Ellen Skramstad

Ellen Marie Molle was born March 18, 1951 in Marshall to John and Chloris (Solseth) Molle. She grew up in Marshall, graduating from Marshall High School in 1969. She attended Southwest State University through 1972 with a major in art. On November 25, 1972, Ellen was united in marriage with Phil Skramstad. On April 1, 1974, their first son, Michael, was born followed by their second son, Ryan, on June 8, 1976. For over 25 years, Ellen and Phil owned and operated Olson & Lowe Clothing in Marshall, but during that time, Ellen’s main passion was focused on her family. Ellen was an accomplished artist whose modesty with her art always took precedence over her obvious talent. She was also a talented and passionate Genealogist who uncovered centuries of mysteries for her family, her husband’s family and the families of many friends. She was also a dedicated and detailed Historian who recently wrote a detailed and documented history of one period of time in Marshall that essentially changes and enhances some of the history of Marshall. The essay will be published by Southwest State University. Besides her passion for art, genealogy and history, Ellen was a very accomplished gardener whose friends marveled at her flowers and vegetables every year. Ellen learned to enjoy playing golf, but very typically, only as a sacrifice for her husband. Ellen was a completely selfless lady, becoming the main caregiver for over 20 years for numerous family, relatives and friends. Even after her diagnosis and later on, the reoccurrence of her cancer, she was more concerned about her husband and boys than she was herself. She always found good in every person she met, and everyone she met enjoyed Ellen’s humor, intelligence and passion for life. Ellen was an active volunteer and a year’s long member of the board at the Marshall Area Fine Art Center and Council. She was also very active in Senior College over the years as an instructor for art classes. She was a dedicated member of PEO, and loved her PEO sisters. Ellen was also an active volunteer over the years in many community boards and projects. When Ellen was asked to volunteer for a new board or new project, she always said “yes.” She will be deeply missed forever by her family and friends. Ellen passed away Thursday, August 19, 2010 after a 2 year courageous battle with cancer. She died peacefully at home. She is survived by her husband Phil of Marshall, son Michael (and Jen) Skramstad of St. Louis Park, son Ryan (and Lisha King) Skramstad of Sedalia, MO, granddaughter Gabrielle, grandson Ethan, sister Valerie (and Dave) Doner of Jacksonville, FL, brothers Phillip (and Sandy) Molle of Woodbridge, VA and John (and Jane) Molle of Delmar, MD, numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins and her amazingly dear and dedicated friends. Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, John and Chloris (Solseth) Molle.