Ellen E. Cioccio

Ellen Elaine Cioccio, age 88, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 25, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family.

Ellen was born October 13, 1935, in Des Moines, Iowa to George Albert and Bonita Genevieve (Bradish) Lacey. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree from Drake University in 1958. She then went on to earn her Master’s degree in 1985. Education was important to her, and Ellen was proud that her mother and her daughter were graduates of Drake University as well.

She was and very active in the Democratic Party and a champion for human rights. She had strong convictions in many things, and exercised her right to protest to stand up for her beliefs. Ellen worked at Drake University and was the Assistant to the Vice President for over 30 years. In her retirement she loved to travel. Above all else, Ellen loved her family dearly.

She is survived by her children, Cassandra (Bill) Elizondo, Christopher Cioccio, and Marco (Debbie) Cioccio; grandchildren, Chase Cioccio, Kacie (Matt) Barnas, Andy Stifel, Paula Cioccio, and Andrea Elizondo; great-granddaughter, Layla Barnas; and her nephews, Kirk (Julie) Bogel and Jason Lacey.

Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, George and Bonita Lacey; sister, Bonita (John) Bogle; and brother, George (Darlene) Lacey.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 28, 2024, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. A private family graveside service will take place at Glendale Cemetery, Des Moines.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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