(January 20, 1929 – November 6, 2023)

Passed away peacefully at Lakeridge Health Oshawa surrounded by the love of her family, at the age of 94.

Elsie was born and lived in Oshawa, and surrounding boroughs, for her entire life.

She was predeceased by her beloved husbands and partners, Gordon Bernard Shields (d.2022) with whom she shared a marriage of 38 years, and James Charles Hardie (d. 1976), to whom she was married for 27 years.

She was also predeceased by her only sister, Olga (John Gulenchyn Sr.); her parents, John and Agatha Saychook; stepdaughter, Susan Shields and parents-in-law, James Sr. and Melvina Hardie and Mary Irene Shields.

She was the beloved mother of son, David Paul Hardie and daughter-in-law, Diana Hardie, and daughter, Susan Lynn Hardie. She was also a much-loved aunt to many nieces and nephews and their children and grandchildren, including her sister’s children Karen Gulenchyn (Gerry Lynes) and John Gulenchyn Jr. (Pam) and James’ brother’s children, Joanne, Diane, Sandi, and Pam.

Elsie extended her family when she married Gord, becoming an aunt to many nieces and nephews, Alison, Mark, Daphne, Bonnie, Stephen (deceased), Brent and Barry. She was a proud God Mother to Thomas, son of Alison Buckley, Gord’s niece. She was thrilled to spend time with her great nieces and nephews at any time but particularly at the cottage or on a trip to a special location like Wonderland.

Last, but not least, was “Maxi” the family dog. Maxi was gifted to Elsie and Gord in their later years, and most recently was adopted by, and cared for, by David and Diana. Elsie was known for her passion and love of her family, friends and life. She worked at Bell Canada for 26 years, and it was in her retirement year she met Gord, also a Bell employee, and they both retired in the Fall of 1984 to be married in December 1984.

In their retirement they were busier than ever, volunteering with Bell Pioneers, St. Vincent’s Kitchen, and Oshawa Hospital. They also shared a love for cottage life and could be found throughout the summer months at their cottage which they coined their “piece of heaven”. In addition, they would have the opportunity to cruise the world together with friends.

There’s so much to tell you about this awesome woman. Elsie will be remembered for her incredible love of her children, family and life, kind heart, compassionate spirit, and love of learning and reading. She lived a full life and was at peace as she transitioned to begin her spiritual journey. She will always be in our hearts.

A special note of thank you to all the Staff at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, specifically the Emergency Department for their compassionate care during her final days, and support to her family. In addition, thank you to Chartwell Colonial Retirement Residence in Whitby for their outstanding care and support of Elsie. She loved her home, and all the staff and residents embraced her wholeheartedly. Thank you!

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 17 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME (124 King St. East, Oshawa). Prayers at 3pm. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 10:30 am at St. Mary of the People Catholic Church.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to St. Vincent’s Kitchen or the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences may be shared at armstrongfh.ca .