Obituary of Eileen Veronica Colbourne

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our precious mother, Eileen Veronica Colbourne (nee Manners) on November 6, 2023. Passing peacefully while surrounded by her loving children, our family was blessed to be able to care for and comfort her in her home until her final hour. Predeceased by her parents, George and Mary Manners, her husband, Leonard Harold Colbourne (1969) and her son, Raymond John (2001). Survived by 8 children: Linda, Carol, Paul, Barb Fretz (Randy), Terry Chambers (Bob), Mary Jane Jarvis (Bob) and the twins, Lori and Lisa; her brothers, George Manners (Danielle) and Reg Manners (Celeste). Cherished Grandmother (Nana) to Nancy Cousins, Leonard Hogan, Ashley Zahara (Chris), Sarah Vandendool (Jake), Kaitlynn Colbourne, Robert DelBuono (Jessie), Jason DelBuono (Erin), Justine Chambers, Candice Lamb (Tyler), Savannah Anoquot-Smith (Josh), Jesse Jarvis, Robert Jarvis (Julia), Michael Lavoie, Danielle, Desserai, Justin, Jasmine and Jaedan Colbourne, Michael Bellefleur (Vanessa), Ryan and Chantelle Bellefleur and Kristen McLaughlin. Great Grandmother AKA "Big Nan" to Mackenzie, Isabella, Declan, Killian, Quinn, Piper, Riley, Noah, Benjamin, Elly, Ava, Levi, Autumn, Tatum and Tallulah. She is sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her beloved companion, Al and her dear friend, Cristina.

Eileen was born in Kensley Surrey, England then came to Canada in 1946 as a war bride. She initially settled in Mattawa, Ontario then moved to Niagara Falls (Chippawa) where our parents began raising their family. Tragically, a workplace accident at the Norton took the life of her husband, our father, at the young age of 45 and our mother bravely and honourably continued to raise our family as a single parent. In her later years, with the family grown, she enjoyed time in Florida and especially loved her southern home.

As a free spirit, our Mom always loved to do things her way. Lovingly known to many as “Mrs. C” or “The Duchess” she opened her home to all. She captivated many with the stories of her life experiences from her childhood, through war times and all her escapades through the years. She loved to knit, bake and cook and loved to share with everyone who came to her table. Mom especially liked to enjoy a glass of wine with family and friends. A true gypsy soul, she embraced her love of jewellery, fashion and travel. She relished family gatherings filled with music, guitar playing, singing and dancing and especially loved listening to Bob Dylan and Bob Marley. Our earth angel is now one of heaven’s angels and her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. A private family service is being planned to honour her wishes.