Hillen, Anna Alfreda; After a long struggle with diabetes, at Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus, on November 18, 2009 in her 75th year. Devoted life-long lesbian partner of Chris Hannell of Elora. Stepmother to Lesley Hannell (Joe), Linda Goulais (Norm), Lorraine Wakely (Jorma) and Tez Darnell. Survived by her sister-in-law Janet Hillen, nieces, nephews and extended family. Predeceased by her brother David and her parents. Anna fought her way through abject poverty and put herself through Victoria College. She then began her 33 year career as a teacher of high school English & Film Arts, with the last 23 years at Erindale Secondary School in Mississauga. A supporter and devotee’ of the Elora Festival Singers from their beginning, she chose Elora as home when she retired. For over 10 years Anna wrote the column “Street Talk” for the Fergus-Elora News Express, in which she made people both laugh & think. She was a true patron of every medium of the arts – music, literature, theatre, pottery, and sculpture, etc. – as demonstrated through her writing, her attendance at events, her donations and, as her chock-full house will attest, her many purchases. She was loved by students, colleagues, artists, musicians, friends & family – near & far. Memorial Service for Anna was held at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, corner of Smith & Henderson Streets in Elora, on Saturday, November 21st, 2009 at 11am. Arrangements entrusted to the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home in Elora. In lieu of flowers, donations can be directed to the Elora Festival Singers, Groves Hospital – CT Scanner Fund or CODE (self-sufficiency through literacy in the developing world). Cards available through the funeral home (519) 846-5352. www.grahamgiddyfh.com.