With great sorrow the family of Rod Ellis announces his peaceful passing on Friday, November 30, 2018 at home with his loving family by his side. Beloved husband of 46 years to Enna (Sedunow). Loving father of Jennie May Ellis and Natalie Ellis-Valentini (Jeff), and caring uncle of Clayton Roberts. Born in 1953, he was the son of Roy George Ellis and Peggy McKenzie (Land) (both predeceased). Loving brother of Jane Ellis, Catherine Campbell, Diane Campbell, John Campbell, Rachel Ward, and Judy Johnson (predeceased). Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. Cherished and proud foster father for 20 years to countless children, especially James and Edward Boucher, Kevin Desforges and Paul Mendonca. A very well-respected mentor to many of the neighborhood boys. Devoted grandfather of Kendra Boucher. Rod was a great music enthusiast. In 1985 Rod and Enna opened the Whistle Stop Restaurant, which became a venue for local blues bands such as Hip Shake. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his buddies and would spend hours at Value Village searching for collectables. He enjoyed old sports cars and would work on them in the summer with his foster sons, but most of all he was a fantastic storyteller and he dearly loved his girls. The family would like to thank all the devoted doctors, nurses, PSWs and other caregivers that helped us through this challenging time. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at The Red Fang Tavern, 78 Durham Street, Sudbury on Sunday, January 20, 2019 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Donations in Rod’s memory can be made directly to the Cancer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Rod was a teenage friend, all those years ago, when we both attended high school at Lasalle. He was gregarious, loomed large, and embraced the time that was the ’70s with great gusto. Much, much later in the 1980s, his enthusiasm for Sudbury and its music scene impressed me to no end. I had been long gone from the city following my stars, but Rod stayed put, opening a club near the old President hotel and let the stars come to him. Music was his passion and he wore it well. Condolences to the Ellis family. Rod will be missed
December 5, 2018