Ellen Woelke

Ellen Woelke, age 90, peacefully passed away on April 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Lowell, MA, and raised by Christian and Tina Mae Craft to a life filled with creativity, warmth, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Ellen is survived by her beloved husband Wayne Woelke, with whom she shared 67 beautiful years of marriage. She will be deeply missed by her children, Christina (John Coats) Woelke and Russell (Staci Stanek) Woelke; grandchildren, Brittany (Nick) Slaboszewski and Jon Woelke, as well as her cherished great-grandchildren, Brielle Bailey and Tate Travis Slaboszewski. Ellen is also survived by other loving family members and countless friends.

Ellen is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Gordon Craft.

Ellen grew up in Long Island, New York and was a popular high school cheerleader at Center Moriches High School, where her vibrant energy and love for life influenced all who knew her. She met her husband, Wayne, at Purdue University, where he fell in love with her infectious smile that could light up any room.

Ellen was a talented seamstress and an avid crafter, finding joy in needlepoint and jewelry making. She had a keen eye for treasures, often delighting in the thrill of discovering hidden gems at garage sales. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her crafts; she cherished every moment spent dancing, watching old movies and true-crime dramas, traveling, reading, learning about history, and celebrating with and caring for her friends and family.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Preceptor Hospice and The View at Pine Ridge for their exceptional care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or to a charity of your choice—an honor to Ellen's spirit of generosity and kindness. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Pagenkopf Funeral Home, located at 2228 N. Silver Maple Lane, Oconomowoc, WI 53066, with visitation from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a service celebrating Ellen’s remarkable life. Ellen will find her final resting place at Oak Ridge Cemetery, 4301 Roosevelt Rd, Hillside, IL 60162, with burial services taking place on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM.