It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Bill, who died peacefully with his wife and best friend of 43 years by his side. Lovingly remembered by his wife Leslie Ellins (White); his children, Jen Ellins (Brett), Steve Ellins (Jen), Jamie Ellins (Tina) and Beth Dowell. Grandchildren, Brice, Brooke, Sarah, Quinn and Logan. Predeceased by his parents Levi and Eileen Ellins (Pereman). Survived by parents in law Russ and Helen White (Stacey) who thought of him as one of their own. Sorely missed by sister-in-law Beth Perkin (Todd), and brothers-in-law Gerry and Jim White. Fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Bill was first and foremost a farmer, having grown up on a farm in rural Oshawa. As a cattleman he was a frequent fixture at the old Lindsay Sale Barn as well as Woodville and Cookstown Sale Barns. He also had a deep love of horses which brought him to his next love, his wife of 41 years, Leslie. Bill was known for his sense of humour and his gruff exterior, but anyone who really knew him found out what all the animals and small children knew instinctively, that he was a gentle kind-hearted soul. Bill was a valued Gen Auto Shippers employee for 47 years, many of those as union steward while simultaneously holding down a second job at Toronto Stockyards. Given Bill’s strong work ethic he also held many other jobs over the years, lifeguard, sale barn ringman, auctioneer, bouncer, farm hand just to mention a few. Bill was also a dedicated volunteer with many organizations over the years, and could be found helping at his United Churches, Local food bank, Quarter Horse Clubs and Snowmobile groups. Bill made a difference in all these organizations. His death has left a huge hole in all our hearts. The family will receive family and friends at the Doolittle Chapel of Carson Funeral Homes 54 Coldwater Street E., Orillia, Ontario 705-326-3595 on Wednesday August 23, 2023 from 5 – 8 p.m. and on Thursday August 24, 2023 from 11 am until time of service in the chapel at 12 o’clock. Interment will take place at Knox Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Pontypool United Church.
Online Messages of Condolence are welcome at www.CarsonFuneralHomes.com