PINNAS, Ellen

Ellen Pinnas 68, of Tucson, died July 12, 2010 of bile duct cancer at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Ellen was born on January 20, 1942 in New York to Dr. Max and Frances Reiff. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Jacob Pinnas, of Tucson; four daughters, Michelle (Amir) Wolfe, Deborah (David) Friedman, Laura (Paul) Sagerman, and Shira (Chang) Liu; and eight grandchildren, Rachel, Aaron, Shoshana, Binyamin, and Akiva Wolfe, and Chaim, Max, and Zachary Friedman. She graduated with a B.S. ('62) in Biochemistry and MAT ('64) in Biology from the University of Chicago. She taught science at the high school and college levels and later volunteered at her children's schools in leadership positions, including Principal of Beth El Preschool (in San Diego) and PTA President and curriculum developer at Tucson Hebrew Academy. She worked as research administrator and office manager for the Allergy and Asthma Center of AZ with her husband. A true woman of valor, Ellen was beloved by her husband, children, and grandchildren. A dedicated and loving person, she enjoyed spending time with family and friends and caring for her elderly relatives. She loved nature, cooking, travel, and the pursuit of knowledge. Service will be held Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at 9:00 a.m., EVERGREEN MORTUARY CHAPEL, with Rabbi Robert Eisen, Rabbi Emeritus Arthur Oleisky and Cantor Ivor Lichterman officiating. Interment will follow in the Congregation Anshei Israel section of Evergreen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Anshei Israel Louise Haber Preschool/Kindergarten Scholarship Fund, 5550 E. 5th St., Tucson, AZ 85711 in memory of Ellen Pinnas or to the Pima County Parklands Foundation, P.O. Box 70, Vail, AZ 85641 in memory of Ellen Susan Pinnas. Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY & CEMETERY, N. Oracle Rd. & W. Miracle Mile. www.evergreenmortuary-cemetery.com. Published in the Tucson Newspapers on July 13, 2010