Sadie Ellis

Sadie Adelia Ellis, 84, of Pioneer Senior Cottages in Fergus Falls, died Tuesday, May 6 at the Pioneer Nursing Home. She was born October 15, 1923 in Coon Valley, WI to Albert and Sophie (Nedland) Anderson. She was raised in Coon Valley and later in Viroqua. She graduated from high school and went on to train as a teacher. She began her teaching career when she was 18 years old and taught until she was 64, earning her BA/BS at the University of Wisconsin/Platteville and then her Master's Degree. She taught in Wisconsin, South Dakota and Florida. Sadie taught elementary school and was a music, reading, math and science specialist. On August 3, 1945, she married Melvin L. Ellis. They settled in Sisseton, where they both taught. After Mr. Ellis retired, they moved to Florida where Sadie continued to teach. Sadie was very proud of her Norwegian heritage. She spoke the language fluently. She loved music and played violin and sang with her students often. She was a 50 year member of the Eastern Star. Sadie touched the lives of countless children, many of whom still remember her as the best teacher they ever had. She adored her young students. She loved to read, was very interested in history and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one brother Ray and one sister Anita. Sadie is survived by her sister Marian Hayden, Viroqua, WI, two sons, Mel (Sue) Ellis, Foxhome and John (Marilyn) Ellis of Yreka, CA., 7 grandchildren: Shenandoah (Mike) Ulmer, John Donahue, Dr. Kristin (Kristain) Hustad, Mark (Nancy) Ellis, Jessica Ellis, Chris Hoffarth and Heidi Hoffarth and 6 great-grandchildren: Jackson, Hunter, Gwendolyn, Loren, Speros and baby "Gus", her countless students and all of her loving care givers at Heritage cottage. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Heritage Cottage of Pioneer Cottages, in Fergus Falls with Chaplain Harry Olson officiating. Interment will be at Andersonville National Cemetery in Andersonville, GA. Olson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com