Sally Stohlgren Martin wrote on February 23, 2021
What a great human being, and I am blessed to have known her. As Charlotte's school friend in the 60's, I was introduced to this kind and generous woman and her loving family. The days of Poochie, Jake, and Mariner. Ellen kindly gave me a few riding lessons on Mariner. I reveled in her wisdom and sense of humor and outlook on the world. On one occasion she was frustrated with kids not picking up and calmly said, "When I make a mess, I pick it up. When you make a mess, I pick it up. And therein lies the difference." I repeated this to my own children many, many times. I'm a better person for having known her. My deepest condolences to the Charlotte, Craig, Glenn and Neil.

HEIDI Dumke ( De la Teja) ~ My sisters & I were old riding pals! wrote on February 6, 2021
??Time sure flies friends! I took some heartfelt pics of Ellen and Neil at their gorgeous country mansion & stables back in 2009! I have fond memories of going there with my sisters Karen and Kalen Dumke when I was in grade school. Ellen and my family were old riding pals and got together regularly ( a casual friendly riding club) They had a series of event style jumps set up including some doozies that would launch you off a 10 ft drop into a pond! Ellen would always make a full spread of goodies... ( I remember her delish chili !!!) ?They had several stunning thoroughbreads and a few fluffy mascots (can't recall the name of their Irish Wolfhound) I just called Ellen & Neil in early Dec to wish them a Happy Holiday and was headed over to drop a plate cookies, but they asked me to come in spring once they received their vaccines. I feel bad I couldn't see Ellen one last time BUT....?? I'm SOOO happy I located some PRICELESS photos of Ellen and Neil enjoying a fabulous fall day at their country home! I remember this day like it was yesterday folks! I had called them that week to ask if I could drop out with a Bride & groom that had requested fall wedding pics! ?? I couldn't have asked for a more perfect host than the NEWMANS and their stunning property! After the bridal session we all hung out and told fun stories reminiscing the good ol times! It was a MAGICAL DAY seeing Ellen, Neil, their horses and dog! WONDERFUL PEOPLE - Salt of the earth! ??Neil told us stories of when he worked for a photo Magazine" and brought back a "real - fully loaded poison dart/ blow gun" ....as a gift he received from an African tribe back in the 60's....he brought the spear ONTO a PAN AM flight (LOL!) ...apparently Neil stashed it in the "overhead compartment" per request of the stewardess!! Classic Neil!! AHHH, the memories! Thank you Ellen and Neil for your hospitality and kindness over the years, great friendship, tasty food, and lots of love and laughs! Sending ALL MY LOVE to you and your family. ?? My condolences, my thoughts are with all of you! I CELEBRATE YOU TONIGHT ELLEN!!! See you on the other side my friend! Cheers and GOD SPEED! I DEDICATE THIS SONG TO ELLEN (When the Saints go marching in by Louis Armstrong) ...I hope you're dancin up there!! https://youtu.be/wyLjbMBpGDA ??

thomas rauls wrote on February 5, 2021
We , Mary and I, met the Newman family many years ago , I am very thankful for their friendship and the support they gave to us. Her smile and laughter will be truly missed, My condolences to my friend Neil and the family,

Roberta Bosetti wrote on February 2, 2021
I met Ellen soon after I got my first horse. I had the pleasure of taking some lessons from her, and enjoying many equestrian events. The best memory is how much we both loved attending the Rolex 3-day event in Kentucky! We would inevitably run into each other there a share a laugh and a hug! I will miss you! Ride like the wind in heaven, as I know you will. You were always so brave I thought!

Krista Knigge wrote on January 31, 2021
Ellen was a great teacher. In a baking lesson from Ellen I remember being horrified at the prospect of running a spatula through the blender and being diligent to pay attention to the mixing process. :-) We shared barn cats who crossed the road. I appreciated the points of view and perspectives Ellen taught me and I will remember her great laugh.

Shirley Grunloh wrote on January 31, 2021
Ellen was the perfect model person who could show strength and stamina. She so loved the kitties that came her way and that's how we made a connection, along with being friends with both Neil and her. Always upbeat. So enjoyed the house visits there on the farm with dinners, wine, and just chatting. Many fond memories and I'm sure there were a lot of horses and kitties and dogs waiting to greet her back home. Ride the rolling meadows now, Ellen!

Bob Booty wrote on January 31, 2021
So sad. Ellen is my role model of intelligence, grace, and beauty combined with toughness and hard work.

Lyle & Sandy Forsgren wrote on January 31, 2021
We are so very sorry to hear of Ellen's passing. She was a truly great lady and we shall miss her dearly.

Bill Bartlett wrote on January 31, 2021
As her veterinarian, I enjoyed working with Ellen and her horses. She was a strong and beautiful woman. Godspeed Ellen. We love you.

Vickie Schasny wrote on January 31, 2021
I was fortunate to meet Ellen several years ago at a 4-H horse training clinic in Wautoma. We were both invited as guest instructors to teach the kids about working with their horses. I noticed her observing my class as I taught, making me a bit nervous, knowing the level of her equine expertise. After class, she introduced herself and complimented me on my teaching--- I never felt so honored! With horses as a common passion, we immediately became friends. She was 87 at the time and instantly became my new riding inspiration. Ellen was always so welcoming and willing to share her knowledge of horses. She'd always asked me how my Arab horse was doing. When we rode together, she was amazed and tickled that her thoroughbred had to canter in order to keep up with my Arabian's trot. We communicated just a month ago. She mentioned she had a health issue she would be beating soon and next time we talked we would make plans to ride. She will be greatly missed. I feel so lucky to have known her, even for just a few short years. Ride on Ellen!

MARJIE pATRICK wrote on January 30, 2021
to the Newman family, I send my deepest condolences. Ellen was one of the most capable women I've had the joy of knowing. I will miss her so much, and will celebrate her life every time I put a foot in the stirrup and remember to keep my heels down(and hands) of my most cherished memories have been riding in the Newman's fields and dressage arena.

Dan and Gina Stokes wrote on January 29, 2021
Dear Newman family. Your Ellen was a treasure to know. Never ran out of spunk, a huge smile, and horse chat everytime we saw her. Our deepest sympathies to you.