Ella Westerman Ettinger

Ella Westerman Ettinger, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away peacefully at her Manhattan apartment on August 24, 2024/Av 20, 5784 at the age of 96.
Born and raised in Paterson, NJ, to Louis and Edna Westerman; Ella was the youngest of three siblings. She pursued her education at the University of Miami and later trained as an occupational therapist at Columbia University. Her proudest professional achievement: establishing the Occupational Therapy department at Kessler Institute in the 1950s alongside Dr. Kessler.
Ella met Howard Ettinger at a summer party on Fire Island, and they married on June 4, 1961. The couple moved to Peter Cooper Village a year later, where they raised their two daughters, Helaine Ettinger (Henry Bloom, Maplewood, NJ) and Lois Kiley (Jim Kiley, Winchester, MA). Ella was deeply involved in her community, serving as an active member of various school PTAs and as president of the Midtown Hadassah chapter.
The Ettinger family enjoyed summers at Mohegan Lake, NY, and later at Lake Naomi, PA. Ella's passions included knitting, baking, playing bridge, and tennis. Known for her loyalty and generosity, she always made sure there was a place at her table and a bed for anyone in need.
Ella derived great joy from her role as a grandmother to Lyla Gottlieb (Ryne Gottlieb), Yael Bloom, Shai Bloom, Mallory Kiley, Brian Kiley, David Kiley, and James Kiley. She is survived by her brother, Sigmund Westerman, and was predeceased by her sister, Selma Westerman, and her husband of 50 wonderful years, Howard Ettinger.
Ella's family and friends will gather to honor her life and legacy. May her memory be a blessing. She will be deeply missed.
Services are Monday, August 26th, 10:00AM at Robert Schoem's Menorah Chapel, W-150 Route 4 East, Paramus, NJ.
Following the funeral, shiva will be observed at the home of Helaine Ettinger and Henry Bloom, 616 South Orange Ave, Maplewood, NJ (valet parking only).
Minyan will take place each evening at 7:30 pm.
Visitation as follows: Mon: following the burial-5 pm and 7-9 pm Tues: 9-11am, 1-5 pm, and 7-9pm Wed and Thurs: 1-5 pm and 7-9 pm Fri: 9-11 am, 1-5 pm
Donations in Ella's memory may be made to Hadassah, East Midtown Plaza chapter (Hadassah.org) and Congregation B'nai Harim (https://www.bnaiharimpoconos.org/) or to a charity of your choice.