It is with heavy hearts and loving memories that the family of Ella Harder announces her passing on October 11, 2026.

Ella was born in 1942 in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, to Harold Earl and Norma Gladys McGinnis. She grew up in Meadow Lake alongside her brothers, Art and Ted, and her sister, Lavon. She remained in Meadow Lake until graduating from high school.

In August 1962, Ella met Edwin Harder, beginning a beautiful chapter in her life filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories. Together, they raised five children: Monty Harder, Lonnie (Heather) Harder, Darcy Harder, Kim (Gerry) Cook, and Kevin (Kim) Harder. Ella and Edwin began their life together in Saskatoon, where they lived until 1966 before moving their family to British Columbia. In 1971, they returned to Saskatoon, where they made their home for the next 37 years, until 2008.

Family was always at the heart of Ella’s life. She was a proud mother, grandmother to 12 grandchildren, and great-grandmother to 13 great-grandchildren. She also held a special place in her heart for her many nieces and nephews.

Ella had a natural gift for caring for children. From 1982 until 2008, she operated a daycare, providing a loving and welcoming environment for countless little ones over the years. Her kindness, patience, and generous spirit touched the lives of many families.

For more than 30 years, Ella and Edwin enjoyed their little cabin at Pickerel Point Resort on Delaronde Lake. Though small and cozy, it was a treasured retreat from city life and a place where wonderful friendships and lasting memories were made.

In 2008, Ella moved to Big River, Saskatchewan, a community she came to love dearly. Her home sat atop a hill with a breathtaking view of Cowan Lake through her garden doors. One of her greatest joys was watching the neighbourhood children toboggan down the hill. Never one to let the children go without a treat, Ella became affectionately known as the “Oreo Cookie Lady,” generously handing out boxes upon boxes of cookies to the young tobogganers. It was a simple but beautiful reflection of her giving heart.

Throughout her years in Big River and the Pickerel Point area, Ella developed many treasured friendships. Maureen and Ross Searle held an especially dear place in her heart, having been part of her life since 1974. She also looked forward to the weekly Pickerel Point lunches at Third and Main, where she enjoyed good food, laughter, and the company of dear friends.

In July 2017, Ella moved to Debden Heritage Manor, and in January 2018, she made her home at Big River Lodge, where she remained until her passing in October 2026.

Ella will be remembered for her warm heart, her generosity, her love of children, and the joy she found in life’s simple pleasures. Whether sharing cookies with neighbourhood children, visiting with friends over lunch, enjoying the peaceful beauty of the lake, or spending time with her family, Ella had a way of making ordinary moments special.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends whose lives she touched.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Martens Warman Funeral Home is honoured to be entrusted with the care and arrangements of Mrs. Harder.

• Date : 2026-10-11
• Location : Warman, SK