Ellen Viola McKenzie (Boots) age 68 of Marthasville, MO passed peacefully on Wednesday June 26, 2024, at STL University Hospital. She fought courageously after receiving a gift of organ transplant on April 25, 2024.
She is survived by her husband and partner of 47 years Mike McKenzie and her son Michael (Ellie Donahue) McKenzie. Michael was her greatest joy and made her so proud seeing the man he has become by the example set by his father.
Also survived by brother Clancy (Kathy) Boots, sister Julia Sanning and Ellen’s twin sister Helen (David) Holland. Brother in-laws Scott McKenzie and Dan (Shelly) McKenzie. Ellen had a special relationship with her niece Elizabeth and her friend Sara. Many nieces and nephews, cousins and friends that have become family.
Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Boyd and Kay (Kawahara) Boots.
Her hobbies included cross stitching, creating stained glass art, Wizard of Oz collectables, lady head vases and had a love of treasured quilts. Always one to enjoy road trips and would yell “Stop the car! We just passed an antique store!” Loved the smoke of a campfire, eating roasted marshmallows and the smell of burning leaves in the fall, her favorite season. She had a fondness for elephants, the annual daisies that sprung up along the roadside, and dining out for her favorite Japanese foods.
Ellen was an organ donor, and she had the honor of receiving an organ donation. Please consider being an organ donor, someone’s life depends on this gift. Donating blood in her memory would make her smile.
Private services will be held at a later date per her wishes. Please remember her from all of the fond memories created throughout her lifetime.
Ellen was the most kind, loving, caring, and generous person I ever met. Michael was so fortunate that God chose Ellen and Mine as his parents. Ellen’s love will shine on. I was blessed to be friends with her the past 31 years. So many wonderful memories that I will always cherish. Until we meet again Ellen! 🙏🏻
Best best-friend anyone could ever have. I will miss her so much. I loved our 5 hour long phone calls. We never ran out of things to talk about and I will never run out of good memories with her.
I went to school with both Ellen and Mike. They are both good friends. Ellen was always a shining light. Her smile radiated the room. She was loved by many. She will be sorely missed. Heaven just became brighter when Ellen entered into those,”Pearly Gates!” Mike, just know that you are not alone. Please call me whenever you need to talk. Hey Ellen, we will meet you at the “East Gate” when we are called. ❤🙏
Ellen (and Helen!) hold a very special, tender place in my heart. They always will. Hugs and condolences to all of the family.
Loving and caring lady. Strong willed and indepe indent. See you soon.
Ms Ellen already missing your smile. Wonderful friend and best babysitter traveling many miles to watch the baby’s I pray shes been received by our gracious savior
Ms Ellen we’re missing you already But confident you’ve been received by our gracious lord and savior Jesus Christ We’ll never forget that smile and loving heart . Oh how you loved babysitting the little ones donating your time to help out . Miss that caring smile
We’ll meet again my friend, just not yet. Not yet.
My sister Connie Boots Fall and myself Dianna Boots Rucker just in the last couple of years reconnected with Ellen and Helen and the whole Boots clan. She was so welcoming to us when we visited. Just so sorry, prayers for her family.
Dianna
Ellen, so sad you were taken so young. You will live on through your gift of being a donor. I also have committed to being a donor. Please.be ready for a big hug when I see you again. Peace
You fought till the end.
I’ll always remember the good times especially the time you came to Florida on your Honeymoon. Mike picked the best. I always loved you an will miss you.
Uncle Don, Cindy, An Hazel will meet you an welcome you to your new home in Heaven.
Love you Aunt Clare
Miss Ellen I have had the pleasure of working with both your husband and then your son. They are both amazing workers and even more amazing people. Your husband taught me so much. I never got to personally meet you and wish I would have been able to but I have heard so many stories about you that I feel like I know you. You seem wonderful. I wish you and all of your important people happiness.
My prayers are with you both.
Eric, you meant so much to Ellen. Thank you for the kindness and all the effort that you gave and showed to Ellen during her stay. Mike
Goodbye Miss Ellen. I will miss you!
❤
Sending love and light to the family and support in whatever way you need at this time.
Mike and Michael I am so sorry .
This is a sad time . If I can help just let me know. My prayers are with you both.