Ellen J. Bennitt, 67, of New Milford died peacefully June 16 at Candlewood Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center after a most courageous 11-year battle with cancer.abilitybeyond.org.

Ms Bennitt was born on June 8, 1949, in Danbury, and was the daughter of the late Evelyn E. (Grubbe) and Joseph L. Bennitt. Raised in Newtown, she graduated from Newtown High School in 1967.

Her life partner, Herbert Schaltegger of New Milford, with whom she made her home for the past 44 years, and his son, Herbert, his wife, and his daughter, all of whom reside in Tennessee, survive her. She leaves behind one brother, Paul J. Bennitt of Bethel; three sisters, Donna Hofmann of Florida, Mary Schenzer of New Milford and Diane Lacoursiere of North Carolina; two half-brothers, Jim Bennitt of Florida and Roger Bennitt of Bethel; several cousins, nieces and nephews; and many great- and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was employed by Nestle USA for 27 years. After her retirement in 2004, she worked in admitting at New Milford Hospital, retiring in 2009.

Her family was of utmost importance to her. She assumed the care of her brother Paul after her mother's passing in 2000. As her cancer progressed, she was passionate about securing a safe and well-managed home for Paul, which she found within the Ability Beyond program.

Over the years, Ms Bennitt and Mr Schaltegger took many trips to Switzerland, traveling to other countries as well. She took it upon herself to take German lessons, so she could communicate with family and friends while visiting.

Ms Bennitt was a member of the Roger Sherman Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, showing direct lineal descent to Benjamin Stone, a captain in Colonel Baldwin's Regiment whose company turned out to expel the enemy at New Haven, July 5, 1779.

Those who knew Ms Bennitt can attest she was a fine, loving and caring person. She will be sadly missed by all of her family and many friends.

Calling hours will be Wednesday, June 22, from 5 to 8 pm, at the Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford, with a prayer service to follow. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Ability Beyond, 4 Berkshire Boulevard, Bethel CT 06801 or