Former Newtown Resident Ellen J. Bennitt Passed Away Peacefully

New Milford, CT — Ellen J. Bennitt of New Milford, CT, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2016 at Candlewood Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center after a most courageous 11-year battle with cancer.

Ellen was born on June 8, 1949 in Danbury, CT to the late Joseph L. and Evelyn E. (Grubbe) Bennitt. Raised in Newtown, CT, Ellen graduated from Newtown High School in 1967.

Ellen is survived by her life partner, Herbert Schaltegger of New Milford, with whom she made her home for the past 44 years. Also, his son, Herbert and his wife, Amy, and his daughter, Debi, all of whom reside in TN. She leaves behind one brother, Paul J. Bennitt of Bethel, three sisters, Donna Hofmann,FL, Mary Schenzer and her husband, Gary, New Milford and Diane Lacoursiere and her husband,Jim, NC. Also, two half-Brothers, Jim Bennitt and his wife, Suzanne, FL and Roger Bennitt and his wife, Mary, Bethel. Ellen is survived by her nieces and nephews: Ellen L. Schenzer, East Haven, Darryl Schenzer, CA, Jacquelyn and Christine Hofmann, both of FL, Wayne Hofmann and his wife, Jodi, New Preston, Amy McCarthy, NC, Jane (Bennitt) Nowak and her husband, Rick, Wallingford and Jim Bennitt and his wife, Fran, North Haven. Also, several cousins and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Ellen was employed by Nestle USA for over 27 years. After her retirement in 2004, she worked in Admitting at New Milford Hospital, retiring in 2009.Her family was of utmost importance to her. She assumed the care of her brother, Paul, after her mother's passing in 2000.

As her cancer progressed she was passionate about securing a safe and well-managed home for Paul which she found within the Ability Beyond program.Over the years, Ellen and Herbie took many trips to Switzerland, traveling to other countries as well. She took it upon herself to take German lessons so she could communicate with family and friends while visiting.

Ellen was a member of the Roger Sherman Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, showing direct lineal descent to Benjamin Stone, a Captain in Col. Baldwin's Regiment whose Company turned out to expel the enemy at New Haven, July 5, 1779.

Those who knew Ellen can attest to what a fine, loving and caring person she was. She will be sadly missed by all of her family and many friends.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, June 22nd from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford with a Prayer service to follow. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Ability Beyond, 4 Berkshire Blvd., Bethel, CT 06801 or abilitybeyond.org.