NELLIE LILA BROWN

Nellie Lila Brown (nee Barnes), formerly of Stratton, Ont., passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, Oct. 7, 2011 at the Rainy River Health Centre in Rainy River, Ont.
Nellie was born Sept. 24, 1931 in Delorane, Man. In 1954, she relocated to Rainy River District.
She was united in marriage to Robert James Brown of Stratton on July 6, 1973.
Nellie came from a family with a musical background, and she just loved to sing, play the Hawaiian guitar, and yodel. Even when she wasn’t able play and sing as her health deteriorated, she always gave it her best shot—often having her family and caregivers join in.
Nellie loved old-time country music, especially anything by Wilf Carter. Listening to Wilf Carter tunes is likely where Nellie learned to yodel. When she was able, Nellie could be seen out with the “The Clover Valley Echos” entertaining.
As Nellie’s health began to fail, the band often would come to the Rainy River Health Centre and entertain the residents, whom often would join in clapping hands, tapping feet, and the occasional yodeling.
Nellie loved to garden, and she had the greenest thumb ever seen. She also loved to knit, crochet, and quilt—anything to keep her hands busy. As well, Nellie cooked for many years at numerous tourist camps throughout the district, and taught her children well.
Nellie will be greatly missed by her husband, Robert J. Brown, of Stratton, Ont.; children, Connie (Ben) Van Drunen of Devlin, Ont., Grant Simmons of Thunder Bay, Ont., Guy (Lois) Simmons of Emo, Ont., Miles Brown of Atikokan, Ont., Liana (Richard Byrnes) of Fort Frances, Ont., and Cheryl (Bruce) Masson of Petersfield, Man.; as well her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Nellie was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Elsie Barnes; son, Harold; daughters-in-law, Teresa Brown and Carmen Simmons; and sister, May (Frank) Kemp.
As per Nellie’s request, cremation has taken place and a private family interment will take place in the Stratton Cemetery.
Family and friends are welcome to join with the family on Friday, Oct. 14, 2011 from 1-3 p.m. for a time of fellowship, at the Millennium Hall in Stratton.
If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the Rainy River Health Centre c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com