Ellen M. Retzlaff

Ellen Mary Retzlaff, 68, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family after a brief but valiant battle with cancer.

Ellen was born on December 19, 1943 to Royce and Ida (Sanders) Thiel. On August 1, 1964 she was united in marriage to Jerry Retzlaff and they spent 48 wonderful years together. Ellen was the Packers Shrine Queen in 1961. She loved gardening, bird watching, her dogs, traveling, visiting many national parks and crafting, making many things for her family and friends. Most of all she was Grandma, and she loved the time she spent with her family and that time will always be treasured.

Ellen is survived by her husband Jerry, two children; Tamy Parker and Greg (Janel) Retzlaff, grandchildren; Ashley, Justin and Kayla Parker and Kaitlyn Retzlaff and Kayley Wontor. Ellen is further survived by her brothers and sister; Paul (Sue) Thiel, Jerry (Nancy) Thiel and Sue Bob) Hoks, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter-in-law, Lisa Retzlaff and God sons Eric Thiel and Rick Retzlaff.

The funeral service for Ellen will be held on Monday, November 26, at 12:00 PM at the WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME TRI COUNTY CHAPEL. A time of visitation will be held on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of the service at the Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.wichmannfargo.com. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in her name. The family would like to extend a sincere thanks to the ICU doctors, nurses and staff at the Appleton Medical Center.