Chadrad.com

At her request, there will be no memorial service for Ellyn M. Renken, age 90, of Chadron, NE, formerly of Crawford, NE.

A memorial has been established, and donations may be sent to Cancer Survivors Against Radon, CanSar, at www.cansar.org.

Online condolences can be made at www.chamberlainchapel.com.

Ellyn passed away on November 12, 2018 at her home in Chadron, NE. She was born on October 16, 1928 in Chilton, WI. Ellyn married Dwaine Renken and had three daughters. Dwain fell ill early in life, leaving Ellyn to raise their daughters, Edythe Camden, Suzanne Frank, and Sheryl Kobel.

When her daughters were grown, Ellyn moved to Crawford, NE where she assumed the role of High School Secretary for many years. When hard times struck again, Ellyn took the responsibility of raising her youngest daughter Sheryl’s four oldest boys alone, Mathia, Quincy, Joseph, and Caleb.

In the early 1990s, Ellyn and her four grandsons began traveling with her daughter and grandson’s mother, Sheryl, around the country. A few years later, desiring a simpler life, she moved her grandsons back to Crawford, NE to finish out their teen years. Ellyn began working with young people, becoming the Librarian at the Crawford Public Library. She retired in Chadron, NE.

Everyone that knew Ellyn knew she was a loving and caring soul. The best way to sum up Ellyn Mae’s life is simply this, she was selfless and self-sacrificing to no end.

She is survived by three daughters, four grandsons she raised, and countless grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be sorely missed by all. Her light will forever shine.

Chamberlain Chapel is in charge of arrangements for Ellyn M. Renken.