Obituary of Ellen Annie Dojack

Ellen, late of Regina, SK, passed away on Monday, June 20, 2011 at the age of 86. Ellen was predeceased by her beloved husband and companion Paul; her parents, Frank and Beatrice (Hughes) Dawson and three sisters Ada, in infancy, Evelyn Romich and Mabel (Gordon) Hills. Ellen is survived by nephews Aird (Lisa) Romich of Swift Current, SK, Gerald (Wendy) Romich of Raymore, SK, Darwin (Joanne) Romich of Balgonie, SK, and Eldon Hills of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA as well as Pauls nieces and nephews and their families. Ellen was born April 19, 1925 in the Leross district of Saskatchewan and attended Millersdale School. As the youngest of three daughters growing up on a farm during the depression life was not always easy; however, Ellen always had fond memories of family gatherings, Christmas pageants and summer sports days. The Dawson family moved to Regina in 1942 where Ellen finished high school at Central Collegiate. Following the completion of a business program at Balfour Technical Institute in 1945, Ellen joined the staff of the Saskatchewan Boys Center (the Boys School) where she would later meet the love of her life, Paul in 1946 when he returned to the School after serving in WWII. Ellen and Paul worked together at the Boys School until their marriage in 1959. Paul would later rise through the ranks and retire as Director in 1975. Ellen and Paul were partners in their devotion to the School and the success of its programs and the development of its staff. Their success at the Boys School is best measured by the hundreds of boys who passed through the School and went on to become successful, contributing members of society. Many of these boys remained in contact with Ellen by phone call, mail and personal visits. In 1985, the School was renamed the Paul Dojack Youth Centre. Ellen was an active member of Carmichael United Church, Wesley United Church and Daughters of the Nile, served as Secretary of The Saskatchewan Young Peoples Union and was on the Board of the YWCA of Regina. Her quick wit, sense of humor and keen organization skills were always welcomed. Her dedication, perseverance and self discipline to each and every project she undertook was exemplary. Through the years, Ellen frequently accompanied Paul on his many sports-related affiliations, including attending many Grey Cup games. In retirement, they enjoyed continued involvement with The Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame, The Canadian Sports Hall of Fame, The Canadian Football Hall of Fame and visiting family and friends on trips to Arizona, Nevada and California. Ellen and Paul enjoyed 48 happy years together. Their love and devotion towards one another was clearly evident throughout their marriage. Paul enjoyed robust health up until 2004 when Ellen lovingly cared for him at home until his death in 2007. We rejoice in the knowledge that Ellen and Paul are together again. A Funeral Service in celebration of Ellens life will be held at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina on Friday, June 24, 2011 at 3:30 p.m. with Pastor Darold Sauer officiating. A private interment will take place in Riverside Memorial Park. Flowers most gratefully declined. May your thoughts of Ellen bring you joy. If you wish to honor her, a donation may be made to the Paul Dojack Youth Centre, 600 - 2200 Saskatchewan Drive, Regina, SK, S4P 3V7. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.speersfuneralchapel.com