At the age of 98, Elsie Laughton had lived a full life of adventures and experiences. She was the first Canadian born child of Swedish immigrants in Conmee near Kakabeka Falls, Ontario. She married her sweetheart, Hugh Laughton upon his return from serving in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II. After the war, in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Elsie and Hugh lived all over Canada and even lived in France for almost 5 years. Their three kids, Colleen, Stewart and Kelly were born on RCAF bases including Edmonton AB, Fort Nelson BC and Marville, France.
Elsie always lived her life on her own terms and had several careers and business ventures including owning multiple apartment buildings that she and Hughie renovated and managed, she worked for more than three decades at Eaton’s department stores (both Fort William and Port Arthur). Upon retiring from Eaton’s, she had her own food truck, her own restaurant, (the Family Diner) and she also ran for Councillor, City of Thunder Bay.
Elsie loved cooking and baking and was known by her friends and family as a marvellous cook. She loved to prepare a feast and bring it out to Kakabeka Falls Park for many a Sunday picnic. She would invite and feed a large gang of family, friends and neighbours. She also loved camping and would prepare the most amazing meals on a Coleman Stove.
As a leader of Brownies and Girl Guides, she inspired and taught many young girls. She also cared deeply about animals and adopted many stray cats during her life.
Elsie was a “people” person and was known to help out many a soul in need. She was a kind hearted and generous adventurer all her life.
Elsie is predeceased by her husband, Hugh Laughton and her son, Stewart Laughton, her parents, three sisters, Barbara Fucile, May Agostino, Joyce Holmberg and one brother, Eric Johnson. She is survived by her two daughters and sons-in-law, Colleen Laughton (David Eryou), Kelly Laughton (Lee Downer), one sister, Lily Duguay and one brother, Wayne Johnson, nephews and nieces.
Elsie resided for the last 4 years at Hogarth Riverview Manor, 6th floor South, where she was deeply grateful for the kindness and caring of staff there.
Cremation has taken place and there will be no service. Any donations can be sent to the Thunder Bay Humane Society, any cat rescue or Murillo Mutts Respite.
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
