Ellen Christine Ericson, 93, of Belle Plaine, IA passed away Monday, January 18, 2021 at Mercy Medical Center, Cedar Rapids, IA surrounded by family.

Ellen was born November 20, 1927 to Ivar and Emelie (Qualey) Ostby in Minnesota. She lived many places through her life, spending many years in Big Falls, MN and St. Cloud, MN. Ellen met Andrew in Nevada while working as a slot manager at the casino. Eventually the couple moved to Belle Plaine to be closer to family.

She was involved in the First Lutheran Church, Belle Plaine.

In Iowa Ellen enjoyed babysitting and crafting. She loved flowers, family, her Norwegian relatives coming to visit from Norway, listening to Willie Nelson, and collecting elephants and chicken's.

She is survived by her children, Ken Gates of Becker, MN, Audrey Cleppe of Cedar Rapids, IA, Gary Counter of Belle Plaine, IA, and Bob (Deb) Diskerud of Owasso, OK; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Ivar "Ted" Ostby; and special nephew, Jeff Counter.

Ellen is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Andrew Ericson (2010); son, Tom Diskerud; daughter-in-law, Lynn Haldy Gates; sister, Ione Cooskey; and grandson, Brian Cleppe.

Memorial service will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com .