ELLEN JOAN VETTER's Obituary
Ellen Joan Vetter, 84, of Leesburg, VA passed away on June 22, 2023 at Heritage Hall in Leesburg.
Ellen was born on July 7, 1938 in New Rochelle, New York to John Anthony Gotti and Katherine Ferrara.
She had a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Education and Speech from SUNY Buffalo 1960.
Ellen taught public school in Niagara Falls NY, New Brunswick NJ, Oakland CA, Stamford CT, and Alexandria VA.
She met and married James Vetter in 1969. They were blessed with two children.
Ellen stayed home to raise her children until returning to teaching in 1980.
She ran the school aged program for the Salvation Army University View Child Care Center.
She was a beloved teacher and director there for 24 years until her retirement in 2004.
Ellen (YaYa) loved spending time at the beach, taking walks, and doing yoga at the Leesburg Senior Center. She was her grandchildren’s number one fan, cheering for them at every basketball game and dance competition.
Ellen was predeceased by the love of her life James Edward Vetter. Her parents John and Katherine Gotti, and her sister Kay Gotti.
She is survived by her two children: Laurie Elizabeth, son in law William Gessaman, and John R. Vetter; her sisters: Carol Fitzgerald and Jacqueline Carboy and two grandchildren Jackson and Sophia.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023 at St. James Episcopal Church starting at 1 pm.
In lieu of flowers , the family suggests a donation to your favorite animal rescue organization.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
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