Gwendolyn Ann was born to proud parents, Lorne Alexander and Lillian Euphemia (Hall) Trelford at home, on Lot 5N, Concession 9 in Derby Township, on Tuesday, August 1, 1939. She joined her older brother Earl (1938) and the family was later made complete with the arrival of David in 1945. Gwen grew up on the generational Trelford family farm located on Bruce Rd 17, west of Tara, just outside of Invermay. Here, the family mixed farmed, before concentrating more on dairy in later years. In 1945, Gwen began school, attending S.S. #7 Arran Township (Invermay). She followed that by enrolling at Chesley District High School where she received the Home Economics Proficiency Award in Grade 12. While in school, Gwen caught the eye of an older student by the name of William “Harvey” Scarrow. The two began dating in 1956 with Gwen going on to graduate from high school in 1958.
The following year, she attended Teacher’s College (or Normal School as it was called at the time) in Stratford. Upon completion of her schooling, Gwen’s first job came at McCowan Rd. Public School in Scarborough in the fall of 1960. In her first year, she made $3,300. Indeed, good money at that time. Following the completion of the school year in 1962, Gwen returned home to Tara. Weeks later, she and Harv were wed at Christ Church Anglican in Invermay on Saturday, July 21, 1962. They traveled to Ottawa for their honeymoon before returning home and renting an upstairs apartment from Mrs. Shannon. Gwen and Mrs. Shannon, a widow, became very close in short order. It could be said, she eventually became like another mother figure to Gwen.
From 1962 to 1966, Gwen taught at Tara Public School, before making the move to the newly constructed Arran Tara Elementary School in 1967, where she taught primarily kindergarten through Grade 3. On Saturday, March 8, 1969, Gwen became a proud mother to not only one, but two healthy baby boys. David and Chris made their safe arrival at 7:47 a.m. and 7:48 a.m., respectively, and as can be imagined, kept Gwen very, very busy for the first several months. The following year the Scarrows built and moved into their new home located on River St. in Tara. Here the boys, along with their parents, welcomed their younger sister, Shannon on Wednesday, June 20, 1973. Gwen remained at home with her young family, supporting them at every turn.
In the fall of 1981, Gwen returned to the kindergarten classroom and again settled into her routine. Although obvious, she loved working with the children. Her appreciation of crafts also made for much fun in her young classrooms. She truly loved her students and was often remembered for her fabulous penmanship. Although she formally retired in 1998, Gwen continued to supply teach and volunteer at the school, until 2000. Her teaching career spanned forty years, and in many instances, Gwen taught three generations of Tara residents. What a tremendous accomplishment!
Away from the classroom, Gwen had many passions and interests. She loved sewing, crafts, gardening, scrapbooking, and knitting. Together with Harv, the two spent much of their retirement traveling to local craft shows and selling their creations. Their business, Country Mouse, took up their entire basement, as Harv enjoyed woodworking and making macrame lawn chairs. Gwen on the other hand did a lot of knitting, making countless dish cloths, and stove hand towels. Gwen was also known to knit a variety of items for in-need premature babies. Her talents with needle and yarn were endless. Every spring, Gwen was keen to get outside and into her backyard. She loved watching the new growth rise from the ground and spent a great deal of time working and manicuring her gardens. They were always beautiful, and picturesque. In fact, the images and pictures of them were so remarkable, that she sometimes had to convince people they were really her gardens! Traveling was another interest of Gwen’s. From her family camping and fishing adventures with Harv, the kids, and her parents at Manitoulin Island with the trailer, to more recent travel to the likes of the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Mexico, Maine, Alaska, Florida, Washington, Ireland and Arizona. In fact, for several years Harv and Gwen called Arizona home during the winter months, enjoying the warmer temperatures. When Harv was no longer able to travel, Gwen often set out on the next adventure with her childhood friends Doreen McNain and Carol Evans.
Gwen was also very active within her community. She was a proud member of the Tara Horticultural Society and gave of her time with the Arran Tara Agricultural Society, with the fall fair a staple on her calendar. Gwen was a faithful member of Tara United Church, rarely missing a worship service. She was also active with the United Church Women, always willing to give of her time and talents. Her children often joked that Gwen spent four days a week in her retirement at the church. She enjoyed cooking, knitting, and even exercising at her second home, always enjoying her company and the conversation. Back at home, Gwen religiously watched every episode of Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. She enjoyed frequent game nights and dinner with long time neighbours and friends. She loved the music of Ann Murray and often read a variety of popular fiction and biographies before bed. Gwen was particularly fond of Chapman’s Ice Cream and was usually quick to add, “it’s local!” Those close to Gwen would also have known of her mouse fetish… yes, you read that right! If the name of her craft business, Country Mouse, didn’t give it away, just ask her kids. Gwen’s collection of the popular rodent was impressive!
Gwen was a caring, loving woman, who always gave freely of her time. She was patient and absolutely loved working with children. As a teacher, the fact that she was empathetic, very organized and tidy didn’t hurt either. Right kids? 🙂 Gwen loved her family dearly, and she would do anything to support her children and their families. She always enjoyed catching up with her friends, whether it be connections from her childhood, neighbours, community involvement, colleagues, or even former students. Gwen always made time for these important conversations.
Gwen remained in the family home until 2017, whereby the difficult decision was made to downsize. Although challenging for anyone in Gwen’s position, she just moved down the street into smaller accommodations. Sadly, Gwen’s 40-year fear was coming to fruition, and she began experiencing the effects of dementia, similar to that of her mom before her. She managed quite well within her own environment, however in the last few years her condition gradually declined. Last October after a bad fall and rapid decline in her health, Gwen’s family made the difficult decision to move her to Windsor, so she would be closer to them. Gwen passed away surrounded by her loving family, at The Village at St. Clair, Windsor on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, in her 83rd year.
Loving mother of David and his wife Diane of Windsor, Chris and his wife Marilyn of LaSalle, and Shannon and her husband Brock Myles of Alexandria, Virginia. Cherished grandmother of Megan, Julia, Carsen, and Kennedy. Gwen will be dearly missed by her brother Earl (Donna) Trelford of Hanover and sisters-in-law Jane Berry & Karen Trelford both of Kitchener, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Harvey (2011), brother David Trelford, and her parents Lorne and Lillian (Hall) Trelford.
Gwen will also be dearly missed by many close friends and neighbours; the family sincerely thanks them for the love and support she received. Gwen will be remembered as a proud lifelong resident of Tara who truly loved her community. The family also thanks the Colchester staff at The Village at St. Clair, for the excellent care and kindness given to Gwen. These acts of kindness will never be forgotten.
Visitation will be held at Rhody Family Funeral Home, Chesley on Monday, July 4, 2022, from 4 – 7 p.m. where a memorial service honouring Gwen’s life will be held on Tuesday, July 5, 2022, at 1 p.m. Inurnment in Hillcrest Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Tara Horticultural Society or Tara United Church would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
My condolences to Gwen’s family, she was my kindergarten teacher and it was always a pleasure to catch up whenever our paths crossed. Her kindness and genuine interest in what’s new always left me with a smile on my face. Rest in peace Gwen, I will always remember that A++ I got on that class project from a great teacher at ATES.
I am very sad to hear of Gwen’s passing. We were cousin (via TRELFORD family). I visited Tara several times as a child with my parents and got to know Gwen from those visits. We were in touch from time to time over the years, including a visit to Gwen and Harv’s home a couple years before his passing. I am very glad that we kept in touch by phone from time to time. I will miss you cousin Gwen. My sympathies to the family.
My condolences to Gwen’s family. Gwen was such a kind lady and cared so much for our community. She was my kindergarten teacher and in more recent years I looked forward to seeing her at the fair or in church when I returned to Tara for a weekend or holiday. She will be greatly missed.
My thoughts are with Gwen’s family and friends. Gwen was such a special lady who always had an ear to listen, a shoulder to lean on and a wonderful warm and welcoming hug.
I will truly miss our visits while scrapbooking at the cottage, as she shared all her beautiful pictures of those she cherished.
Gwen was always kind. I enjoyed all of the times at Lynn’s cottage. So much fun and laughter. She was a special lady and will be missed.
Our Deepest Sympathy at this time.
Our Condolences to all the family. Gwen will be remembered for her dedication to her Community and her love of all things precious to her and her family. I will always remember her kindness to our family RIP Gwen
Our condolences to all of Gwen’s family. She started both of our children with a wonderful beginning as their kindergarten teacher . Rob and I also had the pleasure of getting to know Gwen and Harv through the Tara fire Department and it was always a lovely evening spent chatting with Gwen at our Christmas parties. Your Mom will be truly missed in our little village.
Rob and Caroline Draper and Family
I am so sorry for your loss Shannon, Chris and David. Your mom was a wonderful women who had a tremendous impact on so many. Thinking of you all.
Please accept our condolences for the loss of your mother, Gwen.
I’ve known Gwen for many years, starting as she and Harv were great neighbours to our friends, the Lebels. I first knew of her as Grandma Gwen, to Jake and Serena Lebel. Later, I would get to know her, her times at school, her travelling adventures and her family through our scrapbook weekends at the Lebel cottage near Tobermory.
She was a wonderful, creative and talented lady.
As she was several years our senior, we’d often say, “when I grow up, I want to be just like Gwen”.
It was certainly sad to see her decline so quickly. We were able to receive updates from Lynn, who went from being a neighbour, to a good friend, to her caregiver. Gwen was very much cared for and loved by all the lives she touched. She was one of a kind.
Our condolences to Gwen’s family – she certainly made our children’s first year of school a success – her care, gentle guidance, the ability to make her students feel important, and her sincere interest in former students as they grew up will be remembered. The Small People’s News, Marshmallow (the rabbit), warm fuzzies, as well as her Christmas crafts are a few of the lovely memories we have of her. Gwen will truly be missed.
Sincere sympathy on the passing of Gwen Scarrow. She was a very caring person and always willing to help when needed. I taught with her at Arran Tara School and she always was friendly and kind to all. She will be greatly missed.
So very sorry for your loss. Gwen was an amazing teacher to our children and a friendly and helpful soul in the community. She always had a big smile and time to chat. Earth’s loss is Heaven’s gain…a truly beautiful lady. She will be missed.
To the Scarrow, Myles & Trelford family,
My Deepest Sympathy on the loss of your dear Mom, Grandmother & Sister.
There is no one in this world like her, she was a special person and she will always be with you. Gwen will forever be in the hearts and memories of so many family & friends.
Thinking of you all.
The Misch Family was lucky to be among some of Gwen’s students in Arran Tara. A teacher to be remembered as a favorite providing many warm fuzzys and genuine loving guidance for her students. She made each one feel special.May your memories bring you peace and comfort on your healing journey
Chris, David and Shannon…Hoping that the outpouring of community condolence, along with so many wonderful memories, offers you some consolation. your mom was a wonderful person, teacher, and community member. She lived a full and impactful life. She will be missed.
Our sincere condolences. Gwen always had a smile and friendly greeting whenever we would meet.
My deepest sympathy to the Scarrow & Trelford families. You have lost a great great girl. My brother (Ren) would always say, “she was the greatest teacher going”.
She will be missed.
Edna Lou (Kennedy) Phillips
So, so sorry to learn of Gwens’ passing. She was one of Taras best! She will be missed but has left wonderful memories we can all cherish.
So sad to hear this! I have fond memories of lessons and warm fuzzies taught in her Kindergarten class at ATES, and also seeing her involved around the Tara community for many years after. As a teen, I once lost sight of the road while driving in a snow storm and ended up in the ditch outside of Tara. Gwen and her husband happened to be driving just behind me, pulled over and gave me a lift home 🙂
A kind and caring soul. Sorry for your loss…
To the Scarrow Family,
I was saddened to read of Gwen’s passing. Gwen taught with my husband Rod at ATES where she was a respected member of the staff. Gwen was always cheerful, friendly and optimistic. She laughed easily and frequently. After Rod’s death Gwen phoned me many times. I will miss these conversations and her friendship.
Suzanne McEachnie
Our thoughts are with the whole family tonight. Gwen was loved by my children and was such a wonderful lady. She always had a smile and a hello for everyone she passed. Her sewing crafts were such a wonder . She was so talented and so nice. She has been missed here in Tara.
Our deepest sympathy to Gwen’s family. She has been a wonderful asset to Tara and area all her life. She will be sadly missed by all her friends and members of the community.
Gwen was a very special sister in law, having only been in the family since 2005, we quickly became friends. I will miss her
Dear David and all family of Gwen. My daughters were taught by Gwen at Tara school. Gwen attended my art classes I was giving in the mid 90s. We became great friends. I live in Windsor now and regret not knowing she was down here I would have loved to have visited. Take comfort all of you in knowing your mom was SO loved by countless students and parents over the years. AND JESUS WILL SAY WELCOME HOME MY FAITHFUL SERVANT. YOUR WIRKS TOUCHED MANY HEART. Sincerely Sandra Janisse (& Amber,Brandie & Maggie Parkinson)
Sympathy to the family. Gwen was my friend in publis school, S.S #7Invermay where we attended school. She remained a friend through many years and always had a smile when meeting her…
To Scarrow families..I only got to know Gwen in the last 20years. She loved her Tara Community, her church and most of all her children and grandchildren. Always so proud to talk about her family. She will be greatly missed. I’m so glad I was able to know her. My deepest sympathies to you all in this difficult time. Sincerely Anne Dekkers.
Our deepest sympathy to Chris, David, Shannon and families.
Gwen was a very special lady to our family.
In our early days as a new neighbour to The Scarrows, Gwen quickly became a wonderful friend and then welcomed as a family member. We have so many wonderful memories of our times together, the meals we shared, the advice we garnered on gardening, the walks and talks, the games we played, the crafts we did together, and the love we received. Her commitment to The United Church and the Tara community was evident in all she did. Tara has lost a great supporter in Gwen.
We will miss Gwen dearly, her many talents, wonderful warm smile, kindness, and love.
Love always, Lynn, Vince, Jake, and Serena.
Deepest Sympathy to David,Chris and Shannon in the loss of their mother…Gwen was a wonderful lady and a good friend of mine…. Missed her when she left Tara but know she needed to be with family….
Mrs. Scarrow was a great teacher and a wonderful person. She will be missed by all who knew her. Our condolences.
Keith and Kathy, Kim and Karen (the Brown family).
My Sincere Condolences to Gwen’s family on her passing. I worked with Gwen at ATES and found her to be a caring, wonderful person in every way. She will be missed for her many talents and her caring ways. Gwen was a wonderful Kindergarten teacher to some of my children. Thank you Gwen for all of your dedication and kindnesses that you showed to my family and I.
The Franklin Montessori School community sends their condolences to Shannon and the Scarrow family at this time.
So sorry to learn of Gwen’s passing. She was one beautiful lady.
Cherish all the good memories.