Ellen Leigh Urbanske

Ellen was a woman of passion, a lover of animals and old people, intrigued by the Revolutionary War, and had a fervor for running rescue as an EMT. She felt her calling for Home Instead Senior Care at Christmastime, delivering packages that she had purchased and neatly arranged to comfort and bring hope to many elderly residents at Christmas, which would be for some one of the loneliness times of the year. Ellen, our daughter, was the most giving woman I've ever known. In addition to Home Instead, Ellen made a bee-line to the Salvation Army Angel Trees as soon as they were on display. She happily chose seven or so “Angels" each year, selecting those which would be the most difficult to find their sizes and needs. She always had a bicycle or 2 in the check-out line at Wal-Mart, as she delighted to choose a child or two as well.

Another strong desire for Ellen was to become a flight medic, but this, her dream, never came to pass. She was trained in swift water rescue and was eager to once again volunteer as an EMT.

She loved being outdoors and hiking with Dan, her brother. She loved it all, when her time was with her brother. And did she ever love animals! This was another such zeal.She rescued animals and was rarely without several in the home. A ball python named Moe. Who she even took around her neck to Sammy T's, her then favorite outside seating restaurant. She had two fancy rats that her and I once took to Carlos O'Kellys, keeping one in a carry out box full of chips while we ate quickly. If animals truly do go to Heaven, George is sitting on her shoulder! He was a Quaker parrot who learned to carry on short conversations with all of the family. His sidekick was Barney, a constant companion and equally comical as well. Ellen’s dog, Kirk, and my dog, Blu, miss her and already feel her absence.

Finally, on the last two visits to see me, her mom, she told me many things, but one she made sure I heard, was her desire to go to church. She told me this as well the last evening I saw her. She wanted to go to an old church, one with character, warmth and history.

Ellen was undaunted in her search for meaning. She was determined and strong willed in all her givings. We shall see you again, sweet Ellen.

In lieu of sending flowers, you can honor her memory with a donation to the Humane Society, ASPCA or any another charity which helps and gives to animals.

Leo, Dan and I thank you so very much for all your kind thoughts, cards and prayers. God bless us all.