OERTER, Ellen Denning age 67 of Hamilton passed away Thursday, September 20, 2012 at The Woodlands of Hamilton. She was born in Waco, Texas on November 15, 1944, the beloved daughter of Edward and Mildred Denning. Ellen excelled as a student, graduating from Garfield High School in 1962 and receiving an undergraduate degree from Miami University in 1966. She also took post-graduate classes from Miami University and the University of Maryland. As a teacher, she taught in secondary schools and several colleges before working for and retiring from McGraw Hill in Maryland. Ellen was a life-long learner, whose curiosity and interest knew no bounds. She enjoyed and participated in theater, music, and dancing throughout her life. Her spare time was taken up by reading, writing, solving word puzzles, and walking. Ellen loved animals. In previous years, she enjoyed riding her horses, spending time with her dogs, and watching the birds at their feeders.

Survivors include two cousins, Barbara Denning Pierson and Gary Predit; dear friends, Pam Longfield, Skip Saylor, Liz N. Griffel, Carol D. Rose, Ann Lowe Barret and her hospice staff.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 pm Monday with Rev. John Springs officiating at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pilot Dogs Inc. 625 West Town St. Columbus, Ohio 43215. Zettler Funeral Home is serving the family.