Becky Ellis shares about her dad’s experience as a Timberwolf in World War II and how that impacted him, then later her and the rest of their family. With her father sharing his story, she gained a deep understanding of who her father was. She was able to see him separate from her needs and desires. Becky says this uncovering was the “greatest moment of joy, the deepest moment of grief.” At 50, she finally got to see her dad for who he was, and she had compassion for him and what he endured. 

She’s learned the value of sharing stories over hiding secrets, and talks about how her relationships are different with her daughters than hers was with her dad.

Becky Ellis is a Timberwolf Pup. The daughter of a highly decorated World War II combat sergeant, she is a veteran of a war fought at home. She earned a BA in English Literature at UC Berkeley and has over twenty years of experience in the publishing industry. She teaches writing in Portland, Oregon, where she lives, plays, and has raised three daughters. Little Avalanches is her debut memoir. It was a finalist for the Oregon Book Award 2025. 

https://beckyellis.net

https://instagram.com/beckyellisauthor

Little Avalanches by Becky Ellis

Thank you for letting us be in your ears.

Coffee, Grief and Gratitude is created by Anne Gudger and Maria Gibson, a mom/daughter duo who talk about grief. 

You can find them on Facebook at Coffee and Grief. Please join their private Facebook page: Coffee and Grief Community.

You can also email Anne and Maria at: [email protected]

Anne’s memoir, THE FIFTH CHAMBER, a memoir of loss and love, is available wherever you get your books.

Once you’ve read THE FIFTH CHAMBER, Anne would be so grateful if you’d share your honest thoughts on Amazon and Goodreads. Thank you for taking a few minutes to review!

We’d love you to like and share the podcast!