Wendy Joanne Ellert

ELLERT, Wendy Joanne.  It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Wendy Ellert at St. Michael’s Palliative Care on February 9, 2023, at the age of 65 years, following a battle with cancer.   She is survived by her husband of 44 years Vincent Ellert, Sons; David (Corinna), Jonah and Cameron.   She is also survived by her mother Anne Stoakley, sister Vivienne Brevik and her children, brother Cliff Stoakley (Chris) as well as a large extended family.  She was predeceased by her father Jim Stoakley.  As per her request no service will be held.  

Wendy attended the Coutts school through grade nine then attended Erle Rivers High School in Milk River.  After high school Wendy attended SAIT in Calgary and studied Medical Laboratory Technology.  Wendy made many life long friends in the Lab Tech group and was always proud of her Lab career and the role she played in the health care system.

During the 1980’s Wendy was mostly at home caring for the family, many years working a half-time position.  She kept very busy volunteering with the school and her church.  She hosted many dinner parties and themed kid’s birthday parties.  The boy’s friends were always welcome to stay for supper.   The family went camping whenever they could get away.   In 1986 Wendy and Vincent built a new home in West Lethbridge.  Her home was her refuge and favourite place on the planet, she often claimed that she would never move, and she didn’t.

In 1998, using a great deal of family help, they left tenting behind and built a cabin at Mountain View, Alberta.   Wendy spent lots of time photographing all kinds of wildlife, especially birds.  She was very patient and got many great photos.  She made many new friends in Mountain View.

In 2011 Wendy was hired in a part time position by Scientists in School in their first expansion west of Ontario.   She first worked as a classroom presenter and eventually as a full time Regional Manager.   An excellent public speaker with a “let’s just do it” attitude, she was very successful in obtaining financial support from funding agencies.  She believed in the cause of teaching all children that they can actually do science, have fun in the process, and perhaps have a career in science.   Wendy valued what she called her “friends in the SIS family” greatly, which is one reason why she never retired.

Her sense of humour, generosity, work ethic, and genuine concern for the feelings of others, particularly those who were different than herself, will be missed by all who knew her. 

In lieu of flowers Wendy requested donations for a cause which was important to her; the funding of Science Workshops for children.  Those wishing to donate should go to www.scientistsinschool.ca/donate once there; in the box labeled FUND; choose the Erin Gladwell Memorial Fund which provides funding for less advantaged schools.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wendy Joanne Ellert, please visit our floral store.