Ellen Jean Lerwick-Freed, 65, entered into rest on May 3, 2012 at her home in Rapid City, South Dakota after a long struggle with frontal temporal dementia. She was born June 10, 1946, to Melvin and Gladys (Mullens) Lerwick in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She spent her childhood on the family farm near Scottsbluff, Nebraska and graduated from Morrill High School in 1964. Ellen graduated from Chadron State College and spent 18 years teaching elementary school in Dix and Kimball, NE. She made her choice to serve God at an early age and remained true to that her entire life. She had a deep love for the things of God and lived to share that love with her children and family. She married Jerry Freed on January 1, 1986 in Banner County, NE. Their family was completed by their children, Laura Ashley and Brandon LeRoy. The family has found great joy in continuing the tradition of their mother by welcoming all into their open home. She was a beloved mother, devoted wife, dedicated sister and aunt, loving fellow-servant and friend. She is survived by her husband, Jerry Freed, daughter Laura, son Brandon, brothers Alton (Elinor) Lerwick of Lyman, NE and LeRoy Lerwick of Ecuador, South America, and step-mother Margaret Lerwick of Scottsbluff, NE. Ellen is also survived by 1 niece, 3 nephews, 6 great nephews, 3 great nieces, numerous cousins and a host of friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and infant brother, William Carroll Lerwick. Our lives have been enriched by all of you who have offered your love and support through the past 8 years. Words cannot express what your thoughts and care have meant to us. We want to give a special thank-you to the caregivers who made it possible for us to care for Ellen at home through her lengthy illness. A memorial has been established in Ellen’s memory to the Hospice of the Hills, whose help allowed us to keep Ellen comfortable at home during the last year. Thank you all for standing by.