Suddenly as a result of an accident on Wednesday September 19, 2012. Eileen Mabee, in her 36th year, beloved daughter “Sugar-Pops” of Diane and the late Gerry Mabee. Loving sister of Russell &Terri. Remembered with love by her nephew Greysen, niece Tori, Uncle Vernon & Aunt Evelyn, and Aunt Gloria. Best friend and playmate of Hobo, Mickey, and the late Poochie, Journey, and Keeper. Forever in the hearts of her extended family and many friends.
Resting at Rod Abrams Funeral Home 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477 on Monday September 24, 2012 from 7-9pm. Funeral service will be held in the chapel on Tuesday September 25, 2012 at 1pm. Interment Morningside Cemetery Palgrave. For those who wish, donations to the “Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund”( 519-824-4120 Ext: 54431, would be appreciated by the family.
www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com
Kim Schotman says
Dear Eileen,
Your soul was one of the kindest and loving ones ever found on this planet. You will be missed and I will forever cherish the letters we’ve exchanged.and the times we’ve spent together. It was an honor to have known you.
Forever knotted,
Kimmie from Holland.
Sharon MacMillan says
Eileen, you were the best of us. I will never forget your kindness to Phaedra and me. We will miss you dearly.
Melissa P says
Eileen was truly a special person. We met her through IADL back in 2005 – our sweet boy Barney fell in love with her immediately. Over the years she spoiled Barney, helped to give him an amazing first birthday party, and took him on a few of her amazing hikes. The world has lost one of the most selfless, kind and generous people we have come to meet in my life. We;re sorry we couldn’t be there in person but my deepest sympathies for your loss Diane and Russell.
Melissa, Ben, Ruby and Barney
Amy Jackson says
I’m taking this moment to remember Eileen Mabee as her family and friends gather to say their goodbyes. Although I could not be there in person, my heart is with Diane, Russell and family. ♥ I will never forget the laughter, and the time you tried New Mexico hot sauce, or the tour of the Caverns, or the way you and your mom drove to Lubbock from Hobbs and took you around 4 hours because you were driving Kilometers-per-hour vs. miles-per-hour in your rental car LOL but most of all I’ll never forget the long and zany letters and tapes we sent back and forth between Hobbs, NM and Toronto, ON!! Rest in Peace Eileen!! <3
Tara Halligan says
Eileen was a special person, generous and kind. She had such a great sense of humour, she was a great friend.
I came across this prayer recently, I am not sure who the author is but it seemed to be most fitting.
“Longing for one more day when we lose someone we love it seems that time stands still. What moves through us is a silence… a quiet sadness… A longing for one more day… one more word… one more touch… We may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. We will see you again some day, in a heavenly place where there is no parting. A place where there are no words that mean good-bye” author unknown
We have lost a beautiful person here on earth, Heaven has gained her wonderful soul. May we all find comfort in the memories of our dear friend/family member.
Enjoy those Heavenly hikes Eileen, I bet they are the most beautiful.
We will miss you,
Tara & “Rowan”
Anne MacDonald says
Tuesday Sept 18th I was to have met Eileen for the first time in the morning. She was to train me at my new job at Canine Wellness Centre. What a shock to the friends she worked with so closely. What a terrible loss to the canine world. Saturday morning i was clearing my cell phone messages from my phone, there was this lovely cheerful voice telling me what time to come in for work. It was Eileen’s voice. now silenced but not forgotten by her friends and family. I think I may keep that message on my phone.
Rest well Eileen and play forever with your four legged friends who have passed over the rainbow bridge.
Anne MacDonald
Lesley Reay says
Diane, Russell and family,
I am so sorry for your devastating loss. My heartfelt condolences to all Eileen’s family and friends. Eileen was manager at It’s a Dog’s Life when we first met. I remember her enthusiasm, her friendliness, her dedication to all the dogs and clients, her wonderful sense of humour and infectious laugh. She gladly worked with patience and kindness to help my pup overcome his fear of trucks and traffic. Eileen was always generous with her time and knowledge, and quick to offer encouragement and support. A special person indeed. She will be very much missed by all who knew and loved her. My thoughts are with you.
Lesley (and Joey)
Deborah Caira says
I’ve known Eileen for nearly 7 years through Westside Animal Hospital, and also through It’s a Dog’s Life where she helped my dogs become the great creatures they are now through her positive training and support. I’m still having a hard time believing she’s not going to walk in to the clinic with her customary “Heyyyyy Deb”. It’s sad for me to think of all the dogs who will lose out on her special passion for pooches.
A life ended early is the cruellest punishment, for Eileen, and for those left living to deal with the void. My heart aches for Dianne and Russ, and the rest of the family. The world lost a good soul last week…
Deepest condolences, sorry I couldn’t be there to give them in person.
Ella Wiech and Peter Megoudis says
We are still in shock 2 days after hearing the news. Eileen was an absolutely wonderful person. Just seeing the huge smile in Basil (our Shepherd) upon seeing Eileen was so rewarding. He never lit up like that for anyone else and it was a testament to how much he loved her, and how much she loved all the dogs she took care of. She was a true counselor and therapist for our dog, helping him though his fears. Her empathy and sympathy was truly amazing to behold. Our whole family will miss her greatly. Our deepest condolences to Eileen’s family.
Nina Palazzo says
I started working with Eileen at Its A Dog’s Life a few years back. Being a small buisness, we all became more than collegues. We all became friends. She was always available to talk to, tried to make you laugh and had more passion towards the dogs then anyone I have ever met. Eileen was anamazing person and had left many fond memories in my heart. My deepest sympathy to her mother, brother and family and friends. We will miss you dearly.
Sarvy & Roger & Sandy-Jack says
We met Eileen a handful of times through Mutley Crew, and loved her attitude, dog knowledge, love of dogs and nature, and her ability to make anyone feel at home and welcome! She touched our lives even though she was in it for a brief moment, and for that we’re thankful!
Our deepest sympathy to Eileen’s family in your loss!
Blanche Axton says
I always saw Eileen at every dog event, trade show and dog related get-together. We always talked and laughed and shared stories–both funny and not so funny–about our rescue work.
She was a warm light in the midst of animal rescue. Always had a smile and a joke. A solid and honourable woman. I will miss her very much.
Martina Hamann says
Eileen…I will miss you greatly. Thank you for the times we shared and all the great laughs. I will always keep the memories in my heart. your German friend Martina aka Martha
rob,parry and mary muir says
With Our Deepest Sympathy to Diane and Family! Eileen will be greatly missed!
Jennifer Gourley says
I met Eileen on one of the many dog walks that she selflessly organized. She was one of the most beautiful spirits I have ever had the privilege of knowing. She was the most lovely combination of gentle soul and fierce champion for others. The legacy that she leaves behind is a lesson to all of us that you can, in fact, leave the world a better place than you found it. And she did just that. I am so deeply saddened by this tragedy but I know that there must be a reason that she was called home early. There is a frightened soul needing her calm hand elsewhere and she has gone to be there for them. God bless you and keep you, Eileen. You will be missed terribly but I know I am a better person for my life having been touched by yours.
Joan Zammit says
Eileen was one of the few people I’ve met in my life that truly touched my heart. Her kindness and love of animals was second to none.
I will miss her dearly and always remember the fun times we had on our hikes and talks about our fur babies.
I can only find comfort in knowing Eileen is now with her beloved Journey and Keeper. And I know she is very happy.
Joan (and Dupont)
Deborah (Deb) Brady says
Eileen was my first friend in Toronto. When she discovered a new dog person in the city, she took me under her wing and introduced me to Journey and all of her friends. When she needed a break I took over the hikes and put Muttley Crew on meetup; and then, when I moved to London she took it over and it really blossomed with Mike and other’s help. I was looking forward to seeing Eileen in October and regret that so much time passed since our last visit. Eileen was a woman who lived her convictions and for that she is a role model for me.
I will miss you my friend. I take comfort in knowing you are with your Dad, Journey, and Keeper. My sympathies go out to Diane, Russell, and the rest of your family.
Deb
Cynthia says
I never met Eileen but through emails – she was as passionate about animals as I am and I would often try to help find homes for the dogs she was trying to help.
I am so very sorry for this terrible and senseless loss – to her family and all the little furry creatures that could have used her loving help.
I am sorry I will never get to meet you in person, Eileen.
Cynthia
Julie Hadley says
Eileen was a huge source of comfort and support for me when we first had the pleasure of chatting on Facebook last year after I lost my beloved dog Morgan. She had been struggling with the loss of Keeper for a few weeks and we felt a kinship instantly.
Eileen was an old soul in a young lady’s body. Sensitive to those around her, loved and loving. She was passionate about her dogs and had a way about her you couldn’t help but like immediately.
She lead me to the Pet Loss Support Group when I needed it so badly. We chatted everyday. Over time the conversations became less regular but we still checked in with each other. I will never forget her selfless act of kindness and love toward me, a complete stranger, during my time of need. God has chosen wisely his latest Angel – Rest in Peace Eileen. Keeper and Journey have brought you home. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
XOXO
Colleen Dockstader says
Eileen was one of the most caring people I ever met. She loved animals more than anyone else I know. She was Molly’s (my dog) surrogate mom for many years when I went on vacation, at A Dog’s Life, and hikes through the forest with the Muttley Crew. I had asked Eileen that if something happen to me that she keep Molly. Molly and Keeper were as much ‘girlfriend and boyfriend’ as any humans could be. Both of us will miss Eileen deeply.
Colleen
Sarah Hines says
Eileen was AWESOME! Always open and forever patient. I respected her opinions, looked forward to her visits and always loved her stories!
The beat of your drum will live on with all that had the pleasure of spending time with you.
Rock On Girl!
Dita xo
Pauline Turnbull says
Eileen touched many lives. As a a pen pal to people she never met, but who she kept in touch with through the years. As a friend she was loyal to a fault – there when you needed her most.
Eileen was a dog person. Not just one of those people that likes dogs, but one of those people that dogs migrate to. She understood what they needed, not what they wanted, but what they needed to be secure and confident. Eileen would spend hours with her dogs and those dogs around her that needed time from someone. Her hikes will remain famous in the minds and hearts of those who joined her or where lucky enough to have their dogs join in on the fun.
Eileen took the time to spend with people. She never put herself above anyone, or below. What you got when you were with Eileen was simple honesty. She did not judge your decisions, only how you treated your dog.
Eileen and Diane came to visit us in Calgary. We went all over – she brought Journey’s ashes with her so he too could enjoy the trip. She came to the lake where I did water work with my Newfs and was thrilled to see the joy on their faces when they worked. I think she was more excited than the dogs.
I will always remember her laugh. The fact that even in the midst of Woofstock, Eileen would take as much time as she could to visit with every person she knew. No one felt that they had been short changed.
Eileen has been taken from us too soon. There are undoubtedly two dogs, Journey and Keeper, who have been waiting anxiously at the Rainbow Bridge for her. I hope the three of them are happy for an eternity.
I will miss Eileen. She was one of the good people in this world.
Michelle Hatt says
Thank you, Eileen, for being so kind, generous, fun and thoughtful. We were lucky to know you and will miss you greatly. Much light and love to you, your family, and your pups. XOXOXO
Love,
Michelle and Robitaille (with drooling, sloppy puppy kisses!)
Samaya Faiola says
Eileen is one of the very few humans that have been allowed to cross the Rubicon or Rainbow Bridge, she is there with St. Francis of Assisi. It must be that the dogs needed her support on the other side. She was never one for mushy emotions but Eileen I love-d you. Both you and your Mom are the most considerate, kind and generous people that I am fortunate to know. I can not believe it, I am as many are so shocked, and this will take some time to come to terms with. You were supposed to be my friend for many more years, especially as you were so much younger and stronger than I. Since I heard the news, I have been crying plenty, but I can hear you say – I am with my canine friends, playing and laughing and passing out treats. You have touched the lives of so many people and Canines.
I have been crying as much as when Honey died and I know you would understand that, you were one heck of a dog/human. I do miss you, so very very much.
Luv Samaya and Nicky
Say Hi to Honey-dog and Pandy-Cat for me
Kim Cunningham (Daley) and family says
Many condolences to you, Diane and family, at this very difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jessica (Lee) Hennessey says
I became PenPals with Eileen in 1992 when I was 14 Years old – But it wasn’t long before we were FRIENDS. And we ahve maintained our friendship over the last 20 years. We were fortunate enough to meet once while whe was visiting Boston. She was an amazing person and I am honored to have had her as a friend. I will miss our E-Mail Check ins with one another – catching up on our lives and our advice for one another. I hope she is at Peace and enjoying reuniting with the ones who left before her. My Thoughts and prayers are with her family… Love you Friend – till me meet Again. xoxo
Ros Beaman says
I “met” Eileen online as part of the Pet Loss Support Group on Facebook. I had lost my little dog from an illness and was devastated. Eileen was right there with comforting words and befriended me so we could chat just ourselves and help each other through our grief. I am shocked and saddened by her passing and can only hope that now she and her canine companions are reunited. Safe journey my friend.
Mary (Hirst) MacIntyre says
I’m afraid I can’t say that I knew Eileen but having read the above comments I’m sorry that I didn’t. My limited contact with her would have been at family reunions which we have had far too few of. My condolences go out to my cousin Diane and her immediate family. I wish you all only the best and my prayers are with you in this time of sadness.
Bonnie Hall(nee Pettit) says
We always looked forward to Eileen visiting at grandma and grampa Pettit’s house in the summers. We would run, and play and have such fun that summer always seemed endless and epic and the memories will last a lifetime. The world couldn’t ask for a more gentle, caring soul who gave of herself wholeheartedly to her dogs.
I will always remember NKOTB fandom and actual written letter exchanges. I will remember endless summer days and weeks at the cabin with my sister, Russell and Eileen and throwing G.I. Joe’s into peril and just having a hoot.
These are the memories that sustain us, these are the memories that keep us from despair at a life ended far too young.
Rest well cousin, for as short as your life was, you have accomplished much and your legacy will live on forever. I love you!
P. Mahon says
YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE OLD TO DIE
I know I’m stating the obvious when I say you don’t have to be old to die but today, the message was driven in, harsh and cold. I received a couple of
e-mails, informing me of the death of a vibrant and caring young woman, Eileen Mabee. She was just about the same age as my daughter, in her middle 30s.
Eileen was the founder and primary organizer of a Meetup group I belong to, Muttley Crew. We met a couple or three years ago, when I got Sofie Snowflake (puppy mill survivor) and wanted to socialize her in a relaxed setting, where she could be off-leash, among other dogs and learn from them, hopefully, how to be a dog.
Eileen had organized the second trek we went on and I met her and her German Sheppard, Keeper, at that time. We met at the Scotsdale Farm, near Georgetown and that day, I found two gems, Eileen and Scotsdale Farm. It was an interesting day and I quickly realized that Eileen was a special person. The other person there was a woman named Alexia, who brought her dog, Daisy, who was absolutely in love/lust with Sofie. Love/lust knows no gender boundaries, especially in the dog world.
The day was glorious, late winter, February, if I remember correctly and a rare sunny day. I got a little discombobulated trying to get to Scotsdale Farm, even with my GPS. I called Eileen from the car. She seemed to know exactly where I was and how I got off track. She was able to give me excellent directions and I made it to the meeting spot in no time.
Eileen pulled into the parking lot, about 15 minutes after me and I remember her buck-toothed grin as she walked over and introduced herself to me and greet Alexia. She was dressed well for the day and you could tell that she dressed for herself and wasn’t out to make a fashion statement. Her heavy jacket was well-worn and eminently suitable for the occasion and the terrain. She almost always had on a hat of some kind but the one I remember most was the soft and battered ‘camp’ hat, tie strings dangling, which I rarely saw her without.
Eileen had brought her German Sheppard, Keeper, who was a very anxious dog and could be aggressive. Eileen explained what happened and took full responsibility for the problem (due to circumstances, she hadn’t socialized him when he was a puppy). I got a sense from her that she would spend the rest of her life and Keeper’s trying to right that wrong. Perhaps that‘s how Muttley Crew came into being.
Eileen spent hours and hours with Keeper, trying to teach him how to cope with his anxiety and had achieved some measure of success. At the beginning of each walk, she would keep him muzzled, but as the walk progressed, she would get him focused on his Frisbee, and then he was fine. He sure loved his Frisbee. I remember playing with him now and again, as he dropped the Frisbee at my feet and dared me to try and get it before he could. It was seldom I succeeded. I swear he laughed at me every time I tried. Sadly, Keeper died last year and Eileen was inconsolable. The turn-out for Keeper’s Memorial Walk in September 2011 was phenomenal, with about 40 people and roughly 70 dogs, and, coincidentally at Scotsdale Farm, the place I first met Eileen and Keeper. It brought back good memories.
As time passed and we shared quite a number of tramps through the woods, Eileen and I had a chance to get to know each other better and found that besides our love for dogs, we also had a passion for writing. I shared some of my pieces with her and she shared her insight with me.
I remember how devastated she was when she was let go from the doggie daycare she worked at, after a new owner took over. She wasn’t so much angry that she was out of work but was more concerned for the dogs she saw every day and thought, perhaps they weren’t being given the care, love and attention she had lavished on them daily.
Eventually, Eileen was able to get passed the situation and took on dog sitting on a regular basis, although with Eileen, sitting had very little to do with her days. She spent hours hiking the woods with her charges and seemed to be happy and content.
She was always looking to improve Muttley Crew meetups and invited various experts, in various fields to come along and teach us their skills. She came up with some creative ways to make sure all the members had a chance to go on the walks. She always seemed to have a trunk full of dog treats and shared with all.
It was also my pleasure to have met her mom, Diane, on a number of our hikes and remember one in particular at Walker’s Woods, in Durham. It was a hard slog that day. Lots of snow still on the ground, which had been molded into icy, rutted furrows by horse back riders who frequented the trails. We both were concerned about staying on our feet and keeping our ankles intact. Being pretty well the two oldest on the walk, we brought up the rear of the pack for most of the hike. Towards the end of the walk, Diane had to pee. Ground cover was sparse at that time of the year and I stood guard while she tinkled. It formed a bond between us that endured.
I remember my former next-door neighbour here in Sandycove Acres telling me that she didn’t make friends with too many people anymore because they kept dying on her. I guess after a while it gets monotonous, as well as depressing. To me, death is much a part of life as living and when it’s your turn to go, you will. I’m glad I could count Eileen among my friends. My life, as so many others, is truly enriched for having known her.
Eileen was out tramping the woods with her mom and her four-legged charges when an accident occurred. They managed to get Eileen to the hospital but she died shortly after arrival.
I’m not sure why, but Eileen had a soft spot in her heart for me and Sofie and I will always remember her generosity, especially as she had invited me (and Sofie) to share this Christmas with her and her family. I will surely miss her.
Phyllis Mahon
September 21, 2012
Suzi Beber says
Eileen was a special gift. She was a long time supporter of The Smiling Blue Skies Cancer Fund, and though we never met in person, she was a “kindred spirit,” who I felt come alive in the notes that we shared over a number of years. I am so very, very sorry for your loss of Eileen, and each night, when I light my evening candle, I will be thinking of Eileen. My warmest thoughts and prayers are with Eileen’s family.
Stephanie says
I worked with Eileen many years ago and have fond memories of her passion to make the world a better place. While I haven’t spoken to her in a long time, I am saddened by this news. My condolences go to her family and friends. RIP.
From the do Rego family
Doreen and Ron Scheer says
with deepest sympathy to Eileen’s family in your loss
Doreen and Ron Scheer
Patrick Turnbull says
Eileen was one of the kindest souls to grace our lives. Her kindness and caring spirit will live on as her legacy.
Terribly missed forever loved.
Love,
Your cousin,
Patrick Turnbull