1962
2017
On Sunday, September 10, 2017, Ellen Frances Anderson Renn went to dwell in the House of the Lord, where her light will shine forever. On February 16, 1962 the world was graced by the birth of Ellen Anderson. Ellen grew up as one of five children, in a household with three sisters and a brother. In her life, Ellen became a Mother, a Wife, a Sister, a Daughter, and a devoted Follower of Christ. Life was full for her...and we take solace in that knowledge, even though she was not here as long as we wanted her to be. It is a privilege for us all to share in her light, who Ellen was to her family and the world.
Mother: Karl was born April 23, 1982. She loved him wholeheartedly for the joy and laughter he brought. Ellen was a devoted mom to Karl and always put his needs above her own. In recent years, she enjoyed trips to Boston to catch up with him. She also loved birds and those birds had a great mother as well.
Wife: Michael Alan Renn and Ellen Frances Anderson were married November 9, 1991 at Ascension Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She adored Michael; you could see it in how she looked at him and how she glowed when she was with him. Ellen often shared that Michael was the best thing that ever happened to her and Karl. She once gave Mike a St. Michael pendant that he has worn every day since. Together, they built a wonderful life and a great love.
Follower of Christ: Ellen was introduced to the Catholic faith through Mike and became a Catholic when they married. The family believed that when she joined the Church went up a level and became stronger. She attended Mass faithfully at Sacred Heart and Holy Spirit. She was a faithful servant in many capacities including helping with the accounting. She was prayerful, often reaching for her Rosary when she couldn't sleep.
Work: As a single mother in her 20's she completed computer programing training and passed the GSA test. Smart and determined, she rose to management with no formal college education. Ellen held a number of information technology jobs for the Navy. She was willing and able to work on many different aspects of IT including programming, cable installation, program and acquisition management, and cyber security. She was relied upon for large projects which sometimes required travel.
Yoga: Ellen had a beautiful yoga practice. She saw its value in health and spirit. She was enthusiastic about sharing her experience and her books, to help us find what she found. Ellen had overcome depression and grew to become a positive influence on all those around her, helping others gain her positive outlook on life, with ceaseless energy. It was obvious to all she had found her own peace and joy.
Family: Ellen was a regular at all family get together and dinners. She made it a point to be there and enjoy the family time. Ellen gave good hugs and was happy to share them. She was always glad to see family and greeted them with her beautiful smile. She was quick to help cleanup after outings or to lend a hand cleaning in the kitchen. Ellen preferred to sample all the food at family events, especially desserts, so she took smaller amounts. Her samplings were lovingly referred to as "Ellen size portions." She was a good listener and always took the time to talk to everyone. To the younger ones in the family she was a fun and playful aunt, always ready for a game of cards or a coloring book. It was nice to get a gift from her as they were always well thought out and appropriate. Ellen was a dear sister. To quote her brother, Richard, "She was the best of us." To the Renn family she was a real sister...not just the in-law. She was shoulder to lean on, an uplifting spirit.
Peace: Peace can be defined as quiet, serenity, harmony, truth. Many of us can walk around wondering if we are missing some "thing" that we need to make us happy. Ellen had it figured out. She had come to a place of sincere happiness. She learned how to let go of what needed letting go, and how to cling to what nourished her. When we begin to miss her or wonder why she was taken from us at this time, we can remind ourselves that she reached a height not all of us reach. She was rooted in kindness and love. She found true peace of heart, peace of mind, and peace of soul. It was within her, and she shared it with those around her. Let us also find comfort in knowing that we will all be united again at the Resurrection.
Since Ellen was so passionate about yoga, it seems relevant to close with a traditional yoga mantra: "My soul honors your soul. I honor the light, love, truth, beauty, and peace within you because it is also within me. In sharing these things, we are united, we are the same. We are one. Namaste"
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by georgia dershowitz.
April 13, 2018
Coworker
Denise Welch
November 9, 2017
I think of you everyday.I so wish I could speak with Karl.I think of Mike and karl everyday
November 7, 2017
georgia dershowitz
Thanks Jennifer for writing on her page that I will keep open forever.Ellen loved you so much.We shopped together when you were a toddler.She came to Arizona to help me when Donny was sick.She came to the townhouse at 7th. st.When you were in the3rd grade,and I was recently married.
November 3, 2017
Family
Jennifer Combs
It is hard for me to accept that my Aunt Ellen is no longer here. I have tried several times to write down my feelings about this but I keep deleting my words. It seems inadequate. I haven't seen Ellen in a long time but I always enjoyed her company when I did get to visit with her. Ellen if you can hear me....You are missed!
October 18, 2017
Jesselyn Sharbel
I am devastated to hear of our beautiful Ellen's passing. We would speak weekly and she brought me so much sunshine whenever we saw each other at yoga class. I connected with her on so many levels and no one in my life shines with a spirit as bright and hopeful as her's. She will be dearly missed. Sending peace and comfort to her family.
October 4, 2017
Samantha Bullington
I just found out about Ellen's passing today. I worked with her in Norfolk a few years ago. We weren't close, but we shared many casual conversations and she would always light up when she spoke of her husband and her birds. She was so passionate about them - she almost convinced me to buy a bird, even though I'm allergic! I'm sure others have much more significant memories of her, but I wanted to share mine anyway, because I feel people live on through our memories of them, regardless of how insignificant they may seem.
October 3, 2017
I fed you,I changed your diapers,I raised you.I am so angry that you are gone.I wish it had been me,not you.I was your mother for so many years.
September 17, 2017
georgia dershowitz
I love my sister Ellen.i am having dreams now about heaven.You have lots of family in heaven.there is Grandma,Pop,Michael,Bernell,grandma Fenne,martha,aunt Rose,Gregory,Eric,Martha,Cornelia,and so many more,you are not alone,my sweet sister.
September 16, 2017
Pam Smith
Mike, I am so sorry to hear about Ellen. I always looked forward to seeing her in yoga--we had such wonderful conversations after class. my thoughts are with you.
Pam Smith
September 16, 2017
September 15, 2017
Ruth Ryan
Deepest sympathy to Mike and family. Worked with Ellen at USJFCOM. Ellen was a true inspiration and role model. We shared many intellectual discussions and debates over morning coffee which brought new insight and perspective. I'll always be grateful.
September 15, 2017
Ray Henderson
My deepest condolences to Mike in the passing of his wife, Ellen, and the entire family. Our prayers are with you all.
September 14, 2017
September 14, 2017
September 14, 2017
September 14, 2017
September 14, 2017
Eric Berry
I would like to extend the deepest symapthy to the family of Ellen Renn.
It was a privilege to be Ellens Co-Worker for 4 years time. She was a terrific Co-Worker and an even better person. She will be missed.
September 14, 2017
georgia dershowitz
i so love you,lil sis.So many memories,good times and times that I rescued you.Also times that you came to arizona for me.If I could have given my life for yours,it would have been given without a thought.
September 14, 2017
georgia dershowitz
The book,your memories from friends and family will be open forever.Just follow the links to see my lil sis guest book and pictures forever.
September 13, 2017
CAPT Doug Bridges
Words cannot express enough how much Ellen will be missed. Her positive disposition was refreshing. It was my honor having her part of our Navy Team where she brought professionalism & commitment. Deepest condolences.
September 13, 2017
Family
Perry Wenger
I had fond memories of Aunt Ellen. Praying for Mike and Karl during this difficult time.
September 13, 2017
Lorrey Bentzel
Working with Ellen on varied projects over the last 15 years was always a pleasure, we'll sorely miss her passionate dedication and enthusiastic approach to projects underway through completion. Prayers for peaceful comfort go out to family and friends. NAVSUP Navy AIT Program Office staff.
September 12, 2017
Jacquelyn Jackson
"Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal." Sending love and comfort to the family and friends of Ellen during this difficult time. Thank you for the informative conversations. Co-worker Jacquelyn Jackson, NOLSC/NAVSUP
September 12, 2017
Anna & Joe Wenger
I can't begin to comprehend the passing of my baby sister. We shared a room from the time she was 2 and I was 8 until the time we were 11 and 17. Ellen was a bright and lovely person and did so many thoughtful things for me and my family that I will never ever forget.She was a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend. She loved her family and her God. Ellen, you will be missed and in my heart forever. Michael and Karl, I am so sorry and you will be in our prayers. We all love you very much. May God hold you both in his hands.
September 12, 2017
Jo Ann Pollard
What a beautiful person God I graced me to know. Ellen was a very kind and gentle person. Anyone who came in contact with her will always remember her wonderful spirits. You will be missed, but I know you will be in great hands. Jo Ann Pollard
September 12, 2017
Paul Gillett
You were a great colleague that had a way of making people feel special and important. You were always positive, energetic and sharing from the first time I met you. Our world is a little less bright without you in it. My heart goes out to the family you left behind.
September 12, 2017
Sandria Hughes
Ellen, we worked together at NOLSC/NAVSUP GLS/NAVSUP WSS for many years. Your work ethics and humble spirit were above reproach!! You will truly be missed by all you have encountered. God Bless the love ones that you are leaving behind. I pray that HIS love will comfort them at this difficult time. I know that I will see you on the other side.
September 12, 2017
Coworker
Shirley James
I am truly sorry and still in shock for Ellen being gone too soon. She was looking forward to retirement and teaching yoga. I sincerely enjoyed working with her and she became my political buddy. I will miss her and her smile and laugh. She was my Program Manager and I have about 10,000 emails from her. I will be keeping everyone of them. Rest In Peace Ellen. Love You.
September 12, 2017
Theresa Reed
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Ellen Renn.
Ellen was a beautiful, patient and caring person in addition to being a wonderful employee/co-worker. She loved her work and the people around her. She will be deeply missed. Love, Hugs and Prayers! God Bless!
September 12, 2017
Barb Bear
You were a very good friend and co-worker who dearly loved life and family. You were always so positive and I'll miss our talks and dinners. You were taken way too soon!! I'll miss you terribly my friend. Michael, my heart goes out to you and your family and prayers are with you.
September 12, 2017
georgia dershowitz
I raised and protected you in your young years.I love you so much.You will be in my heart and enlighten my soul forever.I love my lil sis.
September 11, 2017
Kim Johnson
Ellen will be truly missed. Gone too soon. I'm still in shock, as I'm sure everyone is.
Her infectious laugh and kindness will live on in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and co-workers during this time. Work will not be the same with her!
September 11, 2017
Pam Wenner
RIP my coworker & friend....Ellen was a bundle of positivity and joy....a pleasure to work with...so sad to lose her far too soon...God needed a very special angel to take her....our hearts ache for the Renn family
September 11, 2017
Phil Lloyd
I will miss you Ellen. You were a dear friend and you left us too early. I wish you peace.
September 11, 2017
Family
Gray Wenger
Praying for strength and peace, Karl and Uncle Mike, during this difficult time. This news was disheartening and I want you to know I am truly sorry to hear it. Aunt Ellen will be missed by many.
September 11, 2017
georgia dershowitz
You are loved by so many.My little sis,you have always been in my heart and my prayers are for Mike and Karl at this horrific time.
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