Elaine "Bunny" Morrison

Elaine "Bunny" Morrison was a modest woman, quiet and observant in her ways. She was trustworthy and traditional in her approach to her life and in her relationships. She was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew her. She was also a woman who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything she undertook. Realistic about life, she was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

      Elaine was born on July 24, 1959 at Humber Memorial Hospital in Rexdale (Toronto) Ontario. She was the daughter of Gloria and Russell Morrison. Elaine grew up in Rexdale, Ontario.

      Elaine was raised with one sibling. She had an older sister Sheila. Elaine was usually involved in all sorts of activities with her sibling. She and her sister experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      As a young girl, Elaine had a number of interests. Like most children, she enjoyed playing and making up games. She was curious about the world around her and was often eager to explore it. Elaine was an active child who took part in ballet and tap lessons, piano lessons and loved to swim. In her spare time she liked to read novels as well as Richie Rich and Archie comic books. However, to Elaine, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with her friends.

      A typical teenager, Elaine had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. She graduated from West Humber Collegiate Institute in 1978. She enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. Her favorite class in high school was Science. She graduated as an Ontario Scholar.

      Elaine enjoyed her college years, which may have been a challenge with all of the academics, responsibilities, and the sudden freedom that accompanied them, but Elaine was able to manage the balancing act. She earned her Nursing Diploma in 1981 from Seneca College in Toronto. She was Valedictorian of her nursing graduation class.

      Always considered a “good” friend to those she knew, Bunny enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during her lifetime. While growing up, some of her best friends were Diane Brown, Nancy Williams and Sue Allan. Later in life, she became friends with Micka, Paul, Susan, Debbie, Jeff & Lorie Russell, Bob & Karen Stirling, Glenn & Wendy Lucas, Dave & Joanne Haacke, Art & Judy Lovell, Linda & Peter McGill, Chris & Karen Manderson, and Sue & Bruce Watson.

      Fortunately, Elaine enjoyed what she did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Elaine worked diligently and did her best to succeed in her career. Her primary occupation was as a nurse. She was employed for 25 years by Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto. She was previously employed at St. Joseph's Hospital and Etobicoke General Hospital. Elaine always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      Bunny enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were reading, knitting, crossword puzzles, music (in particular Celine Dion and Josh Grobin). She was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others.

      Elaine found pleasure in sports. In high school, Elaine played tennis swimming and diving. Recreational sports included tennis and baseball at the annual fund raiser. Elaine was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following her favorite events whenever she had the chance to do so. Tops on her list were golf, all Olympic sports, figure skating and hockey.

      Though she never set out to gain individual recognition, Elaine was given accolades for her many and varied accomplishments throughout her life. Some of her most prestigious awards included being Valedictorian of her graduating nursing class as well as being and Ontario Scholar.

      Elaine enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for her to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included Pompano Beach Florida, Puerto Vallarta Mexico, Caribbean Cruise and White-Water Rafting.

      Bunny was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Nanook, a Siberian Husky. They were best friends for 12 years. Her family was rounded out by Owen, her cat.

      Elaine passed away on December 18, 2010 at her home in Oshawa. She fought a brave battle with chronic pain and depression. She is survived by her mother Gloria Morrison, her sister Sheila, her niece Amy and her nephew David - the joys of her life. Services were held at Oshawa Funeral Home.

      Simply stated, Elaine was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Elaine leaves behind her a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Elaine "Bunny" Margaret Morrison.

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MORRISON, Elaine “Bunny”

Peacefully at home on Saturday, December 18th, 2010 in her 52nd year. Beloved daughter of Gloria and the late Russell Morrison. Loving sister of Sheila (Francis) McQuaid. Fondly remembered aunt of Amy and David. Friends may call at OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West (905-721-1234) for memorial visitation on Tuesday, December 21st, 2010 from 7-9 P.M. and on Wednesday, December 22nd from 12:00 P.M. until the time of the Memorial Service in the Chapel at 1:00 P.M. Donations made to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated.