Rodney Carrington Ellis

ELLIS, RODNEY C. - Dr. Rodney Ellis passed away peacefully with loved ones at his side at Bridgepoint Hospital in Toronto, Canada, at the age of 82. Rodney was born in Warrington, UK during World War II to James Edward Ellis and Geraldine Ellis (Carrington). Rodney lost his twin brother Ervine earlier this year and is survived by his younger brother Bruce.

Rodney was kind and generous to all, but above everything he loved his family and would truly do anything for them. He was the proudest father of Neil (Beth), Bruce (Adrienne), Clare (Carlos), and Ian, and a doting grandfather to Sterling, Wren, Mackenzie and Felix who brought the greatest joy to his final years.

Rodney always excelled at academics and athletics, and completed his studies at the University of Edinburgh, where he met his future wife Pauline, and the University of London School of Pharmacy (PhD Organic Chemistry). In 1968 he came to Canada, where he began his career as a clinical biochemist at Sunnybrook Hospital and Etobicoke General Hospital before becoming one of the founders in 1975 of a leading Canadian diagnostic services business providing laboratory testing and medical imaging services in Ontario.

Rodney lived his life with passion and curiosity, pursuing his interests in opera, symphony, fine art, Medieval English coins, collecting wine, Formula 1, Ferraris, marathon running, cycling and sailing.

He cherished the friends and colleagues he made during his time on the Board of the Canadian Opera Company (1989-1998) and at Ferrari Club of America Events, where for years he drove his cars (fast!) around local racetracks and organized his "Rodney's Weekends" events to explore the backroads of Ontario. In his later years, after he and Pauline had separated, he learned to cook and began his second "career" as a ballroom and swing dancer, bringing home awards from local DanceSport competitions and, despite declining health, continuing with his much-loved dance lessons until shortly before he passed. He also cherished his travels and adventures with his close friend Paula Knopf. In his last year, he moved to Hazelton Place, where he made many new friendships with residents and staff.

The family thanks Bridgepoint Palliative Care Unit for their care and attention during Rodney's final days (but here we have to confess we did sneak in a bottle of 1990 Chateau d'Yquem for him to taste and enjoy with family).

Friends may visit at the Rosar-Morrison Funeral Home & Chapel, 467 Sherbourne Street (at Wellesley), on November 23, 2024, at 11 a.m with Rodney's Memorial Service beginning at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Nature Conservancy of Canada (https://secure.natureconservancy.ca/site/Donation2?df_id=6681&mfc_pref=T&6681.donation=form1)