She was born July 23, 1934 in Worms, Germany. One of 12 children, she came to the US after growing up in the hardships of WWII. Due to her feistiness, survival skills and generally stubborn nature, she quickly learned English and became a US citizen.
Mom was a retired Domestic Engineer.
Life threw her one of many challenges when Joe was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident. “Honey” as he called her became his lifelong caretaker, despite suffering a serious workplace hand injury herself. She and Joe raised 6 kids and were active leaders in youth sports. While Joe coached, lead leagues and managed ballpark fields, Ms. Elli ran what became known as Miss Ellie’s Deli where many J-Town families had the best ‘ballpark dinner’ ever including her famous chicken salad & no bake cookies.
She was usually in all white with a little gold bling, rarely wore makeup but always had her hair done & ‘Lippenstift’ (lipstick) on. She was known to play German music a little too loud in the car, give gifts to others, bake incredible treats, play cards, and decorate for every holiday.
Mom was preceded in death by her loving husband Joe, Her daughter Dottie, and her parents and siblings.
Left to tell stories & share memories are her five children, Luella "Lou" Browning (Dennis), Margaret "Margie" Wells, Heidi Willhoite (Russ), Joseph D. "Joe" Johnston (Nita) and William R. "Rogge" Johnston (Vickie), Omi was what her 10 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren called her. Omi is German for Grandmother. Mom’s beloved Silkie Terrier “Peanut” A ton of former ‘ballpark’ friends and some special people who loved her like family.
The family wants to thank everyone from Hosparaus, especially Janice, Jessica, Diane, and Morgan.
Visitation will be at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven on Thursday April 29th from 4:00 to 7:00
A Celebration of Life Will be held at St. Raphael the Archangel Church Friday at 10:00 AM followed by the burial at Resthaven Memorial Park in “The Last Supper” mausoleum.
Expressions of sympathy can be a donation to Hosparous or a favorite charity.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5