Ellen Jean

Brinkman

Ellen Jean Brinkman, age 91, of L'Anse, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Bayside Village in L'Anse.

Jean was born on April 4, 1935, in Pekin, Illinois, the daughter of George and Anna (Whitby) Maltby. She graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, in 1953. Following graduation, she attended Grant Hospital School of Nursing in Chicago from 1953 to 1956, where she earned her Registered Nursing degree.

On November 22, 1958, Jean married the love of her life Edward Brinkman in Lake Linden, Michigan. THey enjoyed 60 years of marraige raising their 3 children in L'Anse, MI. She dedicated her career to nursing, working at Calumet Memorial Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, and St. Luke's Hospital in Marquette before joining Baraga County Memorial Hospital, where she faithfully served for 30 years. She held many position at BCMH from floor nurse to assisting in baby deliveries, to prenatal education and CPR certifications. She retired in 1995.

Jean was an active member of United Lutheran Church, where she served on the church council and sang in the church choir. Many will remember her for her weekly readings at Sunday services. She also enjoyed singing with the Community Choir and playing handbells. In her spare time, Jean enjoyed various handcrafts, including cross-stitching, knitting, and crocheting. She especially loved taking walks with her dog, Jasmine. Jean was an avid Packer fan, cheering them on through the good and bad years, and a Chicago Cubs fan. She loved her family dearly and would send a Birthday card every year and call them to sing Happy Birthday. She will be missed by her loved ones immensely and all that called her a friend.

Jean is survived by her son, Edward (Loretta) Brinkman of Skanee, Michigan; daughters, Lois Brinkman of Eugene, OR, and Sarah (Dony) Ison of L'Anse; sister, Lois Ann Fride of Madison, WI; grandchildren, Alexis (Kristian) Evans and Delaney (Brysen) McPhetridge; and great granddaughter Eloise Jean.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edward; and her brother, David Maltby.

A funeral service will be held at a later date. The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Friends may sign Jean's guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com.