Ellen Carlson, 69 of Mass City, passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at UP Health System a�" Portage in Hancock, with her loving family by her side.

She was born October 28, 1945 in Detroit to Angus and Mary Maywood. She graduated from Lutheran West High School of Detroit in 1963. On June 7, 1969 she married Melvin Carlson. Later that year, they moved to Mass City and have resided there since.

Ellen served as the Parish Secretary at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Mass City for over 20 years, and was the Greenland Township Clerk for several years. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and enjoyed singing, gardening, baking and cooking. Her home was always open, and she hosted many Vacation Bible School attendees there. Following Mel's retirement, they traveled and visited many places and family members. Together, they attended car shows and watched drag racing, and Ellen especially enjoyed when Mel raced his hot rod.

Ellen is survived by her husband Melvin; children Ian (Bonnie) Carlson, Hollie (LeRoy) Sadlier and Heather (Don) Kopsi; grandchildren Marcus, Izzy and Ellen Kopsi and Kara and Kaisa Sadlier; nieces Elene Dailey and Susan Maywood; nephew James Maywood; sisters-in-law Joan Carlson and Audrey Maywood; and many other relatives and friends. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Abby.

She was preceded in death by her parents Angus and Mary; brother Ian; and nephew Alan Maywood.

Funeral Services for Ellen will be held Friday, February 20, 2015 at 12 noon at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Mass City. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until the time of service. A luncheon will follow. Spring interment will be held in the Maple Grove Cemetery.