Ellen L. Criss – (82) – formerly of 110 Elizabeth St., Hornell, passed away Sunday, March 18, 2018 at Hornell Gardens, where she had resided for the past three months.

Born in Bradford, NY on April 29, 1935, she was the daughter of John and Lottie (Moss) Axtell.

Growing up in Bradford, Ellen graduated from Bradford Central School. She and her husband moved to Almond and opened an ice cream shop and deli in Alfred. She enjoyed operating the business and serving local college students until 1972. She then moved to Hornell, where she has resided since that time. Ellen worked as a bookkeeper for Allen Monaghan, CPA and was later employed as the bookkeeper for Updyke’s Rest Home and the Italian Villa Restaurant in Hornell. She loved arts & crafts, crocheting, and was an avid New York Yankees fan.

Ellen was married on September 3, 1959 to Ronald “Ronnie” Criss who died January 1, 2003. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Richard “Dick” Axtell and her sister, Vi Axtell.

Surviving are 3 sisters, Mary (Francis) Dellamano of Oswego, NY, Sara Criss of Bath, NY, and Dee Eldred of Corning, NY; her great-niece Kellie (Ryan) Harrison and their daughters of Hornell; many other nieces & nephews, great- and great-great- nieces & nephews.

At Ellen’s request, there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service and burial at the Howard Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Ellen’s family requests that Memorial Contributions in here name be made to Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.