Ellen A. Nollman

Ellen Ann Nollman, a spirited soul who checked out her final library book on life at the age of 78, left us on May 4, 2024. Born to turn pages on February 20, 1946, in Somerville, MA, Ellen catalogued countless memories and experiences, particularly as a cherished librarian at many institutions, including for the Department of Agriculture and at the Sackler Gallery.

A lifelong advocate for the Dewey Decimal System and democracy alike, Ellen was a political and social activist who wasn't afraid to let her opinions be known, much like a classic novel on a library's featured display. She was a devoted wife to her husband Akira Watanabe, whom she met on an adventure to Japan that was so much more than just a bookmark in her life's journey.

Ellen's love for cats was purr-fectly clear to everyone who knew her, and she could often be found curled up with a feline friend and a good book. Her passion for the Boston Red Sox was as legendary as Fenway Park's Green Monster, and she could out-talk any commentator with her encyclopedic knowledge of the team.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and learning, survived by her husband Akira, sister Dori, son David, and daughter-in-law Susan. Ellen was predeceased by her parents, Bernard and Mildred, who certainly instilled in her the love of a good story.

Ellen's own story was enriched by her studies at UMass - Boston and Simmons College, making her a first-round draft pick for any trivia team.

A graveside funeral service is set for Sunday, September 1st at 11 AM. It will be held at the Pride of Boston Cemetery, 19 Washington Street, Woburn, MA 01801.

In the meantime, raise a glass, crack open a book, or cheer on the Red Sox in her honor. The family asks that you join them for lunch following the service, details will be ironed out and shared with guests at the graveside service.