Ellen Manke

Ellen Manke, “Loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister, and Friend”

Ellen Manke, 99, formerly of Naugatuck, went to join her husband and love of her life William in heaven on August 8, 2023.

Daughter of Ukranian immigrants Akulina and James Ratushni, she married William at the start of World War II and shortly thereafter also joined the Army serving as a nurse cadet.

After the war Ellen and William lived in Waterbury where they had three daughters: Cynthia (Roger) May, Barbara (Ron) Curtis, and Patricia (Anthony) Milton and later were blessed with two grandchildren: Heather (Paul) Holmes and Geoff (Cathy) Curtis.

She was the kindest and most generous person ever; always willing to help someone and very talented, too. Her needle work is well known to family and friends and she was a very good cook. Together with “her Bill” they made a great team.

Ellen is predeceased by her parents, her sister Mary (John) Burke, her brother Michael (Rose) Ratushni and her son-in-law Roger May.

Although she will be sadly missed by friends and family and all who knew her, it is certain that Ellen and William are dancing together in heaven.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, September 9,2023 at 10:30 am at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 1555 Hamilton Ave., Waterbury, CT, 06706. There are no calling hours and family and friends are asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Disabled American Veterans (https://www.dav.org/).

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