Ellen Marie Wissink, age 58, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family in the early hours of January 29, 2025. Ellen, born on October 4, 1966 in Bismarck, North Dakota, was a beloved daughter of Lawrence (Pete) and Mary Ellen Naaden. She was the second to last of their 13 children born and grew up in the tiny town of Braddock, ND.
Ellen attended Minot State University where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. From there, she moved to Houston, Texas, where she met and married her husband Randy on July 7, 1995. Together, they started their family and raised their three children in Spring, Texas.
Ellen was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on earth was one marked by love, compassion, and an unwavering faith in God. She was a devoted wife, mother, teacher and friend. She found great joy in her vocation as a mother, always cheering her children on in their endeavors, providing endless affirmations and encouragement, and teaching them to know and serve the Lord. She had a knack for baking– her chocolate cake and banana bread were family favorites. Her second joy in life was teaching, to which she dedicated 33 years of her life. She found her calling working with kids of all ages with special needs and empowering her students to grow in their independence and reach their goals. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of all who were touched by her love.
Ellen is survived by her husband, Randy Wissink, daughters Geralyn Wissink and Hallie Wissink, son Benjamin Wissink, future son-in-law Christopher Clines, father Lawrence Naaden, mother-in-law Wilma Wissink, and her sisters Karen Karls, Gail Geddes, Connie Sprynczynatyk, Jan Hystad, Marlys Fisher, Nita Anderson, Laurie Miller, Carol Weiler, and Jeanne Flaherty, and brother David Naaden. She is preceded in death by her mother Mary Ellen Naaden, brother Mark Naaden, sister Mary Geralyn Naaden, father-in-law Robert Wissink, and brother-in-law Gary Anderson.
A visitation will be held at Cashner Funeral Home in Conroe, Texas on Monday, February 3rd from 6:00 PM-7:00 PM, with a rosary to follow. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Spring, Texas on Tuesday, February 4th at 10:30 AM, with a reception and burial to follow.
“May the Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord shine His face upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace.” – Numbers 6:24-26
