Larry Ellis

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Larry Ellis, at the age of 75, on August 24th, 2022. We are comforted knowing that in his last months he was able to have many cherished visits with family and friends.

Larry was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Elsie Ellis, by his wife’s parents, Don and Francis Graham, and by his brother-in-law Mark Winkler. Left to cherish all the memories and carry on his legacy are his beloved wife of 48 years, Pat, and his three adored daughters Lisa (Nathan Evans), Kaitlin, and Janna (Tyler Birkbeck). He loved moments spent with his grandchildren, Jalin and Reis, and his step-grandsons Kole and Austin; they will continue to hear our favourite stories of Grandpa Larry. He will also be missed and warmly remembered by his brother Les (Linda), his sister Donna, extended family members, and close friends, several of whom were lifelong.

Larry was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on December 15th, 1946 and spent most of his childhood and working life in Regina. He was passionate about social justice and chose to work in roles where he could advocate for and support others to make needed change. Larry deeply respected indigenous culture, tradition, communities and leaders and worked with them often over the years, including to establish the innovative Fine Options program. One of his greatest accomplishments was watching the First Nations University building open in Regina in 2003. Larry spent many years advocating and helping to establish what would become one of the most beautiful buildings on the University of Regina Campus.

Larry was thrilled to move with Pat to Qualicum Beach in 2013. He often said he was glad to have traded in snowbanks and -40 weather to enjoy life on the Island. He spent many hours planning and renovating their home and today his handiwork can be seen in every corner of the house. He had an eye for things and what he could envision, he could create.

In addition to renovating their home and tinkering on smaller projects, Larry enjoyed watching NFL games, discussing current events, making favourite meals for his family, sharing his sense of humour and gathering to celebrate events and accomplishments, especially those of his three daughters who he actively encouraged and deeply admired. He was the original search engine – regularly fielding calls for facts or information. He cared deeply about his family and friends. And he always had a very special place in his heart for all the Ellis dogs, most recently Mia and Halle who spent hours by his side.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation and thanks to his family physician Dr. Mander, and to all the doctors and staff of the BC Cancer Agency. They would also like to thank the staff at the Nanaimo General Hospital Palliative Care Unit for the remarkable care he received in his final days.

To honour Larry’s memory please raise a glass to him, cheer on your favourite sports team, enjoy your favourite sweet treat, or spend a little extra time with those who mean the most to you.