Obituary of Ellen M. Schurmann

Ellen M. Schurmann passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 24, 2019 at Morristown Medical Center. She had fought bravely through a long debilitating condition. She shared 64 years of unconditional love and laughter, forming priceless memories with family and friends along the way.   Born in Newark to the late William and Dolores Schurmann, she lived her early life in Kearny, graduating from Kearny High School in 1973. After high school Ellen had several positions, notably with McCann Torre Lazur in Parsippany and most recently Speer Air Conditioning in Rockaway. After retirement, Ellen trained and became a Registered Yoga teacher, working at Prana Yoga Center in Denville. Yoga became a passion which brought her great joy. She expanded her horizons, traveling as far as Hawaii to partake in extra training sessions. She gathered friends at all of the stops throughout her life. Thoughtful, kind, gentle, generous, adventurous, nurturing; those are just a few of the attributes that come to mind when reflecting on Ellen. She had a contagious spirit that made all she met feel immediately comfortable, like an old friend. She was a natural caregiver who enjoyed time with all living things, especially her family. A true animal lover, she often took in strays and enjoyed volunteering at 11th Hour Rescue. We will never forget her contagious smile, non-judgmental advice, and genuine compassion. Although saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing she is now reunited with her parents, friends and family who have gone before her. Ellen leaves many joyful memories to her beloved soulmate, and best friend of 10 years, John Crammond and his son, Lucas; her loving sisters, Gerri Olvaney (Bill), and Lorraine Kane (Ken); her caring nieces and nephews, Corie Olvaney Lowrey (Eiran) and their child Maya Josephine, Matt Olvaney, Ryan Kane (Michelle), and Hilary Kane; also her adored step-sons, Ed James Guenther his wife Mary and their children, Edward James III, Peter, Maeve Ann, and George; and Tom Guenther, his wife Mary Kate and their children, Thomas, Mara Elizabeth, and Jane Ann; her cherished animals, Milo, Grayson, and Bean. Many extended family members and countless friends will all miss her. Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 4th from 2 – 4 pm with Funeral Service beginning at 3 pm at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville. Memorial Donations are being accepted in Ellen’s memory by way of www.inmemof.org to 11th Hour Rescue. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Ellen here for her family to cherish.