MADISON - Ellen Margaret Martin, age 25, of Madison, was taken from us far too soon on Saturday, October 4, 2025. She was born April 6, 2000, in Madison, the beloved daughter of Michael and Lori (Miller) Martin and cherished younger sister to Derek.

Bright, inquisitive, and full of heart, Ellen had a beautiful, contagious smile and could light up a room with her laughter. Fiercely independent, Ellen was also deeply compassionate. She always made time to support others, ready to help, listen, or simply be there when she was needed most. Family and friends meant everything to her. She was especially close to her many cousins, who were more like siblings.

A true Wisconsinite at heart, Ellen never passed up the chance to enjoy cheese, especially cheese curds from Culvers. She shared a birthday with her Grandma Martin, a special connection they always enjoyed. Ellen especially loved celebrating her own birthday and eagerly counted down the days each year.

She graduated from Oregon High School in 2018 and earned her education degree from UW-Madison in 2022. She taught school in Madison for two years, bringing kindness to every classroom. Wherever she went, children always gravitated to her, drawn by her patience and rare ability to make each of them feel truly seen and valued.

She is survived by her loving parents, Mike and Lori; her brother, Derek (Caidence) Martin; grandmother, Patricia Martin; grandfathers, Russ (Kathy) Miller and George Dintelman; uncles, Jeff (Karen) Martin, Bruce (Cheri) Martin, Todd (Karin) Miller, and Brett (Lisa) Dintelman; aunts, Joyce (Bill) Albright, Barb (Steve) Bernhardt, Leanne (Jim) Vogt, Andrea (Tom) Crubel, and Jennifer (Dan) Waters; as well as many cousins and close friends who meant the world to her. She was welcomed into heaven by her grandfather, Richard "Bud" Martin, and grandmother, Barb Dintelman, both of whom she loved.

Ellen chose to be an organ and tissue donor, an act that quietly reflected her generosity and care for others.

A memorial service will be held at Gunderson Oregon Funeral and Cremation Care, 1150 Park St., Oregon at 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Visitation will begin at 12 noon.

Memorials may be made to the University Health Services Suicide Prevention Fund (secure.supportuw.org/give/search/), Reach Dane (www.reachdane.org), an organization dedicated to changing the lives of underserved children and families through education and supportive services, or to any organization that supports the well-being and development of children.

“The Lord is near the brokenhearted; he saves those crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

Online condolences may be shared at www.gundersonfh.com.

The family and friends of Ellen Martin want you to know that you are never alone. If you're experiencing thoughts of suicide, please know that support is available by calling or texting the SUICIDE & CRISIS LIFELINE at 988 for immediate help. No one deserves to suffer from domestic violence or abuse. You are worthy of safety, support, and love. If you need help, please reach out to the NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE at 800-799-7233.

Gunderson Oregon
Funeral & Cremation Care
1150 Park St.
(608) 835-3515

Ellen Margaret Martin

April 06, 2000 - October 04, 2025

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