DENNIS ELL, beloved husband of Mrs. Dianne Ell of Lethbridge, passed away suddenly Monday, October 10th, 2011 at the age of 57 years.
Besides his loving wife Dianne, Dennis is survived by parents-in-law Les & Isabel Androkovich, sister Glenna, brothers-in-law Allan (Patti) and Leslie, nephews Jordan and Cameron, niece Sue (Mike), great-nephew & -niece Zac & Genna, and best friend, travel-buddy, co-worker & confidante Milton (Darlene) Loitz. He was predeceased by parents Martin & Marie Ell, numerous aunts and uncles, and a favourite cousin / “brother from another mother,” Gerry.
Dennis was born in Lethbridge on April 30th, 1954 and grew up on the family farm near Grassy Lake. After graduating from Chamberlain School, Dennis left farming behind him for a lifelong career in farming enhancement. During his 29 years at Oliver Irrigation, Hi-Way Service from 2003 to 2005 and most recently RPH Irrigation (Taber), “Mr. Irrigation” could not only be counted on to tell you what part was needed, but also the part number, aisle, and shelf where it could be found, and whether it was at eye-level or not. While this talent was impressive, it was Dennis’ integrity, honesty, and work ethic that earned him the respect and gratitude of customers and co-workers alike.
In September, 1976 he married the love of his life, Dianne. Both avid Nascar enthusiasts, they planned a trip to North Carolina in celebration of their 35th anniversary, looking forward to spending time trackside at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The young couple had started out in a small house in the Androkovich farmyard, lived “in town” until construction of their dream home in the County was completed in 1982, then packed up and moved themselves and “Blue” (the first of many much loved canine companions) and “Parker” (an outrageously large and ferocious housecat) out to the country. Horses and hounds, felines (particularly special playmate Georgie), family and friends, all were welcome somewhere on the homestead whether in the house, the barn, the “Long Branch” (on Wednesdays especially!) or on the deck during “Radish Festival.”
Although Dennis didn’t much like to fly at first, he did love to travel: a quick run to Vegas or a business convention in Savannah; a road trip on the Harley or off to experience Nascar in Alabama, North Carolina or anywhere. Dennis was an old rock ’n’ roller with a love for loud music, good times, adventures, and stories to share. Steadfast and loyal beyond measure, if Dennis counted you one of “his”, whether family or friend, he was yours for life.
Heartfelt thanks go out to the Coaldale & District Emergency Services Response Unit as well as Drs. Low and Regier in appreciation for their tremendous efforts on Dennis’ behalf.
Family and Friends are invited to a Prayer Service at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, on Friday, October 14th, 2011 at 7:00 P.M.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at ST. BASIL’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 - 13th Street North, Lethbridge, on Saturday, October 15th, 2011 at 10:30 A.M., with Reverend John Kohler, Celebrant. A Reception to follow at the Church. Following the Reception, interment will be held at Assumption Cemetery, Grassy Lake, Alberta.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lethbridge & District Humane Society (SPCA), Box 783, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1H 3Z6 or the Alberta SPCA, 10806 - 124 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5M OH3.
Honoured to serve the family, CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 7B1. Telephone 403-381-7777. E-mail: care@cornerstonefh.ca
