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June 25, 1931 - August 20, 2016

It is with great sorrow that Eleonora and Sandor announce the passing of their beautiful mother, Ella Kertesz (nee Biri), who left peacefully holding hands with her loving children. August 20th would have been Ella and Alex’s 61st Wedding Anniversary.

Ella led a simple life in her birthplace of Sóstóhegy, Hungary. There she met and married her husband Alex. As a couple, they endured the Hungarian Revolution and the many atrocities of this horrific event. Alex and Ella were taken prisoner and managed to escape and make their way to the freedom of Canada in January 1957. Home was many places: Toronto, Oliver, Calgary, North Vancouver and settling in Vernon in 1964. Ella stayed home during her children’s early years and only took a job when she knew her children could manage on their own. She worked at Lions Gate Hospital, Vernon Jubilee Hospital and Noric House. Ella made many friends and was devoted to her faith as a Jehovah’s Witness, being baptized in 1985.

Mom had many loves: her grandchildren, extended grandchildren, her vegetable garden and flower beds.

Ella was predeceased by his husband Alex (October 19, 2011) and grandson Jonathan (July 23, 1999). She is survived by her daughter Eleonora (Gordon) Carson, Morgan (Stevie), Oliver and Lennox as well as her son Sandor. Ella also leaves to mourn Vanessa (Ron), Mike, Indy, Alexa (Dakota) Tucker, Walker, Nova, Tasha (Jordan).

A service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 27, 2016 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Tea to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the North Okanagan Hospice Society.

Nothing can dim the light which shines from within. We love you mom.

Condolences may be offered at pleasantvalleyfh.com



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