In 1940, Ellan and her parents moved to St. Anne, Illinois, where she lived until her late teens. Ellan attended St. Anne Public Schools, and her last three years of high school were spent at Ferry Hall Girls’ Preparatory High School in Lake Forest, Illinois. In 1960, she graduated from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, with a BA in Political Science. She was a lifetime member of Phi Mu Sorority. Ellan taught school in Illinois and Germany. She also spent many years working in retail, ending her employment history after 13 years with Albertson’s Supermarket in Yuma, Arizona.
In 1958, Ellan married Robert L. (Bob) Wagner, and they entered a lifetime of adventures. Ellan was an Army wife for 25 years, moving many, many times. As an Army wife, she spent many hours volunteering and holding offices in several organizations.
Ellan’s passions — besides her beloved husband Bob and son Rob — were traveling, reading, and bridge. She loved being with friends and family, entertaining them with stories of her travels and life experiences. She was always upbeat with her “Glass Half Full” philosophy and charmed everyone with her witty humor.
Ellan was predeceased by her parents, Isaac Parrish Jr. and Eleanor Parrish; her brother, Brian Parrish; her sister in law, Karen Wagner; her son, Robert (Rob) Wagner; and her devoted husband of 67 years, Robert (Bob) Wagner.
She is lovingly remembered by her brother, Dr. Michael Parrish (Shelley); her brother in law, Eddie Wagner; three nieces; four nephews; extended close family; and many dear friends.
At Ellan’s request, a formal funeral service will not be held. Close family members and friends will be privately notified regarding celebration of life.
To honor Ellan’s generous spirit, donations may be made to the organizations that were especially meaningful to her: Arizona Humane Society, Disabled American Veterans, Salvation Army, Samaritan’s Purse, Shanti Hospice, St. Jude’s Hospital, Toys for Tots, United Food Bank, The Upper Room, and Wounded Warrior.
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