Ellen L. Callander, 84, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 25, 1942, in Brighton, Massachusetts, Ellen was the daughter of Eileen and Rodolphe Laronde. She also shared a special bond with her Aunt Mae, Mary Cronin. As the only girl and oldest of four siblings, Ellen never let anyone forget she was the big sister.

Ellen was predeceased by her beloved son, Wade Callander; her treasured nephew, R. Stetson Laronde: her brother, James Laronde and James’s daughter, Janice. She is survived by her brothers, Richard Laronde and his wife Barbara of Walpole, MA, and David Laronde and his wife Donna of Norwood, MA.

A graduate of the Chandler School for Girls, Ellen went on to build a successful career in marketing, where her professionalism and strong work ethic earned the respect of many colleagues and friends throughout the years. She made her home in both Norwood and Duxbury throughout her life, forming lasting connections and memories.

Ellen found her greatest happiness in the love of her family. She was the devoted mother of Scott Callander of Goffstown, NH; Suzanne Pingeton and her husband, Robert, of Franklin, MA; and her daughter-in-law, Elise Callander, of Duxbury, MA.

Her greatest joy in life was being “Nana” to her cherished grandchildren: Michael, Nicole, Sarah, Keaton, Emma, and Jessica. Whether it was sleepovers, shopping trips, or baking Christmas cookies together, Ellen created countless treasured memories with her grandchildren that will live on forever. She was especially close with her nephew, J. Carter Laronde, and leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

Ellen was known for her beauty and always being effortlessly put together for any occasion. She found happiness in spending time with family and friends, reading, knitting, relaxing at the beach, and baking — especially her famous Congo bars and doll cakes, which became beloved traditions for many.

She will be remembered for her kindness, energy, style, creativity and humor. Ellen’s legacy lives on in the family she adored and the many lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 1, 2026. Family and friends are invited to gather at the MacDonald Funeral Home in Marshfield for visiting from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. followed by a funeral procession to the Holy Family Church of Duxbury, where the Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in the Duxbury Mayflower Cemetery.

For online guest book, driving directions and other helpful information please visit the website macdonaldfuneralhome.com