Ellen Rae Griffin

Sun Prairie – Ellen Rae Griffin, age 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday November 14, 2024, at Oakwood East in Madison. She was born April 21, 1938, in Stoughton to the late Clarence and Sarah (Schindler) Olson. Ellen Rae married James Griffin on February 15, 1958. She worked for many years as an accountant clerk at a Credit Union. 

Ellen Rae was a cherished sister to her siblings throughout her life. She loved to take occasional vacations and travels with the girls. Ellen Rae enjoyed shopping, dining, games, watching T.V., conversation, and laughter. She was a beloved sister, her infectious laugh touched everyone she met. She was strong in her faith and shared kindness throughout her life.

Together with James, they traveled by motorcycle with she in a sidecar to visit several states in the US. Jim was a bargain shopper. In the month of October, he bought a pontoon boat! And with Ellen Rae’s brother and sister-in-law, they tried it out wearing snowmobile suits!

Aunt Ellen Rae was a devoted and loving aunt to all her nieces, nephews, and godchildren. She was a good listener without judgment, offering advice that helped all of us get through the challenges of growing up.

Ellen Rae is survived by her siblings Duane (Judy) Olson, Charlene (Bud) Frank, and sister-in-law, Trish Olson; and she is further survived by her in-laws: Esther Bingham, Deloris Hilgendorf, Mike (Evelyn) Griffin, Pat Griffin, Dennis (Lupy) Griffin, Barbara Buye, Tommy (Karen) Griffin and Jeanette (Wayne) Phillips.

She is preceded in death by her husband James, her parents, sister June Burchard, infant brother, Marlin Olson, and brother Donald Olson.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday November 29, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 221 Columbus St. Sun Prairie with Fr. William Vernon presiding. Visitation will be from 12:00 PM until the service at the church on Friday. A private family inurnment will take place at a later date.

Ellen Rae’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the caregivers at Oakwood East and Agrace for their kind and compassionate care.

The family would also like to recognize all of the love and care that Tricia provided throughout her life, especially the last 6 years. They shared a special bond throughout Ellen Rae’s life.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie

(608) 837-9054

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com