Doreen Agnes Ellis

ELLIS, Doreen Agnes (Rourke) – 84, Halifax, passed away after a brief illness on April 15, 2011. She was the daughter of the late Edward and Effie (Neil) Rourke. She is survived by her sister Violet Clark, Vancouver, and sisters-in-law Patience Rourke (Ellis), Mississauga and Marjorie Ellis, Ohio; daughter Elizabeth and son-in-law Gary (Luftspring), Toronto; son Tom, Saskatoon; grandchildren Wesley, Montreal; Shawna, Guelph; and Daniel, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her loving husband Pat, son Jim, brothers Wilfred, Russell and Desmond (Buddy) and sisters Elsie, Rita and Alma. Her love for her family and friends was limitless. Born in Quebec City (Little River), Doreen trained as a nurse at Jeffery Hale Hospital before deciding to marry and raise her family. She committed herself to her family and the service of others. Guided throughout her life by her deep faith, she and husband Pat were founding members of the First Congregational Church in Halifax where she became the adopted Mum and Gran to many.

A memorial service celebrating Doreen’s life will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, April 17th at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax. A reception will follow. In place of flowers, donations may be made to First Congregational Church of Halifax to support their programs and missions, 1871 Seldon Street, Halifax, NS B3H 3X3 (902-423-5068; [email protected] or online through www.CanadaHelps.org) . Online memories and condolences may be added at www.jasnowfuneralhome.com (under Doreen Ellis). Doreen was deeply loved – by friends and family alike, whatever their age. Modest to a fault, her generous and caring nature was without limits. How she chose to live her life was an inspiration to all who knew her. There is no better example of a life well lived.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:9)