Ellen E. Reick, age 99, of Rochester, passed away on Friday, Nov. 15, 2019, at Samaritan Bethany — Rochester surrounded by her loving daughter, Anne, and good friend Joe Zulkhosky.
Ellen Elaine Reick was born on May 15, 1920 to Morton C and Olive (Ostrum) Clement. She grew up on the farm in Haverhill Township. After graduation, Ellen attended Teacher’s College and taught in a one-room country schoolhouse.
Her career changed courses when she moved to Rochester and worked as a cashier at the Kahler Hotel. During this time, she met her husband John, who was working at the Zumbro Hotel. They dated for awhile, but knew that this was the ‘right one’ for them both. They were married on September 12, 1946 in Rochester, MN. They enjoyed many wonderful years together until John’s death in 1997.
Ellen loved to garden (both vegetables and flowers). She enjoyed quilting, sewing, cooking and baking. One of her greatest gifts was her amazing pies which, according to her daughter, were the best ever!
Ellen was very active. She served on the Hadley Valley School Board, was a 4-H leader and member, and even performed in “Hillbilly Courtship” for the Hadley Valley School PTA’s annual play. Ellen also loved her church and was extremely dedicated to serving in many ways. But her favorite place to be was on the farm with family and friends.
Ellen is survived by her son Daniel E. (Debbie) Reick of Farmington; daughter Anne M. of Rochester, MN; grandchildren Greta (Brian Santori) and Matt and two great-grandchildren Cecelia Santori and Edward Santori. Ellen was preceded in death by her husband John; daughter Carol, sister Marion Clement, brother Roger Clement and her parents.
Memorials are suggested to Peace United Church of Christ or Seasons Hospice.
The memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, 2019, at Peace United Church of Christ, 1503 Second Ave. NE, Rochester, with Rev. Paul Bauch officiating. The visitation will be from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the church. The interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Rochester, MN.
Arrangements were made with Rochester Cremation Services, 1605 Civic Center Dr NW, Rochester, MN 55901; rochestercremationservicesmn.com.
