Madrien Ferris

Elsie Madrien Ferris 3 June 1932 - 27 December 2019 Madrien was born 88 years ago to Margaret (Diamond) and Louis MacLean. She grew up happily in downtown Charlottetown, the only child of parents she adored, and formed many life-long friendships. When she was seven, her father was sent overseas and her mother, battling tuberculosis, was admitted to the provincial sanatorium, and Madrien lived without both for a number of years. This difficult time, however, as with others she encountered throughout her life, did not dampen her vibrant spirit and determination to live life to the fullest. As a young woman in the 1940s, Madrien bravely put her education and career first. Her empathy and natural aptitude led her to nursing. Her compassionate nature was also felt by those who knew her as a wife, mother, nana, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, niece and friend. The military played a central part in Madrien’s life, first as the proud daughter of an army man and later as the devoted wife of a Sergeant Major. She was a loyal member of the Royal Canadian Legion and its choir and was vocal in her support of our troops and veterans. After Madrien’s retirement from nursing, she worked as an administrator, for the Department of Tourism, as a tour guide, and most recently as an actress, and passionately supported the arts, music, theatre, and heritage. A lifelong sports enthusiast who in her youth was a tennis champ, swimmer and hockey player. In later years she was an at-the-game-with-a cowbell fan (Go Leafs)! While Madrien loved to be a homebody she also loved to travel. Highlights included the North West Territories with Dr. Betty Hall; Europe and Florida with grandchildren; London with her daughter; Ireland to visit in-laws; Scotland; and Las Vegas for her 80th! She also toured PEI in her minivan with pitstops at New Glasgow Lobster Suppers. Madrien was ahead of her time, a feminist who boldly forged her own path according to what she wanted, not what was expected of her. She was a fierce activist, engaged member of her community, and an eloquent public speaker who knew the importance of an aptly placed curse word. Her sense of humour was witty and infectious. Her “hi darlins”, sparkling grin and warm embraces were one of a kind. She had a generous, open heart and her life, as proudly independent as it was, revolved around those she loved. Madrien’s family extends their deep gratitude to the heartfelt messages of condolence, support and generous donations to the PEI Humane Society. Predeceased by her parents and husband RSM Albert “Smiley” Ferris, stepson Brian Ferris (Deane Eldredge) and granddaughter Shaye Martirano. Survived by her children: Sharlene MacLean (Kenneth Polland) and Sean Ferris (Gael MacEachern) and grandchildren: Natalie Hunter, Tara MacLean, David Martirano, Bryde MacLean, Meghan Ferris, Tate Ferris and great-grandchildren and many beloved family members. To paraphrase one of Madrien’s favourite songs, she will always be on our minds (and in our hearts). Today, on her birthday, we celebrate her spirit; call your loved ones, be engaged, do crossword puzzles, eat fish and chips, and never hesitate to tell it like it is! Most importantly, be bold and love - as big as one of her hugs.