Obituary of Michael Joseph Ellis

April 4, 1945 - Fort Yukon, Alaska

July 27, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

We are sad to announce the death of Michael Joseph Ellis, beloved husband, brother, father, and grandfather, who passed on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the age of 79 years.

Mike grew up in Vancouver, the son of Joseph and Ruth, and big brother to Christopher and Sarah. After graduating from Gladstone High School, he joined the RCMP and spent his forty-year career as “Mountie Mike” in postings around the country – Calgary, Brooks, Cochrane, Ottawa, Red Deer, Prince Albert, Edmonton, and back to Calgary.

The original DIY guy, Mike turned his hand to carpentry, plumbing, drill bit re-tipping, stained glass, automotive projects, model-building, and numerous innovative small businesses. A talented man with a knack for creative problem-solving, he was MacGyvering to his final days.

Mike is survived by his wife Erika, son Geoff (Shaundra Popowich), daughter Dana (Thomas Lee), grandchildren Cole, Delaney, Julia, and Grace; a large extended family of in-laws, nieces and nephews, and many friends. Those who were blessed to know him felt loved and important. No one ever doubted Mike’s sincerity and genuine interest in everybody.

Thank you to his caregivers at ParaMed and Longevity Care for their support over the last few years. He weathered his long illness with patience, dignity, and a gift for calmness, friendship, kindness, and an undiminished ability to spread goodwill.

A Celebration of Mike’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB) on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Veterans Food Bank of Calgary, #114 - 4303 26 Street NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 7K2, Telephone: 403-277-8387, www.veteransfoodbankalberta.ca/donate.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Mike’s family here.

In living memory of Michael Ellis, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.