Ellen Vera Louise Overall Ness

Ellen passed away peacefully on October 26, 2016, surrounded by the love of her family. Predeceased by 11 siblings and her husband Alexander “Sandy” Ness (2002). Ellen is survived by her children, Alexandra Wiens (John), Sarah Ness (Peter Rich) and Candida Ness (Michael Pasto). Proud Grandmother to Gavin Wiens (Tracy Timmins) and Meghann Wiens (Tim Parkinson). Ellen is also survived by her sister Florence Stanley, with whom she shared a special bond.

Ellen was a lover of humans, plants and animals. She was a great conversationalist, equally skilled at listening and sharing stories from her long and interesting life. This skill served her well in making special connections with people and in her chosen profession of teaching which she practiced for 50 years. An avid gardener and “pincher of seeds”, Ellen’s handy work can be seen in all of her daughters gardens. Beyond her beautiful gardens, handmade Rupert Bears “around the world” is one of Ellen’s many legacies. She loved animals as companions and in the wild. Many dogs, cats, horses and ponies experienced Ellen’s gentle hand. Her humour, strength and spunk will be greatly missed by many friends, neighbours and the extended Overall, Ness and Pasto families.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place.

Private family interment at the Stamford Green Heritage Columbarium where Ellen will rest beside her beloved Sandy.

“And fare thee weel, my only luve. And fare thee weel a while! And I will come again, my luve, Tho’ it were ten thousand mile!”

A celebration of Ellen’s long and beautiful life is planned for Saturday November 12, 2016 from 2-4 pm at Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation in Jordan, Glen Room.. If you happen to have one of Ellen’s Rupert Bears, please bring it to the celebration for a reuniting of Ruperts. If desired memorial donations can be made in Ellen’s name to the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture.