Ellen Waddell

Ellen Waddell, age 84, passed away peacefully in Florida with her loved ones by her side. Born in Mandan, North Dakota, Ellen lived a remarkable life filled with hard work, unwavering faith, and deep love for her family and friends.
A woman of grit, grace, and kindness, Ellen built a life that was as unique as she was. She worked as a beautician, truck driver, CDL instructor, and continued to work through her retirement -roles that showed her strength, independence, and warm heart for everyone she met. Truck driving, a skill taught by her father, Richard Hinman, took Ellen across North America, a passion she continued to pursue with her children and grandchildren. Working for SAGE Technical Services, she earned the Outstanding Achievement award for providing Quality education to Commercial Drivers. Later in life, she found a loving community at Craig's RV Park in Arcadia, Florida, where she enjoyed many happy years surrounded by dear friends.
A devoted Christian, Ellen's faith was her foundation. Ellen took a pilgrimage to Israel and was baptized at Yardenit, the Galilee Baptismal Site on the Jordan River. She attended church two to three times each week and found great joy in giving back, most recently by volunteering with Habitat for humanity where she was recognized for completing over 100 service hours. On Wednesdays, Ellen could always be found playing cards and sharing laughter with her friends. Her dear friends Alan and Vicky, whom she met at Craig's RV Park, became very important figures in Ellen's life, she even considered them family.
She was the beloved mother of five children: Jerry, Jonnie, Scott, Richard, and Quincy. She was preceded in death by her daughters Jerry and Jonnie, who welcomed her home with open arms. She is survived by her younger brother Rick Hinman, her sons, and grandchildren. Her legacy lives on through her 12 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. They will forever carry her love, stories, and lessons in their hearts.
Ellen touched countless lives with her generosity, deep faith, sense of adventure and joyful spirit. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Ellen will be laid to rest in Miles City, Montana, at Custer County Cemetery, bringing her back home to the place where her story began.
A celebration of Ellen's life will be held at Craig's Rv Park at a later date.
May she rest peacefully in the arms of her Savior, reunited with her beloved daughters and family and forever watching over the family and friends she leaves behind.