ELLEN THOMPSON (VERNON)

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ELLEN THOMPSON (nee VERNON) October 16, 1917 - November 26, 2006 With courage and dignity, as she had lived her life, Ellen passed away peacefully in the arms of her daughter at the Riverview Health Centre on Sunday, November 26, 2006 after a brave battle with cancer. Left to treasure her memory is her daughter Pat; son-in-law Len Gerelus and granddaughter Jennifer. She also leaves to mourn her brother John Vernon of Victoria and her niece and nephews. Ellen was predeceased by her husband Robert (Bob) in 1959; her sisters, Dorothy Stevens and Elsie Garbutt and brothers, Harold and Joe Vernon. Ellen was a woman of great inner strength and character. She had a lively and intelligent mind with a great sense of humour. She enjoyed gardening, doing crossword puzzles, playing cards and especially her trips to the casino. Ellen's love of music ranged from the Beatles to Celine Dion and Elton John. A favourite passion was baking, especially her famous chocolate cake and pumpkin pie. She was a fiercely independent woman living on her own until November 2005, when her health became an issue. Ellen was a dedicated employee of Sears for 33 years working primarily in the stationary and toy departments during that time. As a grandmother, Ellen (Gram) had a very close and special relationship with Jennifer. Over the years, they spent quality time together from reading, writing and singing to baking, playing and traveling. Jennifer's memories of Gram will remain in her heart forever. As a mother, Ellen had a special relationship with Pat. It was one of deep love, trust and caring combined with genuine laughter, fun and happy times. Thanks Mum, for the gift of you and I know you will forever live in my heart and memories. As a mother-in-law, Ellen's connection with Len was also very special. Ellen really appreciated Len's financial advice and shared his interest in sports particularly golf, football and hockey. Len will miss her very much. Not to be left out, Boots, our cat is most grateful to Ellen, as it was she who helped pick out Boots from the Winnipeg Humane Society. We would like to extend our thanks to the staff at Charleswood Care Centre for their care, attention and genuine concern with very special thanks to Deena, Lindsay and Kathleen. Thank you for your kindness. We would also like to express our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, health care aides and staff of 3 East at the Riverview Health Centre. Your compassionate care and genuine concern shown to Ellen was very much appreciated. Thank you all for your support. A special thank you to Helen with love, you are truly amazing and gifted and we will remember you always. Honouring Ellen's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ellen's memory may be made to CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9 or to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 5 Kent St., Winnipeg, MB R2L 1X3. Mum Today and always our memories of you will bring us strength, comfort and happiness. Your love of life and family will live on in all of us. CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 02, 2006