HELEN & ED ELFORD

The family of Helen and Ed Elford are saddened by the deaths of their parents as the result of a traffic accident on Saturday January 28, 2006. They shared many wonderful times together and were inseparable during their 65 years together. They have lived in various communities including, Horse Creek, SK, Willen,MB, Moosomin, SK, and finally to Moose Jaw where they came to be closer to Helen’s parents and their brothers and sisters. They are predeceased by their parents: Laura and Mervyn Goodwin, Russell and Annie Elford, and infant son Larry; Ed’s brothers George and Cliff and his sisters Ruby and Pansy.  Ed and Helen are survived by their loving children:  Dale (Kathy) – Carman, MB; Lloyd (Ruthanne) – Manson, MB; Sharon (Mandry) – Regina; Calvin (Mary) – Estevan; Neita (Nestor) – Regina; Cheryl (Ian) – Balgonie; and Russell (Melissa) – Edmonton;  nineteen grandchildren, twenty-eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.  Helen’s immediate family:  Evelyn Aasen – Coronach; Muriel Jacobs – Vernon, BC; Gordon (Mildred) Goodwin – Weyburn; and Irene (Cal) Young – Moose Jaw. Ed’s immediate family: Chet – California; Edna (Arnold) Knutson – Glentworth; Eva McCutchen – Portage la Prairie; Ada McBride – Moose Jaw and Melvin (Sandra) Jacobs – Estevan; and many nieces and nephews. The Funeral Service will be held at the Alliance Church, corner of 9th Ave. NW and Thatcher Drive, on Thursday February 2, 2006 at 1:30 pm.  Ron Hegdahl will officiate. Interment will follow at Sunset Cemetery. The family invite you to join them at W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home on Wednesday evening 7 – 9 pm for an opportunity to be together.  Memorials to the Church of Christ, 901 James Street, Moose Jaw, S6H 3H5, or to a charity of choice, would be appreciated.  In living memory of Ed and Helen, trees will be planted in Wakamow Valley by W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home.   

Eulogy for Helen Violet Elford

Helen Violet, daughter of Mervyn and Laurabel Goodwin was born on April 7, 1921 at the farm home near Summercove, Saskatchewan. This event was supposed to be with the aid of a mid-wife, but by the time Mrs. Hovind arrived, a blonde, blue-eyed baby girl had already made her debut. Mom had two older sisters, Evelyn and Muriel, who both had dark hair and brown eyes. Apparently, this caused a few raised eyebrows in the community wondering if this new baby really was their sister. A year and a half later, Mom’s one and only brother, Gordon, was born. Since they were so close in age, they had opportunity to do many things together, which included helping with the daily farm chores, and walking together to get the cows.  Mom learned how to milk cows at a very young age. It would appear that she mastered this art of milking very well, as it turned into a career unique only to being a farmer’s wife. A few years later another sister, Irene, was born into Mom’s family. Much to Mom’s delight, she also had blonde hair and blue eyes. Mom attended Patriotic School, starting Grade One at age six in 1927, completing Grade Eight, then taking Grade Nine and Ten by correspondence courses with a little added help from the teacher now and then.The school was three miles from home, so it meant that they were responsible for driving the horse and buggy, which was their means of transportation.  They were also responsible for putting the horse in the school barn for the day until home time, when once again the horse had to be hitched again to the buggy for the trip home. When Mom was in Grade One, she solicited the help of her brother Gordon, who was not yet in school, to sing with her at the Christmas Concert.  It apparently was a hit, as later on they would sing together at community events.  Their singing won them a first prize at one of these events. Mom was raised by loving parents, who lived their faith daily, in practise, deed and example to their children.  This left a lasting impression as to the importance they placed on living a Christian life. Mom learned well these spiritual values as was evident by the way she lived her Christian life daily, by her deeds, and example, but most of all by her deep abiding faith. As most young girls do, had a special girl friend.  Jean Davidson.   Being the same age, and in the same grade, they went through their years at school together as the best of friends.  Often school friendship ends, but theirs didn’t, continuing on after marriage to include their spouses. After grade school Mom stayed at home with her parents, helping out as needed on the family farm. This was only for a few short years, as at the age of 19, she married her grade school sweetheart on October 30, 1940 at her parents’ home.

  Eulogy for John Edwin Elford

On January 23rd 1919 in a comfortable sod house settled in the hills of southern Saskatchewan known today as Horse Creek, a wee baby boy was born to Russell and Annie Elford. He was a handsome, healthy little fellow. Russell and Annie agreed he should be named after Russell’s two brothers, and so he was named John Edwin. Mostly dad was called “Eddie” or “Ed” except when his mother was cross at him. Then it was “John Edwin.” Dad had two older brothers, Chet and Cliff, and an older sister, Pansy.  Later Eva, George, Edna, Ruby and Ada were born into the family.  Melvin Jacobs became part of the family in 1946. Grandpa and Grandma’s home was filled with much love and laughter and a strong belief in God’s Word.  Each morning after breakfast a portion of the scripture was read, and then, kneeling, the family would be led in prayer.  On one occasion Grandpa was leading the prayer, and a knock came to the door, one, two, three times.  Dad asked Grandpa, “Didn’t you hear the knock?” Grandpa replied, “My son, we were talking to God!!” Dad’s schooling began at Patriotic School, where he completed Grades 1 to 3.  During the summer of 1929, the family moved back to the former farm, as there was now a school near by for the children to attend.  Dad then attended Lark Hill from Grade 4 until he completed his schooling. As a teen, dad had a bout with pneumonia which nearly took his life.  He carried the scars from the thermofuge plasters used to treat the pneumonia for the rest of his life. Dad and his brothers enjoyed having fun, making people laugh and even playing a trick or two. One in point: When Dad’s uncle Charlie came to live on the farm and help with the church work, Uncle Charlie enjoyed hunting rabbits, but was not having a lot of luck.  The boys decided to have some fun, so they shot a rabbit and propped it up on the west hill by the trees. At supper that evening the boys began to talk about the rabbit they saw and Uncle Charlie’s ears perked up.  “Where did you see him?”  “Up on the ridge,” the boys replied. As soon as supper was over Uncle Charlie took his gun and started creeping up the hill.  Upon seeing the rabbit, a shot rang out.  But the rabbit did not fall over or run away.  The boys thoroughly enjoyed observing him shooting the dead rabbit.  Uncle Charlie was not so happy about being tricked.  After school was over, Dad worked with Grandpa on the ranch being taught many skills that would remain with him for the rest of his life.  --  breaking horses to ride and drive, veterinarian work, seeding, and harvesting the crops. In the late 30’s, Dad and some friends went to Manitoba to find work. Dad settled in the Manson area, thus laying the groundwork for a later move. Dad grew up with strong Christian values being practiced and taught by his parents.  He attended winter Bible schools in 37/38 and 38/39.  Also in these years, he was attracted by a beautiful blonde with blue eyes. That girl was Helen Violet Goodwin. Aunt Ada has said, “He was smitten.” On October 30, 1940 they were married.  Many of you here today were with us this past October as we celebrated their 65 years of Love and Faithfulness. One of the toughest things for our Dad and Mom was when Dad was sent to the bush camp north of Prince Albert because he was a conscientious objector during World Was II.  After this time away, he came back to farm and ranch with Grandpa and Uncle George. Dale, Larry, Sharon and Calvin were all born in Saskatchewan. Larry died in January, 1946 at 10 months of age.  It’s here I want to mention that our mom kept a little toy as a remembrance of her little son.  We found it this week and decided that it should be buried with Mom.  If you looked into her casket, you would have seen that little toy. Lloyd became part of our family on July 1, 1946. Lloyd said that the first time he met our mom was when we all drove home that Sunday afternoon. In 1949 Dad purchased a farm at Willen, Manitoba. Neita, Cheryl and Russell were born in Manitoba. Here Dad renewed friendships with those he had worked with in the 30’s. Both Mom and Dad were actively involved in the work of the Manson Church of Christ. Dad was also a school trustee and a RM councillor. In 1975 they sold the farm to Lloyd and Ruthanne, and moved to Moosomin where Dad worked at an implement dealership as a partsman and mechanic, and later for Carscaden funeral home. Mom did babysitting for children in their home, and dearly enjoyed this. In 1987 they moved to Moose Jaw to help care for Mom’s parents. In 1993 when Dad’s knees were giving him grief, they sold their house and moved to the apartment on Gordon Road. Mom and Dad never really retired. Volunteering was a big part of their life: Pioneer Lodge, Meals on Wheels, Food Bank, visiting and encouraging people. Dad really enjoyed helping with maintenance and yard work around the apartment complex.  What started as a small garden plot for tomatoes and roses grew to take over the “playground” and become a “community garden”.  Ambrose has said, “No weeds could be found in Ed’s garden.” Both Mom and Dad were so active with family, friends, and church. 

Memories:

(Russell)  I am at a little disadvantage to my siblings because I knew Mom and Dad the least amount of time.  There were so many stories and special memories over the years – too many to mention!  Here are a few thoughts from my siblings: Our small, dainty mother was also mighty --- physically and emotionally.  There was the time Mom threw Lloyd through the gyproc wall when he tried to sneak some fresh cookies. Hard to believe, but I understand that many people tried to arm wrestle Mom and to their disbelief, many of them lost. Mom was helping Dad sort pigs in the barn. She was to stand guard at the door. Well, the big sow saw the light between her legs and took off for the door. Before you knew it, there was Mom riding backwards on the pig – in her dress, of course.  -- out into the yard, where she was unceremoniously dumped into a puddle! Emotionally she was strong as well.  Mom was a rock of support for her family and those around her – through good times and not-so-good times. Never complaining! Mom always thought of others before herself.  She was a great influence to her children and grandchildren and everyone who knew her, with her quiet and loving way. Material things were not important to Mom and Dad, but rather their family, friends and people in their lives, were of greatest importance. Dad and Mom played countless hours with her kids and grandchildren; reading books, and playing game after game with the little ones. Mom was in the service and hospitality industry.  Although not for profit or personal gain, her life was all about serving others through her good works and kind gestures, always giving of herself. People far and wide have spoken of Mom’s cooking over the years, her fresh homemade buns became legendary.  She loved to bake and prepare for others.  Her freezer was always stocked, ready for unexpected guests. Dad was always there to lend a helping hand, always a willing volunteer and participant in whatever and whenever was needed. All of us kids experienced walking home from school to the smell of fresh baked bread or buns, even in the earlier days using the old wood cookstove. These were quickly devoured with our favourite toppings of jam, syrup or honey. Saturday night bath time is another special memory. -- Getting the kitchen good and toasty, putting the old round tub in the middle of the floor, and all having their turn for a bath.  They made sure everyone was clean and tidy for worship Sunday morning.  The clothes and doilies and other crocheted and knitted things Mom made are found in a lot of our homes. Mom always stood by Dad with her love, support and encouragement. Dad led by example; he was faithful husband, providing loving support for his family. An old neighbour said the community usually influenced and changed the individual.  However, he went on to say, that in Dad’s situation, Dad influenced and changed his community, whether in the farming community or other communities they lived in throughout their lives. In memory of Mom, who loved her broaches, her daughters, granddaughters and great-granddaughters are wearing one of Mom’s broaches today. One of Mom and Dad’s greatest joys was to be with their family.

  Conclusions:

Paul’s words in I Corinthians 16:13-14. "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.  Do everything in love. And I Timothy 4:7,8 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day – and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. Dad stood firm in his faith; he was a man of courage; he was strong; he did everything in love.  God is pleased! I Corinthians 3:4 – 8 Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails.  Mom was all of these things, and God is pleased.

Guest Book

Alvan and Trish Jacobs - Vernon, BC: To the Elford family, I regret that I cannot make it to be with you at this great time of loss.  Your parents were such a great part of my life . All the Sunday afternoons we spent at your house and all the years of worship together at the country church and at Manson. Your parents were kind and hospitable and I shall really miss them. We received a picture of your parents from Maxine at their Anniversary and they looked so good and so happy and I'm sure they they would want us to know that they are ok . They had a plan where they were going and they showed us the way. They told us to prepare to go whenever we are called and I'm sure they were ready to go they just didn't know how soon. You were blessed to have such exceptional parents in your lives and may God continue to bless you. Calvin my heart goes out to you at this time as I know how tough this can  be. With our deepest sympathy, Alvan and Trish Jacobs.

Jack and Karen Close - Lexington, South Carolina: We ache with all of our dear ones in Canada at this shocking news. It is at times like this that we feel so very far away. Please know that we join you this week in spirit, love, and many wonderful memories as we remember a very special couple!!

Judy Morris - Nanaimo, BC:  I was so saddened to hear of Ed and Helen's tragic death. I have many fond memories of their love and hospitality when we lived in Moose Jaw. The blessing of this tragedy is that they do not leave one another to mourn their passing but can enjoy the reward of Heaven together, never having to be parted. They have left a wonderful legacy of love and devotion to each other, their family and the Church. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

David and Marilyn Muller - Dauphin, MB: We will always remember your parents for their open hearts and open home.  I especially have fond memories of working with Helen in the WSC executive many years ago...she made the whole task much more enjoyable. We know this is a terribly hard time for each of you...but I am glad if they were going to go, they went together.  We can look forward to a reunion so sweet because of Him.  Until we are with you to hug you personally, know we are mentioning you often in our prayers and pray He surrounds you with comfort only He can give.

Bob & Sharon Parker - Saskatoon, SK: Our sincere deepest sympathy to all of the family. You are on our thoughts and minds and in our prayers at this difficult time. May God give you comfort in the days and months ahead of you. They were a wonderful couple and lives us a great example of faithfulness to each other and their Lord. Christian Love & prayers, Sharon & Bob

Lynn Hugo - Regina, SK: With deepest sympathy. May you be comforted by God's love, God's peace, and God's presence. In thought and prayer. Lynn Hugo

Don and Norma Doerr - Estevan, SK: We were so sorry to hear of the death of your parents.  Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Barry Hennig

Bonnie Maw - Regina, SK:  Russell, Melissa and family, We are thinking of you and all of your family and are so saddened by your sudden loss of your mom and dad. Our hearts and prayers are with you especially at this time.    With love, Bonnie, Lester, Haleigh and Brady     Safe in the arms of Jesus...

Vanessa Firtana - Regina, SK: Cheryl...My heart and prayers go out to you and your family.  May you find comfort in family, prayer and wonderful memories of your parents. 

Jim and Connie Vorreiter - Regina, SK: Sorry to hear about your parents. With sympathy Jim and Connie

Pete and Janine Brazle - Michigan: Thank you for including our family in the sending out of the sad news about Ed and Helen. We are so sad for all of the family and for everyone who was close to them. Our thoughts are with  their wonderful children, Ed and Helen have had such a tremendous impact on the Brazle family. You are all in our prayers and on our hearts. Praise God for lives of faithful service and humble hearts that have shared His love. May God's peace be on you all. 

Cyrus Kristi Connor Crook - Edinburgh, Scotland: We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know that we are praying for all of you. Love to you all and God Bless. Love Cyrus,Kristi and Connor Crook

Ernie and Bernette Jacobs - Ladysmith, BC:  As we think of you all and share your grief, we fall back on our memories of a great Christian couple.Bernette recalls the many times Ed and her Mother celebrated their birthdays together in family fellowship. We both remember Ed's and Helen's support in Bernette's Dad's dying days and Ed sitting with Jim in his last hours. Ernie likes to reflect on how good to him Ed and Helen were when, as a kid, he used to be at their place visiting Dale. Sometimes Ed used to jokingly ask Dale and Ernie,"Well, what are Mutt and Jeff up to now?" and then he'd
laugh. We both recall their wonderful and consistent hospitality. It would be so easy to go on and on. We can still feel the warm hugs they gave us whenever we encountered them. We love you all.

Dave and Lee Phypers - Yellowknife, NT: To Russell and Milessa and the Elford family. We are so sorry to hear about your loss. I know your parents were a great example to all of you and your children; they leave behind a terrific heritage. When our friends hurt we hurt with them. Our prayers go out for all your family. Love Dave, Lee, Daena, Kacie & Ethan.

Florence and Dale Start - Edmonton, AB: Our Hearts were sadden upon the news of passing of Helen & Ed Elford in this tragic accident. Our deepest is extended to all the Family at this time, May Our God extend to all of you His Comfort Hand during this time of grieve.

Brad and Jamie Kotowich - Sherwood Park, AB: To Russ, Melissa, their children and the entire Elford family, our prayers and sincere wishes for wonderful memories are extended to you.  Know that you are all in our hearts. 

Steve and Diane Phypers - Olds, AB: To the Elford family: Praying for you all. Revelation 14:13 :'Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.'" "Yes," says the Spirit, "that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them."

Kenny Chan - Moose Jaw, SK: My deepest condolence to the family's loss. They were wonderful neighbours, and they made people welcomed to the neighbourhood.  They are missed. 

Teresa  and Christy Petruic - Moose Jaw, SK: Sorry to hear what had happened.  Ed and Helen are badly missed. There smile and friendliness are missed in our daily lives. 

George Jordan Magda - Regina, SK: Our deepest condolences to you Neita, Nestor and family. Our Lord will be always be by their side as they were by each other's. God Bless, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Carol McCaffrey - St Albert, AB: To Russ & Family, Lyle & I am saddened to hear about your parents. I just wanted to let you know that You are in my thoughts and prayers. Loosing parents is very hard. You spoke very highly of them and they know they were truly loved. Deepest Sympathies, Carol McCaffrey & Lyle Jacobs

Jim and Wanda Hobbs - Winnipeg, MB: We share your grief at the sudden loss of your parents. We remember the wonderful influence they have had for the whole church. Although we weep, we also rejoice that they have joined that great cloud of witnesses which have gone on before and are
now cheering us on to complete the task before us and join them. May God Bless you. Jim and Wanda Hobbs

Norma Smith - Victoria, BC: We were shocked and saddened at the news of Helen and Ed's passing.....such a difficult time for all the families and friends! We have many happy memories of times at Horse Creek when our families visited and shared special holidays together. In later years although the visits weren't as often they were still a blessing to us. They were a wonderful couple and showed a true Christian spirit in helping others.  With heartfelt sympathy, prayers and love, Carol, Don and Norma Smith

Sherri Young Erdahl  - Legal, AB: To all my family, my heart and thoughts are with you all. I'll deeply miss my Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen. They were truly special. Sherri

Bob Indra and Rhonda Riffell - Winnipeg, MB: To Richard, Sharon, Mandry, Brad & the extended Elford family: We extend our sympathy to you all on the sudden passing of Helen and Ed. We will remember them as great saints of God. May He comfort you all at this time of grief and mourning.

Laurie Fox - Portage La Prairie, MB: You are all in my thoughts and prayer's know that I love you all and wish I could be there. Love Laurie

Richard and Jennifer Smith - Saskatoon, SK: We would like to extend our deepest sympathies at the passing of your parents/grandparents. Their sudden passing leaves such a hole for so many. May God bless and comfort you through your grief and grant you His precious peace. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family during this very difficult time.

Nicole and Kelly Phillipchuk - Lampman, SK: Dear Dale, Kathy and family: We were so very sorry to hear of the passing of your parents.  May God's love surround you and may His peace and presence be a source of comfort today and in the days and weeks ahead.  Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Darcy and Tracy Coleman - Regina, SK: Cheryl, Ian and Elford Family,We are deeply saddened by the loss of your parents. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. God bless you all.

Stan and Maxine Bell - Gravelbourg, SK: To the Elford family,  Our heart goes out to you on such a sudden loss your parents. We love them so much and my life was always blessed by the special bond we shared as church family, neighbors and friends! My God bless you with the assurance that they are waiting at Home. Love, Stan and Maxine

Lorna Jacobs - Victoria, BC:  I am very sad to hear of the passing of Eddy & Helen. I grew up in the same community with them and their family in Manson. My memories of the church community there were good. I always remember Eddy & Helen for their Kindness. they were always smiling. I played with Neita a lot as a child and Calvin and Mary were good friends of mine. Although we have lost touch over the years I haven't forgotten the friendship & kindnesses. I send you all my thoughts and caring and I pray for comfort for all of the Elford family.    Love Lorna Jacobs

Sherry Stauch - Regina, SK: Cheryl, Ian & Families: May your special memories help you through this very difficult time. Our thoughts are with you.  Correspondence School Staff.

Ray and Ellen McMillan - Aizawl, Mizoram, India: Last June while we were in Canada we had a lovely visit with Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen.  Last night Ray ran off a lovely picture of them.  We have it sitting here as we remember their warm and loving ways and the good times we had with them.  We long to be with you tonight and tomorrow.  May God wrap each of you in His loving arms, and give you peace.  Love Ellen, Ray, Autumn and Andrew.

Charlotte Bell - Winnipeg, MB: To all the Elford family and friends, my deepest condolences on the sudden passing of Ed and Helen are with you all.  I hope and pray that the good times are remembered, as are all the eternal lessons that they taught each person they encountered in their lives.  My prayers are with you all.

Joel Muller - Leipzig, Germany: "I offer my sympathy to the Elford family upon the loss of Ed and Helen. Their lives have reached far and wide, even here to Germany. It is comforting to know that their influence has been one of strength in God's service and an encouragement to tell the story of Jesus. Sunday was a good day despite the news that I woke up to in my email. As I told the folks here what was weighing on my heart, it was made easier by sharing about how my life had been blessed by knowing Ed and Helen. Growing up in Manson, they where like an extra set of Grandparents. More importantly they tended a growing trust in the Lord, in me."

Debbi Marshall Davies - Prince George, BC: I was very shocked and saddened to hear about Aunt Helen and Uncle Ed. My thoughts and prayers to you all. I have only fond memories and utmost respect and can only hope to be as prepared as they were spiritually to make this final journey!

Lyonell Young - Toronto, ON: My dear cousins, Dale, Sharon, Calvin, Nita, Cheryl, Rusell and your families, I am so sorry for your loss. It should have been different. I loved your parents, my Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen. They have always been in my heart. My prayers and thoughts are with you this day and those that follow. I'll miss them. They were, without a doubt, wonderful parents and a wonderful uncle and aunt. Your loss is also ours. However, they're together in Heaven. All my love to all of you on this day, Your cousin,  Lyonell

Derek Bien and Linsey Gibbons - Calgary, AB: We are sorry to hear of your loss.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.  Grandma (Pansy) always spoke well of her brother and sister in-law.  They will be remembered fondly by many people.

Amanda Coulter - Regina, SK: My thoughts and prayers are with you all today.  My heart is heavy has I read through these comments, so many people who treasure such special memories of Ed and Helen.  Although, I have few distinct memories of them specifically, so many of their children and grandchildren have been a significant blessing to my life.  I know that would not be the case if they did not have the example of these wonderful, solid Christian servants.  Our family heritage through Christ is an amazing gift!  xoxo, Amanda

Don and Sandra Elsaesser - Regina, SK: To The Elford Family: We are saddened and so sorry to hear of the sudden death of your parents/grandparents.  Our hearts go out to you all at this difficult time. We wish we could be with you today as you celebrate their life and share in the many wonderful memories that you surely have.  They were a wonderful example and a great blessing to us all.  Love and Prayers, Don and Sandra Elsaesser

Richard and Diane Ward and Family - Virden, MB: To all of you, our Deepest Sympathy is with you at this very difficult time. All the great memories we have of Eddie & Helen will never be forgotten, and will help us all for days to come. Thinking of you all.  Richard & Diane Ward and Family 

Ken and Sandy Nerland - Fresno, California: Ken and I wish to send our heartfelt sympathy and love to all my Elford cousins and their families at this time of great loss.  I feel blessed to have been able to see them this past October.  Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen were not only jewels in our "physical" family, but also in our "spiritual" family.  Meekness and love exemplified their service to the Lord and to those they lived among.  Last Saturday, we who were left behind sadly said "there they go".  We're confident that the Lord was happily saying "here they come"!  May God grant His comforting care to you all. With Love and Prayers, Sandra and Ken

Ruth Hugo - Prince Albert, SK: Remember that your loss is shared by many friends who care and that you are in our thoughts and hearts and in our prayers. With deepest sympathy, Ruth Hugo and family

Allen and Laura Close - Lexington, South Carolina:  To the Elford Family.  Laura and I have a great love for your family and are sad with you on the passing of your parents.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you.  Allen & Laura Close

Ken and Rae Starnes - Manson, MB: We were devastated to hear of the accident that took Ed and Helen Elford on their journey to Heaven, but Praise the Lord they knew that is where they were going and we are overwhelmed with joy that their journey on earth has taken them there.....We did not know them well at all, but appreciated the little bits of time we did spend with them......Our sympathies are extended to all the family....It is sad, they will be missed on this earth, but how wonderful it is to go and be with the Lord.....May we all follow their example and go where they have gone......Sadness is in our hearts but great joy overshadows it because of their example of life and caring for others..... May we all join them one day in Heaven......God Bless

Lew, Kathy Young and Family - Moose Jaw, SK; Our family has been so blessed by living in the same city for many years with Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen. We all have learned what caring for others and living by example is by their example to us.  As the nephew who lived in the same city I have been able to have the opportunity to worship with Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen on a weekly basis and was always shown encouragement by them both in all the things I do in our Christian life and in the community.. It has been an honour to be with the family at this time.  I feel truly blessed by being able to assist in the arrangements of their funerals. God bless all our cousins in their grief. 

Brian and Judith Olson - Dallas, TX: Judith and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to our dear cousins upon the tragic passing of Uncle Ed and Aunt Helen.  Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.  May the Lord bless you and keep you...

M Joyce Shehyn - Victoria, BC: The news of the loss of Helen and Ed has reminded me that life in Christ is the most rewarding now, and in the future.  I knew them as far back as 1953 when I spent part of the summer at Manson Bible School.  Ed especially loved to tease, and I remember Helen as a great cook.  Their example of love and faith has led me to continue faithful.  They were part of my Christian family.  Condolences to the Elfords and Goodwins.

Larry and Laurel Dreichel - Falun, AB: To the Elford Family. You are all in my thoughts at this time of such sadness and I wish to extend my deepest Sympathy to each of you. Even though we have lost touch, I haven't forgotten the many rides to Church, ball games and weiner roasts. We all have our memories to comfort us.

June Hamer

Huyghebaert  Johan - Roeselare, Belgium: We do not know you or did we know your parents , but as Christians we feel this great loss . We pray for all that are left behind , that we may all follow their wonderful example . May we all join them one day in heaven . All the brothers and sisters from Bruuge and Roeselare here in Belgium pray for you all .  May God bless you all. Huyghebaert-Denys Johan and Ludwin ( br. of Luc and Ladean )

Penny and Murray Janis - Glen Bain, SK: Neita, we were so sorry to hear about your Mom and Dad. We'd love to get together with you for a visit.  We're at the same place; please call us when you feel up to it.  We're in the city frequently.  Mom, Shell and Scott send their condolences, too. 

Bill & Evelyn Muller

Elsie Hintz and Family - Wapella, SK: Sorry to hear of your loss.

Tamara Jacobs - Port Coquitlam, BC: To the Elford, Goodwin and extended family and friends: Sorry to hear of your loss.  I feel fortunate to have known Eddie and Helen Elford as a child while I lived in Manson. Just hearing Eddie's contagious laugh made me giggle. I remember Helen’s warm smile and great desserts. I also feel fortunate to have spent some of my earlier childhood with the family of one of Eddie and Helen's sons, Calvin.  The Elfords were really missed when they left Manson.  Good, kind-hearted people…

Ian and Ruth MacLeod - Saskatoon, SK: To the Elford family: We morn with you the loss of Ed and Helen and we send our condolences to their family and extended family. May God give you comfort in knowing that they are in a better place. With deepest sympathy, Ian and Ruth

Charles  Darlene Lowes - McAuley, MB: Deepest sympathy.  Your parent's lives touched many people.  You will miss them.

George and Doris Husband - Wawota, SK: I sent a card to Calvin and Mary and I want to extend it to all the family.  When my brother Marion Lewis passed away, Bob, his son, wrote in the bulletin.  My dad was sitting down to his earthly supper when he was called to a heavenly banquet. I understand Calvin and Mary were planning to have dinner with Ed and Helen and I thought of this as they would be called away to a heavenly banquet.  God bless you all.  

Walter and Doris  Morrow - Alameda, SK: I had heard of the traffic accident at Moose Jaw, and sat up waiting to see if I knew the people who had been killed.  At that time I really didn't associate the names with Dale's.  I'm so sorry to hear of their deaths.  From reading the other comments I know they will be sadly missed by family & friends.  Our sincere sympathy.

Barb Toews - "Thinking of you all"- Dale (Kathy) presented a very "touching" sermon on the following Sunday morning service and later another sermon after the funeral which stated that usually a christian's faith becomes much stronger - my family can certainly relate to this.  I especially am thinking of Sharon (a classmate of WCC)  but just remember "Memories Last Forever" -from "Barb Toews and family"  

Melody Huffman - Kermit, TX : Dear Dale and Kathy, I was so sadden to get the email telling me of the accident and the death of your beloved parents.  I have been holding you in my heart and prayer since that time, although I had not gotten back with you.  Thank God we don't have to grieve as the world does.  May God wrap His loving arms around you and give you peace that can only come from Him and may your precious memories soften the ache.  with you in God's hands.

Mark Husband - Dauphin, MB: To all the Elford and extended families, we continue to grieve with you.  It's not the finality but the suddenness that makes it sad. 
My memories... When Manson and Wawota congregations got together in the 70's for a box social or ball game, Ed & Helen were always there. And even as a little kid they remembered my name which was significant to this little boy.  Ed would often be getting the wiener-roasting fire going and setting up a table or two to put the food on.  Helen would be bringing out the food which was always my favourite thing in those days (especially the desserts).  Another thing I remembered from Manson days and later at WCC events was that Ed was always so happy to see you.  He'd be sure to shake your hand and make feel so welcome even when I was a student at WCC and he was the guest.  I also remember that Ed had an unmistakable laugh which would be heard a lot through the foyer.  He just enjoyed getting together with everyone at those events and his joy was contagious.  At WCC Lectureships I remember Helen would always be serving pie for the Women's Service Club after the lectures in the old cafeteria at North Weyburn.   If I wasn't a student at the time I'm sure I would have thought she worked in the cafeteria. 
As others have stated, it was a blessing for them to pass on together.  May God continue to replace your sadness in their deaths by joyful memories from their lives.

John & Bernice Muller - Winnipeg, MB: It was with great shock and sadness that we received the news of their tragic accident. We fondly remember Eddie & Helen from the many years that we knew them. They will be missed.

Curt and Pat Seibel - Bismarck, ND: Dale & Kathy: We were so sad to hear of your loss. Even though we knew your parents only slightly, we were blessed to have known such sweet, Godly people.

Greg and Ronda Ashworth - Vernon  BC: We are sorry for your loss.

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