Obituary of Helen Doreen Ellerbeck-Burrowes

It is with a sad heart that Bonnie (Reynolds) Pozzebon tells family and friends of the passing of her beloved mother Helen, in her 94th year. She had the Ellerbeck/Willard longevity genes. Predeceased by her husband Richard (2011) and former husband William Reynolds (2013), parents Melville and Jessie (Willard) Ellerbeck and siblings, Jean Clarke and Leonard. She will be missed by her son-in-law Larry, grandchildren Chris (Megan), Ian, great grandchildren (who knew her as Gigi) Jakeman and Raylan, several special cousins, nieces, nephews, Richard’s family and special friends Susan and Ruth. 

Mom was born in Harrowsmith, ON outside of Kingston. She left the family homestead at the age of 17, to work for a year at Empire Life in order to pay for her training at Kingston General Hospital (KGH). She worked at ALCAN (aluminum plant) for many years as well as different positions at KGH and private duty. She was a kind, gracious, generous, and independent woman who was a caregiver to many and in her quiet respectful way did little things for others without requiring acknowledgment. She was a seasoned traveller but missed getting to see Ireland as part of her bucket list. 

At the age of 87, Mom left her roots and moved to the Soo in 2017 to be closer to her northern family, where she was welcomed with open arms and gained a new friendship with Carol. 

Cremation has taken place. We will take Mom home for burial at Harrowsmith Cemetery family plot in the spring. Memorial contributions can be made to a charity of your choice. 

Thank you to the Birch Lane 1 staff at the F.J. Davey Home and also the excellent care provided by first responders, the emergency team and palliative care at Sault Area Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Road, 705-945-7758).