In Loving Memory of
Ella Elizabeth Gelaude, née Woods
Born: June 2, 1931, Invermay, Saskatchewan
Died: August 4, 2024, Langley, British Columbia
Memorial Service
Monday, August 19, 2024
2:00 PM Pacific / 3:00 PM Mountain / 4:00 PM Central / 5:00 PM Eastern
Murrayville Hall
21667 48 Ave, Langley BC
All are welcome in person or online. Catered reception to follow.
Watch a recording of the live stream
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Ella Elizabeth Gelaude, née Woods Obituary
Ella was the youngest of six children born to William and Anna Woods. Her father immigrated from England, and her mother from Norway. She was preceded in birth and death by her siblings Albert, Lilly, Lloyd, Gordon, and Stan.
In 1948, at the age of 17, Ella moved with her parents to British Columbia. Four years later, in 1952, she married Joseph Gelaude. Over the next 14 years, they welcomed four children: Brent, Sandi, Kevin, and Garth. Ella and Joe were blessed with seven grandchildren: Jordan and Blake, Chance, Amara and Ry, Shanise, and Caden and two great-grandchildren, Everleigh and Josy.
Ella and Joe managed their rental property with dedication and kindness, often befriending their renters. Ella’s gracious spirit and incredible work ethic shone through in all she did. For years, they ran a catering business with their dear friends Roy and Margaret, providing delicious meals for various community events.
For 44 years in Langley, Ella and Joe hosted a Sunday morning meeting in their home. It is fortunate that no record survives of the number of people Ella fed over the years because the sheer volume would be hard to believe. It was common for her to host 2 to 6 extra guests on any random evening, often more on short notice. Ella graciously provided for friends she had known her whole life and for those she had just met, embodying true hospitality and generosity.
Ella Elizabeth Gelaude will be remembered for her unfailing grace, her tireless work ethic, and her unwavering dedication to her family and community. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Arrangements in care of Virtual Memorial Gatherings.
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We remember Ella as a very gracious lady. Deepest condolences and love to all her family
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From Bishops Mills, Ontario, Greetings to the Gelaude family and all who’ve been blessed to feel my Auntie Ella’s Love!
Fred and I have just watched her memorial service online – we might have been there with you, but again had to cancel our plans for a trip out west. I too would have mentioned Ella’s splendid cinnamon buns, and her wholehearted hospitality and genuine loving smile.
Every time we traveled west on art & biology expeditions since our honeymoon trip in 1973, we’ve stopped to see Uncle Joe and Aunt Ella, and we were always welcomed to stay for as long as could, parking our camper van under the huge Cedar trees, enjoying meals and fellowship meetings – and bedtime treats of hot Postum and yes, cinnamon buns fresh out of the oven.! Our friend and colleague Frank Ross who was with us on one of those trips will remember being just as welcome as family.
These memories of Ella live long. Her love and graciousness can still be felt, rippling through those who have been touched by her and beyond to others in their influence. Eternal ripples of Love.
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My heart goes out to all of Ella’s family. She meant a lot to my Grandma Neila Osborne (Kaufman), and was regularly visiting my grandma while she was in hospice in 2008. The kindness, love, and friendship she had for my grandma, and family, will never be forgotten. Gelaude family, you have my deepest condolences and love.
– Robert (Robbie) Gibb
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I missed watching the service LIVE, so I caught the replay. It was lovely to see you all and to hear the lovely things said about Ella. I also remember her gentle beautiful spirit, her welcoming smile, her hospitality. Most of my memories of Ella and Joe are camping with the Wimmers (Willie and Zena). I remember one time particularly camping down at the sand dunes in Oregon…. So much fun buggying on the dunes. Hugs and love to you all. May her memory live on in each of you.
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A long time ago Calvin Casselman told us what his mother would say…..”I wish my love for God was a contagious disease and all my children would catch it”.
Brent, Ron & Sandy, Kevin & Linda & Garth….. my mother loved your mother and your mother loved my mother.
It was definitely contagious! You will always be in our hearts.
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Lovely tribute to a mother. Even though I never met her, feel she was a Mother in Israel.
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Such a beautiful service with all the memories mentioned of dear Auntie Ella. I can still hear the warm, thoughtful tone of her voice and the way she would speak to others in such a caring way. Thinking of you all at this time.
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I have nothing but great memories of times I spent in Joe and Ella’s home
Ella will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
Don Savard
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We have so many fond memories of Ella. As so many have already shared, her love and care and genuine interest in each person she was with was so tangible. We are so blessed to have known her over the years and have so much to aspire to. Love from Marjorie and Raeanne
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When i moved to BC from SASk to BC, i met Joe & Ella thru my brother Mervin Franks Early 60,s When Sharon I got married 1966 ,we where treated like family. Joe taught me the arborite trade, we became great friends over years Often when he was able i had him help on some jobs & have been friends for all these years., The last couple months ,i had some nice conversation with Joe. Thinking of all the family & your loss , Pray that god will draw near & comfort you. Sharon & Keith
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We will miss aunty Ella immensely. My memories of her and uncle Joe stretches back to some of my earliest childhood memories (which also include the years skiing together in Vernon). Maree the kids and I have loved having aunty Ella & uncle Joe come to our place for Sunday morning meeting & I valued their part and fellowship over the years. Aunty Ella always had an open door & a huge warm hug anytime I arrived at their home. When aunty Ella gave you a hug, the world just seemed right and a better place.
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Dear Sandy & Ron, Brent, Kevin & Linda, Garth ~ It was a very special privilege & honor to be @ your dear Mom’s funeral yesterday. Every word spoken about her was indeed a lovely tribute to the wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, she was to ALL. We had the wonderful privilege of enjoying your folks since our childhood (& they were @ our wedding in Penticton, 62 years ago!!). Our hearts reach out to you all, at this sad time. We know precious memories of her loving care, and faithfulness, will always remain with you, and be your comfort. Our love, always, Don & Edith-Anne
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Thinking of you in the loss of your dear mother….a kind and loving example.
She was a very dear friend who you will all miss.
Sending love….
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Nice to think of Ella’s faithful finish. It encourages the heart.
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A privilege to know and share a little in Ella’s life. A wonderful example of a life lived for God, family and friends. We met for fellowship in their home two different spans of time and always appreciated Ella’s testimony.
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Wonderful memories of Ella Joe, and family.
Memories made with love
Wonderful privilege to view this online service. Thank you.
Spiritually Ella was to many, and to us.
“A mother in Israel ‘
Heartfelt love from us in Northern Ireland!
The Stapleton’s
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Lovely to be able to be ‘present’ at Ella’s service from New Zealand.
The 3 main memories I have of Ella is, 1) she was a very good friend of my mom. 2) Joe, Ella, Brent and Sandi are in my earliest memories as our families good friends. 3) An appreciation for Ella’s kind and loving example.
Feel for you all with your loss as you establish a new normal in future days.
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What a wonderful legacy when your love is felt in an unknown heart on an unknown shore.
Thank you Ella for being a warm and loving inspiration to many.
Condolences to the Gelaude family, relatives and friends.
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I was babysat only once and it stands out so well in my memory. We lived in Victoria and it was in about 1961 my parents attended Martin and Lola Doering’s wedding reception in Vancouver and they needed a place for me to be babysat during the event. Never before had I been separated from my mom and dad and I didn’t know the Gelaude family either, but Ella and Grandma Woods knew just how to calm a crying 5 year old. I felt the love so many mentioned in Ella’s service today. Loraine (Cronin) Stelfox
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A heartfelt and beautiful service for a dear Auntie. She will be missed by so many. Thinking of you…Brent, Sandi, Kevin and Garth. Hugs to you all.
Brian, Glenda, Brooklyn, Adelaide & Vienna
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Today’s service was a lovely tribute to a gentle, caring, and loving mother to not just her 4 children, but to many others including us! We will long remember her encouraging manner and words. Earth’s loss is heaven’s gain. We hope the family feels the love and comfort extended.
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A beautiful service today.
The personal comments were very encouraging and special.
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You will be missed forever grandma!
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Thanks for all the sweet memories of your dear mum that were shared this afternoon – a gentle, beautiful life, well lived! Scott, Duane, Melanie & families add their condolences.
Love and hugs, Vic and Joan
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Thinking about you all so much at this time! A deep loss of a dear wife, mom & Grandma! We have many special memories of dear Ella!
Gordie & Grace Wood
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I met Ella and Joe when I was very young in Vancouver… I am not sure if they were even married yet… I just remember that they were the only couple I knew at the time that were so taken with each. I loved that about them. I immediately felt connected because Ella looked so much like my Scandinavian relatives.. But also, Joe also treated us kids the same way. As a couple, I have thought of them often over the years.
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My first memories of Ella are vivid and beautiful, just as she is portrayed in this picture. Many exciting events, as Ron Cormick recalls below, brought our several families together in “The Fifties”. Recalling those people and those times is always very precious. Well I remember our meetings together in our family homes. Many thanks go to all involved, including the Gelaudes, to whom my sincere condolences go at this time.
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Thinking of all your family today as we all said our goodbyes to a wonderful Auntie. We have only wonderful memories of the Geloude family. It was special to be able to be a part of the memorial service today. It felt like we were right there. Everything that was said about our Dear Auntie Ella is so true. July 2023 was the last BIG HUG we got from Auntie. She will surely be missed. Love Dale & June Woods
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I was so sorry i could not be there with you all in person today. I have a heart full of special memories of your dear sweet momma. I was part of that bunch that lived in the barn!! And the recipient of your mom’s love and care and delicious home cooked meals. I knew your mom since i was just a little girl… she and your dad were always like family to me. Thankful for her love thru the years and that i could see you all there today. Sending much love❤️❤️ Jean
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She had a huge impact on our family. We hold her forever in our hearts.
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When returning from the USA, Damaris&I lived in Langley south of Grade Crescent. We have fond & warm memories of our Wed. meetings together and the welcome and warm friendship with Ella and Joe. Our kids Dana & Kevin have commented on their fond memories the same. Our thoughts are with the Gelaude family at this time and so grateful for a wife, mother, grandmother and great who was such a loving, caring example of what God created to honour him. Damaris& Larry
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My Mom and Dad were long time great friends with Joe and Ella. My sister Marlene and I were good friends with Brent and Sandra. We would stay the night and play. And get together for our birthday party’s.
We are so sorry to hear about Ella’s passing. We enjoyed the funeral service, sorry we couldn’t be there, as we just found out today of Ella’s passing.
Brian and Brenda Hargreaves
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Auntie Ella was the most loving and kind person with a heart of gold. One of the memories I have of her was coming to their house for a visit and Auntie Ella taking the time to teaching me how to make blackberry jam. She was always so patient and kind and willing to show you anything you wanted to learn. She will be greatly missed!💞
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Dearest Sandi and family,
We are so glad that we ever got to know your dear sweet mother; she truly lived her relationship with God evidenced by the way she treated those she lived and moved amongst. We are so grateful for her faithful life that encourages us to do the same.
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What a sweet memorial for my favorite Auntie! Loved every minute, knowing my heart was there…and I love every last one of her family.
Huge hugs from afar.
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Condolences to the family.
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It is a beautiful thing Sandi❤️Ron, that you carry down the Gelaude tradition of showing hospitality and love to everyone who is greeted in your home.🏡❤️🐑🌈🙏🕊️🌹🙂
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Enjoyed the service for Ella very much. Her sweetness, gentleness, love and encouragement is an inspiration to us.
Love, Merritt & Nancy Bartlett
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sending much love to all the family…love Nina
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Deepest condolences to all the Family.
You are in our thoughts these days.
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Ella was my wife’s aunt. We visited Joe and Ella a few times at their home and had some other contacts with them. I appreciated their faithful lives and influence.
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My thoughts are with you, Joe, Brent, Sandi, Kevin and Garth. Lyle and I have known them all our married lives and appreciate your mother’s faithfulness in every way. We also enjoyed fellowship too with your Mom and Dad many years ago. May you all enjoy thinking back to all the special times together as you face the future without dear Ella, Joe and family. Love to all. Louise Fair
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I hardly know where to start , I have so many incredible memories with the Gelaude family there are too many to list .
Ella…. you dear sweet lady , you will be missed dearly , for that there is no doubt . Thank you for the countless times in your home , Thank you for the love always felt while in your presence and always feeling like I was part of the family.
I will always cherish those special times together .
My Sincerest condolences to Joe , Garth , Kevin , Sandy and Brent .
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Will remember Aunty Ella as a beautiful lady with a warm smile and kind words. Her hospitality to all did not go unnoticed—may all her family find comfort in remembering her life well lived. Sending special love to all…
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Oh my sweet Auntie Ella, I will never be able to put into words just how much you have meant to mommy and my sisters.
I have been thinking of you and Uncle Joe at lot the last few months. Sometimes life just gets in the way, keeps us from reaching out to those we cherish. I have so many memories of your kindness, love and support. I can still hear your laughter at the dinner table.
As the years slip by for one reason or another, sometimes the very best we have are memories left unfaded by time. Peace and Comfort, dear family and friends ~ Della Osborne, Kaylie, Robert, Taylor, Victoria & Delorian
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There are many warm memories when the Gelaudes lived at what was affectionately called ‘the barn’ when our children were growing up in that era. Ella was ever a constant dear friend to many.
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When we think of Ella, it is of the many times that we had fellowship with her and her husband when they came to visit Sandi and family in Chula Vista.
We remember her sweet smile and peaceful countenance.
We know that she’ll be missed very much by her children, family and friends. But with the comfort of knowing that she finished the race faithfully to the end.
Frank & I feel your loss 💕
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A very special lady to me in my growing up years and my mother’s best friend her whole life. Condolences to the whole family.
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Our thoughts are with you so much these days as you prepare to say goodbye to your wife and mom. We wish we could be there but will be listening from Prince George.
Love to you, Bert and Irene
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So sorry not to be able to attend in person.
Ella was our neighbour for more than 50 years.
She was the kindest, most generous person anyone could wish to know..
She taught me so much just by her gentleness and even temper.
We only had been married 4 years when we built our houses at the safe time. She shared recipes and taught me to bake bread.. She was ‘the expert’. She baked dozens of buns for my Sendall Gardens fundraiser. I miss her!
Our sincere sympathy to Jo, Brent, Sandi, Kevin and Garth., and families.
Hugs and love to all.
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Dear Sandi & siblings … you’ve certainly been in our tho’ts since we heard of your dear Mom’s passing. I love the photo on the funeral site – it expresses the warmth that was so evident in her heart towards all. Hopefully, we will be “joining” you on Monday on the live stream. This comes with much loving care
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Our sincere condolences to the Gelaude family Marilyn & Hugh
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To Our Dearest Dearest Friends, I can’t even begin to express what Your Whole Family meant to Doug , Myself and Our Kids. The Wonderful Meals ( of Course ) but most of All the Love from All of You. We so often go Down Memory Lane of Our Langley Days and ALWAYS talk about Uncle Joe and Auntie Ella and All The Memories created …. Much Love. Doug and Sandy
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My first couple of decades of life and its memories are totally intertwined with Joey and Ella. The Gelaudes, just down Wellington Ave. The Woods, down Rupert St. Their romance, their wedding. Fellowship, get-togethers: our house, their house, food, 2nd beach, Seymour Mtn, Harrison Hot Springs, softball, skiing, toboggan, swimming, music, crokinole, more of Ella’s food, etc. Convention, workdays, Spc Mtgs, Gospel Mtgs. Brent, Sandi arrived before I left. Our wedding at our Wellington home, more food. Memories, special memories. Goodbye Ella. Love and thanks to Joey and all the family.
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I feel like I’ve known Ella (and Joe and family) my entire life. Always there, loving and steadfast in faith and showing kindness and care. I will miss Ella’s genuine smile that was always present. My thoughts go to all the family who I know will miss her so much. Love, Raeanne
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Ella spoke the language of love and kindness through food. Her circle was huge, her care very individual. She will always be remembered by us with deep appreciation and love. Our heart’s are with Joe, Brent, Sandi, Kevin, Garth. Ella will be missed!
Love Heather and Arleigh
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Thinking of you all at this time…especially Brent and Sandy…..as I know you two best. Sending much love to the whole family. Love Nina Falls
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Thinking of all the family ❤️ Auntie Ella will be missed by all who knew her. We have many fond memories of our time spent with Uncle Joe and Auntie Ella. Their home was filled with love and care for everyone.
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Thinking of you all during this time of great loss. We will miss Auntie and remember her as a gracious, kind and loving lady with a loveable laugh. So glad we stopped for a visit just a year ago. Precious time spent with Auntie + Uncle.
Love and hugs from Erv + Lorraine Boyd and Family
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We have very special memories of Joe and Ella since our first years in Langley. Their kindness and unwavering fellowship and friendship will never be forgotten.
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Our thoughts and memories are with you all of such a gracious and Godly woman. Can’t forget the fellowship and memories of the unbelievable cinnamon buns your mom brought for us all to enjoy on our Silver Star ski trips. Love Keith & Karen
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We are so grateful to have known Ella and been the beneficiaries of her hospitality, thoughtfulness and spiritual care from our first days in Langley, back in 1977.
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I’m so sorry for the loss of your mom. She sounds like she was a remarkable woman. Prayers for peace and comfort during this time.