After a brief illness at Middlesex Terrace, Delaware on Wednesday, February 3rd, 2016, Ellis Raymond Goodwin of Amherst, N.S. and later Strathroy, in his 97th year.
He married, and is survived by, the love of his life, Madeline Ethel Grant on June 21st, 1944. Beloved father of Grant of Nanaimo, B.C., Stephen (Brenda) of New Glasgow, N.S., Charles (Debbie) of Amherst, N.S.,and daughter Enid (John) Gough of London Ont.
Fondly remembered by four grandchildren, one great-grandchild and two nieces.
Born on October 27th, 1919 in Amherst, he was the son of the late Walter T. Goodwin and Lottie Goodwin (nee MacDonald). Predeceased by sister Eileen Victoria, twin brothers Mackenzie King and Arthur Meighen and youngest brother Walter T., Jr. He worked in the family grocery business as he grew up and graduated from Amherst Academy. He had a love for working with wood and as a youth built model airplanes, reflecting his interests in aviation.
With the outbreak of the Second World War, he trained at the Canadian Car Factory in Montreal before returning to the plant in Amherst to work in assembly of Avro Anson airplanes. Ellis worked in several fields, including sales and some years at Enamel and Heating in Amherst before eventually becoming a successful life insurance salesman for some 20 years. He was entering his 70th year as a Free Mason, having joined the Acacia Lodge in Amherst in 1946. Ellis and Madeline raised their family in Fort Lawrence, Nova Scotia, before later moving to Amherst for several years.
Ellis was a member of Trinity St. Stephen's in Amherst for many years and served in many capacities including Sunday School Teacher and Clerk of Session. Upon moving to Ontario during their retirement years, he and Madeline transferred their membership to Cook's United Church in Mount Brydges, Ont. and later to Strathroy United Church. They enjoyed returning east while their health accommodated it. Their last visit was in 2013 for a grandson's wedding in Tidnish, N.S. on their 69th anniversary. Ellis was tall and distinguished and personified what it meant to be a gentleman, to be consistently considerate, and was highly regarded by his family and the people he befriended while living in Nova Scotia and Ontario.
As per Ellis's wishes cremation has taken place and, there will be no visitation or funeral service. Interment of ashes will occur at a later date in Bayfield, N.B. In memory of, Ellis donations may be made to the Charity of your choice. Arrangements have been made through Elliott-Madill Funeral Home, Mount Brydges. www.elliottmadill.com