A Celebration Of Life: Elizabeth Riddell
Elizabeth Riddell
Thursday, June 29th, 1950 – Sunday, February 21st, 2021
On Sunday, February 21, 2021, in her 71st year, Liz Riddell, wife, sister, mum, grannie
and Big G, passed away peacefully at Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus, ON.
Liz was born to Francis (1916-1978) and Peggy Viol (nee Arnold, 1922-1999) in
Manchester, England. Liz and her older sister Candy (Ron Tawse) journeyed with their parents
to Canada in search of new opportunities in 1952. In Canada, brothers Peter Viol and Michael
Viol (Sandra) were born. The family resided in Toronto, Fergus and later, Morriston.
Liz completed high school at GCVI in Guelph and went on to Mothercraft College in
Toronto. Liz met Alan, the love of her life, and they married at Duff’s Presbyterian Church
(1973), then farmed in Puslinch Township. Daughters Allison and Maggie (Brent Kurtz) were
born and son Michael. The family moved to Drayton to continue their farming journey. Sons
Gary and Bryan (Patricia Clarke) were born, and daughter Ashley.
Liz was active in the communities she lived in. She served in roles as president and
ancillary positions; both in minor hockey and Kinettes. The family moved to Palmerston, and
eventually back to Puslinch, then Morriston and finally retired to the grannie suite in Ariss. Liz
did a variety of work throughout the years, but to her, being a mother was her first priority.
Liz’s 13 grandchildren, Ethan (Allison), Robert, Richard, Derek, Blair, Daniel (2010)
(Maggie), Cameron, Meg (Michael), Layton (Gary), Alexis, Jaxson and Bryanna (Bryan) and
Rose (Ashley) were her pride and joy. Each child had a special bond with their Grannie and she
will be missed sorely. Liz showered them with love, cookies and wonderful memories.
Liz enjoyed crafting and knitting, but sewing was her true passion. Her gardens were
developed and nurtured like all the relationships she had with her tribe of loved family and
friends. After a hard day of work, the beauty and benefits were seen at a later time. Liz’s home was always a welcome place for a fresh cup of tea and conversation. Mealtimes will be fondly remembered as there was never a dull moment with Liz in attendance.
Liz embodied community spirit and really missed the social activities of her church
(Knox-Elora Presbyterian) due to the recent restrictions and lockdowns of the time.
Liz lived life on her own terms, under her own steam and was happiest when she was
helping out others. Her independent spirit was not one to be tied down, unless she chose to do so.
She will be profoundly missed and we are grateful for the time that we have had with her.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to Groves Memorial Hospital. Their
support and care were tremendous during Liz’s short stay.
There will not be a service for Liz, but we ask for you to share a memory at
grahamgiddyfh.com. There will be a celebration of life planned at a later date when the weather
warms and the restrictions are lifted. Please leave us a contact email through the memory wall
and the family will send an invitation. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Knox-
Elora Presbyterian Church.
