Ellen Fackler Gamrath

A smart, beautiful, kind woman was called home by God on January 18th, 2025. Ellen was surrounded by family and love, in this world and the next. She is deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her steadfast love, commitment to living out her faith, lifelong dedication to learning, and her generosity.

Ellen was born March 30, 1925 to Ottillie Trinklein and Rev. Ernest Carl Fackler in Detroit, Michigan (older brother Bill & younger sister Alice). She was baptized and confirmed at St Andrews Lutheran Church in Detroit. Ellen delighted in many childhood memories in Arcadia near the shores of Lake Michigan with her cousins and extended family. She graduated from Valparaiso University in 1947 with a degree in Social Work.

She met her lifelong love, Jim Gamrath, on November 27, 1948, and they began a long, wonderful, rich partnership of 65 years. They raised their family in Seattle, WA, and Ellen joined Jim in growing the family medical practice. They enjoyed living on Mercer Island for 30 years together before moving to a retirement community in Seattle. 

Jim and Ellen traveled the world together, and one of their favorite places to visit was Holden Village, up Lake Chelan. They first went to Holden in the early 60s and then enjoyed at least one trip a year for most of the remainder of their lives. Many lifelong friendships and abundant blessings have filled their lives in connection with that special place. Holden had an extra-special place in Ellen’s heart. She spent many years there serving, listening, studying, and worshiping. She was integrally involved in leadership as a member and president of the Holden Board of Directors.

Ellen embodied servant leadership in countless ways throughout her life, as a social worker, published author, and peacemaker.

Ellen is survived by her 3 children: David (Lisa), Linda (Tom), and Barbara (David); 5 grandchildren: Jason, Alicia (JB), Claire (Philip), Carly (Clara), and Abby; and 2 great-grandchildren: Madison and Lily; as well as her sister, Alice. She loved her family and was surrounded by them throughout her life. She passed peacefully on the morning of January 18th, and as we grieve the loss we rejoice in knowing that she is welcomed home by Jesus and the dear ones gone before, especially her beloved Jim, mother and father, brother Bill, niece Margaret, sister Ruth and so many others dear to her heart. We celebrate her gracious, generous, loving life, and we will miss her grounded, wise, witty, peaceful presence in our lives.

A memorial service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church (1215 Thomas St. Seattle, Washington 98109) on Sunday, February 9, 2:30pm. Virtual option available at: www.youtube.com/@immanuelseattle 

Memorials may be made to:
Holden Village: holdenvillage.org/donate/
Lutheran World Relief: give.lwr.org
Immanuel Lutheran Church: immanuelseattle.org/faith-in-action/giving