ELLEN JO (MELHEIM)TOLLIVER Cedar Rapids ET went home... On Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, Ellen had her beautiful life claimed by cancer. Always a giving person, she loved helping others. Her dream was to be a mother and an RN. Ellen graduated from Kirkwood with an AA in nursing. She worked the majority of her long career at UHIC, St. Lukes and Mercy hospitals. Prior to retiring in 2009, she also worked in senior living care and private duty nursing. Ellen is survived by her loving son, Tim (Jessica), and grandsons, Hudson and Greyson. Also surviving are her three nephews, Mitch, John and CJ Melheim. These three wonderful nephews warmed her heart more than she could say and the feeling was mutual. She also leaves behind her big brother, Dave. Her good friends: "The Girls," "The Old Bags Club," and Hazel Druger were all among the many friends and family who will miss her. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ada and her father, Ole. Any donations are requested to be made to Critter Crusaders of Cedar Rapids: crittercrusaderscr.org or mailed to P.O. Box 10111, Cedar Rapids, IA 52410. Ellen's dear friend and boating buddy for many years Jan Gatto founded this amazing animal rescue. Ellen has donated her body to science, a memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre will be caring for Ellen and her arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.broshchapel.com.