Jan Ellsworth

Janet “Jan” Ellsworth, age 75, of Perry, Iowa, died on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the EveryStep Kavanagh House in Des Moines, Iowa. Jan’s memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. with her visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. all on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, located at 1721 Park Street, Perry, Iowa 50220. Burial will take place in the Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry following the service.

Jan was an excellent student throughout all her different studies. She graduated from North High School in Des Moines with the class of 1967. During those years, Jan was especially proud of her time in Rainbow. She attained the top position of Worthy Advisor and was awarded the Grand Cross of Color. She also excelled in several sports, including tennis, basketball, and softball. In 1972, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Education and went on to obtain two master’s Degrees from Drake University and Northwest Missouri State University.

Jan was a life-long learner, and her interests included Shakespeare, Mythology, and politics. She was a proud Democrat and worked on several different campaigns over the years. She was especially proud of working for Jimmy Carter in 1976.

In 1981, Jan met Margaret “Maggie” Ruggle, and they became life partners. It was Maggie who gave Jan the ultimatum to get help for her alcoholism. Jan was always grateful, and she joined Alcoholics Anonymous on April 19, 1990. Jan got sober and worked on the program for nearly 34 years.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Karen, and several close friends.

Jan is survived by her life partner Maggie Ruggle of Perry, and all the Ruggle family, and several Ellsworth cousins.

Memorials may be given to EveryStep Hospice in Des Moines and may be left at the funeral home. Jan and Maggie are grateful to all the Hospice workers, medical staff, and volunteers, for their kindness and compassion. Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.