Dr. Elaine Bjorklund Philbrick, Professor of Geography Emerita at the University of Western Ontario, passed away peacefully at her home in London, Ontario on Saturday, June 1, 2024, in her 97th year. She was predeceased by the love of her life, Dr. Allen Kellogg Philbrick, Allen’s son James, and her sister, Lucille Johnston. Elaine is survived by her “adopted” family, Clare and Robert Gordon, Janet and Joshua Brown and their children, Odin, Rosalie, and Josephine; and extended Fu Family in Caoxian, People’s Republic of China; step-son Allen James Philbrick, daughter-in-law Kathleen of Ann Arbor, Michigan; step-grandson Jeffery (Karen) Philbrick and their daughters, Allison and Mary of Alna, Maine; step-granddaughter Kristen (Jeff) Eichler and their sons, Henry and Truman of Louisville, Kentucky.

Born in Ogden, Utah on May 8, 1928, daughter of Eric and Rena Bjorklund, Elaine’s remarkable intelligence and drive fueled her academic success. She earned her BSc at the University of Utah, her Master’s Degree from the University of Washington, and her PhD in 1955 from the University of Chicago. In 1951-1952, she was a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to pursue studies at the University of Adelaide in South Australia. Elaine lived and taught in nine countries during her career, building her research and mentoring students wherever she was. Elaine’s insatiable thirst to learn was a constant inspiration to those whose lives she touched, particularly to her students whom she took to many countries on Geography field trips. Elaine was a trailblazer, achieving many firsts for women in academic and leadership roles. Throughout her life’s journey, Elaine’s genuine interest in others, generosity, sense of humour and hearty laugh earned her many friends who will miss her deeply.

Cremation was done. Interment with Allen’s remains will take place in their cemetery plot in Maine. A public celebration of Elaine’s life is planned for early fall in London, Ontario, with details to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Western University to fund the Professor Elaine Bjorklund Award.