Obituary of Ellsworth Van Houten

Ellsworth C. Van Houten, 72, of Milford, PA passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at Julia Ribaudo Extended Care Center in Ariel, PA. He graduated from John F. Kennedy High School, majored in Business & Management Sciences at Montclair State University, and studied Theology at Drew University. Ellsworth worked as a former Administrative Assistant at Glory USA Inc. and was also an Ordained Minister at Universal Life Church Ministries.

Ellsworth was married to Sheryl “Sherri” Pavone Van Houten, who passed away suddenly on March 19, 2024. Ellsworth’s friends and loved ones affectionately called him “Ells.” In 2018, he wrote and published a book – Growing up on Canal Street: Memories of My Childhood. It’s all about growing up on Canal Street in Paterson, NJ. (available on Amazon). Later, he wrote - From First Glance to Lifelong Love, a romance novel about his life with Sherri.

Ells often joined Sherri -- the founder of a nonprofit belly dance troupe called “The Champagne Girls,” -- when the troupe performed at the NJ State Fair, and other venues in New Jersey. He was the only male member of the troupe. All money raised was donated to charitable organizations. The troupe also visited nursing homes to entertain residents.

Ells believed in the importance of hard work to show love and support for family. When Ells was a child growing up, his father was the sole support of the family, working late hours as a truck driver, at gas stations, and doing carpentry work. All of this was done prior to his military service during WWII. His Dad also loved to play the harmonica when they gathered as a family. He played "Peg of My Heart" for Ells’ mother, because her name was Peggy.

Ells leaves behind many friends who will always cherish their time together, and will miss him greatly.

A viewing will be held at Stroyan Funeral Home, 405 West Harford St., Milford, PA on Friday, September 20, 2024 from 12-1 PM Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 1 PM with Reverend Neils Nielsen officiating. Burial will follow in Milford Cemetery, Milford, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Drew University Theological School (Support Drew University | Make a Gift Today) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/).

Arrangements by Stroyan Funeral Home, 405 West Harford St., Milford, PA (www.stroyanfuneralhome.com).