Obituary of Ellen Louise Kettinger

Ellen L. Bomia was born on January 3, 1926 in LaSalle. She was one of seven children born to the late Leroy “Roy” Charles and Myrtle Mary (Dusseau) Bomia. 

She married the love of her life, Earl Kettinger, on May 11, 1946 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.   The couple would be blessed with the birth of three children.   First and foremost, Ellen cared for the needs of her family.   As the matriarch of the family, Ellen was very dependable; always the go-to person.   She was an excellent listener, was non-judgmental, and gave sound advice.   She was also a fantastic cook.   In addition to her responsibilities at home, for several years, she worked as a clerical assistant at Federal’s Department Store.  

Ellen loved to learn and could often be found with a book in hand.   Later in life even as her vision failed she merely switched to audiobooks to satisfy her thirst for knowledge.   Ellen was also a very talented artist, often painting in watercolors.   She loved perusing antiques and was an excellent seamstress.  

Ellen was very outgoing and she seemed to know everyone.    She was an avid bingo player as well.   Not just, “The Rock” of her own family; Ellen volunteered countless hours at local nursing homes enjoying the opportunity to serve others.    

Ellen, age 93, of Monroe passed away peacefully in her home with her family at her bedside on Friday, February 1, 2019.   In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by her husband  Earl; sister, Jean Darby; brothers,   Irla, Norman, and Leroy Bomia, and sons-in-law; Rick Feick and Frank Green.

To cherish her memory, she leaves two daughters:  Nancy M. Feick of LaSalle and Patricia A. Green of Monroe; a son:  Timothy Earl Kettinger of Monroe; two sisters:  Mary Ann (Tom) Skinlo and Rose (Jean) LaChance both of Monroe; her granddaughter:  Dr. Christine E. Feick (Adrienne Losh) of Ann Arbor; two great grandsons:  Alexander and Levon Feick-Losh; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

Friends may gather on Monday, February 4, 2019 from 3:00pm -7:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway (734)241-7070.   A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 11:00am on Tuesday, February 5, 2018 also at Merkle’s with Ferl Bomia officiating.   Procession will follow to Monroe Township Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to ProMedica Monroe Hospice or the charity of the donor’s choice. Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com.