Ellen Mae Arendt, formerly of Manchester, and a longtime resident of Cromwell, passed away on August 3, 2024. Born on June 14, 1943, Ellen was the daughter of Gustav, Sr. and Esther Noren Arendt.

Ellen’s life was defined by her love of the arts. She was a noted singer and appeared extensively throughout New England in recitals and as a soloist with various musical organizations. For many years, she was a soprano soloist at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Hartford and at Temple Beth Israel in West Hartford. She was a vital part of the music program at Bethany Lutheran Church in Cromwell for most of her adult life.

Her musical gifts were recognized early on. Beginning voice study with Ann Strickland Pratt, she moved on to New York where she studied with renowned singers and teacher Estelle Liebling and Cornelius Reed. She participated in the Metropolitan Opera Auditions program and continued her studies in New York for many years.

Ellen was a lover of the arts in all ways, not only as a singer but as a poet as well. Her poetry and gift of writing brought inspiration and comfort to many. Her love of learning was expressed in every-present crossword books, Bible study and travel throughout the world. Of special interest and curiosity to her were China, Egypt, Greece, and the Holy Land. Ellen was especially proud of the recent publishing of her recent children’s book “Clarence the Duck”. 

Ellen enjoyed a successful career at United technologies she oversaw key punch and data services departments and later in her career moved to the Travelers Insurance Company.

Ellen is best described by her love, devotion and commitment to family, friends and her church.

Ellen was a devoted member of Bethany Lutheran Church in Cromwell where in addition to her dedicated participation in the music program she also served on the Church Council, Evangelism Committee, Music, and Worship, and more recently ran the Prayer Shawl Program at the church.

Ellen was predeceased by her parents, grandmother, brother, Gustaf Arendt, Jr., nephew, Albert Arendt, Sr. and niece Natalie.

Ellen is survived by her best friend Alan R. Nelson of Cromwell, Linda Marconi of Manchester, her beloved niece, Lisa, nephew Bob, grandnephew Albert and grandniece Jessica, and several other extended family. She is also survived by host of friends at Bethany Lutheran Church.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 10 at 11:00 AM at Bethany Lutheran Church 50 Court Street, Cromwell. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ellen‘s memory to the Capital Campaign of Bethany Lutheran Church, 50 Court Street, Cromwell, CT 06416. To share memories or send condolences to the family please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com