Elsie Annie McDowell (née Fletcher)

May 15, 1934 - May 28, 2025

What a life ~

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing away of Elsie Annie McDowell (née Fletcher). She was born May 15th, 1934, in St. Vital, Winnipeg. She passed away on May 28th, 2025, at the grand age of 91.

Elsie was the oldest of three daughters born to Esther and Arthur "Ted" Fletcher, in the midst of the Great Depression, so she learned young the importance of family, hard work, not to mention the wisdom of being frugal. She set an incredible example for her loved ones of what it means to be strong and to be steadfast. If you ever found yourself unable to find your own strength, she would gladly lend you some of hers, and she had mountains of it to spare.

Elsie was predeceased by her parents, her sons-in-law Norm and Bob and many long-time friends. She is survived by her sisters, Pearl and Betty, her children, Chuck McDowell (Darlene), Joanne St. Denis, Diane Snowden (Jim), Wendy Wimmer, Brenda Salmon, and Ron McDowell (Linda). She is survived by her multitude of grandchildren who thought the world of her, Chad, Corrie, Adam, Patrick, Nikki, Samantha, Matthew, Dylan, Brent, Miranda, Constantina, and Jennifer - as well as many great-grandchildren, who she loved more than words could ever say and was fiercely protective of. We also need to mention the many runaways, troublemakers, and lonely people that she took in over the years and loved as well.

Elsie was incredible, and she was generous. She always had an ear to lend, and if you wanted, advice to give. If you ever found yourself lonely, she'd have a chat with you over a game of playing cards, and she would always make room at her table for Christmas, because 'No one should be alone on Christmas'.

A memorial service will be held for Elsie on June 28th, 2025, at Potter's House Chilliwack - 45915 Yates Avenue at 1pm. In the spirit of Elsie, all are welcomed to join us in celebration of her incredible life. Food and fellowship will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, please surprise someone you love with a little treat, as she had a habit of doing the same.