Ellen Zilli

Ellen Zilli, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Pewaukee, Wisconsin at the age of 95 surrounded by loved ones.

Born and raised in a close-knit family on Milwaukee’s East Side, Ellen often reflected fondly on her childhood and the loving parents who shaped her strong values, even in times of hardship. Her strength carried her through her father’s illness when she was 15, leading her to leave school and begin working to help support her family.

In 1948, Ellen met her beloved husband, Angelo Zilli, and built a life in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Angelo managed a Sentry store while Ellen raised their four sons. Though Ellen was initially hesitant, the couple invested everything they had into a small local Tastee Freeze restaurant in 1968. The journey brought both triumph and heartbreak, including expanding the business and the early passing of her husband, Angelo. With determination, Jim’s suggestion, and family support, Ellen transitioned into catering and built the foundation of what is now Zilli Hospitality Group.

She took pride not only in her business, but in her family and community, instilling the values of hard work and integrity in those around her. She was deeply committed to giving back and was known for her candid wisdom, unwavering principles, strength, humility, and resilience.

Ellen is preceded in death by her beloved husband Angelo and son Michael. She is survived by her sons Jim (Susan), Robert (Candy), and Stephen (John Klink); her grandchildren, Anthony, Angela (Paul), Kelly, Robbie, Nick, Christine, Tricia, Jacob, Amanda, Michael (Rachel), and Kalib; her great-grandchildren Michael, Jack, Ella, Gianna, Jaxon, Colten, Carson, Madeline, McKenna, Jackson, Alexa, Addison, Alaya; and her great-great-grandchildren Cassius and Liam.

Family and friends are invited for the visitation at Corpus Christi Parish-St. William Church (440 N. Moreland Blvd., Waukesha, WI) on Wednesday, May 6, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and again on Thursday, May 7, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Family eulogies will begin at 10:00 AM. The funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 AM followed by a luncheon. Private entombment will be at Prairie Home Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Corpus Christi Parish School or the Alzheimer’s Association of Southeast Wisconsin in memory of Ellen Zilli.

Ellen always encouraged others to stay open-minded, persevere, and “be the best of who you are every day.” Her legacy lives on through her family, her business, and the many lives she touched.