Obituary of Ellen K. Parsons

Ellen K. Parsons
(nee Olson)
1954-2019

Age 65, of Morris, passed away unexpectedly Monday, November 18, 2019. Ellen was a lifelong resident of the Joliet area, before settling in Morris in her final years.  Ellen was born January 13, 1954, in Aurora, IL, the daughter of Jasper B. and Margaret A. (nee Doyle) Olson.  Ellen attended St. Francis Academy in Joliet, IL. She worked at Western Electric for many years with her mother, following her graduation in 1972. Years later, she decided to attend college to study Psychology.  Ellen went on to work at Provena St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet, IL.  She spent many years working with adolescents.

Ellen was born with a natural gift to design and decorate.  Everything she touched she made beautiful.  This talent was a lifelong hobby for her and she spent some time dabbling with craft and home shows. However, in 2013, Ellen decided she wanted to follow a dream she had of being an entrepreneur.  It was then that Rosie O’Grady’s began.  She initially opened her home décor store in Wilmington, IL.  However in 2015, she relocated Rosie’s to Morris to be closer to her daughter Jessica.  

Ellen was a kind hearted, giving, loving, and selfless woman.  She had a special way of touching the hearts of those around her. Some who knew her a short time, and those who knew her for years.  She always loved connecting with people and did her best to make everyone feel welcome, whether at Rosie’s, or in her home.  She had the biggest heart and cared so much for those around her.  She was greatly loved and deeply missed.   

Ellen is survived by her loving daughter, Jessica (fiancé Kevin Grajewski) Klein; two granddaughters, Madisyn and Marley; her Uncle, Leonard (Evelyn) Olson, Uncle Glen Olson, Aunt Donna Olson, Aunt Lillian Olson and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Awaiting her heavenly arrival are her parents Jasper and Margaret Olson; brother Daniel Ward; brother James Ward; sister Margaret Bucciarelli; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and family.

As it was Ellen’s wish, cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration for Ellen’s life will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2019 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Morris VFW, 309 McKinley St, Morris, IL 60450. Arrangements entrusted to Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1201 W. Route 6 at Deerpath Drive in Morris. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in her name may be directed to Jessica Klein.  Jessica has hopes of continuing to operate Rosie’s in Ellen’s honor.  For information, please call (815) 942-5040 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com