Dr. Elaine Ling

1946 - 2016

Dr. Elaine Ling obituary, 1946-2016

BORN

1946

DIED

2016

FUNERAL HOME

Giffen-Mack Funeral Home & Cremation Cen

4115 Lawrence Ave East

West Hill, Ontario

Elaine Ling Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Aug. 2, 2016.

December 19, 1946 – August 1, 2016

Elaine Ling was born on December 19, 1946 in Hong Kong. She was the eldest child of Shelton and Margaret Pong. Elaine came to Canada at the age of nine with her family. She graduated from the University of Toronto with a BSc. in Biological and Medical Sciences and subsequently entered second year of Medical School at U of T. She graduated in 1974 and pursued Family Medicine.

In her fourth year of Medical School, Elaine did a three month elective in northern Ontario working with First Nations people. This experience proved to change her life, as she found herself drawn to their unique art and culture. Elaine went on to practice medicine among various First Nations people in Canada, as well as across the world in Abu Dhabi and Nepal, whilst maintaining her primary practice in Ajax, Ontario. Elaine loved medicine and photography, and often said they tied together in many ways.

This was the start of Elaine's journey as a photographer. She travelled the globe, photographing stones, nature, and people of the world. Her works are displayed internationally in France, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Portugal, Italy, Cuba, and the United States. In Canada, her works are in the collections of the National Gallery of Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, Ryerson University, and the Canadian Museum of Contemporary Photography. Elaine's tireless and singular focus resulted in acclaimed publications: Mongolia – Land of the Deer Stone, Talking Stones, Cuba Chronicles, and Cuba Rooms. One of her final projects was an exquisite portfolio of platinum prints of Baobab trees photographed from around the world. Her works can be viewed on her website at www.elaineling.ca

Apart from photography, Elaine was a talented musician. She grew up playing the piano, baritone, oboe and guitar, but her true love was for the cello. She played in Orchestra Toronto and had regular quartet sessions with friends. She supported the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and sponsored cellists for the Toronto Summer Music Festival. Elaine was also an avid tennis player, hiker, kayaker, cross-country skier, and lover of the outdoors.

Two years ago, Elaine was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. Though she faced a difficult battle, she lived her remaining days with the same spirit and fervor that Elaine is best known for. She fought tirelessly until the end and her love for life never diminished. She will be deeply missed by her mother, Margaret, her brother, Ed and his family, Amy, Jonathan (Vivian), Karyn (Joe, Zack, Lucas, & Abby) and Jessica, and finally, by her partner, John.

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95 Entries

February 6, 2018

Lorna Froste

I was just taking a Master Class video class with Annie Libowicz and of course decided to check out Elaine's photography. I recall spendi g a day ,mid 70s, taking photographys of loading dock activity at GM in Oshawa. I am a nurse who worked with Elaine. While looking back to her photography,I learned of her death. I am so sorry to recei e this news.

January 28, 2018

Dear Dr.Ling:

My 3 girls and I were so sad to hear about your passing over a year ago. You have been our Doctor since they were born and such an important person in our life. You always greeted us with a smile and were amazed to watch my daughters grow. You were so positive and the girls loved the way you dressed - so cool. You also helped me stay positive during a difficult time I was going through with my health. Thank you for being our Doctor. You are hard to replace.

Donna, Kristy. Kimberly and Lisa Thompson

October 21, 2017

Chris Winkle

Your photographic work has been one of the first things I see every day when I come home
Sadly I felt the need to connect with you but with work and the belief time was immorial I put it off
I love you elaine
Chris winkle

September 3, 2017

Karen Bigelow

Thank you E, for being my big sister and taking care of me when I needed you most. I miss you.

August 4, 2017

Linda Chan

It's been over a year since we learned of your passing. You are still in our hearts and thought of often.

August 3, 2017

William Fussner

Dearest Elaine
Oh how you are missed. Perfect canoeing weather, so happy to have been able to get you out one last time. We think of you often and of that wonderful smile. So many good times to remember having had with you. So happy to have those memories. Bill

December 19, 2016

Solen Fluzin

So sad to hear about your passing only today. Your pictures are opening my living-room onto new landscapes. I will forever be grateful for meeting you and holding on some of your art. Rest in Peace

December 19, 2016

Linda Chan

Gone too soon. Thinking of you on your 70th birthday. RIP!

December 18, 2016

Sandra Andruszko

Elaine was a dedicated, caring doctor, a talented musician & photographer. She was my dearest friend. I willnever stop missing her
t

December 18, 2016

Bill Fussner

Elaine
Thinking of you everyday,especially today,your Birthday. Your spirit and your ever present smile are missed so much! Bill F

October 18, 2016

" What a horrible tragedy Elaine didn't get another twenty years.
I came away from every visit I ever had with her feeling good to my soul.
She was, and is, a person of laughing, piercing lights.
Elaine amazed me with the extent of her success and accomplishment.
We're all born from star dust, but I think she was born from its embers.
I'm afraid the loss of her will only grow with with time.
Tuu, dear E.L, Bones

September 14, 2016

Germán Herrera

A most sensible human being.

September 13, 2016

Anne Scott

I am greatly saddened to hear of Dr. Ling's passing. After having been a patient of hers for 20 years, she helped my twins, 18 years ago, come into this world and was a wonderful doctor to my other older daughter as well.
I had NO idea she was ill to that degree and had I known, I would have thanked her profusely for having been such an amazing Doctor who always treated me with such compassion and kindness and like an actual "person"--not just a patient. She enjoyed listening to my stories of travel also - as though it was a conversation over a coffee.
I can't stop crying over the loss of this truly smart and wonderful Doctor and my luck thus far in trying to find a Doctor like she was has been unsuccessful and I truly feel there just isn't another like her.
Dr. Ling, enjoying the beauty of wherever you may be now, I want you to know how much you truly are missed. I hope you are happy, pain-free and full of life on this new "adventure" you are on now.

May you rest in peace, Dr. Elaine

Anne Scott and family

September 13, 2016

Karen Glaser

Elaine, had a short life but a very rich life. May she rest in peace We will miss her.

Karen Glaser

September 12, 2016

Xavier SOULE

An exhibition in tribute to Elain Ling is starting tomorrow in Paris, Gallery VU'

September 11, 2016

Anne Sccot

I am shocked to have found out of Dr, Ling's passing
After being her patient for 20 years, she was always compassionate and lovely


I will miss her.

Anne Scott

September 2, 2016

We are still reeling from this news about our dear Elaine. A comet has left our sky and she is in our thoughts everyday. Sincere condolences to her f amily and her friends all over the world. Nancy&Elliot

August 22, 2016

Robert Morton

I was greatly saddened to learn of Elaine's death. I had no idea that she was ill and had seen her quite recently, I believe in March, at Fotofest in Houston. She was an enormously talented and interesting photographer with a wonderful eye and a deep heart. Her lively spirit and ebullient personality endeared her to many. Her work will live on; it is a great loss to the photographic community that she will not contribute more.
Robert Morton, Redding, CT

August 21, 2016

Vince Alexander

We are truly saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Ling.
Elaine was my wife Karen's doctor for 40 years and our family doctor for 34 years. She was caring and genuinely concerned about our family's welfare.
Had we known earlier we would have paid our respects at that time but we know that Elaine was a private person and wished to spend her final time surrounded by family.

August 16, 2016

I met Elaine years ago on the photo review circuit and was so taken by her talent, dedication, kindness and light-hearted spirit. We crossed paths several times, most recently when she visited Los Angeles a few years back. I will always remember her beautiful art, warm company and easy sense of humor. I will miss her.

August 11, 2016

Gerald Pisarzowski

I was saddened to hear of Elaine's passing. I admired her artistic talent, vision and tenacity and was fortunate enough to work with her on the Toronto Gridworks Project. She will be sadly missed by her family, friends and the photographic community.

August 11, 2016

Jay Tyrrell

I didn't know her well, only as another artist at a photo review. However you always knew she was in the room, her smile lit up every corner.That light will be missed

August 11, 2016

Vicki Skinner

It was so wonderful to know and work with you. Your smile and humour seemed endless. I prayer you are at peace.

August 11, 2016

Keith Bassam

I had the incredible honour to do a portrait of Elaine in the mid 70s she was so serene and an absolute joy to meet and photograph. I took the photo in black and white as well as colour she allowed me to photograph her from behind her while playing her wonderful cello. I'll be looking for her in heaven where she is playing cello forever.

August 9, 2016

Gary Ingram

Elaine your amazing accomplishments and zest for life inspired many including myself. Your desire to master your one handed topspin backhand during our tennis lessons two years ago and last year was so strong and I know you will get it soon ;). I feel lucky to have met you and send my condolences to your family and friends. Namaste Elaine.

August 8, 2016

Rolland Leader

Elaine and I met and became friends in 1981 when I first came to Ajax.
We worked together at 33 Church Street and the Ajax Hospital emergency department for several years.Elaine was an astute physician and her patients were absolutely devoted to her. We both lived in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood of Toronto and in the early days we saw each other often. We shared a love for music and travel.
Her love for life and legendary energy never ceased to amaze me. I was fortunate to be with Elaine often in the last months, and I came to understand just how gifted she was in ways I hadnt imagined. For years I had thought of her as a talented but restless gadfly. I learned just how meticulous and organized she was about her art and personal life.
Elaine was an artist who painted her life in bold and brilliant brushstrokes. I will cherish her always.

August 8, 2016

John Charlton

Posted by John Charlton

August 8, 2016

John Charlton

Posted by John Charlton

August 8, 2016

John Charlton

Posted by John Charlton

August 8, 2016

John Charlton

Posted by John Charlton

August 8, 2016

Danielle Lisboa

I will miss Elaine so very much. I will miss her smile, her music, her spirit. I feel so blessed to have known her and to have shared beautiful moments with her and Orchestra Toronto. So vibrant, so immensely talented. My heart goes out to her family in this time of grief. I will miss you, dear friend.

August 7, 2016

Paul Sylivris

Elaine is my First cousin on my mother's side, whom I have met only twice. Elaine visited Melbourne Australia as a young married woman in the seventies, and seemed larger than life to me, a young high school kid. However, in the eighties I was fortunate enough to sit next to her at a family dinner in Hong Kong, where I got to know her and was privileged to gain a sneek peek into her life.To this day, I remember, vividly, Elaine's bubbliness and effervescent personality that was contagious, with her smile that captured your heart. I remember thinking that I was so lucky to have a cousin that was as friendly as her. As usual the dinner ended and we parted saying that we should catch up and meet somewhere in the world again. Elaine gave me her business card, which I have still cherished to this day. We never met again, with me being the lesser for it.
I am so proud to read of Elaine's many accomplishments and of her life story, realising that she was a person that you had to hang on to or she'd keep flowing with the current of life. I wish that I contacted her. She certainly made me feel like an underachiever. However as is evident, life goes too fast, my lesson is learnt, we will make the trip to Canada to visit the family early next year. Thank you Elaine.
Paul Sylivris

August 7, 2016

Mark Klett

We shared many wonderful experiences in the field, camping and hiking throughout the western US during photo workshops. It was great fun traveling with Elaine, she was intrepid and strong and there was always her positive energy and warm smile. It was a pleasure to watch her grow as a photographer and witness the success of her career as a visual artist - one of her many talents. I am grateful to have spent time with her and will miss her.

August 7, 2016

John Charlton

I traveled and photographed and adventured with Elaine and Mark Klett thoughout the 1990s. Getting to know her as Klett showed us around his backyard, the desert Southwest, is something I won't forget and have many photographs to help remember her. She was fun, smart, talented and adventurous. The best traveling companion. Goodbye Elaine.

August 7, 2016

Shirley Yanover

I will forever be grateful for the pleasure and joy of Elaine's friendship these past ten years. Her passion for life, her love of nature, adventure, creativity, spontaneity and generosity were and will always remain an inspiration. She was a talented and accomplished artist who abundantly and tirelessly dedicated her life to her friends, family and partner, and to her work as photographer, musician, athlete, and physician. Having spent many hours with Elaine kayaking down rivers and lakes, among rocks and lily pads in sunkissed water, and days traveling to Mexican and Cuban cities and oceans, I feel so fortunate to have experienced the full force of Elaine's boundless drive and joie de vivre', her joy of everything. The memory of her joyous spirit and radiant smile will stay with me always.
Rest in peace my beautiful friend.
You are greatly missed.

August 6, 2016

George McWilliam

I attended medical school with Elaine, but came to know her when we both were part of the small group of interns at North York General Hospital in 1974-1975. Although our paths did not frequently cross, I was aware of Elaine's multiple interests and accomplishments. and could not help being amazed at her stamina, energy and talent in all her varied vocations and avocations. My condolences to her family - I know she will be missed by many, remembered by many more.

August 6, 2016

Gary Goldthorpe

Elaine's positive energy, and talent in mecicine, Photography, music and tennis
enriched my life, and the lives of many others, since her arrival in Sioux Lookout as a medical student in 1973.

Her friendship over 40 years since, has been to me a source of joy, and inspiration to adventure.
Good bye, dear friend. I'll remember you always
Gary- Sioux Lookout Ontario

August 6, 2016

Susan Stone

While I knew Elaine for a fairly short period of time, a scant 5 years, her tenacity and intelligence were awesome and inspiring. She will be missed, but a little of her spirit remains in all who knew her. In that way she will be with us always.

August 6, 2016

A true adventurer who pursued her dreams to the fullest, with big smile, freckled face and boundless energy. I will miss you. Sandy Pang (Toronto)

August 6, 2016

Jill Waterman

When I think of Elaine, I think of light through the deepest darkness of night. I have so many fond memories, but none more spectacular than the time she asked to stop over and visit me in NYC upon her return from Burma ( or some similar farflung locale). The afternoon of her arrival, in August 2003, New York was hit by an epic blackout of the electrical grid and all power went down. No lights, no cell phones, nothing. I had no way to reach her and I was certain that her flight would certainly get diverted elsewhere. As evening fell and communications were still silenced, I went out to take pictures of NYC in the darkness. Hours passed and I was in the midst of photographing the Chrysler building in midtown, when, suddenly, miraculously, my cell phone began to ring. I dug through my bag to answer it, and it was none other than Elaine on the other end! Not only had her plane touched down at JFK in the pitch blackness, she had managed to commandeer a taxi to my East Village neighborhood. On arrival at my apartment building, she befriended a group of my neighbors who were drinking in the bar downstairs. She then found a payphone on the corner, from which she called to ask where I was. What magic! This was just the start of an unforgettable weekend with the force of nature we all know as Elaine.

While I am immensely saddened by her passing, I have no doubt that she is now summoning all of her remarkable powers to remain with us in eternal light in our time of need.

August 5, 2016

Sarah Maddocks

It was through tennis that I first got to know Elaine as a warm, funny and vibrant friend - our early morning games at Cottingham were truly precious. I found out more about her extraordinary gifts and accomplishments as a physician, musician, photographer and adventurous world traveller as she extended her friendship to me beyond the tennis court. I realized her amazing capacity for making friends and bringing them into her universe and also of her deep commitment to her family.
Dear Elaine, I am forever touched by your uniquely inspiring generous and loving spirit. I will miss you terribly, rest peacefully.

August 5, 2016

Elaine's presence at the International Fotofest and auction in Houston, Texas, provided inspiration for many photographers. She donated her work for the auction to support the organization and shared her insights with many who sought her attention. Many will miss seeing her smiling face and hearing her sweet voice. Damian Hinojosa (Houston, Texas)

August 5, 2016

Ron House

Elaine and I interned together at the North York General Hospital many years ago and we stayed in touch afterwards. She was a wonderful colleague and friend. Her adventurous spirit always shone brightly and she was a very unique, multi-talented person. I will miss her.

August 5, 2016

George Konn

a true blithe spirit...
generous,,,,caring,,,,kind,,,
her life was lived going in several directions simultaneously....
among many things,, I will remember the iconic vodka she would often bring to my house (I guess she knew I had a problem)

she lived a very full and exemplary life.....but she went too soon..


missed greatly..

George and Karyn Konn

August 5, 2016

Nelie Wong

I met Elaine 1967 buying a used science textbook and we have been friends since. Her passion for life, travel, photography, music etc, as well as her infectious smiles, abundant energy and relentless pursuit to Live-for-the Moment are most inspiring. She will be in our hearts forever.

August 5, 2016

Susan Main

"Elaine is an absolute inspiration to me - her passion for life, her abundant creativity, her boundless energy and unique beauty shone out like beacons wherever she went and with whomever she met. I will never forget her smile, sass and style. She will be so greatly missed by so many and we should take her presence here as a reminder to all of us all, to live life to exuberantly and to always follow our hearts. God bless you Elaine and blessings to all your family and friends. You are so loved. See you on the other side.

August 5, 2016

Susan Wong

I knew Elaine through tennis at Cottingham. Her zest for life, warm loving personality, and beautiful smile radiate from the photos. Hers was a life well lived and to its fullest.

August 5, 2016

Jeanette Callahan

A precious and bright star has passed onto the spirit world. I realize, after reading Elaine's obituary, that when I met her in Sioux Lookout at the beginning her medical career, she was on the cusp of her transformation and wonder around landscapes, lives and adventurous inquiry. Aren't we all blessed to have experienced her wealth of positive energy and the pearl of her spirit. She said to me on our last visit 'I have had a great run! I am so grateful.' Jeanette Callahan (Whistler, BC)

August 5, 2016

Peter Campbell

It was a privilege to be considered a friend of this amazing, energetic, talented lady.
Martha and I will miss her enormously.
We are in England at present and will miss her service.
We will never forget her.
Peter and Martha Campbell

August 5, 2016

Sarah Maddocks

It was through tennis that I first got to know Elaine as a warm, funny and vibrant friend - our early morning games at Cottingham were truly precious. I found out more about her extraordinary gifts and accomplishments as a physician, musician, photographer and adventurous world traveller as she extended her friendship to me beyond the tennis court. I realized her amazing capacity for making friends and bringing them into her universe that revealed also her deep commitment to her family.
Dear Elaine, I am forever touched by your uniquely inspiring generous and loving spirit. I will miss you terribly, rest peacefully.

August 5, 2016

Bill Fussner

Elaine has been one of my dearest friends and someone I loved deeply for many years. I am heartbroken at her loss. Thoughts of our times together, her smile and all of her beautiful freckles will stay with me forever. The angels are lucky to have her.

August 5, 2016

Lou Bacs

I met Elaine through Orchestra Toronto, where she was my stand partner in the cello section for many years. She brought tremendous energy and enthusiasm to everything she did. She shared her love of good music on many unforgettable occasions for which I am grateful and I will always cherish the memories. I will miss most of all her immeasurable kindness and her warm, infectious smile.
My condolences to the whole family, as well as to John.

August 4, 2016

Henry Calderon

What can say other than think about the marvelous times we had on the tennis courts or on her studio as she came back from her spectacular photography tours specially in South America...supported all my initiatives from the Junction revitalization to the small art show...I will miss her calls...!

August 4, 2016

Ebbe Thomsen

Thank you Elaine for allowing me to join you on the short' ride we had, which started 27 years ago, I soon discovered you were a very special and genuine person, amazingly talented and creative, your infectious warm smile and always charged with energy. I will miss you, my love. My condolences to the family and loved ones.

August 4, 2016

Laura Cruz

Although I knew Elaine only a short time, it was difficult not to be impressed by her passion and energy. A rare and unique talent, who gave much to those she cared for. My sincere best wishes to John, and Elaine's family at this time of loss.

August 4, 2016

Ray Perkins

I remember Elaine as the one running off to find the best light for a photo and still being able to hang out and enjoy a cup of coffee with everyone. A great soul who is missed.

August 4, 2016

Nina Levitt

My heartfelt condolences to her partner and family. I am a photography colleague of Elaine's. She was a warm, caring, committed artist who made gorgeous unique images.

August 4, 2016

Steve Stober

Elaine Ling was a true original. Never had I known anyone quite like her and it is unlikely I ever will again. There's no doubt in my mind she'll bring the same vitality and energy on this next journey she has just embarked on. Goodbye, my friend. I'll miss you!

August 4, 2016

Joanne Ko

'E' as we called her (in the 70's) was like the older sister I never had; I always
wanted to copy whatever she did because she excelled at whatever she pursued.
I'll cherish all the memories of early "CPC' days, especially our annual camping trips headed by 'E & V'.
E was my inspiration and mentor; Thanks for all the laughter.
Condolences to the Ling Family.

August 4, 2016

Dear John, Thank you so much for sharing her life with me and PAMA. She was such a beautiful soul, amazing energy and will be sorely missed. You have my deepest sympathy and my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Clay Miller, MD (Boston, MA)

August 4, 2016

Jon Ling

Auntie E:

Sorry Janet and I won't be able to make it to your memorial service as we are returning from out of the Province.

Although it was difficult to see you in the hospital, I am glad that I had the chance to spend some time with you.

I could tell you were suffering and now you are in a better place.

Your nephew Jon

August 4, 2016

William Scharf

Very sad to hear of Elaine's passing. We did two photo trips in the desert Southwest and our paths crossed many times.

August 4, 2016

Jean Stilwell

I first met Elaine at The New Classical 96.3fm when we were located at River and Queen St. E. She came in for an interview to talk about one of her beautiful books. We gravitated toward each other immediately. We did a walk to raise money for cancer research and had many dinners together. She came to my performances and was always tremendously supportive, and I followed her career as a Photographer. Over many dinners we would talk about Music, her travels, her art, tennis (her playing and the joy in it) and her life as a Paediatrician. Elaine was one of the most courageous women I know. It was an honour to be her friend. Jean Stilwell, Toronto

August 4, 2016

Rob Petrie

Elaine has always been an amazing inspiration in the way she saw the world. She leaves an amazing legacy of memories, artifacts, stories and images that are lessons and reflections, to take forward. So glad to know her. My first memory of Elaine was when she introduced me to honey and warm croissants at a Toronto bakery when I was 12. Have loved them ever since. Thank you Elaine. Your memories are sweet. Your gifts innumerable. And your smile ever permanent on the minds of your friends.

August 4, 2016

Bonnie Robson

I met Elaine through her support of Performing Arts Medicine and the work of John Chong. She brought such incredible energy to everything she did. She will be missed.

August 4, 2016

Virginia Mak ~Steve Payne

It is remarkable to consider all that Elaine accomplished, and enjoyed, in the two years since she knew she was ill.
One of Elaine's many amazing and admirable qualities was her generosity. She wanted everyone to join in, and feel a part by sharing with us her excitement and exuberance for life, and for the moment. And she so often gave us her support for our own accomplishments and work.
We feel so fortunate to have known her, and to share her friendship.

August 4, 2016

Eva Hodek

It's very sad news. Whether Elaine goes anywhere, our common memories will accompany her on the journy. RIP Elaine - the butterfly piano player.

August 4, 2016

John Payne

So hard to believe that a woman filled with such life and vibrancy is no longer with us.

August 4, 2016

Elaine was a kind and loving spirit who shared her knowledge and gifts with the world.I was one who was brushed by her love and spirit of giving of her self. MY condolences to the family Words however kind can't mend your heartache but those who care for you share your grief and wish you comfort and peace of mind. Olivia and Gordon Hunter.

August 4, 2016

Cindy & Peter Yeh

It is a privilege to have known Elaine.

August 4, 2016

Victoria Piersig

It took a trip to Houston and Fotofest several years ago to meet my fellow Torontonian. What a centre of energy and enthusiasm! She always had a good word, an enormous smile and a warm hug. She was an inspiration to the end ! What a wonderful person to show us all how to truly LIVE .

August 4, 2016

Claire Lo

Elaine was so much more than my beloved cousin. She was the super-cool older sister that I never had. The one that we all aspired to be but could never hope to equal. Her enormous curiosity inspired me to be more adventurous in my own life. Her energy was exhilarating, her talents were boundless, her accomplishments extraordinary & her stories were the best. I will miss her whirlwind visits, our manic shopping expeditions and hanging out at her exhibits. Her 'take no prisoners' approach to life was what was so amazing about her. I cherish the times that we spent together & am grateful for the profound influence she had in how I see the world. I will miss you terribly, cuz.

August 4, 2016

Serena Shui Yuen Chan

Dear Elaine, I am honoured to have met and known you in the last few years. We talked about doing a photography trip together and I had so hoped for it to happen. Your ability to have big laughs and your adventurous character really showed me what is possible. I know wherever you go, you will bring that fearlessness and adventurous soul with you. I will miss you.
Serena S.Y. Chan

August 4, 2016

Doug Hum

My condolences for Dr. Elaine Ling's family. My regrets for the visitation and funeral. I am currently in Victoria, BC. Elaine and I studied piano with lthe late Ruth Ma, Mus. Bac. in the early 1960s. Later, the late Reverend Ron Con of the Toronto Chinese Presbyterian Church brought together Elaine and I along with other instrumentalist in the Church in a musical group to perform at Church functions.

August 3, 2016

Nadine Feldman

Anyone who knew Elaine felt her spark. The level of energy she exuded and her expansive creativity have been manifested by very few people on this planet. She was gifted with so many talents and abilities and she shared them so generously. Elaine, you were one of a kind...an inspiration and a warm, curious spirit. Your work has engaged and interested people across the globe. May you rest in peace and may your memory be a blessing to all your family, your friends and the others whose lives you have touched. You will be so very missed.

August 3, 2016

Leida Englar

It was an honour to know Elaime. Elaine inspired us all with her energy, her spirit and her Art . She is in my thoughts and prayers as is her family LOVE LOVE
Leida Englar

August 3, 2016

Janine Peebles

Elaine I am glad we met at Dr. A's you certainly had lots of ideas and helpful and I always look forward to talking with and listening to stories of Places that you have been. You will be sadly missed Janine Peebles Pickering,Ontario

August 3, 2016

Marie Wong

Elaine your infectious smile and continual curiosity and thirst for adventure will be an inspiration for me forever. Our last conversation together still resonates within me. You will be deeply missed.
My condolences to the whole family.

August 3, 2016

Marilyn Westlake

My condolences to the Ling family as well as to John. Since our meeting by way of the Toronto Photographers Workshop, through trips and get togethers with other photographic friends, and her three visits to my second home in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Elaine never lost her curiosity, daring, willingness and perhaps obsession for discovering new places, things and people. She was an amazing friend and I miss her already. Blessings Elaine and much love.
Marilyn Westlake (Toronto ON and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico)

August 3, 2016

Veronica Koopmans

Dear Elaine, friend and colleague
We connected through music and drinks after, cross country skiing, stories on family medicine experiences. I feel blessed that I had a chance to get to know you these last few years and am smiling through my tears when I think about your boundless energy and beauty you brought to the world

August 3, 2016

Xavier Soule

I will travel with you for ever Elaine.

August 3, 2016

Jeannette Loakman

I knew Elaine so briefly it seems. So much life and so much heart. Someone to truly aspire to and who graced the tennis court and life with such fierce determination. Bye Elaine. Much love and condolences to your family.

August 3, 2016

Oliver Klink

Elaine ... I am already missing you. Bummer. I wish you could have made the trip to Buenos Aires with me to exhibit at the Festival de La Luz.
Your spirit was contagious, your art mesmerizing, and your mentorship invaluable. You are a true inspiring artist, which your work hanging on my wall I will cherish forever.
My sincere condolences to your family and loved ones.

Thank you Elaine. Oliver.

August 3, 2016

Loli Kantor

The unforgettable Elaine. Her energy, curiosity, contagious smile, talent and sharp mind - always on the go and ready to go, more. I first met Elaine at Fotofest 2006. From then on we remained in touch and enjoyed each orher's company at conferences and workshopswe took together, in Lishui China and in Toronto where Scott and I spent a weekend together with her. I have been inspired by Elaine in all ways! We last saw each other for dinner in Paris November 15, 2015 and she signed a book for me the following evening at Gallery VU. Hard to grasp that she is gone. But she remains with me in a strong way through the legacy of her images and the way she lived her life to the very end.

August 3, 2016

Bonnie Evans

You were def a woman to be reckoned with.

August 3, 2016

Debbie Dyck

Will miss your smiling face my friend and my boss! Almost 14 years!

August 3, 2016

Linda Chan

Meeting at church Elaine and I were friends since the 60s. We did a variety of things together including a trip to Vancouver before I got too busy raising my children. She will be so deeply missed. My condolences to the entire family.

August 3, 2016

David Lau

I have known Elaine for over 40 years and have always been impressed by her vivaciousness, her love of nature, and her exceptional talents not only as a caring physician, but also a formidable tennis player, gifted musician and photographer cum laude. What is most special about Elaine was her genuine warmth and unwavering friendship, and her everlasting uplifting spirits to make her friends laugh and feel welcome. I'll always cherish my fond memories of Elaine as a fellow physician but most importantly a very dear friend. My home is adorned with several of her photographic art and autographed books. Elaine, you will always be missed but never forgotten!

August 3, 2016

Jim Casper

I've known Elaine for the past 11 years, and she has inspired me ever since with her curiosity about life and other people, and her amazing ability to share her enthusiasm through stunning photography and well-told stories. I will miss her. My condolences to her family and loved ones.

August 3, 2016

Cathy Geddis

We didn't know Elaine personally , however, from Vera Lo constantly talking about her we felt that we actually knew her.
Our condolences to all the Family from Aerotek Manufacturing Team ( Thinking of you Vera , Jonathan, Peter and Virginia)

August 3, 2016

Tracy and Jack Grainge

Elaine, as talented and accomplished as she was always made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. We loved her and will miss her. Jack and Tracy Grainge

August 3, 2016

Alex Chan

Rest in Peace Elaine. You are an inspiration. You may be gone but your work lives on !
I had the privilege to work with you in the studio in Toronto, Your relentless energy and your endearing smile will forever stay with everyone that knew you.

August 3, 2016

Elvin Wingay

An irrepressible soul.
Rest In Peace.

August 2, 2016

David and Wendy Chin

Since meeting Elaine during U of T days, she has been a member of "our family" and shared so many good times with us as well as her passion for travelling and photography and meeting as many people as possible all over the world. Fond memories of her will last forever.
Condolences to her family and John and all her friends who stood by her in her final days.

August 2, 2016

Feng Gao

I met Auntie Dr. Elaine Ling the first time I came to Canada in 1983, and her friendly and affectionate personality left me a strong impression, even though we didn't get to interact often over the years afterwards. May she rest in peace and in the memory of whom she loved.

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