Ellen Marie Hagel

Ellen was passionate about many things. Her love of animals led her to rescuing or helping those injured or strayed, often keeping them as pets (often to her son Stevie’s delight and sometimes her husband’s dismay). That same sense of compassion led her to a career as an educator/facilitator working with special needs children. Her students truly became her own family. It was not unusual for Ellen to host them on weekends or after school, proving just how much she selflessly loved to serve others. And then there was her impeccable taste in music. Friends and family hold on to fond memories of riding in her Mustang convertible while she blasted classics on the car stereo.

But all those passions aside, her truest love was for her family. She shared many gifts with them for which they will be forever grateful—laughter, support, and the idea that in life, family will always come first.

Ellen leaves behind her devoted husband of 32 years, Steve; their only son Stevie, daughter-in-law Jennifer, and granddaughter Elodie; her sister-in-law Rita, and her dear cousin Ken.

Services will be private.

Please consider donating to one of the following causes in Ellen’s name:

Arizona Humane Society https://www.azhumane.org/

Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center: https://www.autismcenter.org/make-gift

Chron’s and Colitis Foundation https://online.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/site/Donation2?28287.donation=form1&df_id=28287&mfc_pref=T&s_src=HQXW19F1DWKWDXXX&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=fy19appeals&utm_source=HQXW10F1DWLWDXXX