Ellen Ann Elizabeth (Johanson) Schwartz

HOLDEN – Ellen Ann Elizabeth (Johanson) Schwartz, 86, passed away peacefully at UMASS Memorial on Monday, June 21, 2021. Born and raised in Worcester, Ellen was the daughter of Oscar and Elin (Strand) Johanson and resided in Jefferson the last 56 years. Her beloved husband of 65 years, Joseph M. Schwartz Jr died in 2020. She was also predeceased by her brothers Fritz Johanson, and Nils Johanson.

She will be remembered and missed by her three sons, Gary M. Schwartz and his wife, June of Spencer, Karl E. Schwartz and his companion, Tammy of Holden and Bryan J. Schwartz and his wife, Kimberly of Rutland; six grandchildren whom she adored, Kelly, Emily, Ashley, Joseph, Erika and Joshua.

Ellen was a graduate of North High School in Worcester, class of 1952. After graduating from high school, Ellen went to work at Norton Company in the engineering department. While raising her family, she actively volunteered her time at the Jefferson Elementary School where she served on the Parent Teacher Association. She later worked as a secretary at Tully Insurance Agency in Worcester until retiring.

Throughout the years, Ellen cherished the time spent vacationing with her family in Dennis Port on Cape Cod. Ellen and Joe enjoyed working together in their yard in Jefferson, feeding and watching the birds, fishing on the Quabbin Reservoir and bowling candlepin at Colonial Bowling Center in Worcester. In her spare time, Ellen got great enjoyment knitting and sewing various things for her family and friends. She will be remembered as a devoted wife and mother who cherished time spent with her family.

She will always be part of us in her own special ways.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Ellen’s family from 5 to 7 pm on Friday, June 25, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A funeral service honoring her life will be celebrated at 10 am on Saturday, June 26, at the funeral home. Ellen will be laid to rest beside her husband at Grove Cemetery in Holden. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Alzheimer’s research.

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