R. Ellen Mapes

R. Ellen Mapes Battle Creek R. Ellen Mapes, 96, passed away on October 19, 2009, in her home after several years of ill health. She was born on June 17, 1913 in Huntington, IN. She was the daughter of Edward T. and Lulu A. (Barrick) Hoch. Ellen moved with her family from IN to Battle Creek, MI at age nine years. She graduated from Battle Creek High School in 1933. She worked for Austin China Store, and was employed at Starks Restaurant & Wholesale Supply as secretary to C. J. Stark for 38 years. She married Richard W. Mapes in Bryan, Ohio, on February 10, 1940. Ellen & her husband joined the First Congregational Church on March 21, 1948. They loved to travel, visiting all 50 states and many European countries. They enjoyed many summers at their cottage at Sherman Lake, Augusta, MI and wintered in Sarasota, FL after their retirement. Ellen was an associate member of the Post 25 Year Club. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed entertaining family and friends. Ellen was preceded in death by her husband, Dick February 19, 1985; two sisters, Edith Raub and Grace Emerson and three brothers, Howard, Harold & Everett E. Hoch. Surviving are many nieces & nephews; including: two special nieces, Norma Weaver and Dorothy McArthur and a special nephew, Robert J. Emerson. Memorial services will be officiated by Rev. Thomas J. Ott at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home 3:00 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2009. Ellen's cremated remains will be placed in a niche at Memorial Park Cemetery with her husband, Dick. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church or Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.