Ellacott, Reta:
Reta Ellacott (Nov 16, 1922 - Jan 14, 2019)
We are sad to announce the passing of Reta Jean Ellacott (né Reilly) 14th January at the age of 96. Born and raised at her parents' farm in Ochre River, Manitoba, she excelled at athletics (esp high jumping and running), Reta graduated from St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto in 1943 at 21 at the top of her class. She practiced nursing in Kitchener/Waterloo area. In 1966 she was a pioneer in early-childhood care, opening the first infant daycare in Canada. For many years afterwards, she would meet former clients who praised her for giving them the opportunity to continue with their careers, allowing them to maintain their living standard with two incomes in their family. She was also instrumental in convincing the Ontario government to provide subsidized child care.

On her retirement from nursing, Reta became a renowned public speaker on 'Recovery from Osteoporosis'. She was invited as a guest speaker, well into her '80's, to discuss, in front of audiences of medical professionals, how she recovered from osteoporosis. In her 70's she completed the YMCA certified fitness instructor course and led exercise classes well into her 90's.

She volunteered for decades at numerous organizations, including Rockway Senior Centre and the Out Of The Cold program in Kitchener.

For her extensive volunteer work in the community, in 1988 Reta Ellacott was awarded 'The Woman of the Year Award' at Oktoberfest in Kitchener. In June, 2006 Reta received the 'City of Kitchener Service Award of Distinction'.

Reta is survived by eight children: Bruce of Ottawa, Brenda Rose of Cambridge, Bonnie de Moissac of Victoria, Betty (Samantha) Mulder (O'Reilly) of Toronto, Brian & Angela of Mississauga, Barb & Ray Pilon of Pembroke, Brent & Wendy of Calgary and Bradley of Montreal. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren - Amanda, Morgan, Andrea, Michelle, Jennifer, Becky, Jamie, Daniel, Rick, Ryan, Meagan, Dawil and Lloyd.- and one great grandchild, Cecelia. Sadly, predeceased by son Barry 2007.

Reta's family will receive relatives and friends from 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. on Friday, January 18th, 2019 at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467. A celebration of her life will follow in the funeral home chapel at 5:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Memorial Garden Cemetery, Breslau, at a later date.

As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the charity of your choice (cards available at the funeral home).
Visit www.henrywalser.com for Reta's memorial.