Ellen Carmichael Donkle

Ellen Carmichael Donkle peacefully entered eternal rest on February 5, 2025, in Milwaukie, OR. Ellen’s spirit, generosity, and dedication to her community and family will be long remembered.

Ellen was born to Cloid and Peg Carmichael in Gary, Indiana on May 23, 1934. She met her future husband Jim while at the University of Wisconsin. She completed her education in Madison and taught primary school while her husband Jim completed his medical school training. After marrying the love of her life, Jim in 1958, the young couple headed west to start their married life. They headed to Portland, Oregon for Jim’s residency at Portland Providence Hospital, then transferred to Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, WA. and later Milwaukie, OR, where their family grew roots. 

While raising three daughters, Ellen dedicated time and talent to community organizations such as the Oregon Symphony, the Dwyer Hospital Women’s Auxiliary, Oak Grove Garden Club, and Providence Festival of Trees. She was known for her attention to detail, determination, and love of her community. Ellen loved cooking, reading, but her pride was her flower garden. Ellen and Jim shared a love of adventure, which led them across the globe, and a passion for cheering on their beloved sports teams. They shared their joy of life with all who knew them, and theirs was a “wonderful life”. 

Ellen is survived by her daughters Peggy (Bob) Thompson and Ann (Gary) Parker; her grandchildren Allison (Nathan) Miller, Brandon Parker, Austin (Hannah) Thompson; and great-grandchildren, Emilia and Ethan. Ellen is preceded in death by her daughter, Janet Kruse, and happily reunited with her soulmate, Jim. Her family will lovingly remember her patience, strong will, peaceful presence, wit, and love for all sweets.

We have planned her funeral for Tuesday, February 11, 2025. To be held at St. Agatha's Catholic Church 7983 SE 15th Ave. Portland, OR 97202.

10:00 AM Rosary led by Peggy Thompson

10:20 AM Eulogy read by Allison Thompson

10:30 AM Funeral Mass

11:30 AM Travel to River View Cemetery (Family)

12:00 PM Friends and Family to gather at Ellen's for luncheon 14875 SE Thornton Dr. Milwaukie, OR 97267

We hope you can join us during this time to have closure and say goodbye. Also, please feel free to share this if you think somebody might like to have this information.

Most Sincerely, 

Peggy Thompson and Ann Parker