Ellen (Duck) Schmalz, known affectionately as Alf or Ellie, of Mildmay, passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 70, surrounded by her loving husband, Nook, her four children: Nicole and Ryan Wise, Jody Schmalz, Tonya Schmalz and Ash Adams, and Curtis Schmalz and Tammy Kreller, and a supportive community that cherished her. She was a strong, brave, compassionate, determined, and accomplished woman who touched the lives of many.
Ellen will be profoundly missed by her cherished grandchildren: Charlie, Rylie, Ellie, Keaton, Jade, Marley, Ty, Olivia, Gaby, Hannah, and Charlee and her proud great-grandsons, Colton, Declan, and Ryder.
Throughout her life, Ellen was deeply involved in her community, excelling in various roles in advertising, marketing, and sales. Her work brought her recognition and a personal connection with countless individuals. Ellen was particularly well-known for her love of food, entertaining, and her exceptional catering business, always striving to delight people through their stomachs and hearts.
Ellen had a creative flair and loved to paint, often creating beautiful decorations, including collages, tables, lazy Susan’s, and enchanting Christmas scenes. She uniquely expressed her creativity, bringing warmth and beauty to her home and the homes of her friends. Ellen’s artistic talents were truly remarkable and a reflection of her vibrant spirit.
Her passion for shopping and finding a good deal was a trait she embraced honestly. Ellen couldn’t wait to take someone to the places she discovered, and she never hesitated to pick up something that made her think of you–knowing you just needed to have it. Ellen’s Florida gang will surely miss the adventures for a “great deal.”
One of her proudest endeavors was her cookbook, which she dedicated to raising money for the Alzheimer Society. Ellen poured her heart into this project, making it personal and acknowledging those who inspired her along the way. In honor of her legacy, we will be collecting donations for the Alzheimer Society and we will have some cook books available.
Ellen played a vital role in supporting her family’s business, helping with advertising, unpacking boxes, making deliveries, decorating for occasions, babysitting, and preparing meals. She was truly our #1 fan and our biggest cheerleader. In spirit, she will likely be hosting potlucks with friends and family members who have passed, including her parents, Nadine and Doug, and her siblings Lanie, Rich, and Denise.
She is also survived by her brothers, Craig and Bub, her sister Dorothy, as well as many nieces, nephews, and their partners. Aunt Ellie/Alf will be greatly missed at family gatherings.
Our family celebrated Ellen’s life on Friday, January 9, starting at 4 P.M. at the Mildmay Complex. At 6:30 P.M., we will take time to share stories and raise a toast to an extraordinarily amazing woman.
The family is kindly asking to refrain from flower donations.
