Elaine Andrews-Bishop : born caregiver, compassionate soul, occasional mama bear, Scottish nursery rhyme singing grandma, and producer of the most contagious laugh we have ever known, has died, on October 21, 2022, at the age of 60, at home and on her own terms, lovingly surrounded by her family, after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.
Born on September 11, 1962 in Dunnville, ON to loving parents, Jim and Mary Andrews, Elaine was the youngest of three daughters, and the first to be born in Canada after her parents immigrated to Ontario from Scotland in 1960. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Rob Bishop, sister Margaret (Len) Pew and many nieces and nephews who all lovingly referred to her as “Aunt Lainey”. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Marion MacDonnell, and nieces, Allison Fletcher and Jolie Stephens.
Elaine leaves behind two children, Ian (Laura) Fletcher and Lacey (Ryan Tinney), as well as two step children, Zach (Alana) Bishop and Mackenzie Bishop (Mack Norsworthy). Also left to mourn are her five cherished grandchildren, who have each brought her immeasurable joy: Sam and Isla Fletcher, Allie and Liam Tinney, and Norah Bishop. Her presence at home will be missed by her loyal companion, Izzy, who has been by her side for the last six years.
Rob and Elaine found each other, perfectly, at a turning point in each of their lives almost 20 years ago. Elaine has often described Rob as her “rock”, and in the other they each found a partner who provided unconditional love and support through life’s many trials and triumphs. Together, they built a beautiful home (styled expertly by Elaine, who had an enviable talent for design and organization) and created a happy life that joined their two families at the heart.
To meet Elaine was to love her, and to feel loved by her (unless of course you wronged her kids, behaved like a bully, or tried to pull the wool over her eyes). Ever their fierce advocate, she always nurtured a close bond with Ian and Lacey, for whom she provided a loving home life punctuated by midnight dance parties, fun family gatherings, generally overcooked meats, and a relentless compulsion to vacuum the floors early on weekend mornings to wake them just so she could spend time with them. Elaine occasionally liked to travel, especially to her country of origin, and infused life at home with many nods to her Scottish heritage. Elaine’s greatest gift to her children was her unconditional love and support. She was so proud of the adults they had become, and of the loving families they had created.
Elaine’s life was also undeniably shaped by the special bond she shared with her sister, Margaret, who provided her with unrelenting hope, love and support during her life and, importantly, throughout her dying process. Together, they were the life of the party, and the unmistakable and infectious laughter they shared will echo through our homes forever.
Finally, Elaine will be missed by her many dear friends, some of whom have been in her life since childhood. She will also be fondly remembered by her former colleagues at Grandview Lodge, where she worked as a Personal Support Worker for 40 years until her retirement in 2018.
Arrangements have been entrusted to J.W. Hart Funeral Home Inc at 113 Lock St E, Dunnville, ON. In keeping with Elaine’s wishes, there will be a visitation on Monday, October 24 from 3-5pm and 7-9pm. A funeral will be held on Tuesday, October 25 at 11am followed by a luncheon at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 42 at 305 Queen St, Dunnville, ON. A private burial will take place at a later date. If desired, donations in memory of Elaine may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Juravinski Cancer Centre, or the charity of one’s choice. Online condolences jwhartfuneralhome.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of ANDREWS-BISHOP Elaine 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Dunnville, Province: Ontario