Cooperstown, NY - COOPERSTOWN - Ellen Eccles (nee Wapniarski) was born July 25, 1945, in Glen Cove, and passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family Feb. 2, 2026, in Rye, New Hampshire.

Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Joseph, in 2018, and by her sister, Carolyn (Walter) Kozikowski, in 2014. She is survived by her stepsons Michael and Donald (Georgiann); grandson, Jason; niece, Teri; nephews Ted (Kristi) and Tom (Dyan), and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Ellen grew up in Greenvale, and was a graduate of Roslyn High School, where she performed as a majorette with the school's marching band. She worked for years at Standard Register in Long Island. She met her beloved husband, Joe, in 1986, and they were married Nov. 1. 1987, in Westbury. Upon their retirement, Ellen and Joe moved upstate to Cooperstown, in 2000 where they continued to foster their mutual love of baseball, living close to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Their home overlooked Lake Otsego and provided beautiful views year-round.

Ellen was an avid New York Mets fan, and rarely if ever missed a game. If she wasn't watching baseball, Ellen was tuned in to the Hallmark Channel, and her favorite TV mystery shows. Ellen would never turn down a good pastry - a Devil Dog in particular - or a Diet Coke. Her family is grateful for her neighbors and friends who supported her over the years. She will be missed and always be remembered as the "cool aunt" - dressed to the nines, perfect makeup, the trendiest cars, and the heartiest laugh.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 14 in Saint Mary's Cemetery in Cooperstown.

Arrangements are with Tillapaugh Funeral Service, Cooperstown.