BALFOUR, Mary Elizabeth

Balfour, Mary Elizabeth -

Surrounded by loved ones, Mary died at Lisaard House on March 4, 2024 at the age of 78. She was predeceased by her mother, Hazel Balfour (Allen), and her father, Lloyd Balfour. She will be lovingly remembered by her sister, Susan, and her dear friend, Donna Padfield, as well as Donna’s family.

Mary was born on April 4,1945. She attended Preston Public School and Preston High School. She was employed at Gore Mutual Insurance Company and Canadian General Tower.

Her greatest pleasure in life was singing. Her family always knew she was happy if she sang in the shower. She sang in choirs throughout her life starting in the junior choir at St. Paul’s United Church and then at Preston High School. In her retirement years she found much joy singing with the Cambridge Seniors’ Choir.

Wherever she went, Mary made friends with cats and dogs. Caramel, the perfect pet, and Fluffy, the challenge, were her much-loved cats.

Mary gave back to her community throughout her life by volunteering, including in school libraries. She especially liked helping in Mrs. King’s kindergarten class at Centennial Public School. In her retirement she volunteered at the Idea Exchange delivering books to seniors at Stirling Heights Residence. For many years she volunteered with the Thursday Meal Program at St. Paul’s/Trillium United Church.

Mary enjoyed the many trips she took, especially a trip to Hawaii and a cruise to Alaska. She was a long-term member and the archivist for the Business and Professional Women of Cambridge.

Mary showed remarkable strength and determination when faced with life’s challenges including two hip replacement surgeries and two different kinds of cancer. Her loved ones were grateful for the exceptional care she received at Lisaard House at the end of her life.

Family and friends are invited to an informal reception to celebrate Mary’s life on Saturday, March 23 from noon to 3 pm in the upper auditorium at Trillium United Church (450 King St. E., Cambridge, ON N3H 3M9).

Arrangements entrusted to Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 2723 Victoria St. N. Breslau, where a private interment service will take place.

As expressions of sympathy please direct donations to Trillium United Church or Lisaard House (990 Speedsville Rd. Cambridge, ON N3H 4R6).