Elaine Poile (nee Waselenkoff)

July 17, 2026

In Loving Memory

Elaine Poile

Elaine passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with lung disease with her family by her side. Elaine was predeceased by her parents William (Bill) and Helen (Hazel) Waselenkoff and nephew David Jackson. She is survived by her husband John Poile, sister Linda (Rob) Myers and brother Mark (Lisa) Waselenkoff, niece Amy, nephews Mackenzie and Brett, great nephews Devon, Tyson and Bauer.  Elaine also shared a special bond with her many cousins.

Elaine was born in Grand Forks, on September 8, 1951.  She spent most of her years in Grand Forks until 2018 when Mother Nature forced a move to Kamloops.  Elaine spent time in Naramata, Penticton and Vancouver before settling in Grand Forks with her husband John.

Elaine and John were married in March of 1972 and tended to their home in Grand Forks.  Their home was often a buzz of activity in the summer with their beautiful Japanese garden and swimming pool. Hosting many occasions of happiness, family gatherings and parties.  Elaine was immensely proud of the beautiful yard and comforting home she and John created.  Many happy memories for friends and family were created in their little corner of Ruckle Addition.

“Auntie’s like you are precious and few”, Tyotya Elaine.  You will be missed by the many children, nieces and nephews, but many that referred to as Tyotya just because you made them feel special.  At times you picked some up after life kicked them down; with a listening ear, some life advice and always never letting them forget you loved them.

Elaine worked as a hairdresser, bartender and in the packing houses in Naramata before her health took away her ability to maintain employment.  Elaine was an avid gardener, artist and had a talent to create.  She loved to decorate and loved to celebrate Christmas in style.  Elaine had a fun spirit and loved a gathering in her home, playing cards or games, a casino or a bingo hall.

Elaine’s family would like to thank the staff of the Royal Inland Hospital (floors five and six) for their care during Elaine’s final month of life. John is especially grateful to Nurse Montana for being with Elaine and John in her final hours.

A Celebration of Elaine’s life will take place September 19 in honour of what would have been her 75th year at her and John’s home in Kamloops.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-554-2324

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:

T: 250-554-2324 F: 250.554.3505

665 Tranquille Rd #4,
Kamloops, BC V2B 3H7

E: [email protected]

Leave a comment

Comments: 8

  1. Linda Myers says:

    I loved my sister!! Always there when you need a shoulder to lean on. I will miss her . May she rest in peace .

  2. Nina Lindo says:

    Hi Mark (& Lisa)

    So sorry to see Elaine has passed away – our condolences to all of you!
    That’s a great photo of her! I recall seeing her when I was still a kid in GF and her smile was a constant.
    Big hugs and take care❤️
    Nina (& Liz Stooshnov)

  3. Pierre says:

    My condolences John, and to Elaine’s family. In my memory I see Elaine expressing herself with an outburst, then hearing herself, she could see the funny side of what she had said. She was a true spirit with a warm fire inside.

  4. Monica Holloway says:

    Heartfelt condolences to John, Linda, Mark and families. Elaine said to me, “See you on the other side,” and yes, I believe her soul is full of joy and experiencing God’s perfect love now in eternity.

  5. Vivian & Bill Cowie says:

    Elaine you were always a lot of fun, loved your laugh and fondly remember all the great times we had together. Love you and we will miss you!

    Vivian and Bill Cowie

  6. Laura Arishenkoff says:

    My dear cousin Elaine u will be missed by all .our family sends their condolences to John Linda /Rob Mark/Lisa and nefews and nieces .Elaine had a heart if gold always happy and very joyful of life .she touched everyone in a different way w her outspoken words .Elaine I remember our times when we would spend the weekends together as kids and teenagers they were fun .yes this year would of been ur 75 th bday our Baba Waselenkoff didnt know where to be as there was cousin Ron Me And u all born the same yr 1951 Jan April and September .Rest in peace my dear cousin u will be missed dearly .love from cousin Laura and her family Carrie Debra second cousins and third cousins Alan Brandon And Ashley

  7. April says:

    Sorry for your loss.
    Elaine & John were neighbours to my dad Ron.
    And also to Steve & Katie, ( my grandparents), who was a friend of Helen’s.
    A life time ago.

  8. Deb Klassen says:

    I loved Elaine with all my heart. She was loud, bossy and over the top in her expressions but that made us love her more. Yes she was opinionated and many times her strong opinions were there to protect those
    She cared about She will be missed by all my family and nothing can replace that passion. She is now with family that has gone before her. One day we will have a family reunion Her and JC had a special bond. She was not openly religious but she had a tender heart. We send condolences to John and her siblings and their families. She managed to recover from many health challenges but this time she didn’t. It breaks my heart. I will miss her so much. 🙏❤️❤️❤️

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