Ellen Ann Luark, 92 of Greeley, left this world October 5, 2015 to be with her Lord and Savior surrounded by family members at her home in Greeley.

Ellen Ann Flaherty-Luark was born in Sterling, Colorado on April 22, 1923 to William and Ethel Flaherty and grew up on a farm. Ellen moved to Greeley in the 1940’s where she met and married Hugh Luark on March 9, 1947. As she stated near the end of her life, she had a long life and a good life! She will be missed by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, sisters, cousins, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A gift of love is what Ellen gave to people. Mom had an affinity for children and babies. We never saw a baby she could not soothe when upset and crying. As one grandchild stated. “You could be in a roomful of kids with grandma and you felt that you were the only one there because she made each of us feel special.” She was an outstanding cook and baker. In fact, she helped cook Thanksgiving dinner in November of 2014 and it was delicious! Her talents in the garden were learned at the hands of her mother who taught her about cooking and gardening, but could not teach her how to sew! Her work ethic might have exceeded the love she spread. She often spoke these words, “You are always happiest when you are working.” But, her faith in the Lord took precedence over all. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church. The visits from priests to her home gave her great comfort. Her ninetieth birthday party was such a joy for her and she could not believe all the people who came to celebrate with her. She was truly grateful for your presence. Her move from the country to the city was blessed by many kind and thoughtful neighbors and she truly appreciated every kind act she received from her new neighbors. Mom was active until the end due to the care of Dr. Beckmann, Dr. Rademacher, and Hospice. Mom was a 37 year survivor of cancer and the family would like to acknowledge the late Dr. Miles Lee for his care of our mother during the first of what would become one of many health battles.

Ellen is survived by her sisters Alice Buchanan, Shirley Newman, and Joyce Switzer (Jerry) her children Mary Ann (Walt), Patti, Hugh (Dolly) James, Jeanne (Mike), Carol (Curt), Alice, and Andy (Cynthia), 12 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews. Her Irish eyes will smile in our memories and hearts forever.

Services will begin with a visitation from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 8th at the Moser Funeral Service Chapel, 3501 S. 11th Avenue in Evans. Recitation of Rosary will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church, 2222 23rd Avenue. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Friday at the church. Ellen’s urn will be buried at a later date at the Evans Cemetery.