Ellen Fay Ganschaw

Ellen Fay Ganschaw, née Walter, passed away on September 26, 2026, at the age of 77. Her life reflected years of service to her workplace, church, and community, balanced with the enjoyment she found in creative pursuits and favorite sports.

Born on January 7, 1949, Ellen was the daughter of Elnora (Walter) Graffen and Howard Walter. She graduated from Oshkosh High School in 1967 before continuing her education at Wartburg College of Waverly, Iowa. There, she earned a bachelor’s degree in religion in 1971.

On September 12, 1985, Ellen married David Ganschaw. David preceded her in death, and their marriage remains an important part of her life’s story.

Ellen worked as an Executive Administrative Assistant for R.J. Reynolds until her retirement in 2004. Following her retirement, she continued to put her professional experience to work as Office Administrator for the Kenosha Foundation, serving until 2014. Her career encompassed many years of administrative work supporting the organizations she served.

Ellen also gave her time and talents to her church and residential community. As treasurer of Holy Nativity Church, she helped oversee the congregation’s finances until the church closed in 2020. She also served as a board member of her condominium association, participating in the responsibilities and decisions that shaped the community she called home.

In her leisure time, Ellen enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and crafting. These pursuits offered a creative outlet and the satisfaction of making things by hand. She also enjoyed following sports, cheering on the Green Bay Packers and watching NBA games. Whether spending time on a craft project or settling in to watch a game, Ellen found pleasure in these familiar interests.

Ellen is survived by her brother, Walter (Kristen) Graffen of Kenosha, Wisconsin; her niece, Kate Graffen of Kenosha, Wisconsin; her nephew, Zachary Graffen of Collinsville, Illinois; her sister-in-law, Angela Graffen of Collinsville, Illinois and her sister-in-law Carolyn Walter of Wytheville, Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Elnora Graffen; her father, Howard Walter; her husband, David Ganschaw; her sister, Carol Graffen; and her brothers, Howard Walter and Robert Graffen.

Ellen will be remembered with love by her family and friends. The moments they shared, her contributions to her community, and the interests that brought her enjoyment will remain part of their memories of her.

Ellen’s life will be honored with a celebration of remembrance, with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice Alliance in Ellen’s memory.

https://www.hospicealliance.org/support-us

Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations

3016 75^th Street Kenosha WI 53142

262-653-0667

www.caseyfamilyoptions.com