Obituary of Dr. Elizabeth Eva Kishkon

Passed away peacefully at the age of 87. Loving mother of Jan, Lynne (1977), Kim, John (1958), Lisa, & grandson Kevin. Daughter of the late Alfred and Violet Reeve. Predeceased by her siblings Roy, Constance and Robert. Survived by long time friend Dr. Ron Wagenberg of Bowmanville, cousin Joan Johnson, and many cousins, nieces and nephews here and abroad. Ms. Kishkon was a two term City Councillor and the first female Mayor of the City of Windsor from 1983-1985. Born in Oshawa, ON, raised in the UK, she permanently returned to Canada in 1948, where she eventually married and had five children. She began her career in public service as a member of the “Save Peche Island Committee”. Elizabeth went on to CBE Radio to run her own radio program and became a successful broadcaster in both radio and television. She was a guest on Front Page Challenge multiple times and hosted a twice weekly interview program on local cable. Family remember stories of her peering through the Gates of Buckingham Palace as a young girl hoping to catch a glimpse of the Royals. Having met and hosted dignitaries from all walks of life, one of her fondest memories was overseeing a visit from the Queen in 1984. Elizabeth served on many local Boards and Provincial Special Committees over the years. She was proud to be appointed to the Ontario Human Rights Commission, the Ontario Housing Corporation, The Windsor Housing Company, the Windsor Planning Advisory Committee and the Municipal Conflict of Interest Consultation Committee among others. She was involved in social services by serving on the boards of the Children's Aid Society, the Family Service Bureau and The John Howard Society. Elizabeth received an honorary degree from the University of Windsor in 1986. Also of note, a special Millennium edition of the Windsor Star named her as one of 12 “People Who Made a Difference” in the City’s history. Most recently, in what family describes as a full circle moment, she was honored by Mayor Drew Dilkens and City Council by their naming of a park on Banwell Road in her name. The family is so thankful she was alive to see this tribute and thanks them for honouring her in such a thoughtful, enduring way. Elizabeth spent a quiet retirement away from the public eye enjoying walks along the Ganatchio Trail, lunching and shopping on Erie Street, spending time at the Riverside Branch of the Windsor Public Library and enjoying her home of 46 years at Solidarity Tower with friends and neighbours. Her family have been moved to learn many stories from people in the community remembering their own interactions. They invite and encourage comments be left on the online guestbook for all to share and enjoy. Thanks to the entire administrative and medical teams at Huron Lodge for their loving care and kindness this past year and Banwell Long Term Care Facility prior. The family also thanks The Alzheimer’s Society and Dave Cooke, former MPP for his assistance and friendship. Cremation has taken place per Elizabeth’s wishes. In kindness and remembrance, donations can be made to the Dr. Elizabeth Reeve Kishkon Entrance Bursary at the University of Windsor (a Social Science Program Scholarship Award). Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE CREMATION CENTRE (519-254-2585). Online condolences and cherished memories are encouraged to be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca.