Obituary of Mary Eileen Bancroft

Mary Eileen Bancroft passed away peacefully on June 1, 2006 at the William Albert House, Emerald Park, shortly after her 102nd birthday. Eileen was born on May 24, 1904 in Arcola, North West Territories, the first of five children of George and Lucy Bancroft. She moved with her family to Regina in 1913, and has resided in Regina all her long life. Eileen worked 44 years for the Regina Sash and Door Company, retiring in 1967 as Secretary-Treasurer and a Director. She was dedicated to her family all her life, and looked after her mother for many years after her father died in 1946. She had a large number of friends and admirers through her strong association with different organizations such as the Business and Professional Womens Club (for which she was Treasurer for 25 years), the Council of Women, the Monarchist League, and especially St. Marys Anglican Church where she has been a member since 1916. Her 80 years service (1921 - 2001) to the Altar Guild at St. Marys may well be a record in the Anglican community world-wide. An ardent monarchist, some of her fondest memories were related to visits of the Kings George, Queen Elizabeth, and other members of the Royal family. Eileen enjoyed robust physical and mental health nearly all her life, with remarkable personal determination and stamina, good humor, and great compassion for others less fortunate. At her 100th birthday party on May 22, 2004, about 150 friends and family celebrated her life during a reception from 2 - 5 pm, and a dinner for 45 friends from 6 - 9 pm. She enjoyed greeting everyone, and gave the first formal speech of her life. Eileen leaves a nephew Michael Bancroft (Joan) in London, ON, a niece Louise Gaudreau in Montreal, great-nephew David Bancroft (Michelle), great-nieces Catherine Bancroft and Maryanne Fortin (Jean-Philippe), great-great nephew Ethan in London and a great-great niece Alys in Montreal. Cremation has taken place with Speers Funeral Chapel handling all arrangements. A Memorial Service to celebrate her long and fruitful life will take place on Friday, June 9, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Marys Anglican Church, 3337 - 15th Avenue with Rev. Claude Schroeder officiating. A reception will follow. Interment in Regina Cemetery. The family would like to thank care-givers who helped Eileen so much in the last ten years; her neighbour Gloria Erickson (now in Victoria, BC), Jackie Stenzil, many St. Marys parishioners, staff at the Bentley and William Albert House and We Care.