Ellamae Kenzinger

Ellamae “Ellie” Kenzinger, age 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was the cherished daughter of the late Mary and James Grogan, CFD (Chicago Fire Department), and former wife of the late Martin J. Kenzinger.

Ellamae was the beloved mother of Diane, late Karen (Danny) Hedderman, late Nancy (Bob) Harmening, late baby Daniel, Michael (Colleen), Sharon (Tim) Buhe, Cyndi, Lance (Jenny), and Kevin (Lindsay). She was the loving grandmother of April, Adam, Jacquelyn, Kaitlyn, Eryn (Jeremy), Amy (Sean), Bobby, Bridget (Tommy), Joseph (Liza), Conor, Patrick (Lauren), Declan, Caroline, Brett (Genesis), Luke, Jake, Abigail, Matthew, Kayli, Lance Jr., Maddie, Kevin Jr., and Quinn. She was also the proud great-grandmother of Makayla, Logan, Wyatt, Noah, Eliana, Lola, and the late baby Emersyn.

Ellamae was deeply devoted to her faith, which guided her throughout her life. She found strength, comfort, and joy in prayer and in her connection to the Church.

She attended St. Gabriel’s Grammar School, Mercy High School, and Immaculate Conception Boarding School in Davenport, Iowa.

Besides raising her eight children, Ellamae was a proud retiree of Little Company of Mary Hospital where she gave 28 years of service. Ellamae formed many lifelong friendships there and was admired for her dedication.

Ellamae was an avid reader who cherished time with her children and family gatherings. She treasured moments spent with her childhood foster sisters, Patty and Helene, and lifelong friends Margie and Jacquelyn.

During her final year, as her health declined, Ellamae’s faith and spirit were renewed in the caring community at The Point of Kilpatrick. She delighted in daily activities, especially art classes and live music. She was known for her quick wit, humor, and lively presence.

Ellamae and her family are forever grateful for the compassionate care and companionship she received, especially from her care visitor Jamie, dear friends Kandi and Jackie, and the staff who lovingly described her as “one of the kindest and sweetest residents they ever had.”

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ellamae's life at St. Cajetan Church, 2445 W. 112th St, Chicago, IL 60655 on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Visitation from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. with a Funeral Mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. Interment private at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chicago, IL.