Elaine McKeown passed away on November 30, 2015, in Vancouver, British Columbia.
She was born in Toronto and grew up in the "Beaches" district of the city. In her youth, she was a competitive swimmer who competed in national and international events, including the 1955 Pan American Games. Married to "Bill" McKeown in 1962, the couple moved to Osaka, Japan, where they raised their three children. She continued to show her athletic streak by practicing and earning a black belt in Judo. After 48 years in Japan, she retired to Vancouver, BC, with her partner Ryozo Sumida.
Elaine is survived by her spouse Ryozo Sumida, son Kevin, daughters Kyna and Christy, daughter-in-law Denise, and granddaughters Kaiya and Tula. Elaine is predeceased by her mother Isobel, father Edward "Ted", brother Donald, and husband William "Bill".
Friends and family are welcome to attend a memorial service for her at Kearney Funeral Services, 450 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC, on Saturday, December 5th from 1-2:00 pm with reception to follow.