Ellen M. Charlsen, 91, died Sunday, Feb. 25, 2018, at Newton Presbyterian Manor.
She was born May 11, 1926, in Elyria, Kan., to John and Emilie (Flegel) Borth. On Feb. 13, 1940, she married Jack W. Charlsen at the Christian Church in Newton, and he preceded her in death on Dec. 1, 2010.
Ellen was an active member of the Zion Lutheran Church in Newton, where she served the church in many capacities over the years. She was a 1949 graduate of the former Axtell School of Nursing and worked at the former Axtell Hospital for many years prior to her retirement. One of the highlights of Ellen’s nursing career was working on the Apollo 11 moon landing mission. Later in life, she was an extra in the movie “Walking Tall” and helped set up the emergency room set for the movie. Tending her flower beds and caring for her yard were a time of relaxation and reflection for Ellen.
She was known for being a kind and gentle person who loved caring for others. She was adored by her family and they looked for to spending time with their beloved aunt and friend.
Ellen is survived by several nieces and nephews, and she is also survived by a sister, Virginia Kenney of Inman.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, four brothers and four sisters.
Funeral service was at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Zion Lutheran Church in Newton, with Pastor Aaron Filipek presiding. Visitation was at Petersen Funeral Home. Burial was in Greenwood Cemetery in Newton.
Memorials are suggested to Caring Hands Humane Society, Zion Lutheran Church or Good Shepherd Hospice in care of Petersen Funeral Home.
