Ellen Ann Rishel was born February 20, 1961 and moved on from this life June 26, 2026. Ellen was a lifelong resident of Verona. Ellen even spent the last chapter of her life at the same address where her life story began.

Ellen spent more than 30 years working for WPS in Madison, where she took special pride in being a union steward. At WPS, Ellen made many lifelong friends, including and especially her BFF Linda. After concluding her career at WPS, Ellen was employed at UW Health Clinic in Verona.

On Thursday, June 25, Ellen was rushed to UW Hospital where she was diagnosed with severe organ failure. Despite emergency surgery and putting up a brave fight, she succumbed and answered her Lord’s calling. She was surrounded by those she loved and loved her back.

Ellen will now go into the waiting arms of her parents Charles and Dorothy Jane, older sister Martha and grandparents Marion and Anna Rishel and William and Dorothy McNeill. Also greeting Ellen will be many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. A slew of four-legged friends that counted on Ellen over the years will also be there to greet her.

Ellen is survived by big brothers, Randy (Bobbi Statz) and Bill, and little sister, Becky (Russell Schwalbe). Ellen was a very special Auntie to many nieces and nephews including, but not limited to, Mike, Nick, Dave, Lucas, Elias and Aphelion. Ellen will be missed by many friends, cousins, aunts and uncles, especially her Aunt June.

The family wishes to recognize the Haglunds, her second family, for their unending physical and moral support. Also, the nurses, doctors, Chaplain Shelby, and other staff at UW Hospital TLC for their care and compassion in Ellen’s final hours.

Funeral services will be Sunday, July 12 at St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church at 3:00 pm with Dr. Miranda Hassett presiding. There will be visitation before the service and a luncheon to follow. Cress Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, please choose a cause you support.

Cress Center

6021 University Avenue

Madison, WI 53705

608-238-8406