Obituaries

It is with sadness that the family of Elaine Nancekievill (Spence) share news of her passing in her 93rd year on February 5, 2026. Born during the Depression and raised in Lindsay, Ontario, Elaine was the youngest of three siblings, nicknamed “another poor wee biddy” by her grandfather. Elaine excelled in school and became a primary school teacher after graduating from Teachers College. Her students in Peterborough were enamoured with her gifts for teaching and making learning fun. Drawn by a desire to deepen her understanding of God, Elaine took a break from teaching to study at London Bible Institute, where she received her Bachelor of Religious Education. While there she fell in love with Ivan, who was studying Medicine at Western University, marrying just before he graduated. Soon after that, the young couple settled in Cannington, Ontario, raising two daughters and running a medical clinic in their community. Initially opening an office in their first home, Elaine worked as Ivan’s medical secretary and then as the office expanded into a larger professional clinic and apartment building, this role evolved into clinic manager. During that time, Elaine worshipped and capably served in many musical and leadership roles at Cannington Baptist Church. In her early forties, Elaine planned for and packed up her family to travel to Nigeria, Africa where the couple worked in a small hospital and community for several months. Shortly after returning to Canada, the family moved to Cedarvale Farm just outside Cannington. Elaine bravely jumped in and adapted to farm life, creating a warm and welcoming space for all. Family life was rich with laughter, song and gratitude, and days often ended in giggles. Elaine was a gifted organizer and public speaker. After her girls moved away from home, she began to spread her wings and found great fulfillment in her volunteer role as a local representative for the Ontario Government Chaplaincy Association. In addition, for years, she enjoyed sitting as the Area Representative with the Women’s Auxiliary of the Gideons. Her heart belonged to Ivan for 64 years before he passed away in 2024 and we still see them in our mind’s eye, walking down the path together, hand in hand. Elaine’s strong love will forever light the way for her daughters, Anne (Steve Blanchard) and Ruth (Todd McDonald) and grandchildren, Scott (Madi) and Dane (Tazrian) Blanchard and Ian (Viv) and Rue McDonald, as well as Brent and Katrien Clark (and daughters Mary, Joanna and Amy) as well as her many nieces and nephews. When she moved to IOOF Seniors' Home in Barrie in the spring of 2024, Elaine’s caring presence continued to touch both other residents and staff, even as her own health and independence declined over time. Her family offer their gratitude to the staff of IOOF for their consistent and compassionate care and to Flo Flynn for her faithful companionship. You all made such a difference. Her consistent faith and love for her family, friends, her extended community and in fact everyone she connected with, guided her life and interactions. To know her was to experience love and grace. Mom, we will miss your hugs and expressions of unconditional love. A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held in Lindsay at Mackey Funeral Home, on February 27, 2 pm. Visitation at 1 pm and light lunch to follow. Donations in memory can be made to IOOF Seniors Home in Barrie, Ontario, Fairview Baptist Church, Lindsay, or any charity that is meaningful to you.