Eloise Joanne Nyberg, 70, of Sweet Home, Oregon passed away June 15. She was born April 20, 1948 in Portland to Willis and Stella Jean (Moe) Nyberg. After her brother, Eric Nyberg, was born, the Nybergs moved to Crawfordsville to run the family’s dairy.

Ellie attended Seattle Pacific University where she earned her teaching credentials, met and married John Stephan (now divorced), and had her first daughter, Betsy. Following many moves throughout Oregon and California, and having her second daughter, Sarah, the family settled in Sacramento, California. This is when Ellie returned to her passion, teaching.

Ellie nurtured 20 years of children at Citrus Heights Elementary, helping them navigate the difficult sixth grade year. She was devoted to her students, fellow teachers, and especially her love of learning.

Following retirement in 2004, Ellie returned to Sweet Home to care for her parents, Willie and Jean, and be near her brother, Eric. Her grandchildren Zira, Nora, and Desmond were born.

Ellie was frequently ill throughout her life, but found comfort and strength through her faith in Jesus. She passed peacefully on June 15, 2018. Eloise is survived by her mother, Jean; daughters Betsy and Sarah; sons-in-law Ken and Layton; grandchildren Zira, Nora, and Desmond; and many school children whose lives she touched as a teacher.

A memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 23, at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.

Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling arrangements.