Nadine Ruth Ellis

August 28, 1921 - March 21, 2022

Nadine Ruth Ellis (nee Doege) passed away peacefully in Anaheim, CA, after achieving her goal of living to be 100 years old. Born on her family’s farm near Liberty, MO as the youngest of 7 children, Nadine acquired strong Midwestern values, an industrious nature, and a wry sense of humor. The Depression cost the family their farm, so they moved into town. After high school, Nadine wanted to go to college, but money was tight. With some help, she moved to Kansas City to attend, and ultimately graduate from, Kansas City Secretarial School. She was hired by an insurance agency just as WWII was starting. With most men serving, Nadine was promoted quickly and offered a job in Los Angeles, which she accepted. It wasn’t long after her arrival that she met and married her first husband, Tim. They welcomed a son, Michael, in 1947, but the marriage did not last. Just as her first marriage ended, Nadine met the love of her life, Ernest (Neil) Ellis. They married in 1954 and Nadine became a stepmother to his son Dennis, while Neil became a stepfather to Michael (who they tragically lost in Vietnam in 1967). Together, they had another son Larry in 1957. While caring for her family, Nadine built a long, successful career in real estate. In their later years, Nadine and Neil enjoyed traveling and had many fun adventures with family and friends to include playing spirited card games at home. Those who knew Nadine best will always remember her love of See’s chocolate candy. Finally, Nadine shared her husband’s deep faith and despite her early Baptist roots, became a devout and active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Nadine leaves behind her stepson Dennis (and family), and the rest of her family who will miss her very much, as will the many friends she made during her long life. She now joins her beloved Neil, and her sons Michael and Larry who also preceded her in death. Nadine will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn - Cypress (4471 Lincoln Ave, Cypress, CA 90630). Visitation will be from 1-4pm on Monday, May 2nd, in the Devotion Room. Nadine’s service will follow on Tuesday, May 3rd, at 2pm in the Church of Our Fathers (Forest Lawn - Cypress), followed by a brief graveside dedication. A reception will follow, with details provided at the service. As Nadine was a Gold Star mother, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund at https://www.vvmf.org.