Obituary of Elaine Neal-Cairnie

Following a long battle with cancer, Lainie passed away peacefully at home on December 25, 2023.

She is survived by her husband (Ken); three children Jennifer (Rick), Gordon (Sherrie) and Chelsea; five grandchildren Corey, Devon, Taylor, Jessica and Cole; one great grandchild Rowan; and sister Brenda and her family Rene and Rachelle (Sterling); Cael and Tea.

Lainie was born in Grandview, Manitoba on April 28, 1945.

She moved with her parents to British Columbia when she was four years old, returning to Manitoba as an adult.

She began her career in the social services as a counselor at Seven Oaks Youth Centre and as a departmental employee in the provincial child adoption and family violence prevention programs.

Lainie graduated with a degree in social work from the University of Manitoba in 1987. Her studies included field placements with the provincial child adoption program and Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre. Following graduation, she went on to work for a number of community organizations as follows:

–              Native Women's Transition Centre

–              Ndinawe

–              Andrew Street Family Centre

–              the United Way of Winnipeg

–              Main Street Project

–              Blue Thunderbird Family Care

Her work history included direct service, program development and executive director roles.

A gathering of family, friends and associates will be held on Thursday, January 25, 2024 in the large hall at the Royal Canadian Legion, 1748 Main Street (corner of Main and Hartford) starting at 1:00 pm.