April 14, 1938 - January 27, 2020
Ellens, Harry Cornelius. It is with heartfelt sadness we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father and Grandfather on January 27, 2020, in Vernon, B.C. Harry was born on April 14, 1938, in New Westminster, B.C. to parents, Jon and Kathleen Ellens; growing up in Langley, B.C. As a youngster he was taught the work ethic, having a newspaper route and in high school, working for Seal-Kap Farms. While in high school he joined the United Church of Canada youth group, Forestry Club, Drama Club; his love of music was one of his enduring passions, singing baritone in the high school productions. He enjoyed progressive jazz and later, western music. After high school graduation Harry's careers were with the Vancouver Pony Express Courier and Delivery Service, B.C. Forest Service - Marine Division, Langley Central Elementary - School District 35, Placer Dome - Endako Mines, Municipal Administrator for the Village of Fraser Lake, District of Coldstream, City of Merritt, District of Huston, Village of Nakusp and Property Manager, in Nakusp. He believed that education was never a heavy load to carry and through the years took courses at Vancouver Vocational Institute, University of Victoria, Central Washington University and the University of British Columbia.
Harry was an avid supporter of charitable and numerous community organizations. He was a wonderful humanitarian, for he believed in giving back to his community. While living in Fraser Lake he held an Industrial first-aid B ticket and whenever he was called out, he administered first-aid or drove ambulance. After moving to Coldstream he started a speed skating club, coaching speed skating. He was a member of the Kinsmen Club in Fraser Lake, Past President of the Rotary Club of Nakusp; he was a Rotarian for thirty years. He served on the Nakusp library board, Arrow Lakes hospital board, Nakusp Senior's Association executive, Beaton Arm Association. He was a man of many interests; enjoying art, automobiles, gardening, history, nature, reading and swimming.
Harry is survived by his wife Lauretta of fifty-eight years, Daughter Kimberley (Son-in-law Ryan) Son Kent, Grandchildren, Twins - Nicholas and Clara, Jacob, Bryce, Silas. Brother Bill (Sister-in-law Lorraine) Uncle Wilf and Aunt Blanche, Aunt Thelma, Brother-in-law Ron, Sister-in-law's Silvia, (Jim) Lorain, Jane, (Morris) Grace and many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, nieces.
He was predeceased by Grandfather William in 1959, Mother-in-law Velda in 1959, infant Daughter Shawneen in 1962, Grandmother Elizabeth in 1972, Mother Kathleen in 1976, Father Jan in 1990, Brother- in-law Don in 1998, Brother-in-law Tex in 2005, Father-in-law Eldon in 2005, Uncle Dick in 2008.
We would like to thank the medical staff of the Nakusp Arrow Lakes Hospital, Vernon Jubilee Hospital; especially Drs. Wood/Bosma/ Humphreys for their kindness and empathy. A special thank you to North Okanagan Hospice House, for their exceptional compassionate care. Alex and Wayne of the Church of Christ Latter Day Saints, for the Laying On of Hands, Lieutenant Stephan Reid of The Salvation Army for his reading of the 23 Psalm, at the bedside service.
Our sincere appreciation for the many acts of kindness from our neighbors, James and Patsy Andrews, Bill and Megan Marcolli. Kathy Roberts, Doreen Desrochers, Tom Lie, Kim and Billie Creed, for being so very helpful.
To all those that reached out to our family with their kind words, thoughts, sympathy and condolences. Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services, Vernon, B.C. for their professional service.
Harry will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him for his gentle disposition, infectious laugh, and smile. The family has chosen to honour Harry's request with no funeral service. So loving, so loved; forever in our hearts.