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Ellen Drinkwine Obituary
Jan. 21, 1943 - Sept. 30, 2016
Ellen Irene Drinkwine, age 73, passed away on September 30, 2016 in Valley Springs, California. She was born to the late Ellsworth and Thelma Cady on January 21, 1943 in Stockton, California. Ellen attended St. Mary's High School in Stockton. Ellen was a wedding floral designer in Stockton for many years.
Ellen met her husband, Charles "Chuck" Drinkwine, while he was in the United States Navy stationed in Stockton. They were married on October 22, 1961 and spent the next 55 years
together raising a family and eventually moved from Stockton to Valley Springs to enjoy their retirement years.
Ellen loved having family and friends over for parties in her beautiful house and backyard that she cherished so much. It is where the family celebrates every important family occasion as well as many spontaneous gatherings. Ellen loved to travel and she and Chuck were always taking off on a new adventure. Ellen was frequently seen walking her dog throughout the neighborhood and established many friendships along those walks.
More than anything, Ellen will be remembered for her devotion to her family. She worked tirelessly to ensure her family was cared for and she was very proud of their accomplishments. Her grandchildren were very important to her and she leaves them with so many special memories of their times with Grandma. Her strength, love, compassion, and engaging laugh will be dearly missed.
Ellen's beautiful life will be forever cherished in the lives of her loving husband, Charles Drinkwine; her children, Chuck (Cathy) Drinkwine and Cherie (Joe) Compartore; her two grandchildren, Ashley and Charles Drinkwine; her great granddaughter, Alexis Drinkwine; her sister, Patty Cady-Salisbury; her sister-in-law, Patricia Warren; her brother, Charles Cady, and many nieces and nephews that she loved deeply.
Services will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Community United Methodist Church (Food Pantry) 135 Laurel Street, Valley Springs, CA 95252 (check memo: E. Drinkwine - Food Pantry).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ellen Drinkwine
Walt Stiles
October 2, 2020
Ellen was special, I feel privileged in knowing her
Carolyn Dykes Hall
December 3, 2016
I knew Ellen ever sense we were 4 years old. I just found out about her passing. I am so sorry to hear this. Even though we did not see each other often she was my very best friend when we were growing up. She did my daughters wedding flowers and did such a beautiful job. I will miss her.
Walt Stiles
October 15, 2016
She was a gracious lady, sorry for your loss
October 15, 2016
Rhonda, thank you for kind thoughts. My mom, through your Aunt, kept me updated on your and your family throughout the years.
October 9, 2016
Cherie, it's your old, old friend Rhonda Jesus-King. I am so very sorry to hear about your mom. She was such a beautiful lady. My condolences to your family.
Rhonda
October 9, 2016
Thank you everyone for the kind wishes and prayers. Jack, Bonnie and Scarlett, I will make sure my dad sees your note. Cherie
October 7, 2016
Charlie,
Reading in the paper this morning of Ellen's passing terribly saddened me. I am so sorry for your loss. Meeting Ellen years ago was such a privilege and having also the pleasure of playing golf with Ellen and you on numerous occasions was always a treat. The constant, good humor bantering at almost every hole with you threatening to walk off the course and go home every once in a while leaves me smiling thinking of Ellen's reply, Start walking, I have the car keys. It was all in good fun and usually over you missing a 2 foot putt and not wanting to count that stroke. Ellen was a stickler for the rules, she counted every stroke and putted out every hole and she expected no less from anyone else in the group. There were no gimmies especially for you, Charlie! (Grin).
On the golf course and in Ellen's life her sense of humor, integrity and strong character always shined through. Your loving wife and best friend will be forever missed by all that knew her. My sincere condolences to you Charlie and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sincerely,
Jack, Bonnie and Scarlett O'Hearn
Fabienne Lagneaux
October 6, 2016
Sincere Condolences from France, dear Cherie.
Jill Prescott
October 6, 2016
Cherie, My heart hurts for you. I am so very sorry. Your Mom sounded like a fabulous woman...just like you. Much love to you and your family. Jill Prescott Montclaire, CA
Sue McGrory
October 6, 2016
Love and hugs going out to the family! Prayers for Peace and Comfort.
Lorie Herzog
October 6, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Drinkwine Family. Ellen will be remembered by many for her laughter and her smile.
October 6, 2016
Cherie I was so saddened to hear of your mom's sudden passing. Following you on Facebook, I had a slight sense of who she was and her importance to you. You and your family are in my prayers.
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