Ellen was a special college friend. Her sense of humor delighted me and her intelligence awed me. I have a sweet picture of Ellen and I lounging on a summer day with her baby, Marie, and our son, Mark, playing in a playpen together on our lawn in upstate NY. Many fond memories over the years. God comfort you Marie and Joan.

Ellen was a dear friend for 59 years.  The friendship began at St Joseph's College, Emmitsburg, MD.  Ellen was one of our class's best athletes--basketball and tennis.  She was a fabulous athlete all her life so this wasn't surprising. She was a great philosopher in those days--and a real cut-up.  She loved to pull pranks. I remember one incredible weekend in Washington DC that we were almost arrested by the DC Vice Squad (long story!) and we also were shooed away from the White House when we tried to go and visit the President Eisenhower.  Ellen was very bright but never studied much.  I remember well how I would be working on a paper for a month and Ellen would sit down the night before it was due and pound out something 
brilliant on her typewriter.
Ellen was my maid of honor.  We never lived near each other but visited over the years.  I remember the time Jim and I visited Ellen and Bob in graduate school at Michigan State.  We both had two little girls about 2yrs and 6 mo. old.  We were in graduate school too and so neither had any money.  They generously had dinner for us and before I noticed, my 2 yr old had eaten half the meatloaf meant for the 6 of us!  Ellen just laughed.  Then there was the time that Ellen surprised me with a visit.  She came up our long drive in a convertible, looking gorgeous in a very chic hat and outfit.  And me in my gardening clothes and covered with dirt!!  The last time I saw Ellen was in Puerto Rico where she visited me with her good friend Mike.  We had so much fun together but the highlight of the trip was the golf tournament they entered at the last minute and won, I think...but Ellen just said they had done well!!  I loved Ellen and I am sorry she no longer is among us. The world is less for her passing.

Always admired Ellen when we both taught at East Lansing High School. She was a genuine and gentle soul with that special touch of class. So sorry to hear of her death. People like Ellen deserve to live forever!

Ellen was a good friend. She cared deeply about her family, her friends, and her students. She managed her challenge with quiet dignity. She will be missed by many.

I met Ellen at a crossroads in my life.  She was a beacon of light, love, and hope and I can't thank the Lord enough for putting her in my life.  Ellen taught me through actions how to love both gently and fiercely. Most of the time I spent with Ellen was on the golf course . . . heaven on earth to both of us!  On those occasions she shared with me not only her love of sports and friendly competition, but also for family, humanity, and, of course, our pets.  Those lessons I will cherish and carry with me each day as I remember her kind  and gentle smile . . . and the sparkle in her eye when she drained a 20-footer!  The world could use a lot more like her!  Condolences from my family to Ellen's.  You are in our prayers.

I was so sorry to hear of the  loss of your mom and my long time colleague.  We had many good years together at ELHS, and Ellen always took an active role in helping teachers upgrade our skills and improve curriculum.  She was proud of you girls and I, of course, enjoyed having you as students. We women on staff were especially proud she was selected to serve as AD when that was not common for women. I am thinking of all of you and know you will be comforted by all of your great memories.
Cathy Tucker
Bath MI

Memories abound of Ellen in her softball days, playing for Art's Bar. Best shortstop in our league back in the olden days! Loved playing ball with her, enjoyed her friendship immensely. I am so sorry for your loss.

OBITUARY

Ellen P. Cassidy

20 July, 1941 – 27 February, 2017

Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes

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