Evelyn Cairns
March 21, 1932 - February 13, 2020
With profound sadness we announce the passing of our Mom. Ev was the second of four children born to Hilda and Francis (Scotty) Ross. Ev grew up on the family farm at Pine Lake. The family moved to Sylvan Lake in 1943 and it was there that she met the love of her life Gord. They were wed in 1950 and shortly thereafter the young couple began "doodle-bugging" on a G.S.I. seismic crew that led them on many adventures throughout the southwestern United States and Canada where they met many of their life long friends.
After four years in Edmonton the family permanently settled in the Fairview district of Calgary. During their travels the family grew to include three much loved boys Doug, Don and Martin.
Ev was a very outgoing, friendly person who was always willing to help and cared for many people over the years. She loved to entertain and cooked up many delicious meals for family and friends. Having a very large extended family she had a knack of, and thoroughly enjoyed, keeping in touch with everyone no matter how far removed. The Ross family history became a passion which she shared with her sister leading them on an exciting trip to England and Scotland tracing family roots. Ev and Gord enjoyed many camping trips and reunions over the years with their favourite spot being Chain Lakes.
Ev spent many years volunteering at McDougall United Church and her faith was an integral part of her life. While balancing motherhood and home life she spent a very successful 27 years working part-time in the Sporting Goods Department at Sears in Chinook Centre. Ev supported all of her boy's sporting endeavours and her dedication continued; Grandma was always her grandkids number one fan! In retirement she began lawn bowling and kept up her love of cards, often participating in crib tournaments at her local legion. Ev very much enjoyed her time at Trinity Lodge. Moving to the Southwood Care Centre was a challenge as her health declined but she was usually up for a game of crib and tried to make the best of every day.
Ev is survived by her sons Don and Martin; daughter-in-law Terry; cherished grandchildren Lucas, Kate (Ben), Ryan and Adam. Her great-grandchildren Ethan, Brooklyn and Oscar. Her nieces and nephews Donna, Darcy, Dwight, Crystal, Kerry, Steven, Mike, Jon, Patrick, Candice, and their spouses and children including those of deceased niece Yvonne. As well, numerous cousins, extended family and friends who all held a special place in her heart.
Ev was predeceased by her beloved son Doug in 1975 and her life-long partner Gord in 1999. Her parents Hilda and Francis Ross; in-laws Hilda and Hazel (Stub) Cairns. Her precious siblings Eileen (Steve) Kutyik, George and John (Kaye). Her brothers and sisters-in-law Al, Ray (Muriel), Yvonne (Max) Little and niece Yvonne. As well, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends who were dear to her and our hearts.
Ev will be dearly missed but leaves us all with a lifetime of beautiful memories.
The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at the Southwood Care Centre for their excellent care and friendship.
A Celebration of Ev's Life was held on Saturday February 29, 2020 at McDougall United Church.In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Foundation for Addiction and Mental Health (famh.ca) or a charity of your choice.
