Ellen K. (Sorensen) Hinze

Ellen Kristine Hinze, age 86, passed away Friday, November 18, 2011, at Ridgewood Care Center. She was born in Racine on April 9, 1925, daughter of the late James and Sorine (Nee: Bendtsen) Sorensen.

Ellen graduated from Washington Park High School "Class of 1943." On June 7, 1946, at Bethania Lutheran Church she was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Ward J. Hinze. They were married for 61 years before Ward preceded her in death June 2, 2007. Ellen was a member of Plymouth Congregational Church for 62 years. She enjoyed knitting and over the years had knitted 4000 caps for Toys for Tots. She was a member of the Ding a Ling Lunch Group which was made up of friends from kindergarten on up.

Surviving are her children, Ward James (Lynn) Hinze Jr. of Bluffton, SC, Kirk Patrick (Diane) Hinze, of Racine, Gail F. Smith, Jan Sasaki, all of Racine; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; nine step-great-grandchildren; a sister, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 23, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Plymouth Congregational Church, 1143 College Ave., with Reverend Glenn Lawson officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Tuesday at the funeral home from 5-7 p.m. and Wednesday at the church 10 a.m. until time of service. Memorials to Plymouth Congregational Church have been suggested.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the caregivers Ridgewood Care Center for their loving and compassionate care.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888