Ellen Kroehle Coy

Ellen Kroehle Coy of Barrington, IL, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, at the age of 100. Beloved daughter of the late Vernon and Kathryn Kroehle, she was born on December 23, 1923, in Lakewood, Ohio.

Ellen is survived by her devoted son, Dale L. (Rayanne) Coy, MD, grandchildren, Nicholas (Melissa), Addison, Matthew and Alexa, James III (Ashley), Christina and Clarissa; great-grandchildren, James R. Coy IV, Travis and Gracie Lynn; her daughter-in-law, Patricia Coy and her sister-in-law, Louise Kroehle.

Ellen was preceded in death by her husband, James Richard “Dick” Coy, M.D., her brothers, Tom and Vernon “Tad” Kroehle; and her son, James R. Coy, II.

Ellen lived a century marked by a deep love and devotion to her family and will always be remembered for her kindness and quick-witted humor, her love of playing cards, working on puzzles, and writing personal, hand-written notes to commemorate special moments. She shared many great memories with friends and family at the Coy family farm in Glenmont, Ohio.

Ellen will be remembered most for her “Attitude of Gratitude.” She met each of life’s experiences or challenges with a positive mindset, focusing on the good and cultivating a sense of thankfulness, contentment, and joy that was contagious to others. She was the kind of grandma who would go anywhere, anytime and always said, “if you invite me, I’ll be there!” She was a talented artist who enjoyed painting, crafting, gardening, quilting, and photography.

Always thinking of others with her kind acts, she was often the first one to send a card, bring a meal or put a smile on the face of a friend in need. 

A lifelong learner, Ellen traveled with her companion, Bob Waltz, M.D., during her 80’s in an R.V., photographing nature. She shared many lovely sunsets and meaningful moments with friends and family (her niece Katie Kroehle McGervey, husband Joe, sons Max and Oscar) at her home in Naples, FL.

Her zest for life, warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was a woman of quiet strength who valued family first, cherishing every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

As we mourn her loss, we hold a vision of Ellen being welcomed to Heaven with a warm plate of blueberry pancakes smothered in butter. We’ll always remember how she would yelp – “Hip Hip Hooray” and counter our “Love you, Grandma” with “Love You More.”

A celebration of Ellen’s life will be held on Friday, November 29, from 4:00-5:30 p.m. in the Pre-Event Area at The Garlands of Barrington.