December 5, 2025
To the Opera Parallèle Community, Friends, and Family,
It is with profound sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Bob Ellis on the evening of Thursday, December 4, 2025, as he gazed at the sunset from his home in Sonoma surrounded by loved ones.
Bob was a truly remarkable man whose unwavering generosity and foundational vision were indispensable to the existence and enduring success of Opera Parallèle. One of our founding board members, he was far more than a philanthropist; he was the most passionate, unwavering advocate for the arts we could have asked for. His deep-seated belief in the transformative power of contemporary opera and his commitment to our mission—to create and perform adventurous new works—was the bedrock upon which this company was built.
Bob possessed a rare combination of business acumen and artistic sensibility. He helped guide our organization through its formative, often challenging seasons, consistently charting a course that prioritized both financial viability and bold, creative risk-taking. His understated wisdom, warm sense of humor, and eagerness to embrace any challenge were invaluable gifts he shared freely with all who knew him.
Bob understood implicitly that supporting the arts is not merely a transaction, but a vital investment in the soul and vibrancy of our community. He not only provided crucial financial support but, perhaps most importantly, offered his dedicated time, his mentorship, and his deep, personal passion for seeing artists thrive and new stories told on stage.
The unique space he occupied in our organization—and in our hearts—can never be filled. While we mourn the loss of his physical presence, we find comfort in knowing that his powerful legacy will forever resonate through every note we play, every curtain we raise, and every new audience member we introduce to the magic of opera.
We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family of Bob Ellis and to all who knew, admired, and loved him.
With enduring gratitude,
Nicole Paiement
Founder & Artistic Director
Photos: Vienna 2024 and Hockney Exhibit, London 2023