Coraleen L. Ellis

Coraleen Lucille Ellis, age 92, of Topeka, Kansas passed away on July 26th, 2026 surrounded by love.

She was born on March 10th, 1934, the daughter of Carl and Thelma Murray (Sawyer). Growing up she attended Topeka High School, and graduated with the class of 1952.

On May 2nd, 1952 she married her best friend and the love of her life, Lowell Ellis, in Topeka. Together they had 2 children, Mark and Pam. They shared more than 65 wonderful years of marriage until Lowell’s passing in 2017.

Coraleen retired from Jenkins Music Company in 1986. While she held several different jobs throughout her life, one of her very favorites was selling the makeup line Avon.

Coraleen loved spending time outdoors. From attending rodeos and parades, taking in the breathtaking views of Colorado, and admiring the wildlife (especially the birds) around her. She also enjoyed researching and learning about her Irish roots, had an impressive doll collection, and was an active member of Westside Christian Church. Above all though, family was the center of Coraleen’s heart, and her best memories were those spent with the ones she loved.

Survivors include her son, Mark R. Ellis (Kathy), daughter, Pam L. Wachsnicht (Rod), two grandchildren, Leslie Folks and Dylan Wachsnicht (Jackie), 5 great-grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and many other family and friends, all of whom will miss her very much.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Lowell Ellis, and grandson, Tim Deckenbach.

Memorial services will take place on Tuesday, August 4th 2026, at 11:00am at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS, 66604 with a visitation one hour prior and burial to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, 4700 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Westside Christian Church.

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