Ellie was born August 5, 1935, in Eureka, California to Zim and Zita Thompson. She was raised in Eureka, attending local schools and graduating from Eureka High School. She attended Humboldt State University for two years before marrying Harry Wagner on August 19, 1956. They resided a short time in the CA bay area before moving to Oregon, settling in Corvallis for twenty years before moving to Portland in 1979.
Ellie was an accomplished chef and a proud graduate of the 1st (1985) class of the Horst Mager Culinary Institute (later known as Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Portland). She loved collecting antiques, especially art glass and was a skilled antique appraiser. Ellie enjoyed traveling, including all over Europe with only a backpack in 1976 and multiple cruises (Italy, Greek Isles, Turkey, Baltic, Mexico, and the Panama Canal).
Ellie is survived by her husband Harry, married almost 63 years. She is also survived by her children, Jeff Wagner (daughter Corbie), Ann Duckett, Karine Wagner (Bill Houdyschell) and as “Mom 2” to Patricia Sauer (Beth Windsor). Ellie also leaves behind brother Terry Thompson (Jewel) and her beloved cat Mouse.
Ellie loved animals, especially cats. Memorials may be made to the Oregon Humane Society or Bonnie L. Hays Animal Shelter.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.skylinememorialgardens.com for the Wagner family.
