Ellen A. DeWaele

WALNUT - Ellen Annette DeWaele, age 88, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on October 7, 1937, to Andrew and Minnie Carlson.

Ellen attended the one room school house currently located in Normandy, Illinois before moving to Princeton and attending Princeton High School.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Ellen lived a life defined by hard work, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. She married Herbert DeWaele on March 9, 1958, and together they raised three sons: Tim, Don, and Doug. Their family grew to include ten grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

Alongside her husband and sons, Ellen helped farm the family land and raise hogs, building a life rooted in perseverance, teamwork, and shared effort. The farm became the setting for countless cherished memories, especially with her grandchildren. .From the porch swing in the yard, Ellen lovingly taught her grandchildren “cat fishing,” a playful pastime pretending the farm cats were fish and sticks were the fishing poles, that brought endless laughter and cherished.  Memories.never one to shy away from a challenge, Ellen earned her motorcycle license on a bet with her sons—an achievement that perfectly reflected her adventurous spirit, determination, and sense of humor.

For 38 years, Ellen proudly served her community as a school bus driver for Walnut Grade School and the Bureau Valley School District. She safely transported generations of students with care, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility. In 1990, she obtained her CNA certificate and went on to work in Mendota, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for others. She also supervised a crew for detasseling and shared many stories of the fun times she had doing that.

Above all, Ellen was the heart of her family. Her strength, kindness, and steady presence left an enduring mark on all who knew her. She found joy in simple moments, meaningful work, and time spent with those she loved most. Ellen is survived by her children, Tim DeWaele (Pam) and Don DeWaele; grandchildren Kristen, Amber, Kimberly, Andrew, Justin, Ashley, Kayla, Brandi, Jason, and Josh; numerous great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Anna; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert DeWaele; one son, Doug DeWaele; her sister, Doris; and her parents.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 PM Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at the Garland Funeral Home in Walnut.  Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM Wednesday, December 31, 2025 at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Walnut Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

Online condolences may be sent to www.garlandfuneralhomes.com

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