October 27, 1930 – July 25, 2022
Mary Elizabeth Phelan passed peacefully on Monday July 25, 2022 at 91 years old. Beloved wife of the late Hugh Phelan, mother of seven, school teacher, and activist, Mary is remembered by many in her community of Bolton, ON. She is remembered by her children Amelia (Michael), Paul (Joyce), Howie (Ann), Julia, Tony (deceased) (Bernadette), Ellen (Zoltan), Margaret (Chris). Cherished grandmother of Beni, Kurt, Shannon (Laurence), Leslie (German), Erica, Christopher, Scott, Meredith, Genevieve, Quinton, Jacqueline, Sophie, and Elana. Proud great-grandmother of Willow, Maya, Sienna, Cole, and Joni. Dear sister of Michael Headding Rundle, Anna Chelsea Evans, Charles Phillip Rundle, and Richard Gaylord Rundle.
Mary was born in Toronto to William Rundle of Sparta Ontario and Irene Hedding of Denver Colorado, USA. She attended school in Kirkland Lake, Mount Forest Ontario and then Stratford Teacher’s College. She and Hugh lived in Toronto from 1950-1958 then moved their brood north. Bolton was never the same! The Phelans moved to 45 Nancy St in 1964 where Mary lived for the rest of her life.
Mary was dedicated to creating a community in Bolton and was generous with her time and volunteer work in several organizations including the Home and School Association, Girl Guides, Bolton Figure Skating Club, Canadian Cancer Society, Catholic Women’s League, Caledon Library board, Committee for the Improvement of Bolton Downtown Business Area, Albion-Bolton Community Centre Expansion Committee, and Meals on Wheels. She was also elected as a Peel Board of Education Trustee.
As a leader in her community, her commitment, dedication and service did not go unnoticed. She was the recipient of several prestigious awards including the most recent; the Bicentennial Heart of Bolton Award. She also received the Senior of the Year Award, the Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of Confederation of Canada and Woman of the Year.
Mary was a primary school teacher and then a business owner with her husband Hugh. She had a wide range of friends, young and old. She welcomed many into her home and to swim in her pool. Mary could often be found entertaining on her front porch. Mary was an athlete and an avid skier, swimmer, walker, gardener and liked to “work out” at the Caledon Fitness Centre with all her friends.
The family welcomes visitors to join in a celebration of life at Christ Church Anglican, 22 Nancy Street, Bolton on Friday morning, July 29 at 11 a.m. for a memorial service followed by a reception at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society https://cancer.ca/
Condolences may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Mary Van Dyk
Paul and Joyce and all the family
Sorry to hear about the death of your mother Mary. She was a great lady.
Mary and John Van Dyk and the Grogan family
Steve and Candy Derbyshire
Our deepest sympathies to the Phelan family on the passing of your beloved Mother Mary .
Treasurer your memories as they will help you through this difficult time. She was a special lady and will be missed by all who knew her.
Diana Bayley
So sorry to hear about Mary. I knew her well when I lived in Bolton. May she rest in Peace.
Angie King
Heartfelt condolences to the Phelan family and friends on the passing of Mary. ❤️
In reading and memories shared with friends, Mary lived a fulfilled and pretty exciting long life! She will be truly missed by all who knew her! Take comfort in knowing she now rests in peace ❤️
Colleen Hedican
Mary was a strong and amazing lady and always part of the O’Grady gatherings at Bernadette and Tony’s where I got to know her. It was always pleasant to chat with her and share in her enthusiasm and joy of life. We will all miss this great lady. My condolences to all the family.
Dana
A beautiful person inside and out, I will truly miss the visits with my Great Aunt. She was a remarkable person, that left a wonderful mark in the world. ❤️
Julie and Frank Guzzo
Mary was a very special lady, always interested in new ideas and always helpful. She was a true inspiration for everyone she met. She will be missed!
Sonia Ferreira
My deepest heartfelt condolences .
I am so sad to hear of Mary’s passing.
Mary and I attended the gym and we had great conversations . I really enjoyed listening to her stories. I loved how kind and sweet she was.
I will miss Mary so much .
May she rest in eternal peace .
Cheryl and Larry Soper
To the Phelan family:
Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Mrs. Phelan was a wonderful lady and had a kind word for everyone. I still remember what she gave me for a shower gift when I was married. Still makes me smile! Cherish your memories.
Cheryl (Camplin) and Larry Soper
Sharon Browning
My sympathy to the Phelan family. Mary was a wonderful person and will be missed by many. Glad to have known her.
Pat (Morrison) Bell
Our sincere condolences to the family of Mary. She was a wonderful person
The Morrison’s
Marg Pilson
Condolences to all the families, you know you got the lucky straw for good parents. Mary was a very special lady and will be remembered as being thoughtful and kind. So sorry for your loss.
Maryann Herlinger
It was an honour to care for Mary in her last days.
My sincere condolences.
Karen Porter-Lee and Tom Lee
Amy, Paul, Howie, Julie, Ellen, & Margaret, we’re so sorry to hear about Mary’s passing. She was a wonderful friend and neighbour, and will be sadly missed. Our condolences to you and all the family.
Wendy Earle
Oh Mary, so sorry to hear this. You are such a wonderful lady and so very happy to have known you. I am sure you are trimming trees above, 🙂 God love you! My deepest condolences to the family….. She will be greatly missed
Toni Politis
To my dear friend Mary! From the time I moved to Bolton, 28 years ago, I met so many wonderful ladies, but Mary was one special friend! She inspired me to get involved in the community, join the gym, and introduced me to the love of gardening! She would often say: your mind has to be kept busy, and you must keep active. There are so many days and events that we would organize, Mary was included in all of them! Mary was truly the heart of Bolton, she knew everyone! We had so many days of just walking and sharing a cappuccino! I am going to miss your friendship! Farewell my friend, may your memory be eternal!
Betty Traynor
To all Mary’s family. .. I am sorry to hear of dear Mary’s passing. She was an amazing lady , so accomplished but never failed to be kind to those in need. Her smile, positive attitude and friendship will always be remembered. May God bless you Mary . Rest In Peace.
Love Betty
Diane Killam
So very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. My condolences to the entire family. She was a very special lady. Always had a smile for everyone. I used to love to chat with her whenever I met up with her. She will be missed but remembered by all who knew her.
Christine Sevigny, Caledon Meals on Wheels
Mary was a long-time Caledon Meals on Wheels volunteer and gave of herself, and her time, to her community. We remember her fondly, and send along our thoughts and condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed.
Jim and Heidi Sant
We are so sorry for the loss of Mary. She was such a wonderful lady. Our sincere condolences to all of Mary’s family.
Gary and Sheilagh Hall
So very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing, she was such a lovely lady, so full of life. Her cheerful greetings and conversations when meeting others will be greatly missed by both family and friends.
Lisa Speirs
So sorry to hear about Mary’s passing. She will be missed by her family and friends. My condolences.
Lisa
Jennifer Stewart and Craig Birchall
Aunt Mary I will remember you forever. As you were so sweet and kind. I carry with me all the wonderful memories of the house in Bolton and the little cottage in Lafroy with all us kids and Aunt Betty I loved your laugh. Please know Craig and I are thinking of you all at this time ❤️ Sending hugs
Cecile Weber
To Mary’s wonderful family, I offer my sincere condolences.
I will always remember Mary’ s smiles and her genuine caring warmth.
She was a good friend. I will miss her.
Mary Lange
To the Phelan Family
So sorry for your loss,
Truly a wonderful and inspiring lady,
A beautiful smile and heart,
Her beautiful blue eyes always sparkled when she chatted with us.
Will always remember her,
May she rest in peace
Mary Lange
christina leavens graham
Mary was a dedicated and wonderful friend to many in the town of Bolton. When meeting,she enjoyed chatting and liked to recall memories of Bolton folk from long ago. I always enjoyed driving by her historical home on Nancy St. and admire the beautiful lawns and gardens planted there. Many lovely thoughts of Mary would come back to me. Mary’s sweet welcoming smile would always brighten your day. She will be greatly missed. Sincere condolences to the family. Christina and Ken Graham
Nancy Stewart and John Milligan
Wow! Mary was so involved and meant so much to so many people. Mary’s passing marks the end of an era. She will be missed.
MaryBeth Hilditch
Mary Thank you for being my friend,mentor and inspiration. Your door was always open. We shared such fun times with the Cancer Society, Skibees or just having a glass of wine together. You made Bolton a better place to live in for everyone. My children thought you were Wonder Woman because nothing ever slowed you down. My sympathy to your lovely family. You never stopped talking about how great they were. Love you to the moon and back. You are truly missed but always remembered. MaryBeth Tracy and Jonathan Hilditch
Jen & Phil Hodgson
Condolences to the family
Mary was such a bright light in the life’s of everyone she knew. Always with a great story and a big smile. I will miss her but always remember with great fondness
Jen
Tracey Murray
My deepest condolences to all of Mary’s friends and family – she was a wonderful lady always wearing a smile and making everyone she met feel welcome
She will be missed but her smile will live on
Tracey Murray
Phil King
Bolton has lost a true giant. My sympathies to the family. Philip King
Br
We knew Mary and Hugh from Palgrave Rotary and enjoyed their company at many events. Our sympathies to all the family
Jim & Jarmila McAllister
Our deepest condolences to the entire Phelan family on the passing of your wonderful Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. She was truly a wonderful person that will be missed dearly by all that knew her. Thinking of you all and sharing your pain, Jim, Jarmila and even our little dog Cooper whom your mom always had time to pet.
Kate Stokes (O'Donnell)
To the Phelan Family,
My heart goes out to you all of your during this very sad time. I’ve know your mom for a very long time and had many great and wonderful conversations with her. Those fun days being involved with the Bolton Figure Skating to the Canadian Cancer Society with my mom Rose O’Donnell to the CWL with St. Patricks and Holy Family Groups gatherings. She was just one of those lovely lady’s that everyone gravitated towards with that very friendly and warm smile of hers. It was so worth driving to Bolton just to see her outside in her garden and saying hello. I will definitely miss her. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Judy and Barry Stranks
Great friend for many years. Wonderful memories of our times together volunteering for the Cancer Society and skiing in Collingwood. We spent many times with Hugh and Barry and enjoyed all our time together. I knew all of her children and enjoyed any time spent with them. Our condolences to all the family.
Paul & Betty Johnston
Our sincere sympathies to the family of Mary. She was a great lady and will be missed by all.
Carol Seglins
My sincere condolences to the Phelan family on Mary’s passing. Memories of Mary will continue to be treasured always. Mary was supportive and an inspiration to her family and many friends throughout the community. She
will be remembered for her generous leadership and support to many, and respected for her willingness to participate with others to build a caring community. Her warmth and willingness inspired so many. Her door was always open to welcome family and friends into her home.
To all of her wonderful family, may you treasure the love and inspiration she always provided.
To all her friends and neighbours, may we always remember and appreciate the wonderful friendship she shared.
Sincerely
Carol Seglins
Susan Paterson
Mary was always involved in so many aspects town life. Her friendly generous nature will be missed by many. She was part of the core group of women that worked tirelessly when our town was small.
May memories of happy times comfort all of you.
Linda De Sario
My deepest condolences to Mary’s family and many friends. She always made time to talk with you. She was very graceful, friendly and warm. I, also, came from Kirkland Lake and we shared many memories. May your many memories console you and help you during your loss.
With Deep Respect
Linda De Sario.
Deborah Malevris
RIP to a superb individual!
Andrew Evans
I will always remember the many, many great days that the Phelan family and the Evans family spent together as the closest of cousins. There is no question that Mary was at the heart of all of those great days. She always had a smile on her face and a laugh on her lips. I know that she was a big part of the growth of the town of Bolton, but to me she will always just be my favorite aunt.
Jane collier
My sincere condolences for the passing of Mary.
Mary was a bright light and a warm heart in Bolton. She will be forever loved and missed.
Alan Livingston
My sincere condolences to the Phelan families. May she Rest In Peace.
Geoff and Anita Dilley
We are so sad about Mary’s passing. Our sincerest condolences to the family. She was a beautiful person inside and out. It has truly been an honour to have her as a friend in our lives. She will be sorely missed.
RIP dear Mary.
Geoff and Anita Dilley
We are very sad to hear of Mary’s passing. Our sincerest condolences to the family. She was truly a beautiful person inside and out. It was an honour to have her as a friend and she will be sorely missed, not just by us, but by the whole community for all the good she has done.
RIP dear Mary.
Patti and Len Foley
Sending our sincere condolences to Mary’s family. She was an outstanding lady and so well known and loved in the Caledon community.
Rosemary Koza
To know Mary was to love her. She was a ray of sunshine , a joy to be around .
I am sorry for loss
Carol Kidd
Mary was such a very special lady who brought smiles and joy to everyone she touched every day and in every way. A beautiful lady, a beautiful soul and a beautiful life.
Gerald , Audrey Tobin & Families
To all the Phelan Families. We are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences. Your Mother was a pillar in our Community who touched so many people.
Fiorella Plastina
Dan & I are so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Unfortunately we were away all week but we knew the end was near for my dear friend & “sister” (same birthday), we will miss her. I truly loved her as a sister& respected her & all the advice she used to give me, what will I do without her? Dan & I send the Phelan Family our deepest sympathy & very sorry we missed the celebration of her life, she loved life & we all loved her! May she rest in eternal peace!
Jeanette Pilson
My sympathy to all the family in your loss.
Marolyn Morrison
I am so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Mary was a wonderful, supportive, caring lady who always had a smile and wise words. Mary and Hugh were Bolton! They encompassed the qualities that you couldn’t help admire and would like to see embodied in the fabric of your community. Mary will be missed.
SHELLEY CORMIER
To the Phelan family
Mary will always be remembered by our family
She was a great neighbor and friend to mom
and the rest of the Barber’s.
We are so sorry for your loss.
Brian Tobin
To all the Phelan family, our dear friends and neighbours. So sorry for your loss of Mary, your mom. While I’ve been gone from Bolton a long time, I remember well the quiet strength and compassion of Mrs Phelan while hanging around the Nancy Street home. So lucky as kids to have grown up and be positively influenced by a genuine pillar of the community.
Katherine Barbazza
To the Phelan Family: Please accept our heartfelt condolences of the passing Mrs. Phelan.
She was a lovely lady and such a supporter of her community.
To those of us who grew up in Bolton we were all aware of the support Mrs. Phelan contributed to our community.
To the children of Mary and Hugh and their son Tony, you are all part of our wonderful memories of growing up in Bolton..
Have wonderful memories of Mary.
Sincerely,
Kathy MacLeod and Roland Barbazza
Howard and Sharon Venning
Our deepest condolences to the Phelan family. Mary was a wonderful lady and missed by all.
Cam Lindsey
To The Phelan Family… Sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. She was the matriarch of a wonderful family and will live on through them. Mary will be missed by many. A cornerstone of Bolton. Condolences to all.
Patrick Cassin
Condolences to the Phelan family. A very kind soul Mrs. Phelan was.
Patrick Cassin and family.
Andrea Krieger Gormick
Deepest sympathy to the Phelan family on the passing of Mary. I remember her fabulous smile and cheerful when I met her at swimming lessons at Dick’s Dam or when I was supply teaching in one of the schools. A great pillar of the community.
Kim Gallagher
I so enjoyed conversations with Mary at the Caledon Centre and will truly miss her sense of humour, stories of Caledon and her genuine care for the community. Mary set an example of excellence in fitness and her passion for life.
Barbara Bate
Mary was a very special lady to have known. She did such wonderful things for the community & touched so many peoples lives. Condolences to her family! RIP Mary.
Harold Whitehead
I will always treasure my chats with Mary at the Wellness Centre, at church and around town as she walked her dog. ❤️
Connie Vanstone
To All the Phelan Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Bolton has truly lost a wonderful “LADY”. Our love and thoughts are with you all.
Connie and Family.
Edith Wilkinson
To the Phelan Family,
My sincere condolences on Mary’s passing. Like so many others, when I met Mary I was immediately struck by her smiling eyes, endearing smile, and ever thoughtful & kind words. I am very grateful to have known her.
May she rest in peace.
E.
Don Robb
Sorry to have missed the celebration of Life-truly a 2nd mom for those of us raised in the Valley-such a “positive “ influence in our lives!!
Condolences to the family
James Healey
Mary, RIP, to the family, your mom and I had many conversations, she enjoyed a long busy life.
To the family, stay safe.
Katherine MacLeod
Dear Phelan Family:
Roland and I send our sincerest condolences to all of you.
Your mother was a truly remarkable woman.
I saw her often shopping, and in her role as a wonderful, generous contributor to the Bolton and Caledon community.
Sincerely,
Katherine MacLeod and Roland Barbazza
Isabelle Bottoms
Mary was a community volunteer in so many ways. She was always pleasant, and always had a kind word. Rest in well deserved peace. Truly the end of an era.
Gene and Anne Fewster
Our condolences to the Phelan family. Mary was a wonderful person – an inspiration for everyone. She will be greatly missed.