ARUNDEL — Ellen Louise [Hills] Howes, 61, of Arundel, passed away peacefully Dec. 4, 2014, at her residence with her family by her side. She was born in Belfast on Nov. 24, 1953. She graduated from Belfast Area high School in 1972 and University of New Hampshire in Durham, N.H., with a degree in recreation.

Ellen ran the summer recreational program for the Kennebunk's for many years; she met and married Galen Howes, than traveled around the world with him before her children were born.

She enjoyed crafting of all types. She owned and operated her crafting business, "Hills of Maine," for several years. She enjoyed making baskets and caning chairs. Recently she did chair caning under the name "Maine-Tane the Cane." She also liked spending time at the family camp in Searsmont and completing the daily crossword puzzle.

She was active in her community. She was involved with the Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude Craft Fair every year. She was a member of the Good Cheer Club, as well as the Woman's Association of South Congregational Church. Ellen also drove a bus for the Arundel School system.

Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Capt. Galen Howes; her parents, Maine and Ruby Hills Jr.; and her older brother, Maine III.

She is survived by her son, Isaac Howes, and daughter-in-law, Angela, of Lebanon; her daughter, Geneva Howes, and grandson, Wesley Chretien, of Hampden. She also leaves behind her three brothers, Capt. John Hills and Carole Albee of Portland, Peter Hills of Waldo and Parker Hills of Belfast.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. at South Congregational Church in Kennebunkport.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ellen's memory to The New School, 38 York St., Kennebunk, ME 04043.

Arrangements are under the care of Riposta Funeral Home.