August 7, 1942 - November 1, 2024

In loving memory ~

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Elaine Gillard (Wife, Mom, Grandma) has peacefully passed away with her family by her side.

Predeceased by her parents Ethel and Melvin Myhre, she is survived by her husband Irv Gillard, children Richard (Viktoriya) Gillard and Karen (Ron) Dodd, grandchildren Kailey Dodd (Kent), Chris Dodd (Amanda) and Anna Serbina. Elaine is also survived by her brother Charlie Myhre (Linda) and her sister Merrilynne Brown (Howard).

Elaine grew up in Cold Lake, Alberta and it was there she met Irv with whom she shared 63 years of marriage. As an Air Force wife, Elaine lived in many places and made many friends.

Some of those friendships have spanned 60 years. Of all the places the Air Force took them, they were grateful to return to the Comox Valley for retirement.

Elaine and Irv spent their lives together working as a team on many projects and sharing interests. When they lived in Port McNeil, the boat they had rebuilt in Cold Lake was used almost daily during the fishing season. By the time Irv finished work, Elaine already had supper packed and off fishing they would go. Camping was also a passion, whether on Vancouver Island or traveling with friends all over Europe while posted in West Germany.

Elaine's hobbies varied over the decades but they frequently stemmed from an interest in technology. She was always the first in her family to learn new computer systems and get new electronic gadgets. She became an unofficial IT advisor for her friends. As she got older and went fewer places physically, she was always with us virtually. Whether a daily routine or an epic adventure, 'Gram' was connected with us all the way.

Although she was a very loyal, passionate and dedicated fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Blue Jays, the biggest joy in Elaine's life was her family. She was a great cheerleader of anything her kids or grandkids were interested in and she loved nothing better than having a laugh with them.

In keeping with Elaine's final wishes, a small family service was held at the family home. To those wanting to honour her memory, please cheer on the Leafs at least once this season. We would like to thank Dr. Galik, Homecare Palliative Team and Aitken Community Hospice for all their support and guidance.