Gary Nelson Ellis

ELLIS: Gary Nelson. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Nelson Ellis on January 20, 2024 at the age of 72. Gary passed away peacefully with family by his side while listening to Legend of a Mind by the Moody Blues.

Gary was born in Lachute, Quebec and grew up in Saint Catherines, Ontario. At the age of 22, he and his closest friends Ron Fenton and Brian Styles packed up their vehicle and headed out west, landing in Bunson Lake, BC. It is there, while camping, that Gary met the love of his life, Barbara Cary (Barb) and the two were married 4 years later. Gary and Barb moved to the Okanagan and settled in Kelowna, BC. The two made many friends along the way, and Gary formed a large community within the Kinsmen Club of Kelowna.

Gary is survived by his wife Barb, daughters Cary and Amy (Tyler) and his three grandchildren that brought him so much joy, Brooklynn, Blake, Kade. Gary will be missed by his three sisters Gloria, Diane and Barb, as well as many close friends and extended family including nieces and nephews in Ontario.

As a family, we would like to thank the incredible staff and team on 6West at Kelowna General Hospital, with a special thank you to Dr. Javed Ali, CTU resident Anna, and the OT team (Nevena and Lauren) who took wonderful care of him during his last days.

Gary had asked Barb to make a donation to the Kelowna Women’s Shelter on his behalf for his birthday gift this year. To honour his recent birthday wishes, in lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, at kelownawomensshelter.com.

A funeral service will be held February 24, 2024 at 11:00 am at First Memorial Funeral Home (Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna BC)

Forever in our hearts.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299