October 25, 1935 – August 5, 2026
Ellen passed after a short illness, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and warmth. She is survived by her devoted sons, Jamie (Sandy), Will (Greg), and Mark (Corinna), and her beloved grandchildren Crystal, James (David), Justin (Carolyn), Tristan (Derrick), and Noah. Ellen was also a proud great-grandmother to Everett, Elijah, Allison, Graham, Claire, Sloan, and Campbell. Her sister, Dian DeGraaf (Frank), survives her, while she is predeceased by her husband Jim and sister Mary Connolly.
Born near Browns Line in Toronto, during Ellen’s early life she worked in security at Avro, where a bit of gentle mischief led her to peek into employee files just to find out Jim’s age—the man who would become her beloved husband. Ellen was among the last three employees on the Avro site when it closed, a testament to her loyalty and dedication.
After marrying Jim, Ellen moved to the Caledon East family farm where they built a new home together, and later to the Feversham farm on 12th Concession in 1965—ensuring Jim included an indoor bathroom, a detail that often amused family and friends. She made every house a warm and welcoming home, full of flower gardens, and laughter. Ellen hosted countless holiday gatherings for extended family and friends, preparing delicious meals (including her famous spaghetti sauce) and desserts that became legendary. She helped manage the family poultry operation and was actively involved in community groups and events.
In the early 1980s, Ellen embraced a new adventure, moving to Brampton and starting a career as a personal consultant and Assistant Manager at Town and Country Fashions. Together with Jim, she established Gott’s Fish and Chips, a family business that still thrives today—many would agree, the best fish and chips around. Later, Ellen and Jim returned to Feversham and eventually settled in Collingwood.
After retirement, Ellen and Jim travelled to Florida for winters, forging strong bonds and friendships that lasted a lifetime. Ellen’s warmth and hospitality drew friends and family from near and far to join her for memorable visits, delicious meals, and lively tours of her favorite spots. This past year, she found joy in Curacao, her new favorite place, where she continued to host, cook, and share her love with all who visited. She always ensured that her cherished little dog, Sadie travelled with her.
Ellen was an inspiration to many, always prioritizing health and wellness. She practiced yoga, maintained a healthy diet, and, in recent years, was a regular at Mark’s Gym Giant. Many admired her dedication and youthful spirit, often expressing a hope to follow her example. Stylish and elegant, Ellen kept up with the latest fashions and inspired younger generations to do the same.
Above all, Ellen was a gracious, kind, and loving presence at the heart of her family. Her 66-year marriage to Jim was filled with happiness and devotion, and she remained deeply connected to her sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a vibrant circle of friends. Ellen always had a smile on her face, and her warm embrace will never be forgotten. She loved unconditionally and taught her family, by example to be good people, to take care of each other and to help others. She lived each day with kindness, grace, and a gentle smile.
Her absence will be deeply felt by all whose lives she touched. Ellen’s memory will live on in the stories, traditions, and love she shared with everyone around her. The family invites you to share your own memories or stories, fostering a sense of community and remembrance that Ellen so deeply valued.
We will miss her kindness, wisdom, and the gentle humour she brought to every chapter of her life.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Ruth Moore
I was sorry to hear of Ellens passing, I really loved her company and our shopping trips while in Florida together. I was introduced to her through my daughter sherry murphy, who worked for Ice River Springs for some time.
I was fortunate enough to try her pasta sauce on our 1st visit to Florida.
I really missed getting together with her.
will remember her forever
Jo Priam
Will and family. I am so very sorry for the loss of your mom. While I only had the pleasure of meeting her a few times over the many years we’ve been friends, I feel as though I came to know her in some small way through you and the love and pride with which you always spoke about your family.
It was always so clear that your mom and dad were the heart of a wonderfully close family, and that the bond you all shared was something very special. What an incredible life she lived, and what a beautiful legacy she leaves behind in all of you.
Sending so much love to you and your entire family. ❤️
Love Jo, Ray, Dante & Devon xo
Jaime Dauncey
Ellen!
It was Always such a pleasure to see you at the gym! You always made my day! You and your Family are all such Beautiful souls ! I am grateful I knew you! God Bless and sending love to all Family and Friends!
Nancy Boyce-Watson
My condolences to Ellen’s sons, Jamie, Will & Mark, along with their spouses and families. My memories of Ellen were those of love and kindness! RIP Ellen!
Joni Plomp
Lovely to hear her story. Thank you for sharing. Sounds like you were all very lucky to have such a wonderful matriarch.
RuthConnollly
Aunt Ellen was a gem..she was thoughtful, kind, loving and a very ahead of her time, her fashion sense was savvy and her laughter could fill a room.
Healing hugs to the family and friends..
She is irreplaceable…the world has lost a special human.
John and Judy Degraaf
We have enjoyed visiting with Jim and Ellen over the years at the farm in Feversham, at Gotts Fish and Chips and at their winter home in Florida. Jim and Ellen always provided much laughter and enjoyment and were a joy to be around. Our condolences go to Jim, Will, Mark and families as their Mother and Grandmother will surely be missed.
Neil Connolly
Aunt Ellen was such a carrying and loving Aunt. She was always asking how everyone was doing. Mom loved her trips to Florida with Aunt Ellen and Uncle Jim. And yes Gott’s Fish and Chips were The Best!
Most of the memories I have were when they had the farm in Feversham. As a city kid it was always a highlight to spend time there. And she had a great sense of humour. When I first got my license a friend and I were going to go fishing at Lake Eugenia. So of course we stopped in to visit Aunt Ellen and Uncle Jim at the farm. We pulled in about 7am and it looked pretty quiet, my friend said “are you sure they’re awake? They live on a farm of course they’re awake I said. We were greeted by a very big dog and then by Uncle Jim and Aunt Ellen. Aunt Ellen said now that you have woke everyone up , come in and have coffee
Our deepest condolences .
Lynn and Neil Connolly
Evan Maxwell
Hey wonderful Gott family. I just heard today that Ellen past away into eternity I am thinking and praying for all of you now. I loved your mom and dad. I was a bit scared of your mom as a boy when Mark and I would get into mischief but your mom was a wonderful person. I know she will be really missed. Love you guys! Evan