Ellen Brehm Lewis, 94

Mother of nine — grandmother of 17 — great-grandmother of eight — cherished spouse of Victor for over 50 years — daughter of Edith Avery and Ed Brehm — older sister of George, who preceded her. Garfield High School, University of Washington, Gamma Phi Beta.

Ellen was a force of nature: animated, gregarious, curious — always able to turn a stranger into an acquaintance in a single conversation. She could put anyone at ease and make you think you were the luckiest person in the room. Twinkly, bouncy Ellen retained her twinkle and bounce to the end; it was one of her gifts to us all.

But Ellen was multi-faceted: her ability to listen, thoughtfully process and advise became fully evident to her family, and her community, as she came into her powers (Yes, she was a Superhero) after the demands of her child-rearing years. Every family member, child or grandchild, knew they could have her ear at a moment’s notice and receive prudent counsel with no judgment. That impact continues to the young great-grandchildren whose lives have already been touched by the love and kindness of their Ahgoo.

The energy and level-headed common sense that so benefitted her family extended to her wider community. Ellen’s practice of volunteering began in high school and continued as she was actively fundraising for Overlake Hospital and Bellevue Boys Club while raising five children. During the family’s time in Dallas, she served in multiple capacities with Dallas Opera, on the YWCA Board, and began her commitment to Women’s Rights by organizing the Committee for Study of Abortion with her Unitarian Church coalition, which grew into the group who ultimately got Roe v Wade in front of the Supreme Court. Ellen’s years in Yakima earned a Certificate of Recognition for her work implementing sex education in public school curriculum and election to the Board of Memorial Hospital, serving 12 years two as President. She quietly and tirelessly worked away at her passions without her children realizing later all she had achieved.

Our mother — our grandmother — our great-grandmother, say the littles — my wife, says a devoted Victor: We celebrate everything you brought to our lives!

Ellen passed away Jan. 29, 2025.  A private graveside ceremony was held, and in honor of Ellen’s memory, donations would be welcomed at Canopy Village (formerly known as The Children’s Village), 1350 W. Hanley Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. A full obituary is available online at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.