Erma L. Ellinger, 97, passed away peacefully at 5:45 p.m. on Sunday, January 23, 2022, just days from her 98th birthday, at her daughter’s home in Bourbon.
She was born January 27, 1924, in Argos, Indiana to Alva and Hazel (Kindig) Thompson. She graduated from Argos High School in 1942.
On July 29, 1946, in Argos, Erma married Paul H. Ellinger. He preceded her in death on April 14, 1991.
During WWII, she worked for Ball Band in Mishawaka. She retired from Mutschler Cabinets in Nappanee.
Erma was a life member of the D.A.V. and V.F.W., a member of the American Legion, and a past member of the Moose Lodge.
She and Paul enjoyed 40 years of wintering in Sebring, Florida, as “snowbirds”, making many long-lasting friendships through the years.
She was very family oriented and enjoyed being with her family, especially her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.
Erma is survived by her children: Marsha (Don) Wilson of Plymouth, Marilyn Hanselman of Bourbon and Tom (Margaret) Ellinger of The Villages, FL.
Her grandchildren are Ken Wilson (deceased) and family, Duane (Anita) Wilson and family, Michelle (Dan) Kodicek and family, Chris Wilson, Chassity (Todd) Dillon and family, Crystal (Isaac) Kleespie and family. Also, sister-in-law, Cara Mae Thompson of Bourbon.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Paul; a grandson Ken Wilson; son-in-law Bill Hanselman; sisters, Bertha Jane Thacker, Eva Lawmaster and Bernice Reese; and brothers, Dale, Eldon and Charles Thompson.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 27, 2022, from 11-3 p.m at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan Street, Plymouth. Funeral services will immediately follow at 3 p.m. with Rev. Charles Kreig officiating.
Burial will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Bourbon.
Memorial contributions can be made to Riley Children’s Foundation: 30 S. Meridian Street Suite 200 Indianapolis, IN 46204 or Cancer Association of Marshall County, 9739 Sunnyside Dr., Plymouth, IN 46563.
Caryn Durski, Funeral Director
Chassity says
My Grandma was my very best friend. She always said we were twins born years and years apart. I am so grateful for the time we had. She was loved by so many. I miss her already❤️
Barbara Foreman says
I’m so sorry. Heaven gained another angel.
Nicole Dunn says
I am so sorry for your families loss she was a wonderful woman who was a bit sassy and loved to have fun and make memories with her family she will be missed for sure!! Love to all of you in this time sincerely;Nicole Dunn ❤️❤️❤️💕💕 Heaven sure gained a sweet angel
Jean Seese says
Such a sweet lady. She always made everyone laugh.
Judi Weissert says
May the Ellinger families find peace and comfort at this time of sorrow with Our Lord.
Peggy Sellers says
Mom and Dad (Allen and Lois Woolley) thought the world of Erma. Sharing the winters in Florida. They were blessed to know her. I pray for comfort and Love for your family.
Eloise Rettinger Smith says
May precious memories comfort you and your families.
Donna Taber Whitmer says
Dear Marsha and family,
My condolences for the loss of your loving mother. May she soar with the angels…
Duane and Jeanne Troyer says
Tom and Margaret,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with you
Duane and Jeanne
Shelley L Turpen says
I am so very sorry for your loss . Auntie Erma was such a sweet woman ! I thought the world of her & loved her very much ❤️ May God Place His Loving Arms Around You All & Comfort You In Your Time Of Need .
Prayers For Everyone 🙏
Shelley Turpen says
I will always remember auntie Erma & never ever forget her !
J.C. Thompson says
I remember “Betsy” as having a very distinctive voice and a constant smile. Being the last Thompson, I’ll remember her as my last aunt.
DAN THOMPSON says
What a caring and loving lady Aunt Erma was. As children she was Aunt Betsy and made the best noodles hands down. You will be missed by many.
Such a caring and loving lady Aunt Erma was. As children she was Aunt “Betsy” and
jokingly picking on us boys. She made the best noodles hands down. She will be
missed by many.
Patricia Ellinger says
I never meet her wish I did she my dad’s father’s brothers wife sending my sympathy so sorry for your lose