Ellen Lorraine Alston (nee Elliot)

December 20, 1946 – January 3, 2026

Ellen Alston, a long time Cochrane resident, was born on December 20, 1946, in Toronto, ON. After a courageous battle with cancer, Ellen passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the age of 79 years.

She lived with her family in Toronto. She graduated high school and was told she should go to secretarial school, however, she instead attended York University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Honors). Ellen went on and joined the Faculty of Phys. Ed and taught at the University of Toronto. Ellen spent a year in Australia with Sport Canada to set up an Olympic Archery program. She later worked for Dunne & Bradstreet in marketing.

She came to Calgary in 1982 and immediately fell in love with the mountains. Ellen got involved with the Financial Insurance industry, later forming her own company, E.L. Alston & Associates Ltd. Ellen was able to pursue her passion for horses, including partaking in the Calgary Stampede Parade several times. Her legacy will be advocating for not only her own clients, but for others who came to her for help. She fought against injustice with all her heart.

The family would like to thank the staff of Rosedale Hospice for their kindness and compassion in looking after Ellen and the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Ellens memory to the Rosedale Hospice in Calgary.

Ellen is survived by her partner of 24 years, Les Vecsey; her amazing horse family; as well as numerous family and friends.

A Service and Celebration of Ellen's Life will be held at a later date.

To view and share photos, condolences and memories of Ellen with the family, please visit www.choicememorial.com.