Ellen Ignatow

Ellen Isaacs Ignatow Ellen Ignatow, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015, at the age of 72 after a recent illness. She bravely fought, with humor and the occasional bit of sarcasm. She was taken from her family and friends long before her time was due and will be missed by many more than we can ever count. She was preceded in death by her first love James (Jim) Ignatow, to whom she was married for 32 years before his sudden death in 1995. Also preceding her in death was her father Jacob L. Isaacs, Jr. and her beloved older brother Jack L Isaacs. Ellen found true love again 17 years ago when she met her cherished husband John W. Klein. They married Jan. 9, 2005 surrounded by loved ones. Ellen is also survived by her mother, Thelma S. Isaacs. Ellen was the devoted mother of Bryan Ignatow (Candy Crocker McQuiston) and Janna Ignatow (Matt Wilson), former mother-in-law of Kate Ignatow, and kind stepmother to Travis Klein and Ryan Klein. She was a devoted grandmother to Alex Ignatow, Sam Ignatow, Zoey Wilson, Mady McQuiston, Ian Klein, and Ashley Klein. Ellen was especially beloved to Jack's family Rayma Isaacs, Meredith Roberts, Robert Isaacs, Jeff Isaacs, and David Isaacs. Ellen was always thoughtful of her family, and never missed sending a holiday or birthday greeting. Ellen was born to Jacob Leon Isaacs, Jr. and Thelma Steinfeld Isaacs on July 20, 1943 in Louisville, Kentucky. Ellen and Jack had a lively childhood. Ellen graduated from Atherton High School in the Class of 1961, and then went on to graduate with her Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene from the University of Louisville in the Class of 1963. Ellen met Jim in high school, and they married on Aug, 25, 1963. Jim and Ellen made their way as a young working couple until 1968 when Bryan was born, and Ellen became a full time housewife and home maker. She excelled at both, and Janna showed up in 1971. Ellen was devoted to her young family, and moved with Jim and the kids to San Ramon, California in 1974 for Jim's work. Ellen created a lovely home and community for the family both in San Ramon, and then later when the young family moved again, this time to Houston in 1979. In Houston, Ellen, Jim, and the kids embraced life as Texans, and Ellen always supported Jim and the kids in every way she could. Ellen's tie to Congregation Beth Israel as a member of almost 40 years was a very important and meaningful connection for her. She also loved her job with H.I.S.D. in the office at Elrod Elementary, and she retired in the year 2000 after 20 years of service. There at Elrod she met lifelong, treasured friends. Ellen also proudly served as Treasurer for the Northbrook Property Owners Association for the last 16 years, and she is remembered very fondly by her neighbors. Ellen and John enjoyed spending time together at home, taking trips to Las Vegas or to see family in Hawaii, Vashon Island, Virginia, or Dallas, or having fun locally visiting casinos, going to concerts and shows, and trying the latest restaurants (usually with an Ellen-sourced coupon, or great deal, or sometimes both). Ellen was also a devoted daughter and for many years a doting caretaker to her mother, who remains loved and supported by John and the extended family. The family wishes to thank all those who expressed love and support for Ellen. The service will be held Monday, Nov. 30, 2015, at 1:00 p.m. in the Herman & Elaine Proler Family Chapel at Congregation Beth Israel Memorial Gardens (1101 Antoine Dr., Houston, TX 77055) with Rabbi Adrienne Scott officiating. Donations may be made in Ellen's memory to Congregation Beth Israel (www.beth-israel.org) or to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org).

Ellen Ignatow

July 20, 1943 - November 25, 2015