November 16, 1920 – November 3, 2015
Ellen was born in Pleasant Home, Manitoba to William and Tina Biluk; youngest of five brothers and sisters.
She moved to Winnipeg to work as a waitress till her marriage to Leonard Opperman at age 24. She joined the “Airforce family” living in various military bases in Canada and overseas while raising their 5 children. Upon returning to Canada in 1963 they settled in the Comox Valley where she joined the staff of St. Joseph’s hospital. After retiring she enjoyed her role as an enthusiastic volunteer at Glacier View Lodge and the hospital auxiliary. She enjoyed many hobbies; exploring new recipes, avid gardener, passionate bridge player, loved her daily walks and of course socializing with her close knit circle of long-time friends. Len and Ellen enjoyed winter holidays in Arizona and extended road trips to various destinations. She is survived by her husband Len of 71 years, her 5 children and spouses, 10 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Gathering of family and friends to be held in the Garden Room at Comox Valley Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre on Friday, November 20th, 2015 at 2:30PM.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all the staff in residential care at Comox Valley Seniors Village for their care, compassion and support during Ellen’s stay there.
“Play, smile, think of me. Let my name be spoken without effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was.”