On, Saturday, February 3, 2018, after a lengthy struggle with dementia, Elaine Bailey passed away peacefully at Mainprize Manor, Midale, Saskatchewan at the age of 82. Elaine was born on October 7, 1935 near Bengough, Saskatchewan to George and Annie Bailey. She was the second oldest of five children. She was predeceased by her parents, her brothers Reg and Curt and son-in-law, Barry Duncan. She is survived by her children, Mary-Lou (Ken) Rosengren, Estevan; Barb Duncan (George Carlson), Midale; and Brian (Jacqueline) Trombley, Midale; grandchildren, Brandon (Crystal) Rosengren, Estevan; Ryan Rosengren, Kelowna, BC; Alyssa Trombley, Vancouver, BC; Nevan Trombley, Saskatoon; Michaella Trombley, Saskatoon; Paige (Ben) Duncan, Midale and Kordel Duncan, Midale; and great-grandchildren, Kaylee and Keaton Rosengren, Estevan; sisters, Karen Mortenson and Enid Maher and many nieces and nephews. In July of 1937 her parents made the decision to move their family north, to a farmstead near Bjorkdale, Saskatchewan to escape the dust bowl that scorched the southern prairies during the Dirty Thirties. During that trip their truck, loaded with all of their belongings, lost its brakes while they were going down the Qu’Appelle Valley and they crashed at the bottom. Thankfully, no one was killed but two-year old Elaine suffered a deep gash on her knee that left her with a life-long scar. Elaine and her siblings grew up knowing what hard work was as they all helped around the farm and that work ethic stayed with her and served her well through some challenging times. She attended school in Bjorkdale and later attended Prince Albert Business College. She also worked for a time as a teacher, along with her mom and as a secretary for the RCMP. After her marriage in 1959, they moved to BC, finally settling in Prince George where they lived until 1974 at which time the family moved to Midale, Sask. After her divorce in 1976, Elaine worked at various positions in Midale including the Red & White store, the Midale Hotel, the Midale Hospital as a cook, as secretary at the Midale School, and as the Town Administrator for several years. Getting her Local Government Administration certification through the University of Regina was a huge accomplishment for her since having to take exams made her physically sick but she did it despite her fears and was very successful in this position. She was a hard worker and showed us, by example, how you can accomplish anything if you’re determined enough. In 1984, Elaine accepted a position as Secretary/Treasurer for the Weyburn School Division No. 97 and made the move to Weyburn. She enjoyed her home there and become lifelong friends with her next-door neighbours, June and Frank Whewell. She looked forward to the regular visits from her grandchildren who learned things from her like how to make pancakes, plant a garden, and crochet and there were always special little excursions to the Dollar Store, the library, and, of course, McDonalds for lunch. While she didn’t go overboard with material spoiling, she made each grandchild feel special and loved. In 1993, health issues forced her to take early retirement and Elaine moved back to Midale to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She lived near the school and the grandkids would often come for lunch on school days or just drop by to say hello. In January, 2000, she underwent quadruple bypass surgery and after her recovery she then moved to a small house right beside her daughter, Barb, who kept a watchful eye on her until in late 2009 when the signs of significant memory loss and related issues led to her diagnosis of hydrocephalus dementia. She continued to live in her own home until it was no longer possible and the hard decision to place her in a nursing home was made. In 2010 she went into the Lampman Health Centre for one year until she was able to get a spot in the Mainprize Manor in Midale in May, 2011 where she resided until her passing. Her family is so very appreciative of the wonderful care and love she received during her time at the Manor. We all want to get our name on their waiting list! Mom was a quiet but determined woman who took all that life threw at her with dignity and resolve. She will be forever remembered for her dry humor, her sparkling blue eyes, her tenacity, and the unwavering love she had for her family. A Memorial Service was held on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. from Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, Saskatchewan with Pastor Jody Pfeifer officiating. Interment will take place at a later date. Family and friends so wishing may make memorial donations to the Mainprize Manor & Health Centre or to the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, Saskatchewan, 306-842-5432.
