Like the intensely flavored foods that Elinore
Golembiewski (née Neelson) adored, Ellie lived her life with gusto: whether laughing at bawdy jokes, her two daughters’ goofiness, or an oft-repeated favorite silly story; crying over a sentimental movie with her husband, a cherished memory of her Daddy and their family dog Mickey, or her own life’s misfortunes; or playing with bold color, beauty and whimsy in her jewel-toned wardrobe, art-filled home, and sumptuous garden.
Born in the South Shore neighborhood of Chicago in 1940, Ellie raised her own family in both Park Ridge and Highland Park yet lived her last decade amongst the sunny hills of San Diego.
Ellie passed on November 26, 2014 after a long, valiant fight against the after-effects of a brain tumor. She is survived by her doting daughters Laura Shames and Wendy Shames (Anthony Lyons), her devoted husband Daniel Golembiewski, her beloved grandson Asher Shames-Lyons, her loving stepchildren Laurie and Ron Golembiewski, and her darling dogs Munchkin and Harry. Ellie was predeceased by her adoring parents William and Rose Neelson, her infant daughter Allison, and her dear sister Judy Buben.
Ellie was a fun, dignified, and courageous woman. We are all better for having known and loved her and we will miss her more than words can ever convey.
A celebration of life memorial is being held in her honor on Friday, December 5, 2014 at her Oceanside, CA home.
In lieu of flowers you may make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, the San Diego Botanic Garden, or the Bichon Fur Kids of San Diego.
