathless laugh. The memories of his send-off will be treasured by all who had the privilege to attend. He lived his life on his own terms and he seems to have directed his death in the same way. Elmer is predeceased by daughter, Kathleen (Dave Coutu); and survived by wife Bernice (MacPhee); children Brendan (Michelle), Claire (Rick) Sabiston, James (Annette), Eileen, Maureen (Rick Doucette), Alanna, Sheila and Dan (Bekah); grandchildren Ryan, Liam, Cailin, Miranda, Darin, Adam, Noah and Lily. He touched many lives both in his early years in PEI, and after moving to BC where he raised his family. He was giving of his time and loved to dole out advice, often unsolicited; a prankster and story-teller, Elmer couldn’t pass up a good argument or glass of scotch. Resting at the Dingwell Funeral Home, Souris, for visiting hours on Sunday 5–9 p.m. Funeral to be held on Monday at 11a.m. at St. Margaret’s Roman Catholic Church. No flowers please; contributions may be made to St. Margaret’s Cemetery Fund.

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