Sheila, at the age of 90, passed peacefully at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, surrounded by her family.
Beloved wife of the late Thomas Farrance (2017). Loving mother of Donna Austin (Bill) and the late Peter Farrance (Cheryl). Proud grandmother of Matthew Austin (Hangjue), Michael Austin (Katy), Laura Austin (Erik), Marie Farrance. Proud great grandmother of Nicholas and Craig Austin and Taylor Oros.
Sheila was a woman of remarkable strength. She was determined to have a nursing career. She started this journey by completing her high school education at night while balancing the demands of looking after her young children during the day. Then she completed her training as a Practical Nurse. Following graduation she worked as a nurse in a hospital, then a nursing home and finally worked for the Red Cross supporting her clients in their homes. She was always passionate about her patients and her clients. This passion was also evident in the way she cared for her family.
Sheila was a talented artist. She worked with water colours, oils and sketching. She found beauty in nature and the everyday and had a gift of capturing it on canvas. Despite suffering from crippling arthritis in her hands, her last gift to her three great grandchildren were three beautiful sketches that she created.
She loved dancing, especially modern square dancing. She also loved travelling and often combined the two, travelling to attend square dance conventions. When she wasn’t dancing she could often be found at a card table playing bridge and euchre.
She spent many happy years at Simcoe Terrace Retirement Home where she enjoyed many new friendships. She continued her love of games, including cards, scrabble and bingo.
In keeping with Sheila’s wishes cremation will take place. Arrangements entrusted to the Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley St., Barrie
Online condolences and memories may be shared via www.steckleygooderham.com