Ruth Ann Ellenbecker (nee Strassman), 69, passed away Thursday, Dec. 24, 2009, at her residence with her family by her side.

She was born on March 3, 1940, in Milwaukee to Hugo J. "Hooks" and Marian W. (nee Zimmerman) Strassman. Ruth attended Custer High School in Milwaukee and married Orlando G. Ellenbecker on Nov. 23, 1957, and began her family.

She retired from Amity Leather Products after 19 years of service. She was very active at Resurrection Catholic Church in Allenton serving as a member since 1981, president of the funeral committee, opening and closing the church, chair person for fellowship committee, taught religious class and was a Boy Scout leader and Girl Scout leader in her community.

Ruth is survived by her husband, Orlando; children, Kurt, Keith (Erin), Beth (Frank) Irwin, Ken (Kristy), Barbara (Kevin) Chronister; grandchildren, Danielle (Ryan) Petri, Ian and Samuel Ellenbecker, Kelly and Abigail "Abby" Simonis, Nicholas Ellenbecker, Karry (Dan) Reigh, Lindsey Irwin, Kayla, Christopher and Ivelynn Ellenbecker, Samantha and Alyssa Chronister; and great-grandchildren, Tarek, Tyler, Kaitlyn and Noa. Ellen is further survived by her sister, Elaine (Dennis) Torbeck; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Mary Teeters; and brother-in-law, James Teeters.

A Mass of Christian burial was held on Monday, Dec. 28, 2009, at 7 p.m. at Resurrection Catholic Church in Allenton, with the Rev. Richard J. Stoffel officiating. Visitation was also held on Monday, prior to the Mass, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Phillip Funeral Home of Slinger is assisting the family. www.phillipfuneralhome.com.