Age 81 of Inver Grove Heights.
Passed peacefully, surrounded by family on August 8, 2026. Proceeded in death by parents, Edward and Fern Novotny; sister, Nancy Painter.
Survived by loving husband of 61 years, Gary; children, Dan (Kris); Andy (Melonie) & Tawnee (Ed) Hardina; grandchildren, Ashton, Liz, Lillie, Bryce, Kylie; also other family & friends.
Ellen loved day road trips, lunch with close friends & classmates, and many years with the card club & the camping group. She especially enjoyed being a volunteer Camp Host with husband Gary at St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park Campground. More than anything, Ellen will be remembered for her tremendous love for her family, especially her grandchildren. She never missed a game, performance or celebration and treasured every moment spent with them.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00-7:00pm with a Memorial Service at 6:30pm on Thursday, August 20th, at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights.