Ellen J. Work

Ellen J. Work passed away on February 3, 2026. Her life began with a memorable story on December 4, 1944, when she was delivered by her father because a snowstorm had delayed the family midwife.

Ellen was a devoted wife to her husband, Robert, and the two shared 50 years of marriage before his passing in 2020. Although Ellen was preceded in death by Robert, her parents, William and Thelma Neiman, and her sisters, Margaret, Shirley, and Betty, she continued to treasure the bonds of family. Ellen is survived by her older brother, Richard, and younger sister, Joan, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

As a dedicated professional, Ellen spent 18 years as a Brokerage Supervisor for North American Life Assurance Company, where she established a Florida agency and earned her Fellow, Life Management Institute (FLMI) designation. After the company transitioned its operations in the United States to Canada, she continued her career as an Agency Coordinator for a subsidiary of Blue Ribbon Incorporated. Ellen ultimately retired in 2019 after 35 years of service with Blue Cross Blue Sheild of Michigan.

In her younger years, she enjoyed knitting and was always working on a jigsaw puzzle, often completing 1,000-piece puzzles on her own. Among her fondest memories were the "Sister Weekends" and road trips that brought her laughter and connection.

Ellen's soft-spoken kindness and gentle presence will be remembered. Her presence will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

A Memorial Service will take place at Trinity Lutheran Church, 35110 Division Road, Richmond, Michigan, 48062, on Saturday, May 9, at 11am. Friends may visit at church prior to services beginning at 10am.

A reception will be held in the church's Fellowship Hall immediately following the service.

Ellen will be reunited with Robert at Great Lakes National Cemetery, in Holly, Michigan, at a later date.

Memorial donations to honor Ellen are appreciated to Trinity Lutheran Church or a charity of the donor's choice.