With grace and peace, Nora Knuff of Elmvale passed away on October 29th, 2025, in her 89th year, at Sara Vista Long Term Care Home.

Beloved wife of the late John Knuff, with whom she shared 63 extraordinary years, Nora was the heart of her family — their anchor and guiding light. She will be deeply missed by her children John (Verna) Knuff, Heather (Paul) Toner, Tim Knuff, Liz (Scott) Grummett, and Connie Knuff (Chuck Wilson); her cherished grandchildren Jason, Amanda, Kyle (Harshita), Craig (Chelsea), Zack, Mikaela, Grayson, and Lucy; and her adored great-grandchildren Seamus, Claire, Brier, Kinsley, and Iris — each carrying her warmth, humour, and wisdom in their hearts.

Nora was predeceased by her parents, Gordon and Ida Dwinnell, her brother Brian Dwinnell, and her sister Mary Ferguson. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings Sally Sibbald, Patsy Wickens, and Fred Dwinnell, as well as her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whose lives she touched with her generosity and care.

To know Nora was to know the very spirit of Elmvale. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to her community — from Scouts Canada, Brownies, and the Elmvale Food Bank, to the Women’s Institute, St. John’s United Church, and the Elmvale Fall Fair. For many years, she was the smiling face behind the Pancake House at the Elmvale Maple Syrup Festival, where her warmth and kindness welcomed every visitor as a friend.

Her kitchen was her haven — a place where stories were shared, laughter filled the air, and every meal was made with love. Whether feeding her family, neighbours, or half the town, Nora’s table was always full. If you were married in Elmvale, chances are you were blessed by one of her legendary roast beef or turkey dinners, followed by a slice of her famous pie. For many years, she catered for the Elmvale Lions Club, earning such admiration that their kitchen became affectionately known as “Nora’s Kitchen.”

Through her years leading 4-H groups, Nora shared not only the skills of breadmaking, quilting, and sewing, but also the deeper lessons of life — patience, gentle guidance, and an open-hearted spirit. She showed that true joy comes from creating, giving to others, and welcoming everyone with understanding and love. Her hands were always busy, and her heart always open.

Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched: a community strengthened by her devotion, a family nurtured by her love, and a world made brighter by her presence. Nora reminded all who knew her that life’s greatest measure is found not in recognition, but in kindness given, patience offered, and lives brightened.

Nora’s family would like extend gratitude to the incredible staff at Sara Vista. Their care, compassion, and dedication went beyond our expectations—they were more than caregivers; they became like family to us. In our time of need, they provided comfort, kindness, and unwavering support, making a challenging journey a little easier to bear. We will forever be thankful for their warmth and humanity.

Visitation will be held at the Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, Elmvale, on Sunday, November 2nd, from 2–4 p.m. and 7–9 p.m.

The funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Monday, November 3rd at 11 a.m., followed by interment at the Elmvale Presbyterian Cemetery. A luncheon will be held afterwards at St. John’s United Church.

In honour of Nora’s lifelong love of animals, donations may be made to the Ontario SPCA Midland & District Animal Centre.

Forever remembered, forever loved — Nora’s warm smile, gentle spirit, and lasting kindness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.