Ellen Chester passed away at Fort Macleod Extendicare on Friday, May 22, 2015 in her 87th year. A private graveside ceremony was held on Friday, May 29, 2015, followed by a time of fellowship at Ardenville school.
Ellen was born at home on July 7, 1927 to Ethel and Ed Bodgener and was the third of Ethel’s four children. Eddie followed one year later, and he and his sister were inseparable. Ellen attended school at McBride Lake, riding a pinto pony and buggy across the fields from home.
After finishing school, Ellen worked in the Claresholm hospital for two years before returning home to help her brothers on the farm.
In 1948, Ellen married Raymond Chester, and their sons, Ned, Don, and Dennis blessed their lives. For 57 years, they experienced the ups and downs of farm life.
Ellen was active in every aspect of farming. She would pluck chickens, pull calves, feed pigs, harvest and preserve a garden, and bake bread in the midst of it all.
The only thing Ellen did not enjoy was sewing, so she bartered with her sister, Eleanor. Ellen would plant Eleanor’s garden and Eleanor would sew for Ellen.
Community relationships played a big part in her life as well, and she was active in the MAE Belles, Rebekahs, and the United Church.
Ellen is survived by her loving husband, Raymond; her children Ned (Sue) and Dennis (Cheryl); her daughter-in-law, Denise; her sister Eleanor Donahue; her grandchildren Dustin, Cody, Travis (Meghan), Lucas (Kristen), Rick, Wade (Jaycee), Carrie (Mark) and Kristy; 13 great grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, in-laws, and cousins.
Ellen was predeceased by her two brothers, Eddie and Ray; her son Don; her granddaughter Randi-Lynn; her great grandson Grady; and her grandson-in-law, Stewart.
The family wishes to extend their thanks to the staff at Extendicare and the Pioneer Lodge for their care over the years. We also thank the ladies of the United Church and the MAE Belles for their friendship and their lunch.
At Ellen’s request, a private graveside ceremony was held.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to the Alzheimer Society of Lethbridge, 402, 740 Fourth Ave. S,, Lethbridge, T1J 0N9.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Eden’s Funeral Home. Phone 403-553-3772 or visit www.edensfuneralhome.com.