Obituary of Ellen Patricia Craig

ELLEN PATRICIA CRAIG

Passed away peacefully at her Woodhaven LTC home in Markham, Ontario, early Monday morning, December 24, 2018.

Ellen Patricia Craig was born in Carleton Place, Ontario, the daughter of the late James and Ellathea McIlquham of Carleton Place.

Ellen loved music of all kinds.  She had a beautiful, trained soprano voice and achieved her Grade Eight level of the Royal Conservatory of Music in piano.  Her singing was her trademark even to her last days.

Nothing was more important to Ellen than raising and nurturing her family.  Her daughters were inspired to be strong, independent and fun-loving just like she was. She spent a lot of time with them always talking, teaching and guiding in each stage of their lives. Her leadership, courage and wisdom came through in everything she did with her girls.

Ellen’s life was unique for a woman of her time.  In 1957 she journeyed with her four daughters by sea to join her husband at 2 Wing Air Force Base in Saint-Avold, France. During their three years overseas, she travelled extensively throughout Europe and Britain.  Her love of travel continued throughout her life, enjoying many holiday destinations and visits with her family across Canada.

She was a very socially active and engaging person with many friends who loved to spend time with her whether it was the bridge club and neighbours, or her choir and church. She loved to entertain, and enjoyed fine dining and elegant events.

Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Edward Keith Craig and her sister Jean Mundy.  She is survived by her four children Jennifer (John) Lanyon of Markham Ontario, Deborah (Gary) Ringwood of Keswick Ontario, Valorie (Patrick) Donahoe of Calgary Alberta and Paula Craig of Richmond BC, three grandchildren Aaron (Anne) Ringwood of Tottenham Ontario, Jason (Shari) Ringwood of Keswick Ontario and Adam (Gabriella) Lanyon of Toronto Ontario, and one great grandchild Samantha Ringwood of Keswick Ontario.  

The family would like to express truly heartfelt thanks to the staff at Woodhaven for the kind, loving and professional care that Ellen received.  Their contribution to her life is sincerely appreciated.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Dixon-Garland Funeral Home in Markham, Ontario.  A private family gathering has been held.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Woodhaven LTC home in Markham, ON.