Ellen Froelich

Ellen Jane Froelich, 89, passed away on February 18, 2021 at Vancrest Assisted Living in Van Wert, Ohio. She was born on October 5, 1931 in Oak Park, Illinois to the late Lola and Burton Oderkirk.

Ellen grew up in DeKalb, Illinois and graduated from DeKalb High School. In 1950, she married the love of her life, Walter Dean Froelich, and they recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. Ellen was faithfully devoted to her family, and always put their needs before her own. She also assisted Dean with his business, as well as working in various school settings throughout her life. She continued to serve others and volunteered her time and talents to many charitable organizations in her mission to help others. She was a dedicated member of the Lebanon United Methodist Church and enjoyed her time in the bell choir and helping with their food ministry.

Ellen is survived by her loving husband Dean, sons Keith (JoAnne) Froelich, David (Rhonda) Froelich, daughter-in-law Jackie Froelich; grandchildren Mariel (Kyle) Sellner, Marla (Amy) Froelich, Kyle Froelich, Kulin (Ashley) Froelich, Sarah (Scott) White, Melissa (TJ) Imm and Kayla (Harrison) Kim as well as nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters Ida Pinderski and Lila Steyert.

Ellen is preceded in death by her parents and her beloved son Kevin Froelich.

A private family service will be held at a later date and her final resting place will be in DeKalb, Illinois. In lieu of any flowers or gifts, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Vancrest Health Care Centers. Condolences may be sent to Dean at Vancrest Assisted Living, 10357 Van Wert-Decatur Road, Van Wert, Ohio 45891.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington Street, Van Wert, Ohio.