Madeleine (Taillefer) Eisen

It is with deep sadness that Madeleine’s nieces and “sidekicks” Dorothy McParland, Marlene Perreault (Mike), Karen Murray (Scott), Colleen Parker (Tom) and Sharon Robertson (Bob) announce the death of their dear aunt Madeleine in her 89th year after a short illness. Bedean had no children of her own therefore, we were her family. She often reminded us that we were the “light of her life” and she held a special place in our hearts as well.

Madeleine is survived by her “darling” husband of 60 years Bill (Cassellholme), as well her brother in-law Mickey Eisen, step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren sisters-in-law, many nieces, nephews and their children.

She was predeceased by her parents Parmelia and Joseph Taillefer, her sisters Jean Oliver (Art), Annette Taillefer, Theresa McParland (Stan), Rita Keenan (Richard), Pauline McParland (Andy), Jacqueline Taillefer and brothers Malcolm Taillefer (Eva), René Taillefer, Léo Taillefer (Lottie, Windsor) and Louis Taillefer (Theresa, North Bay).

Madeleine was born and raised in North Bay. She graduated as a nursing assistant from Kingston Business College in 1950, working at the North Bay Civic Hospital for 32 years and as a dental assistant for Dr. Kevin O’Grady.

In 1953, she enrolled in the Canadian Forces Reserve Force (CWAC), reaching the rank of Captain in the Algonquin Regiment and Cadet Services of Canada. She was the recipient of the very prestigious Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2002, presented to her by Queen Elizabeth II. As an active member and volunteer with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 23, she was awarded a Life Membership as well as the 50 Year Service Award. She proudly carried the Canadian Colour in the Legion Colour Party and, with Bill, organized multiple Remembrance Day services and parades. Their Saturday nights were usually spent serving meals at weddings as well as assisting with numerous celebration of life services.

Thank you to Dr. Graham and the wonderful staff at Empire Living where Madeleine resided for the last few years. Thank you to the CCAC, PSW’s and the staff at North Bay Regional Health Centre who cared for our aunt. Thank you to Theresa McCarthy RN (DVA) for her wonderful support.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, October 24 from 2-4 p.m. (Legion Services at 2:30pm) and 7-9 p.m. at Hillside Funeral Services. A mass of Christian burial will take place at St. Peter the Apostle Church Friday, October 25 at 11 a.m. Cremation to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Peter the Apostle Needy Fund will be gratefully acknowledged by her family.