Ellen M. Cianfarani

Ellen Marie Cianfarani, born on July 13, 1936, in Highland Park, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Aug. 2, 2024. She was the loving daughter of John and Phoebe Gysin and the sixth of seven children in their close-knit family. Ellen met the love of her life, Anthony "Tony" Cianfarani, on a blind date. The couple married on Sweetest Day in 1957 and together they built a family in Hazel Park, Michigan, where they resided for more than six decades. Ellen loved children. She spent many years as a library assistant at Longfellow Elementary in the Hazel Park School District, where she also volunteered to assist students with English as a second language and, as a former spelling champion, prepped students for spelling bees. Her faith was an integral part of her life. She was a devout Catholic who attended daily Mass for decades. She taught second-grade catechism for St. Mary Magdalen Parish and welcomed many visiting missionary priests from Africa into her home, treating them to her famous spaghetti sauce and homemade pasta. Ellen was a wonderful mother to her three daughters and a beloved grandmother and great grandmother. Known for her quick wit and ever-present smile, she brightened the lives of those around her. She enjoyed playing cards, board games and adventures in dining. She cherished being in the company of friends and family. Ellen's warmth, kindness, and love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of faith, family, and friendship will live on in the hearts of those she touched. Loving mother of Kim (Rick) Hoover, Judy (John) Davids, and Terry Onica. Cherished grandmother of Mike (Christa) Hoover, Lisa Hoover, Ricky (Maribel) Hoover, Danny Hoover, Dylan (Wendy Chen) Davids, and Will (Eli) Davids. Treasured great-grandmother of Sam, Christian, Zach, Silas, and Ximena Ellen. Dear sister of Jean Clayton and Susan (Clyde) Reed. A visitation for Ellen will take place on Thursday, August 8, from 2:00 to 8:00 pm at Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Directors, 705 W. Eleven Mile Rd. (4 blks. E. of Woodward), Royal Oak, 48067. Ellen will lie in state on Friday, August 9, from 11:00 am until time of Funeral Mass at 11:30 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, 730 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. Ellen will be laid to rest at Oakview Cemetery in Royal Oak. Donations in Ellen's memory may be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen 1820 Mt. Elliott Street, Detroit, MI 48207 www.thecapuchins.org.

Ellen M. Cianfarani

July 13, 1936 - August 2, 2024