Ellen Elouise Gast

Ellen Elouise Gast, loving wife, devoted mother, and cherished friend, passed away on September 21, 2024, at the age of 87. She was born in Paulding, Ohio and was a proud graduate of Elmhurst High School. With a heart as vibrant as the cardinals she adored, Ellen’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laughter, and the joys of family.

Married to Kenneth D. Gast for 67 wonderful years, Ellen shared a profound love with her husband that served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Together they built a warm and welcoming home filled with kindness and joy. They worked together for over 60 years at The Janitors Supply Co. Inc., which they own.

Ellen was the proud mother of three children, Celeste (Mark) Sholl, Deborah (Tim) Perry, and Philip (Kim) Gast. She treasured her role as a grandmother to seven grandchildren and adored her three great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren. Her family was her greatest pride, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Ellen had a passion for the simple pleasures in life. She found beauty in the elegance of the fleur-de-lis and delight in her favorite treats—York Peppermint Patties, M&M’s and Oreos. A true lover of nature, her second home was Big Long Lake, where she created countless memories with her family, enjoying the serenity and beauty of the water, riding in her restored 1938 wooden boat named "Lady Ellen" and pursuing countless jigsaw puzzles.

Ellen was preceded in death by her brother, Lynn Rothenbuhler; daughter Deborah Perry; and her beloved parents.

Funeral Service is 1:00 p.m. Thursday, September 26, 2024, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes – Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Road, Fort Wayne IN 46804 with calling one hour prior. Friends and family will also be received 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at the Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Veterans National Memorial Shrine and Museum 2122 O’Day Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46818. (Vietnam Wall)

Ellen Eloise Gast’s spirit will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.