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Ellen O'Connor Obituary
Ellen O'Connor, 82, of Corrales, New Mexico passed away on August 18, 2023 in the comfort of her home. She was born March 3, 1941 to Bernice and Ed Briesch in Chicago, Illinois. Ellen, a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother is survived by her husband William, her son Carey and his wife Sinta, daughter Kelsey, grandsons Riley and Max, and granddaughters Madison and Bryn. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Liza, her parents Ed and Bernice Briesch, and brothers Peter and John.
Ellen's childhood was full of adventure. Her father was an entrepreneur who formed several businesses, sold them, and moved on. The family's adventurous spirit led them to explore living in several places. This included Estes Park, Co, Buffalo Grove, Il., Round Lake, Il., and Lake Forest, Il. Ellen especially loved Buffalo Grove, as she was close to animals, friends and the old farmhouse.
Upon graduation from Sacred Heart High School in Lake Forest, Illinois, Ellen attended Denver University and earned a teaching degree. Several years later, she completed her postgraduate studies in Special Education in Chicago.
Ellen was a teacher for 38 years in Chicago, Barrington, and Bernalillo. Children and parents alike adored her. A mother once commented that, "She was the best teacher that my son ever had". As years passed, former students would frequently visit and share stories about the difference she made in their lives. She was that kind of educator. Sewing, knitting, crocheting, quilting, and designing clothes were among many of Ellen's hobbies. Her creative talents led her to start an antique business. The fun part was finding them, but the hard part was letting them go.
Ellen enjoyed being outdoors and close to nature. Whether it was hiking, skiing, camping, canoeing, or horseback riding, Ellen was always seeking adventure. She loved water. In her youth, she would spend summers sailing on Round Lake with her brother, Peter. A favorite family vacation was time spent on the beach in Sanibel Island.
Ellen was dedicated and supportive of those around her and of causes that were important to her. She was brave, courageous, and determined. Ellen was a truly great person whose impact will be felt by friends and family forever more.
A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, October 28th, 2023 at the Old Church in Corrales, 966 Old Church Rd. Corrales, NM at 3PM.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ellen O'Connor
2 Entries
Brad Steward
October 21, 2023
Bill, Lori and I have you and your family in our prayers for healing and for the love of those that care about you and your family to support you through this time of intense grief. I always appreciated the time you shared stories of your family. I will see you on the 28th of October to celebrate Ellen.
Donna Rankin
September 14, 2023
The only cousins we had. Grew up together in Chicago
Ellen was my beautiful maid of honor.on 1970. A heart of loving gold now enjoying ultimate Love.
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