Ellen Carolyn Brooks, 86, lifelong resident of La Grande, died Oct. 23 at her home. A celebration of life will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday at Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center, 1502 Seventh St. in La Grande.
Burial will be at the Island City Cemetery. A gathering at the La Grande Country Club will follow. A viewing will be run from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Daniels-Knopp.
Ellen was born Dec. 16, 1922, to James A. and Rhoda (Price) Garity in La Grande. She was a direct descendant of Ben Brown, one of the first settlers in the valley. She was educated in La Grande and Enterprise, graduating from Enterprise High School. After high school she moved with her family to Portland, where she went to Northwest Business School and worked in the shipyards.
She met the love of her life, George W. Brooks, and they married April 9, 1943. They settled in La Grande following WWII and started a painting business that evolved into a construction business.
During this time they owned Coleman Hardware Store and operated a cattle ranch and farm.
After George died in 1963, Ellen went to Eastern Oregon University. She worked for the First National Bank, Kaman Bearings and for her son’s painting business as a bookkeeper from 1978 until her death.
Those who knew Ellen will remember her for being a devoted mother and grandmother who always showed great patience, guidance, support, compassion and unconditional love for everyone. She had a wonderful sense of humor and always had a positive outlook. She took great pride in her family and her ability to add to their happiness.
She was a member of the LDS Church and the Eagles Auxiliary. She enjoyed dancing, bowling, fishing, camping, playing cards and riding in the car around the valley.
Survivors include children, Robert and Candy Brooks, Carolyn Caswell and Marilyn Brooks, all of La Grande; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; a cousin; and other relatives.
She was preceded in death by a son, Wayne, at birth.
Memorial contributions may be made to any charity in care of Daniels-Knopp.
La Grande Observer – October 26, 2009
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Local Funerals and Visitations
Oct. 28 – Ellen Brooks, viewing, 4 to 6 p.m., Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation and Life Celebration Center
La Grande Observer – October 28, 2009
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Local Funerals and Visitations
Oct. 29 – Ellen Brooks, celebration of life, 2 p.m., Daniels-Knopp Funeral, Cremation and Life Celebration Center; burial, Island City Cemetery; gathering, La Grande Country Club
La Grande Observer – October 28, 2009