Elsie Ruth Ellis

Elsie was born in 1926 to Fred and Sophia Holdner, one of 11 children, and raised on their farm near Young, Saskatchewan.  Her youngest sister Diana Burkart, of Saskatoon, is now the sole surviving member of her birth family.  In 1943, Elsie married Bob Ellis, shortly after he enlisted in the Air Force, serving in North Battleford and Saskatoon.  In 1944 Les was born in Saskatoon, followed by Larry in 1946.  Following their move to Regina in 1957, they were delighted when their family was completed with the addition of Donna in 1958.  In 1987, following retirement, they moved to Victoria, where they made new friends, welcomed old friends, entertained grandchildren and enjoyed spring flowers (following winters without snowbanks and -40 temperatures), for more than 30 years.

Elsie was predeceased by Bob, not long after their 75^th anniversary, earlier this year.  Following his passing, it was discovered that Bob still carried two old b&w photos in his wallet – one of Elsie, taken shortly after their wedding, and one of Elsie, Bob and baby Les.  Those two photos confirm Bob's view that marrying Elsie was the best decision he ever made – how wonderful that she agreed to wed, forever benefiting those of us who shared in their love for over 75 years.  Elsie and Bob were loving parents who warmly welcomed their children's spouses: Linda, Pat and Mark Winkler (deceased), and took great delight in their grandchildren: Laura (John) Gorrie, Kurt (Sarah) Ellis, Lisa (Nathan) Evans, Kaitlin Ellis and Janna Ellis (Tyler Birkbeck) – and, recently, their eight great grandchildren.

Regrettably Elsie didn't have the opportunity to pursue higher education, but her knowledge and skills were appreciated, especially in the days before personal computers, when she was regularly counted on to ensure that any term paper she proof-read was submitted free of spelling or grammar errors – she also provided other valued comments on many occasions.  She and Bob both had a strong work ethic and set high standards in all they did.  She maintained her interest in current affairs and politics throughout her life, but all was not serious – she had a great sense of humour, a quick wit and enjoyed playing cards, which she particularly enjoyed when playing with family.

She was well known for her delicious baked goods: apple pies, butter tarts, gingerbread, cinnamon buns and cookies. Fortunately she loved to share her cooking and baking skills, especially with grandchildren.  As time goes on, and we continue to share these recipes over the coming years, we will enjoy the aromas filling our kitchens and biting into these wonderful treats baked by one of her descendants – and our hearts will again be warmed by fond memories of Mom/Grandma.

There will be a private family service.  Family, and especially little children, were always extremely important to Elsie.  In this spirit, if you wish to honour her memory, please do so by making a donation to a favourite charity that provides support and comfort to families in need at this time of year.

You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.