It is with a great deal of sadness that we announce the passing of McKelvey George Ellard after a courageous battle with cancer. Kel was born February 23, 1946 and passed away at home with his family by his side on May 8, 2010. Predeceased by his brother Steve, sister Bev, mother Dorothy and father Percy, he leaves to mourn his loving wife of 43 years, Marg, three children, Lana Ellard, Laurie (Scott) Thomas, Steve (Jill) Ellard, seven grandchildren, Shae, Brette and Alex Matheson, Evan and Jordyn Thomas, and Olivia and McKelvey Ellard, sister Penny Anderson, and numerous nieces and nephews. Kel grew up in the Mortlach area where he attended school. Upon graduation from grade twelve, he was accepted into the Regular Officers Training Plan (ROTP) in the Airforce and shortly after his 21st birthday obtained his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan. Kel spent seven years in the Armed Forces and then left to become a design engineer at SaskPower in Regina where he spent 10 years. Following that Kel made a decision to buy more farmland and he and Marg moved to the farm outside Moose Jaw in 1980. In addition to farming, Kel also taught in the electronics program at SIAST where he eventually became Program Head. As a result of failing health, he made a decision to retire from SIAST in 2005 and dedicate more time to his farm. Kel's great love was his family and his farm, in that order. He took great pride and joy in the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and his son-in-law and daughter-in-law. One of Kel's greatest enjoyments was the many hours that he spent coaching hockey when his son was young. Kel will be sadly missed. His presence was a huge part of the family and the loss of that presence leaves a very large hole. A Memorial Tea will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, 268 High St.W., Moose Jaw, on Wednesday, May 12, 2010 from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Memorialization will take place privately at Rosedale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, 61B Ross St. W., Moose Jaw, S6H 2M2, or Heart & Stroke Foundation, 279 3rd Ave. N., Saskatoon, S7K 2H8, would be much appreciated. In living memory of Kel, a tree will be planted in Besant Park by W. J. Jones & Son Funeral Home. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries).
DAYNA SMITH-SHORT FUNERAL DIRECTOR