With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ken Eller, affectionately known as "The Captain," on July 26, 2024, at the age of 77. Following a long illness, he passed away peacefully and painlessly at the NHS, St. Catharines Site. Ken leaves behind his loving wife, Diane (Buckley) "The Admiral", just a month before their 56th wedding anniversary. He was the proud father of their two children, Lindsay (Dave) and Cameron (Danielle), and the proud Grandpa to Caiman and Skye. Ken also leaves behind his four sisters-in-law: Sharryn Oleskiw (Bill), Terry Buckley (Kris), Kelly Buckley, and Thelma Eller; his niece Brenna; his nephew Curtis; his Aunt Debbie; and his beloved dog Ginger. Additionally, he leaves several cousins, friends, and neighbors, all very important in his life but too many to name. He was predeceased by his brother, Roderic, his parents Keith and Hulda Eller, and his in-laws Lloyd and Eileen Buckley, and his uncle Colin (Debbie).
Born in St. Catharines and raised in Power Glen, Ken attended Queen’s University and then received his Master’s Degree at the University of Guelph. He worked as a professor of mathematics at Niagara College for over 30 years until his retirement at age 55. Ken's second career blossomed after his retirement as he pursued his passion for the bagpipes. Ken learned to play the bagpipes when he was only 8 and eventually became a legend in the world of piping and pipe bands. Over the years, he taught thousands of students, young and old, locally and as far away as South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, and Uruguay. He also had the opportunity to judge pipe bands at Highland Games worldwide, including the prestigious World’s Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. Ken played for several years in two world-class pipe bands: The Clan MacFarlane, which flourished under his direction as Pipe Major, and the 78th Frasers. Between the two bands, he won several North American championships. Needless to say, he was highly respected and had many, many friends in all corners of the world.
In addition to his piping career, Ken worked with Jack Dunbar manufacturing bagpipes, was a member of the Masonic Lodge, and collaborated with Murray Blair on the Blair chanter. He also competed in triathlons, including two Ironman races, and enjoyed fly fishing. Ken and Diane could often be found cutting and splitting firewood to heat their home. Quite a full life!
Ken's last few weeks were especially difficult. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to his doctors, Dr. Wayne Gruber, who is not only a wonderful doctor but also a neighbour and a good friend; Dr. Tim Prince, who has been a great family doctor for many years; and Dr. Mary Salib, who started with Ken on his journey through the Walker Clinic. Also, the nurses, doctors, and staff on 3B who cared for Ken. You made the journey bearable for Ken and his family.
As per Ken’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Please share your condolences, memories or photos online at www.pleasantviewcemetery.ca.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Walker Family Cancer Centre would be appreciated.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on October 5, from 2-6 pm at the Holiday Inn and Suites, located at 327 Ontario St., St. Catharines, Ontario.
Pipes, drums, and Highland dress are encouraged but optional.
An RSVP would be greatly appreciated at…
You can visit www.holidayinn.com/stcath and use the group code CKE to make room reservations. Please note that reservations with this code must be made by September 19. For room bookings outside the group block, you can call the hotel directly at 1-877-688-2324 ext. 2. Complimentary parking is available at the side and rear entrance of the conference centre.
A cash bar will be available.
Arrangements are entrusted to Pleasantview Funeral Home.
