Ella Mae Dane

Ella Mae Dane, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 27, 1941, in St. Louis, Ella was known for her giving, loving, caring, and selfless nature. Her strength shone in every aspect of her life.

For over 20 years, Ella dedicated her professional life to serving as an administrative assistant for the clinical services department at St. Louis County Family Court. Her work was marked by a commitment to excellence and dedication to supporting those around her. Ella's warm spirit made an impact on her colleagues and all those she encountered during her career.

Ella found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She embraced her hobbies with passion, becoming an avid gardener and a talented needlepointer. She lovingly crafted heirloom baby blankets for each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, instilling in them a sense of legacy and warmth. Her many dogs were a cherished part of her life, becoming more than just pets, but special friends who shared her journey.

Her family was the core of her pride and joy. She is survived by her son, William (Margaret) Dane; daughter, Donna (Tom) Merritt; and son, Robert Dane. Ella's legacy continues through her grandchildren, Joseph Dane, Brenden (Ileanis De Leon) Dane, Zachary (Amanda Stradt) Merritt, Samantha (Michael) Linze, Rebecca Dane, and Abigail Merritt. She was also the loving great-grandmother to Melayna Green, Kiara Linze, Peyton Boyer, Arianna Merritt, and Jakobe Newland.

Ella's strength and warmth were complemented by her love for her siblings, including her brother, Paul Wirtz, Jr., and sister, Dorothy Douglas. She was also fondly remembered by her loving nieces and nephews, including Linda Sinnett, Polly Oesterle, and Ed Douglas, as well as her dear friend, Margo Layton, and Michael Mills, whom she loved like a son.

Ella was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Dane, as well as her mother, Fern Payne, and parents, Paul and Betty Wirtz. She also mourned the loss of her sister, Janet Brown, and brother, John Wirtz, who she now joins in eternal rest.

Fondly remembered for her nurturing spirit and her commitment to family, Ella leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her legacy will be celebrated during visitation from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 12:00 PM on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home, West County, located at 2211 Clarkson Rd, Chesterfield, MO. Burial will take place on June 5, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.

To share a memory of Ella or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.