Mary Elizabeth Balfour

Mary Elizabeth Balfour died on November 7, 2023 at the age of 63 years.  After several years of declining health, she passed away peacefully, with family and friends at her side during her final days.  Mary Elizabeth, who was also known later in life as Mary, was born on June 30, 1960 in Toronto, the only child of Dick and Pat Balfour.  Her parents predeceased her in 1995 and 2006, respectively.  She is survived by her dear Uncle Blake Patterson and 13 first cousins on both sides of her family.  Mary Elizabeth was challenged by physical and mental disabilities for most of her life.  She nevertheless lived her life fully, with a positive outlook despite periodic setbacks. She had a quick wit and an infectious grin that made her eyes twinkle. She enjoyed many activities including baking, bingo (although she never hit the elusive jackpot), dogs, knitting and shopping, and was an ace at playing Wheel of Fortune.  Through to the end of her life, she regularly participated in community activities and went on excursions, which included trips to the Stratford Festival and other Ontario theatres.  Her long-time caregiver and dear friend, Donna Paterson, organized all these trips and was Mary Elizabeth’s faithful and indispensable companion on all of them.  Donna’s extraordinary devotion to Mary Elizabeth immeasurably improved her life.  From 1989 until her passing, Mary Elizabeth was supported by many outstanding team members from Community Living Owen Sound, living very comfortably at her last home for approximately seventeen years.  In particular, team members Krista Walsh and Kati Burgess were very important constants in Mary Elizabeth’s life, providing passionate care, wise guidance and support, and advocacy that enabled her to live life to its fullest potential. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to each and every member of the family that makes up the Community Living team for dedication to their calling in support of Mary Elizabeth and to Mary Elizabeth’s nearest and dearest friends, past and present, who made her life shine the best way possible.  After the death of her mother, Blake Patterson took responsibility for managing Mary Elizabeth’s personal, health and financial affairs.  In recent years, her cousins Lorraine Smith and Dick Balfour provided assistance.  A private graveside service will take place in the spring. Memorial contributions to Community Living Owen Sound would be appreciated.  Arrangements entrusted to Grey Bruce Cremation and Burial Services, www.greybrucecremation.com.