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ELLEN SPENCER (ALLISTON)
Born: Jul 21, 1938
Date of Passing: Mar 24, 2021
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
ELLEN SPENCER
She will be lovingly remembered by her brother George (Nancy) of Vancouver, BC, her nieces and nephews, Andrea, Janeen, Mark, Kevin, Lori, Lee, Tom, Dave, Leanne and Jacquie, extended family, and many friends.
Ellen was born on July 21, 1938 at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She grew up in the Norwood neighbourhood of Winnipeg and graduated from Norwood Collegiate Institute in 1955. At the age of 17, she started nurses' training at the General Hospital (now Health Sciences Centre), graduating in 1959. She began her career as a nurse in the pediatric OR at the Children's Hospital and was later appointed OR Supervisor, at the age of 26, at the General Hospital working in adult surgery. Ellen continued her studies and obtained a post-grad degree in neurosurgery in 1962 from the Neurosurgery Institute in Montreal and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy from the University of Winnipeg in 1987 at the age of 46.
Ellen had a strong faith and was an active member of St. Aidan's Anglican Church where she attended services, sang in the choir, and participated in Bible study. She also provided readings and Pastoral Care and acted as a member of Vestry.
As a history fan, Ellen took joy in travelling the world and reading non-fiction books. She was a patron and supporter of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet where she volunteered on the alumni association. Ellen enjoyed opening her home to game nights with friends and hosting countless holiday dinners for her family.
A private remembrance service will take place at St. Aiden's Anglican Church (274 Campbell St.) on Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. followed by an interment at Chapel Lawn Cemetery. In person attendance will be limited. The service will be live streamed at www.staidanswinnipeg.ca
The family's appreciation and heartfelt gratitude goes out to the staff at the Portsmouth Retirement Residence and the Riverview Health Centre for their care and attention to Ellen.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Ellen to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, the Riverview Health Centre Foundation, or the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Make a donation to
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 31, 2021
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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We have been friends for so long but only meeting once a year except for last year. May she now Rest In Peace! - Posted by: Elaine Mehmel Bugg (School Friend ) on: Apr 03, 2021
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I first knew Ellen in 1953, I was friends with George Alliston, Ellen's brother. We were all students at Norwood Collegiate. In July 2014 there was a 100 year school reunion. At this event I met Ellen we had an excellent visit. My sincere condolences to George Alliston and his family also Ellen's many friends. She will be missed but not forgotten. I feel fortunate to have been able to renew our friendship at the school reunion. Brian Jones and Wife Allison Jones - Posted by: BRIAN JONES (Friend) on: Apr 03, 2021
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So very sorry to hear about Ellen's passing. I worked with Ellen in the HSC Operating Room (formally Winnipeg General Hospital) I remember her as a very proficient and knowledgeable OR Supervisor. Ellen has a sense of humor and always was willing to listen to her staff. My sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. Former Staff Member at HSC OR Carole Rickey - Posted by: Carole Rickey (co-worker HSC OR ) on: Apr 01, 2021
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Ellen was a dear friend, to both my Mother Margaret and myself. Ron was also dear to us, he was a ballet partner of my Mum. Ellen always made time for a chat, and we had many especially since my Mum died. She had such a wry sense of humour and way of looking at life that was refreshing. I will miss her. - Posted by: Mia (Friend) on: Apr 01, 2021
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We were so very blessed to call her our friend. Both Kerry and I spent a lot of very special times visiting and praying with Ellen. Once she moved to Portsmouth we were able to enjoy lunches with her. I loved being in the choir and prayer group with her. Her faith was so strong and she was so able to be content with whatever she encountered in life in her last years. She was an amazing role model. We will miss the many laughs we had with our dear friend. - Posted by: Betty Ann and Kerry Hossack (Friends) on: Mar 31, 2021
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So very sorry to hear of Ellen’s passing. We worked together in the operating room many years ago. Condolences to her extended family and friends. - Posted by: Margaret Kokorsch Zed (Co-worker) on: Mar 31, 2021
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Bruce and I offer our condolences to our brother-in-law George Alliston, whose sadness upon the death of his sister Ellen, is deepened by their separation due to COVID in these last difficult months of her life. Our gratitude to the Spencer family and her church congregation who cared for Ellen. - Posted by: Elaine M. Head (family) on: Mar 31, 2021
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Ellen was my classmate at in the class of 59A. We were like sisters & enjoyed getting together. We had lunch with Ellen at the Portsmouth. We will miss her. - Posted by: Dodie Cupeiro (Classmate in nursing) on: Mar 31, 2021