1928 – 2016

AUBURN — Ellen S. Magnussen, 88, of Auburn passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 25.

She was born in Gjarpen, Norway, on Jan. 25, 1928. She was married to Frank A. Magnussen, also originally from Norway.

Ellen was known for her positive spirit, her love of nature and her artistry. At a young age, she learned to draw and continued creating art throughout her lifetime. Upon moving to Denmark when she married Frank, she worked for a fashion designer as a pattern maker and model. The couple moved to Quebec, but their long-term goal was to move to the United States, which they did in the 1960s, to Rhode Island.

In addition to raising her surviving children, Erik of Greene, and Linda of Warren, Vt., she kept an active hand in many artistic pursuits. She always found time for her painting and the first thing she would pack for a trip, was her paint box and easel. She was a trained seamstress and started a successful fabric business at the height of the sewing craze, running classes and advising woman on their fashion wardrobes.

While living in Rhode Island, Ellen and Frank purchased their home on lower Sandy River Pond in the 1970s. They chose the Rangeley Lakes region because it reminded them of Norway with the vast forests and mountain terrain, and four seasons bringing lots of snow for cross country skiing. They created their own electric energy with a windmill and solar panels and loved living off the grid. Frank built Ellen an art studio overlooking the pond and she continued to paint and exhibited her artwork at local events. Ellen and Frank became involved in the community through volunteering and working actively at the Rangeley Congregational Church.

In addition to her children, Ellen is survived by Linda’s husband, Gary Link; and her three grandchildren, Kristin of McCarthy, Alaska, Sarah of London, UK, and Anders, of New York, N.Y. Ellen inspired all of her grandchildren’s interests in the arts and her creative spirit lives on with them.

You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Ellen’s life by visiting her guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.