McQUISTON, Ella Wilhelmina - (October 18, 1922 – November 29, 2018) -
Ella Wilhelmina McQuiston (nee Gulbronson) of Toronto, ON died peacefully on Thursday November 29, 2018.
She will be missed by her daughter Margaret of Calgary, son David of Toronto (Kim), grandchildren Tommy and Maddy and many other family and friends.
She was predeceased by her husband of 59 years, Thomas and brother William (Bill) Gulbronson.
Ella was born in Collingwood, ON to Olaf and Fae Irene Gulbronson. It was at the Collingwood Collegiate that she met many of her life-long friends known as the ‘Collingwood Girls’. They shared life’s ups and downs for the rest of their lives. It was also in Collingwood that she met the love of her life, Tom whom she married on May 23, 1957 and together they moved to Toronto. Their love affair never ended.
Ella had a successful career which started at the Bank of Toronto and then she held senior administration positions at Trott’s Furniture of Collingwood and interior designers David and Alison Bain. She took time off to raise her 2 children then returned to work at the Canadian Red Cross and became Director, Blood Donor Recruitment at North York Branch. She was also committed to her volunteer work at North York General Hospital, St. Matthews Church and the Liberal Party of Canada.
Ella, with Tom had a very full life. They shared in the love of travel, the arts and community service and enjoyed the company of many good friends, both young and old. Ella was a great cook and loved hosting parties in their home which she did with great pleasure and elegance. She had a creative side which included decoupage, sewing and gardening and was keen to attend lectures on just about any topic.
Maintaining connection to family, no matter how far away was very important to Ella. She and Tom made regular trips to Belfast, N. Ireland where Tom’s family welcomed her completely; to Alberta to visit Margaret; and to her hometown of Collingwood to see friends and family. She created lots of memorable family time, including camping trips and road trips around eastern Canada. Later the family enjoyed its annual long weekend at Cedar Grove Lodge in Muskoka.
She will be remembered for her positive and fun attitude, service to others, her funny stories and one-line quips, her sense of style and purple wardrobe, the pride she had for her children and grandchildren and her infectious giggle.
A funeral service and celebration of life will be held at St. Matthew the Apostle - Oriole, 80 George Henry Blvd, North York, ON at 2 pm on Friday December 7th.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Matthews the Apostle – Oriole or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted with Jerrett funeral home, 6191 Yonge St., Toronto.
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