Ellen passed away peacefully on March 29, 2017 in Canora, SK. Ellen Elizabeth Maudsley was born on June 15, 1946 in Kamsack, SK. The eldest daughter of Herb and Jean Maudsley, she grew up with her two sisters, Janet and Marlene, in the Castlevary area near Roblin, MB. As a young girl, Ellen was a huge help on the farm, minding her sisters and milking cows. Her school years were a joy for Ellen where she was rewarded for her literary prowess and accounting proficiency. Ellen married Jack Gardner on February 13, 1965. Over the next six years they were blessed with three sons, Shaun, Daniel and Rodney. Ellen loved her sons, their spouses (Lorraine, LeeAnn and Keri) and her grandchildren (Taylor, Bailey, Tanner, Brie and Grayson). She had a special relationship with each of the grandchildren and was famous for tucking in the kids at night by playing "farmer" on their backs with stories of cultivating, seeding, swathing, combining and baling. Ellen loved life, her family and managing money. Her ability to stop a full-on grass hockey game a block away with a call for supper was legendary. She loved long walks on the beach and around the Lake with family and friends. She loved adventure, travelling extensively with Jack in the later years. She loved the finer things in life like good shoes, nice clothing, fine dining and a glass of red wine. She was small but mighty and beautiful inside and out! She will be deeply missed by her beloved Jack, children, grandchildren, sisters, family and friends. The funeral service was held on Wednesday, April 5, 2017 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre. Crystal Bailey, B.Th. officiated, musical selections were 'Old Rugged Cross', 'Hallelujah', 'Amazing Grace', 'How Great Thou Art' and 'Goodbye'. Tributes were by Kari Krause & Cameron, Jason Van Mulligan & Janet Krause, Marlene & Lou read a poem. Honourary bearers were Taylor, Bailey, Tanner, Brie & Grayson. Tanner also served as the urn bearer. The interment will take place at the Castleavery Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Canora Hospital, Palliative Care, or to the Salvation Army. The cremation and funeral care was entrusted to Bailey's Funeral Home.
