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Elaine Young
November 5, 1942 - February 28, 2026
Tribute
Elaine Mary Young passed away suddenly on February 28, 2026, in Palm Desert, California, at the age of 83.
Born in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Elaine carried her prairie roots with her throughout her life—grounded, warm, and quietly strong. She devoted many years to teaching, beginning her career in Saskatchewan in 1962. In 1964, she moved to Revelstoke, BC, where she met her husband, Gordon. They were married on July 5, 1966, and shared 59½ years of devoted partnership.
In 1976, Elaine and her growing family moved to a farm near Leslieville, Alberta. She taught at Leslieville School from 1977 until her retirement in 1992. In later years, Elaine and Gordon returned to British Columbia, where she became well known for her exceptional quilting and her welcoming spirit. She had a gift for making people feel cared for, whether through a thoughtful conversation, a shared meal, or simply her steady presence.
Elaine was a loving wife to Gordon, devoted mother to Kathy Harrison (Tom) and Gayle Gilliss (Laird), and proud grandmother to Rye Gilliss (Salina), Lane Gilliss (Taylor Sawka), Avril Harrison (Pauline), and Lily Calles (Sam). Her family was her greatest joy.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 6, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at the Osoyoos Activity Centre (Seniors Centre), 17 Park Place, Osoyoos, BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation.
Elaine will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com
Condolences
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From: Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium Ltd.
The Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium Staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Tom and Donna Clark
Relation: Friend
So sorry to hear of your moms pssing
From: Monaghan Family
Relation: Friend
We will miss Elaine and her warm, sweet smile. What an honour to have gotten to know her these past 20 years through her grandchildren and their sports. Sending so much love to Gord, Gayle and the whole family. XO Sean, Stacey, Niall, Conor & Emily Monaghan
From: Shelda and Bernie Sharp
Relation: 20 year friends
Lovely tribute to such a special person. She was the best of friends-always caring and we loved visiting and reminiscing about our 20 year friendship! I hold her quilt she made me when I was diagnosed with Cancer each day on my chair. So sorry for your loss ,we all knew what her family meant to her!
From: Lorna & Dave Parsons
Relation: Friend and neighbour
So sorry to hear about your mums passing, we will miss our tea afternoons with your mum and Dad.
From: Nadine and Gerald Hoffman
Relation: Friend
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Gord. Elaine was my mom away from home. Her hospitality, kindness and advice helped so much to get me through those early years of being on my own. Gerald and I have so enjoyed the many visits with you over the decades. She will be missed greatly.
From: Irene Anderson
Relation: Friend
I find it hard to fathom that I will no longer see Elaine when I return as a snowbird to Palm Desert Greens. I came to know her as a truly wonderful, kind and caring lady who always treated others with warmth and kindness. Her thoughtful nature and gentle spirit will be remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Please accept my sincere condolences during this very difficult time. I hope that the many beautiful memories you shared with her will bring comfort and peace in the days ahead.
With deepest sympathy,
Irene
From: Clay & Joan Gegner
Relation: Friend
Our deepest condolences to Gord and family on Elaine’s passing. She was a special friend at PDGCC to us and many more. Her special kindness, friendliness, and soft caring spirit will be greatly missed by all. We enjoyed her spirit at many functions and evening cocktails. We will miss her and look forward to Gord’s return to PDG. WE both came from saskatchewan and were lucky to share family in Humboldt community and to meet her family at PDG. Take care Clay and Joan
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
Date & Time:
June 6, 2026
Beginning at 2:30pm
Location:
Osoyoos Seniors Centre
17 Park Place
Osoyoos, BC Canada
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 6, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at the Osoyoos Activity Centre (Seniors Centre), 17 Park Place, Osoyoos, BC.
17 Park Place
Osoyoos, BC Canada
Memorial Gifts
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation.
Thank You Notice
Send Flowers
Flower Fantasy Flowers & Gifts Inc.
6049 Main Street, Oliver, BC
https://www.flowerfantasyoliver.com/
Local: (250) 498-0088 Toll free: (844) 498-0088
Flowers on Main & Reis Boutique
5859 Main Street, Oliver, BC
https://www.oliverflorist.com/
Local: (778) 439-2270 Toll free: (800) 665-9983
Gems and Stems at Eastside
6496 Park Drive, Oliver, BC
https://gemsandstems.com/
(250) 826-0438
Polka Dot Door Floral Design Boutique
8522 Main Street, Osoyoos, BC
https://www.polkadotdoor.net/
(250) 495-2226
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Send Condolence - For Elaine Young
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