Ellie Wagner

Eleanor “Ellie” Louise Wagner, age 90, of Grand Rapids, MI passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025 surrounded by her family.

Ellie was born in Columbus, Ohio on August 13, 1935, the daughter of Helen Phelps Arn and Frank Delmar Arn.  During her growing up years and due to her father’s career, Ellie lived in numerous cities, most notably Richmond, West Virginia, Atlanta, Georgia and Chicago, Illinois before returning to Columbus to attend Ohio State University.  There she would meet, graduate and marry Dave Wagner.  They married on August 3, 1957 and would raise two daughters and begin their life together in the Columbus area and later Livonia, Michigan.

Ellie received her Master’s Degree in teaching from Wayne State University and taught economics and history to middle school students in the Redford Union School system.  Her commitment to teaching was evident as she was awarded “Teacher of the Year” in 1990.  However, her greatest joys were traveling with her husband and spending time with her “growing” family.  Ellie, affectionately known as “Mimi”, will forever remain in our hearts.

Ellie is survived by her husband, Dave Wagner, two daughters; Lisa (John) Mette of Rockford, MI and Lynne (Bruce) Dominiak of Rockford, MI, two granddaughters; Samantha Mette and Christine Dominiak, both of Grand Rapids, two grandsons; Steven (Dana Trowbidge) Mette of Monroe, MI and David (Morgan Meyer) Dominiak of Grand Rapids and two great granddaughters; Avery Rose Mette and Julia Eleanor Dominiak.

Ellie’s ancestors (Phelps family) founded Westerville, Ohio and her now great granddaughters, Avery and Julia are the 17th generation of the “Daughters of the American Revolution”.

Private family services will be held and burial in Westerville, Ohio.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to West Michigan Hospice, Grand Rapids, MI.

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