Obituaries
Ellen Margaret Spellman
May 17, 1929 - September 7, 2026
Ellen Margaret Spellman, age 97, passed away on September 7, 2026. Preceded in death by her beloved Bill, husband of 69 years. Their marriage was the foundation of her long and happy life.
Ellen devoted her life to time spent with family and friends, love of home, her community, and church. Ellen was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church and enjoyed volunteering her time and talents with the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League and Quilters. Ellen was an avid reader and spent many happy afternoons at the Orland Park Public Library.
Preceded in death by her beloved parents Louis and Elsie (nee Bremser) Schuetz, and brother Richard (Patricia) Schuetz. Loving mother of Gail Ball (Garry), Lynn White (Lance), Leslie Wise (Mark), and Jill Wisniewski (Gary). Proud grandmother of the late Matthew, Eric, Jessica (Bryan), Ryan (Kristine), Jacob (Dina), Craig, Catherine, Steven, Lauren, and Marc. Loving great grandmother. Fond aunt and great aunt of many cherished nieces and nephews.
Ellen and Bill enjoyed over 37 years of retirement and were able to travel extensively, including visits with Ellen’s relatives in Germany. Her legacy of love of family and friends will be carried on by those she touched. In keeping with Ellen’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local public library.
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Kathryn (Schuetz) Jensen from Huntley, IL
"My most Beloved Aunt. I will miss her. Aunt Ellen had an infectious laugh, just like her brother ( Richard)."
Kellie Sanders from Camp Verde, AZ
"Jill and Family, We are so very sorry for your loss. Your Mom was such a lovely and kind person and I know that she will be missed by so many. You will remain in our prayers. Love, Kellie"
Katja Knos and family from Darmstadt, Germany, AK
"Dear Family, our thoughts are with you, and we remember Ellen with warmth in our hearts. Our deepest condolences. Ellen lived a long, fulfilling life and is now reunited with her Bill. That thought brings comfort. I still remember my visit with Ellen and Bill in the early ’90s very well. Your four daughters had already moved out, and Bill jokingly called me “number 5.” There was a loving, cheerful atmosphere, and I have many fond memories of my visit with you. I had the pleasure of getting to know each member of your family personally back then. I hope we can stay in touch. Christian and his family have formed a new bond that will surely last. Whenever you’d like to visit Germany, our home is open to you, and you’re always welcome here to stay with us! Warm regards, Katja Knos and family—Harald, Quentin, and Kilian"
Holly Schuetz from Oak Park, IL
"Ellen was always my beloved aunt and will always be. I will sorely miss her. I will miss her presence, her laughter and loving spirit. I remember a time when she took me shopping for a sweater during my chemo treatment. I still have it and will always cherish it. I don't wear it often, but for special occasions. May her memort be a blessing! My sincere condolences to my four cousins who lost their Mom. Til we meet again someday!"