Erskine-McGowan, Margaret Elizabeth

She was surrounded by love, with her husband Steven Lewis McGowan and daughter, Tara Eleanor McGowan, by her side. Born August 8, 1938 in Owen Sound, ON, Margaret grew up in Meaford, ON, the daughter of Edith Erskine (Harmer) and Clifford Erskine. Maggie, as she was lovingly known to those closest to her, was a kind soul with a strong spirit. She was a true survivor, a devoted daughter, and a deeply caring mother, wife, and friend who shared her tenacious heart, warm laugh, and beautiful smile with all who knew her.

Raised in Meaford, she developed a lifelong love of nature along the shores of Georgian Bay, which held a special place in her heart. She was an excellent swimmer and even joined the University of Western Ontario’s swim team during her time there! Later, she and Steven settled in Parry Sound, where they raised their daughter and spent many years at their cottage in Northern Ontario, creating memories that will last forever.

Margaret attended the University of Western Ontario, graduating in 1959 and spent close to a decade working as a medical stenographer while living in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. She then returned to school and graduated from the University of Toronto in 1971 with a diploma in Physical and Occupational Therapy. Marg deeply treasured the lifelong friendships formed during her years at Western and U of T which became the foundation for countless adventures, travels, and cherished memories.

She was a world traveller who loved an adventure and explored many countries. From Dawson City in the Yukon to Fiji and Bora Bora in the South Pacific – back when the islands featured little more than a wartime landing strip!

Margaret began her physiotherapy career in Toronto before moving to Parry Sound and dedicating 26 years of service at the West Parry Sound Health Centre until her retirement. She touched many lives during her tenure there, supporting her clients, colleagues, and mentoring future physiotherapists.

After retirement, Marg and Steven relocated to Southern Ontario, while spending as much time as possible at their beloved cottage with family and friends. Margaret loved observing nature and was a voracious reader – she was rarely without a book while sitting on the cottage deck overlooking the lake taking in the wonders of the world.

Marg faced life’s challenges with acceptance and courage. She believed that change is the only constant in life and felt it a “privilege to have been here and to have shared time with you all!”

In following Margaret’s wishes, her ashes will be interred with her parents at Lakeview Cemetery in Meaford, ON. A private celebration of life will be held by her immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Margaret’s memory to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Wildlife Federation, charities which she supported, are appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON   N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted.   www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca