Ellen Elizabeth Skatrud, age 78, passed away on September 9, 2026. Born December 22, 1947 to Dr. Edward and Pauline Burns, Ellen attended Shorewood Hills Elementary School and Wayland Academy followed by graduation with a nursing degree from the University of Wisconsin. A year before graduation, she accepted a blind date arranged by a friend. That date resulted in her marriage to James Skatrud who Ellen believed was the very best thing that ever happened to her. Sons Michael and Gregory were joyfully welcomed in the following years. Ellen’s later return to the University led to an additional degree in pediatric nursing followed by her work first in school nursing and later in public health.

Longtime favorite pastimes included sewing, reading, and music. A very deep love of animals began at age three. Her dog Brownie was an endless joy, and her decorative “Rabbit Collection” always brought a smile to her face. She volunteered in Animal Medical Services at the Dane County Humane Society as well as at Blessed Sacrament Parish where she was a member from the age of six until her death.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James, mother-and father-in-law Alice and Bennet Skatrud, as well as brother-in-law George Haller. But they all lived on in her heart and were treasured. She is survived by her sons, Michael (Alisa) and Gregory, her sister Kathleen Haller, three very much-loved grandchildren: Emmelene, Claire, and Nathaniel, as well as brother-in-law Thomas Skatrud, her nephew Tyler Haring and his wife Stephanie.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on FRIDAY, September 18, 2026, at BLESSED SACRAMENT CHURCH, 2121 Rowley Avenue. A visitation will be THURSDAY, September 17, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road, Madison and at church on FRIDAY, from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass. Burial will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. A luncheon will follow.

The family is very grateful to all those who enriched and brought much caring, love, and joy into Ellen’s life.

If desired, memorials may be made to Blessed Sacrament Parish, (2116 Hollister Avenue, Madison, WI 53726), the Dane County Humane Society, (5132 Voges Road, Madison, WI 53718), or Agrace Foundation (5395 E. Cheryl Parkway, Madison, WI 53711).

Please share your memories of Ellen by posting in her guestbook

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434