Ellen Thiessen

Ellen Thiessen passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2020 at the age of 100 years. Her memory will be cherished by her daughter Linda; son Greg (Laurie Ann); grandchildren Paul (Janice) and Stephanie; great grandchildren Keagan and Amara; son-in-law Darryl Spear; brother-in-law Dave Thiessen; and many more family and friends. She was predeceased by her husband Neil, daughter Colleen, parents Abram & Maria Groening and 11 sisters and brothers along with their spouses.

Ellen was born and raised in Kane, Manitoba. She trained as a teacher which suited her love and keen interest in the welfare and protection of children that never left her. She proudly served as a S/Sgt in C.W.A.C. during WWII and while serving she married the love of her life Neil, a neighbor from her home town. Ellen was active in the Canadian Sunday School Mission and served in the Stonecroft Christians Women’s Club. She also supported children to attend both Gimli and Camp Arnas summer camps. For many years Ellen’s love was of being on the Missionary Committee at Bethesda Church in Winnipeg and teaching Sunday School to both primary and junior high. She had a long and lasting love for God, and people. In 1984 Ellen and Neil began spending their winters in warmer climates of the US, settling in Mesa, AZ to be closer to their youngest daughter Linda. In 1987 they retired to Calgary to be closer to their children there.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held for Ellen at Rocky View Garden of Peace Cemetery on Thursday, May 7, 2020. A Memorial Service and Celebration of her life will be held at a later date when the circumstances allow.