Ellen Marie Grams, 78, of Chicago, IL, died peacefully on September 6, 2011 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born in La Crosse, WI, on December 20, 1932, the second of four daughters of August M. and Marguerite (Noonan) Grams.

Ellen graduated from Aquinas High School and went on to graduate from college, travel the United States and abroad, and to work in a healthcare career that spanned more than thirty years. She lived in Chicago most of her adult life.

 

During her last illness Ellen was blessed by the presence and assistance of neighbors and friends at Harbor Point; three thoughtful private home caregivers; and Northwestern Memorial Hospital Medical and Hospice teams. She was especially grateful to her neighbor, Diane, and to Father Joe Chamblain of Assumption Catholic Church in Chicago, both of whom kept her supported in her strong, Catholic faith until the end of her life.

 

Ellen is survived by her sister, Joan Grams Larson (Ralph Larson); three nieces, Anne Wendt, Marie Wendt (Bob) Nelson, and Lynn Larson (Craig) Blake; one nephew, Brad Larson; three great-nieces, Samantha and Nicole Blake, and Mary Nelson; one great-nephew, Robert Nelson; two cousins, Greg (Jill) Cross, and Chrisanne (Kevin) McGraw and their children, Shannon Marie Ellen and Casey (Kyla) McGraw.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Mary Grams Wendt and Patricia Grams Hillis; her maternal aunt, Maxine Noonan Cross; and other members of the Grams, Malin, and Noonan families.

 

A private family memorial service will be held in La Crosse at a later date, according to Ellen’s wishes.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent to www.couleecremation.com.