Roger Allen Ellsworth

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Roger Allen Ellsworth, who left us peacefully on January 13, 2025, surrounded by family. At his bedside were his son Dan (Kim), his daughter Patricia (Kelly), and his oldest grandson, Brett (Leteshia). His third, and current wife was also present to offer her support.

Roger was born on October 14, 1942, to Grace and Alfred Ellsworth on a small mixed farm in Bentley, Alberta. Growing up during a time of hardship, Roger’s childhood was marked by resilience and determination as he helped support his family alongside his three siblings. Leaving school after grade 9, he entered the workforce early to contribute to the family’s livelihood.

In 1962, Roger met Frances Moncrieff, and they married the following year in Bentley. Together, they built a family and a life filled with hard work, adventures, and lasting memories. Patricia was born in 1964, followed by Dan in 1967, and Kimberly in 1969.

Roger’s entrepreneurial spirit shone early. In the 1970s, he moved his young family to northern Alberta to manage and later purchase a Texaco bulk fuel business in Swan Hills and Slave Lake. These years were filled with challenges, including delivering fuel to oil rigs in frigid northern winters, but also with stories that became family treasures. While in Slave Lake, Roger and Frances also explored the retail world, running a furniture store alongside their bulk fuel business.

Never one to stay idle, Roger pursued a passion for auctioneering, earning his license in 1972. He and Frances purchased the Rimbey Livestock Auction, prompting a move to a farm outside Bentley. After several years in the auction business, Roger transitioned to selling medium-duty trucks, leading to a career-defining love for the automotive industry.

In 1977, Roger became a manager with Red Deer Toyota, and by 1979, he took on a leadership role at a new Toyota dealership in Calgary. For decades, he thrived in the auto industry, building a reputation for hard work, dedication, and success. Though he briefly returned to auctioneering in Red Deer, Roger remained connected to the auto world until his retirement.

Roger was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Grace; his sister, Caroline (Allan); his brother, Don; his youngest daughter, Kimberly; and his favorite wife and lifelong friend, Frances.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Patricia (Kelly) Schneider of Bentley, their children Brett, Carson, and Ty; his son Dan (Kim) Ellsworth of High River, their children Taylor (Alex) Pronchuk and Madison (Jordan) Domin; his brother Merle; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Though Roger was not one to express affection openly, his family always knew he loved them in his own way. After divorcing Frances in 1987, they remained distant until the tragic loss of their daughter Kimberly brought them together again as friends. Frances’s passing in 1996 deeply affected Roger, though he rarely showed his grief. Dan recalls sharing countless cups of Tim Horton’s dark roast coffee with their dad, during which Roger would often reminisce about Frances, their life together, and his regrets.

Roger’s last five years were marked by courage as he battled a liver illness that led to numerous medical challenges and eventually required him to move to an assisted living facility in Calgary.

Honoring Roger’s wishes, no formal service will be held. Instead, when the warmth of spring returns, his family will gather in Red Deer to share memories and fulfill his final request: to be interred in a columbarium with his daughter Kimberly and Frances, the love of his life.

Roger will be deeply missed, but we take comfort in knowing his struggles are over. His legacy lives on in the memories he created and the lessons he taught us through his hard work, resilience, and enduring spirit.

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