Death Notices

MEDVE, Ellen Paula (nee Batorski) - Ellen danced across the threshold on February 10th, 2021 at home surrounded by her loving family.  She was in her 61st year.  Her passions were her devoted husband, Dr. Paul Medve and adoring children, Theodore, Victoria and the late infant Chloe.  She was the much loved daughter of Phyllis Keenan and the late Edward Batorski.  She is survived by her gorgeous and multi-talented sisters, Janice Ykema, Cheryl Ann Bradley (Scott) and her handsome and sweet big brother Robert Kinnee (Margo) plus many successful nieces and nephews whom she treasured.  Ellen’s 60 years with us were meaningful and filled with the activities that she loved. She could light up a room with her outgoing, vibrant personality and had amazing ability to keep her family and friends laughing.  She was a lifelong supporter of the underdog.  Countless hours were spent in her kitchen happily creating and cooking edible masterpieces for family, friends and people in need. She also loved planning her bountiful flower gardens but always preferred someone else to work them.  She did her best to ignore, cope and finally accept ALS.  The disease caused 5 years of unremitting decline that robbed her of all physical function yet her mind and boundless spirit remained intact. She found joy in the face of this horrible illness and felt ALS brought her closer to Jesus, bringing more love, kindness and compassion into her life.  Ellen’s wishes were that since she “couldn’t settle on an outfit or do a thing with her hair,” cremation will take place.  She asks that you remember her in her prime at age 45 when she was joyfully road biking rural Norfolk every day. Due to Covid restrictions, a celebration of life will be announced at a later date: there will be fireworks!  Ellen and family extend thanks to Dr. Turnbull, Jane and Barb at the Hamilton Health Sciences ALS clinic and Dr. Thorogood for their compassion and care throughout her journey.  She conveyed special thanks to all family and friends whose care and love allowed her to remain at home despite the challenges.  Those wishing to donate in Ellen’s memory are asked to consider the ALS Society of Canada or a charity of your choice. Donations may be mailed to the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North, Simcoe, N3Y 3R3.  Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com  Daughter Victoria has expressed her loss in a song that can be viewed on YouTube by searching Medve Suffering In Silence (https://youtu.be/vBRqALpMJ3c)