Ellen Marie Brotzman-DeSart Obituary (1962 - 2014)

Ellen M. Brotzman-DeSart, 52, of Taylorville, IL died at 8:21 am Tuesday, October 7, 2014, at her residence after fighting a valiant battle with Cancer. In Ellen's own words: I am so happy, blessed and grateful for the life I have had. I was born July 24, 1962 in Cuba City, WI. I grew up in a small, interesting little town, Galena, IL, where my loving hardworking parents, Marvin O'Dean and Anne Mary Bailey Brotzman, allowed us the freedom to explore and the encouragement to dream. I was surrounded by six siblings. I loved being a part of and was proud to be from a big family. We had so much fun together then and now. I love them all dearly. I started living out my dreams by attending Blackburn College in Carlinville. There I met my wonderful, loving, and caring husband, Zane. Together we created a life that I could not have predicted but was absolutely perfect for us. At Blackburn I also made many lifelong friendships which have been so influential throughout my journey. I love these friends dearly and have much pride in being a part of the Blackburn Family. My time there was life changing. After College we lived coast to coast in such places as New York City, Colorado, California, Iowa, and back to Illinois. We had so much fun exploring all these places. During that time period we married, I obtained my Masters in Social Work and worked at interesting not-for profits like Girl Scouts, Big Brother/Big Sister, and Boys and Girl Clubs doing what I loved to do; planning and management. Lastly I worked for SIU School of Medicine for my newest passion; helping others cope with cancer. The most important thing I did besides marrying my husband was to become a mother. I am the mother of two wonderful sons who are growing everyday into young men who I am very proud of and who bring me great joy. I love them so much and enjoyed every minute of being their mother. Life has had many ups and downs but mostly it has been wonderful. Thanks to each and everyone of you who have crossed my path and who have helped me live such a joyful life. I died as I wished in the comfort of my home with my family near me. I am survived by my husband of 26 years, Zane, and precious sons Zack and Nick. Also by my mother Ann Brotzman of Galena; My six siblings: Cathy (Ron) Moon, Mary (Gary) Flynn, and Jennifer (Matt) Calvert of Galena, Andy (Denise) Brotzman of Elizabeth, IL, Sara (Mike) Polo of Huntley, IL, and Martha (Gregg) Papke of Dubuque, IA; Brother-in-law: Mel (Faye) DeSart of Seattle, WA. There are 16 Nieces and Nephews, 9 Great Nieces and Great Nephews. I was preceded in death by my father, Marvin Brotzman and my father-in-law and mother-in-law: Louie and Jane DeSart. A celebration of my life will be held on Saturday, October 11 at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville from 3:00 pm-5:00 pm. On Sunday at 1:00 pm a Memorial Service will be held in Trinity Lutheran Church with Pastor Rodney Blomquist officiating. Memorials in my memory may be sent to: Blackburn College, Trinity Lutheran Church, or Taylorville Memorial Hospital Foundation.