Contributions to the tribute of C. Ashley Ellefson

Tribute Wall

D. J. Borrelli lit a candle

Saturday, January 18, 2020

So sorry to only now, several years late, learn of his passing. I had the pleasure of taking several of Dr. Ellefson's classes while pursuing a degree in the 80s. He was hard but fair. His demand for, and love of, good writing was matched by his politeness and kindness. He pushed me into writing better and avoiding snap judgments. Although I saw him only in my memories these past thirty years, I shed a tear today. D. J. Borrelli

Linda Chichester Wiehl posted a condolence

Saturday, October 27, 2018

I was thinking about Dr. Ellefson, thinking about an influential educator ... for me, Dr. Ellefson was one of three who shaped my thinking. So many students were afraid of taking a course from Dr. Ellefson because he expected one to write. He was tough but I sure learned to be both a better writer and a better student because of him. I took every course I could from Dr. Ellefson. He made colonial history so interesting. I loved his thoughtful musings on society and government. That’s what made me think of Dr. Ellefson the other day .... wondering what he would think of the state of current politics! I adored that man! My name at that time was “Linda Chichester”. For some reason, as brilliant as he was, he always forgot my last name and called me “Miss Winchester” ... his manners required him to address students as Miss or Mr. ... always so polite. I corrected him once, he sincerely apologized but the next time I saw him, I was Miss Winchester again ... so I accepted that. After I graduated Cortland in 1974, I only saw him once again ... it was the early 1990s at Syracuse Symphony. I saw him and had to approach him. He recognized me right away ..”Miss Winchester!”. I introduced him to my husband and he introduced his wife. ... what a wonderful man was Dr. Ellefson. He truly made the world a better place! I’m so sorry these words of remembrance are 2 years late. I do so wish I could hear his thoughts on politics today!! RIP beloved professor!

Upload Your Memory View All Memories

Obituaries & Tributes

We encourage you to use our beautifully designed interactive online tributes to pay your respects. Leave a condolence, share a memory, post a photo, light a candle and more!

Funeral Merchandise

At Wright-Beard Funeral Home, we have a vast array of burial and cremation options available for you, helping to bring you comfort during your difficult time.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us at anytime, we are available by phone or e-mail, or drop by the office in person. We are always here to help.

C. Ashley Ellefson

1930 - 2016

Obituaries & Tributes

Funeral Merchandise

Contact Us

Home | About Us | Funeral Planning | Funeral Merchandise | Pre-Planning | Resources | Obituaries

9 Lincoln Avenue | Cortland, New York | 13045
Phone: (607) 756-2885 | Fax: (607) 756-6240 | Email: wrightbeardfh@gmail.com

C. Ashley Ellefson

1930 - 2016

Obituaries & Tributes

Funeral Merchandise

Contact Us

Home | About Us | Funeral Planning | Funeral Merchandise | Pre-Planning | Resources | Obituaries

9 Lincoln Avenue | Cortland, New York | 13045Phone: (607) 756-2885 | Fax: (607) 756-6240 | Email: wrightbeardfh@gmail.com

9 Lincoln Avenue | Cortland, New York | 13045
Phone: (607) 756-2885 | Fax: (607) 756-6240 | Email: wrightbeardfh@gmail.com