Ellen was married to Will Shackelford in 1948 and moved to Denver in 1962 where she started her Art education and career. She was the first woman to receive a sign painter journeyman card in 1969. She started her career at Rocky Flats in January of 1971 for $4 per hour as a sign painter (again first woman). She was promoted to maintenance foreman in 1981 and she retired from Rocky Flats in 1991 as a building supervisor. She had a long-time relationship with Al Lenson until his death in 1998.
She is also preceded in death by her husband Will Shackelford, her daughter Violet and an unnamed son, her parents Ernest and Rosie Garwood, three brothers Jason Garwood, Dick Garwood, Earl Garwood, and one sister Ruth Thayer.
Ellen enjoyed many hobbies and activities: traveling, wood carving, painting, hunting, camping, waterskiing, snowmobiling, four wheeling, scuba diving, puzzles, cards and games. She also loved collecting owls, mugs and hats. She had over 45 years of active service in the Mile High Snow Mobile club, and over 10 years membership with the Over the Hill RV club.
Ellen is survived by her Aunt Mabel Radar, her sister MaryAnne Lincoln, multiple cousins, her children John and Kris Shackelford, Norma Shackelford, Ernest and Linda Shackelford, many grandchildren, great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.
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