July 26, 1935 – July 5, 2025
at the age of 89 years:
A celebration of Les’ remarkable life and gift to the Shuswap community is planned for 11 am, Saturday, July 26 on his 90th birthday at First United Church.
“Once upon a time” there was a beloved man of letters who loved literature, his community and all of nature around him, and who always began lectures with “once upon a time”.
Leslie Ellenor passed away July 5, 2025, three weeks short of his 90th birthday. He was born in Dawlish, Devon, England in 1935 to parents, Methodist Minister Thomas Ellenor and Agnes. Les received his education at Ripon Grammar School, which he proudly says was founded in 670 AD. He went to St. Cuthbert College at Durham University (1954-57) and then served in Germany as a Lieutenant in the British Army (1957-59). He returned to university in 1960 to do a Diploma in Education at Oxford. He taught in England, New Zealand (Wellington College, 1962-1965) and eventually in Port Alberni, British Columbia. In 1969 Ellenor did a Masters degree in English at UBC and began teaching English from the beginning on Salmon Arm campus of Okanagan College in 1970. He taught there for 31 years.
While teaching at Alberni District Senior Secondary in 1964, he met his future wife, widow at the time, Joan. They married in 1970. Along with Joan, he is survived by three children, Susan (Andrew), Geoffrey (Megan) and Jessica; grandchildren, Rachel and Jarrad (Rhea); great-grandchildren, Eloise and Soren; sister, Janice Baird; plus nieces and nephews in the UK and New Zealand. Les is predeceased by sister and brother, Wendy and Lewis.
His interests include cross country skiing, reading, theatre and singing in the United Church Senior Choir that sometimes included hilarious skits. Countless students remember him with fondness and gratitude, and many enjoyed running into him on his daily walks that he continued until shortly before his passing.
His incredible wealth of knowledge of Classical literature in Britain and Europe was known far and wide. He also played a role in the emerging interest in Canadian literature with the first university courses offered. He led workshops and lectures throughout BC, and was often called upon by CBC to enlighten listeners on the ancient roots of Christmas, Halloween or Easter.
Les was one of the most interesting people I have known. He got that way from being interested in the world and people around him. His sharp mind and depth of knowledge was impressive and he became that way through being a great observer of the rest of us! The stories and the conversations we had over the years were some of the best. Whenever we met – even 40 years after I was his student, Les always took the time to chat, ask about what I was doing and how I was doing. I took a couple of first and second year English courses with him in the 1980s and I still have a couple of the papers I wrote in his classes! Les was always positive and always encouraging. Like many, many others, I will miss him.
My deepest sympathy, Joan and family. Les was such a lovely man. I watched his beautiful Celebration of Life, and was so moved by it. The service was so well planned, and the music and speakers, so heartfelt. Speak of him often, and hold him forever in your hearts.
Mary Rollier
Our thoughts and payers go out you Joan and your family. Les’s commitment to church and Mackenzie camp will always be remembered. . Wonderful community man.
Jan & I send condolences.
Jan & Pat Hudson.
I found myself in Mr. Ellenor’s first year English evening course in the early 90’s. Sans the course, I would lose my Teacher’s Certificate. What I imagined to be a tedious intrusion on my time turned into a welcome, completely enjoyable and enriching term. Thank you Mr. Ellenor for your passion, your insight, your knowledge and your kindness. You taught me much about literature and even more about teaching.
My deepest condolences to you, Mrs. Ellenor; he was a gracious man.
I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Les taught me first year English in 1974, right after grade 12. During the first class, he asked us to write a short essay about a “great writer.” His comments gave me sorely needed confidence and sustained me during four years of college and university. Les was a lovely, kind man, and a knowledgeable, engaging instructor. Sincere condolences to all. Love, Susan Klimczak
I’m forever grateful that Les’s first-year university English course not only sharpened my writing but charted my path to success. He was, hands down, one of my favourite professors (and I had plenty) and a genuine gift to anyone lucky enough to learn from him.
Dear Joan and Family,
Les will be missed by many in Salmon Arm. I fondly remember attending his outstanding evening classes at OUC about Shakespeare’s Tragedies and Comedies. What fun we had! Thank you for your friendship and especially your and Les’s love and support of music. My condolences and love go out to you Joan and your family.
Dear Les,
I’ll miss your smile. You always stopped to say hello, usually with Joan on your arm. Besides your friendliness, I think of you being the man with the literally outstanding eyebrows but most of all as a man of iterary prowess in all things Shakespeare. All of Salmon Arm will miss you. Bless you, Joan and family. Much
.
.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Joan and your family. We are so sorry for your loss. Barbara and Marion Kilby