Obituary of Ellen J. Isenberg

Ellen J. Isenberg, 80, of St. Maries, Idaho, died January 13, 2012 at Valley Vista Care Center. She was born April 5, 1931, in New Rockford, North Dakota, the daughter of the late Nina and Ralph Kennedy. She was the eldest of 3 siblings. On May 17, 1950, she married Alfred Isenberg of Hood River, Oregon, who survives. Ellen graduated from high school in Walla Walla, Washington in 1949. She was employed by the telephone company in Walla Walla and in Hood River, Oregon. Ellen was a devoted wife and mother, homemaking for her family in many residences as a result of moves associated with Al's work. She possessed exceptional talents and knowledge of antique furniture and collectibles. Ellen was an avid collector and active participant in antique markets in Bellevue and Puyallup, both in Washington. She worked part-time in antique shops, worked at estate sales and flea markets, and also traveled to buy antiques for market. Ellen owned The Attic, a Sumner, Washington antique and gift shop, with her longtime friend, Marilyn Dalesky, for about 2 years. She participated in a local "collector's club" in the Puyallup area for many years. Ellen is survived by her daughter, Sandra Burford of Arlington, Virginia; son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan and Maria Isenberg of St. Maries, Idaho; grandchildren, Elizabeth Burford of Arlington, Virginia, Mary Burford of Brookline, Massachusetts, Christina Isenberg of Spokane, Washington, and Nicholas Isenberg of Boise, Idaho; great-grandchildren, Ethen and Lily Duprey of Spokane, Washington; brother, Jerrold (Bud) Kennedy of Turlock, California; and sister, Gail Fisher of Tumwater, Washington. A memorial service will be held in Puyallup, Washington at the United Methodist Church 1919 Pioneer Ave. on Saturday, April 21, 2011 at 1:00 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made in Ellen's name to Hospice of North Idaho 9493 N. Government Way, Hayden, ID 83835. Visit her online memorial and sign her guestbook at www.hodgefunealhome.com Read Ellen Isenberg's Obituary and Guestbook on www.hodgefuneralhome.com.