Obituary of Margaret Evelyn Erskine

Surrounded by loved ones, Marg died peacefully at her home in Erbs Cove, New Brunswick on July 7, 2023.  Born in Toronto, Ontario to Donald R. Erskine and Evelyn M. Hood on July 24, 1947, she was predeceased by her parents and brothers, Douglas and Kenneth. Growing up in Leaside, she was a “real Torontonian”, but in recent years happily moved to the east coast for the last chapter. In addition to many family, friends and colleagues, she leaves behind Lynn Nagle, her loving partner, whose family embraced Marg as one of their own over the past 37 years.

Also known as Margie, Maggie, Madge, and Burkie, she graduated from the Victoria School of Nursing in London, Ontario and spent more than 35 years as a Registered Nurse in Newfoundland and Ontario. Most of her career was spent as Patient Care Manager of the Critical Care Unit at Sunnybrook Hospital, and her final working years as manager of the Neuro-Rehab unit at the Riverdale Hospital. Those who worked with Marg will attest to her practical, patient, and caring demeanour. Equipped with a wry sense of humour and an inimitable management style, she was loved but also the first to admit that she wasn’t “everyone’s cup of tea”. Her retirement “gala” was replete with testimonials to her leadership, but also many acts of kindness and generosity to staff and patients alike. Never one to take the limelight herself, she consistently encouraged and supported others to shine. “Don’t be hiding your light under a bushel” she would often say. Most notable, was her unwavering love, pride, and support of Lynn’s academic and professional endeavours over the years. Without a doubt, she was the wind beneath her wings. Always a voice of calm and reason, her stabilizing force and guiding hand will be incredibly missed.

With a cookbook collection paralleled by few, Marg’s love of cooking was her real passion. Over the years, our home was the scene of many dinner parties, celebrations, and gatherings with friends and family. An avid reader and a bit of a news junkie, she was a wonderful conversationalist, and her quick wit brought much laughter to the lives of many.  Avid travellers, she and Lynn were blessed to experience the world in ways that most can only imagine. Following her sarcoma diagnosis just over a year ago, although more challenging, travel still proved to be the best medicine. Being one to seize every moment, she would often quip: “there’s no pockets in the shroud, let’s go”!

And just in case there’s an invitation in the offing: Miss Margaret regrets she is unable to lunch today.

To our many friends and family, your expressions of love and compassion were deeply appreciated throughout Marg’s journey - thank you all. A special thank you to Gina Barton, Kelly Dunfield, and Dr. Julia Wildish for your care and support over the past months.

At Marg’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral. A gathering of family and friend will take place at Lily Lake Pavilion, Saint John, on Thursday, July 27, 2023, from 4-7 PM, with a celebration of Marg's life beginning at 5PM. Donations in her memory can be directed to the Canadian Cancer Society, Sophia Recovery Centre, Saint John, N.B., Toronto Star Fresh Air Fund, or a charity of choice. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, NB (506-849-2119).