Eleanor M. "Ellie" (Doneilo) Gancarz

Ashfield – Eleanor M. “Ellie” (Doneilo) Gancarz, 75, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, January 17, 2025.

Ellie was born in Greenfield on July 2, 1949 the daughter of Walter and Phyllis (Putnam) Doneilo. After graduating from Arms Academy she attended the Boston School for Cosmetology and Hair Styling.

Ellie was dedicated and passionate about being a stylist. She worked for and later owned and operated the Bridge of Flowers Beauty Salon in Shelburne Falls for 53 years before retiring. Over the years she developed a personal connection to the many clients she had and the generations that followed. Her dedication to the community was seen as she volunteered her time to the theater productions at Mohawk and also at Prom time for area young women in her salon. When it came time for her retirement and sold the salon, she remained there to assist Judy Heffner as the new owner. Judy became like a daughter to Ellie and their friendship meant so much more than just business.

In her retirement she focused her time gardening, tending to the flower beds, watching the birds out her window and spending time with her grandchildren.

The family she leaves behind includes; son John Gancarz and his wife Cheri, son Trevor Gancarz, grandchildren MacKenzie, Jack and Brady Gancarz, sister Marge Doneilo, all of Ashfield, and nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ellie was predeceased by her husband John A. Gancarz on Dec. 14, 2019.

It was Ellie’s wish that there be no services.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested memorial contributions be made to Pioneer Valley Hospice & Palliative Care, 329 Conway St., Greenfield, MA 01301   

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