Ferne Escott

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ferne Frances Escott (née Kirkland) on June 16, 2025, at Westview Health Centre in Stony Plain, Alberta, following a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

Ferne was born on July 12, 1945, in Gladstone, Manitoba. After graduating from high school in Plumas, she moved to Winnipeg to begin her career. It was there she met Bill, a member of the Canadian Armed Forces and the love of her life. They married in November 1964 and began a beautiful journey together that spanned over 60 years.

A passionate gardener, Ferne found joy in planting flowers that brought colour and beauty to her home and yard. Her vibrant blooms were a reflection of her spirit—resilient, generous, and full of life. She created a warm, welcoming home filled with love, where family was always at the heart.

Ferne cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother and was especially known for the delicious pies she brought to every family gathering. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering love will live on in her children and in the many lives she touched.

In retirement, Ferne and Bill enjoyed many winters in Yuma, Arizona, where they made lasting friendships in their RV park community. Ferne especially loved shuffleboard and the many happy hours spent with neighbours.

Ferne is lovingly remembered by her husband, Bill; her son, Russ (Cindy); her granddaughters, Teela (Kevin) Gardiner, Janelle (of Duncan, BC), and Kendra; and her great-grandchildren, Harper, Lincoln, and Hudson Gardiner. She is also survived by her sister, Linda of Winnipeg, MB, and her brother, Brian (Gail) of Bayfield, ON.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Cheryl; her parents, Orville and Frances Kirkland of Plumas, MB; her brother, Ralph; and her sister, Eileen (Sam) Harding of Yarmouth, NS.

Ferne’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for the kindness and care that Ferne received from the doctors, nurses, and staff of Sturgeon Community Hospital, Edmonton General Continuing Care Centre, and Westview Health Centre.

A Prayer Service will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Parkland Funeral Services, 3502–44 Avenue, Stony Plain. An interment at Inga Cemetery will follow. Friends and family are warmly invited to a luncheon at the Stony Plain Legion, 4902–44 Avenue, from 12:30 to 3:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ferne’s honour to the Canadian Cancer Society.