Valley Springs, CA…Ellen Irene Drinkwine, age 73, passed away on September 30, 2016 in Valley Springs, California. She was born to the late Ellsworth and Thelma Cady on January 21, 1943 in Stockton, California. Ellen attended St. Mary’s High School in Stockton. Ellen was a wedding floral designer in Stockton for many years.

Ellen met her husband, Charles Drinkwine, while he was in the United States Navy stationed in Stockton. They were married on October 22, 1961 and spent the next 55 years together raising a family and eventually moved from Stockton to Valley Springs to enjoy their retirement years.

Ellen loved having family and friends over for parties in her beautiful house and backyard that she cherished so much. It is where the family celebrates every important family occasion as well as many spontaneous gatherings. Ellen loved to travel and she and were always taking off on a new adventure. Ellen was frequently seen walking her dog throughout the neighborhood and established many friendships along those walks.

More than anything, Ellen will be remembered for her devotion to her family. She worked tirelessly to ensure her family was cared for and she was very proud of their accomplishments. Her grandchildren were very important to her and she leaves them with so many special memories of their times with Grandma. Her strength, love, compassion, and engaging laugh will be dearly missed.

Ellen’s beautiful life will be forever cherished in the lives of her loving husband, Charles Drinkwine; her children, Chuck (Cathy) Drinkwine and Cherie (Joe) Compartore; her two grandchildren, Ashley and Charles Drinkwine; her great granddaughter, Alexis Drinkwine; her sister, Patty Cady-Salisbury; her brother, Charles Cady, and many nieces and nephews that she loved deeply.

Services will be private. Memorial donations may be made to the Community United Methodist Church (Food Pantry) 135 Laurel Street, Valley Springs, CA 95252 (check memo: E. Drinkwine – Food Pantry).