Obituary of Ellyn Bryce

Ellyn K. Bryce (nee Garman) Of Joliet, passed away suddenly Thursday, December 17, 2015 at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center. Born in La Grange, IL and a resident of Joliet since her father moved the family to Joliet to open the iconic Washington Lanes, she was a graduate of Joliet Township High School, Joliet Junior College and Governors State University where she received both her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees. Ellyn had many businesses and careers in her lifetime. Ellyn taught beauty school and operated Miss Ellyn's Beauty Salon, Annie Angels boutique, The Ginger Tree womens apparel store, and was in the construction, interior design and real estate industries before returning to college and receiving her degrees in psychology. She worked as a psychotherapist and supervisor for Family Counseling Agency, then in private practice for 16 years until this past October. She was a member of the National Board of Certified Counselors and a certified NCC counselor, as well as holding several other certifications. She was an accomplished writer and artist. At the time of her death she was working on writing a book, which her daughter strives to complete in her memory. Ellyn was an amazing person that never gave up on anything or anyone. She had a wellness based approach in her life and practice that inspired and helped her clients. She found working with her clients very rewarding. Surviving are her beloved husband of 48 years, James F. Bryce; her devoted daughter, Merri Bryce of Joliet; sister-in-law, Patricia (late James W.) Rohline; brother-in-law Robert (Delores) Bryce; niece Judith Ann (late Karoly "Charlie") Lasits and family Judy Ann (Steve) Brooks and daughters Taylor and Erica, Jackie Lasits and daughter McKenzie, Cheryl (Mike) Connelly and sons Ty and Garrett, Mary Lasits and husband Don Terry, Kathy Gonzalez (Ben) and son David; Steve (Dina) Bryce and sons Tyler and Jake; and her doggie companion Bella. Preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary (Trousil) Garman, and a nephew, James K. Rohline. Memorial services for Ellyn K. Bryce will be held Sunday, January 10, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet, where visitation will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.