Ella C. Dellamater

St. Johns

Ella C. (Gaiser, Kehr) Dellamater finished her journey on earth on September 30, 2017. For most of her life she resided in St. Johns, MI, most recently at Grace Haven. Born on 12/15/16 in Worthington, MN, she was the eldest daughter of John and J. Esther (Linn) Gaiser and one of five siblings.

As a young woman she studied cosmetology and worked as a hair dresser at various times and places. It was an early client who introduced Ella to her first husband Robert Kehr, the father of her two sons, Tom (Sue) and Charlie (Linda). Widowed in 1963 Ella provided love, direction and discipline raising two teenage sons.

Ella’s devotion to the boys was always evident. Her home had the welcome mat out and provided safe, wholesome entertainment for family and friends.

In 1969 Ella married Dale Dellamater. They enjoyed over twenty years of marriage together before Dale’s passing. During those decades travel was paramount. Ultimately Ella and Dale settled in Arizona where Ella remained until 2005.

Upon her return to St. Johns Ella resumed her membership in St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Her Catholic faith was important to her. In her free time at Clinton Commons and later Grace Haven she was a regular at Bingo, card games, exercise and Bible study.

Preceding Ella in death were her three brothers, Paul, Ken and Jim. Her youngest son Charlie passed in April 2016. She is survived by her sister Shirley, daughter-in-law Linda, her son Tom (Sue), 7 grandchildren Rob (Molly), Bryan (Amy), Nikole (Nate), Greg (Rachael), Brett, Tammi (Jason), and Brooke. Also 10 great-grandchildren with two more great-granddaughters expected soon.

A celebration of Ella’s life will be 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Saturday, October 28, 2017, at Ryan’s Roadhouse, 902 E. State St., St. Johns, MI 48879; please dress casual. In lieu of flowers please make contributions to: Grace Hospice, 2205 Jolly Road, Suite C, Okemos, MI 48864. Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.