Fowlerville News and Views Online

Eleanor Gertrude (Ellie) Richards

    RICHARDS, ELEANOR GERTRUDE (Ellie) of Fowlerville, MI, 87, passed away September 30, 2018.  Ellie was born April 8, 1931 in Mason, MI to Charles and Gertrude Showerman. She attended Fowlerville High School and returned to work there in later years where she was known as ‘mom’ to hundreds of school kids.  She led a fun, full and loving life.  
    Beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, she lived her life to the fullest each and every day.  A remarkable woman who married her best friend and the love of her life Weston (Wes) on December 6, 1958 and shared over 55 wonderful years together.  Together they raised four children who were fortunate and blessed to call them mom and dad.  
    Ellie loved the Detroit Tigers, and she and Wes spent countless hours together watching and listening to baseball.  She also loved to travel and was always up for an adventure.  She was determined to ‘not let any grass grow under her feet’.  Age seemed to have no limit, her passion for life was unmatched.  Whether camping, boating, riding jet skis, riding roller coasters, golfing, playing games, going for ice cream, dancing in parades, going to movies, telling jokes, singing funny songs, baking, shopping or dining out, it was always fun with Ellie.  Her infectious laugh and energizing presence made all those who knew her love her deeply.  
     Most of all, though, Ellie loved spending precious time with her family and friends.  She spent her winter months in Texas with close friends, and returned home to Michigan to spend spring, summer and fall with her family.  She especially loved her grandchildren.
    Ellie is survived by her children: Brian (Teresa) Richards, Linda (Tim) Clark, Jill (Steve) Redinger, and Kelly (Timothy) Brown; her grandchildren: Derek (Colleen) Richards, Kelsey Richards, Kevin (Beth) Clark, Kristen (Eugene) Ritter, Kayla Brown, and Carla Redinger; her brother: Dick (Angie) Showerman; and many extended family members and close friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Wes, parents Charles and Gertrude Showerman, and in-laws Fennick and Marguerite Richards.   
     A Celebration of Life Memorial Party for Ellie will be held starting at 4:00 p.m. November 17, 2018 at St. Mary’s Church at 509 N. Main St, Morrice, MI that will include sharing stories of love and laughter, dinner, music and dancing, just what Ellie would love.  All are encouraged to attend that knew and loved Ellie and share fond memories and laughter in celebration of this great woman and her incredible, full life.  
     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to P.O. Box 154, Fowlerville, MI. Donations will be presented to the Fowlerville Athletic Boosters and Fowlerville Band Boosters in honor of her work with Fowlerville Schools. Ellie will forever be in our hearts, and her laughter will always ring in our ears.  Heaven received a special angel, indeed.  Fly high and give dad/grandpa a hug and kiss from all of us.  Love you lots and lots.