Karen Ellis

MILAN, N.H. – Karen Ellis, 81, of Milan, N.H., passed away on Nov. 26, 2024. She was born in Lynn, Mass., on Nov. 11, 1943, the daughter of the late Forrest and Grace (Brush) Ames.

Karen moved to Maine as a child, and was a graduate of Waterville High School class of 1962, and raised her family in the Waterville-Winslow area for many years. She was employed by LaVerdiere’s headquarters in the accounting department, as well as in the main store.

Karen enjoyed traveling throughout North America and Mexico and took several cruises. She was an avid reader and a talented crocheter, making mittens, hats, afghans, and sweaters for her children, as well as intricate doilies. She also enjoyed time spent snowmobiling and ATVing with family. Additionally, she loved taking part in whatever activities her children and grandchildren were doing. She was her family’s biggest cheerleader. From the football field to field hockey, basketball, lacrosse, dance productions, and ice arenas, Karen was there supporting them in whatever events they took part in. Karen worked hard to ensure that her family was always provided for, even if that meant making sacrifices for herself. Karen will be remembered by many for her compassion, understanding, and advice. Her home and heart were always open to those she met along the way.

Family includes her children, Allison White and life partner Brent Bennett of Milan, N.H., Wes Littlefield and wife Kendra of Oakland, and Trudy Pontbriand and husband Michael of Sabattus, Wanda Krajewski and husband Eddie of Merrit Island, Fla., Maria Ellis of Florida; and grandchildren Joshua and wife Serena, Weslee, Bodhi, Victoria, Michaela, EJ, Devon, Jaysa, Bryce; great-grandchildren Emma, Blake, Cameron, Bayleigh, and Luca; her sister Barbara Buterbaugh of Clinton, Maine; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Karen was predeceased by her husband Patrick J. Ellis; sister Marilyn Lacroix; and a brother, Forrest Ames, Jr.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held in Maine on a date to be announced. She will be interred privately beside her husband at the Maine Veterans Cemetery in Augusta, Maine.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Bryant Funeral Homes & Crematory, Berlin & Gorham, N.H. Memories and condolences may be shared online at http://www.bryantfuneralhome.net.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make donations in her memory to the:

North Country Home Health and Hospice Agency

536 Cottage St.

Littleton, NH 03561 or

at nchhha.org