Ella Gier, 91, of Salina, died on May 10, 2023 at the Minneapolis Health Care and Rehabilitation Center, Minneapolis, KS.

Ella Sophie Gier was born a twin with Della Hendrickson on June 21, 1931 in Sylvan Grove, Kansas to Henry and Amanda Heine.

She married Rolland (Bud) Gier on July 30, 1950, and had three children in 9 years. Marcia and Cathy were born while Bud was serving in the Navy and Ella managed the several moves on both coasts. Russell was born when they settled back in their hometown of Sylvan Grove. The family lived in Abilene during the time of Dwight Eisenhower’s state funeral. Next and finally, the family moved to Salina where Russell resides at the family home. Ella volunteered at many locations in Salina and was proud of earning her nurses aide certificate. That training may have led to her legacy of giving the best backrubs. Turning your back on Ella was the right move. After retirement, Bud and Ella traveled to see more of the USA, visit relatives and attend his ship reunions.

She is preceded in death by daughter Marcia Kelley and husband Bud.

She is survived by daughter Cathy in Minnesota, son Russell who faithfully tended to her care for the last several years, granddaughters Annette Wooldridge and Rachel Ross, 6 great grandchildren and 8 great-great grandchildren.

In less than a year her life became difficult, and her family is grateful that she now has rest and blessings we can only imagine. Thank you to all who visited her and the staff who looked after her daily care.

A memorial service will be held at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Salina on Friday the 19th of May at 11am, followed by a luncheon. Ella donated her body to science and an inurnment of her cremains will be held at a later date. Memorials may be sent to the Christ the King Lutheran Church; 111 W. Magnolia, Salina, KS 67401 or the donor choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Roselawn Burial and Cremation Services. Online condolences may be sent to www.roselawnsalina.com.