Ellen Picht Obituary (1944 – 2022) – Sacramento, CA

Ellen Matthews Picht
December 28, 1944 – August 1, 2022
Sacramento, California – Ellen died in her home from a brain tumor on the morning of August 1st. She was cared for by her husband Mahlon, with help from sister-in-law Isabelle, brother Eric, son Matt, and hospice staff.
Born in Berkeley, her formative years included Peru and Wellesley. She graduated from UC Davis and UC Berkeley, and was later employed at both campuses. Ellen, Mahlon, and Matt settled in Sacramento where she worked for the state legislature and the Director of UC Davis’ Cancer Center. She was also Student Affairs Officer at UC Davis’ College of Biological Sciences.
A pride in Ellen’s life is her son Matt, whose accomplishments in education reflect his mother’s persistent and steadfast support, love, and high standards. His pride extends to Matt’s wife Elaine, grandchildren Keira and Trey, Eric and Isabelle, nephew Owen, co-parents-in-law Joe and Deb, extended family, longtime friends, riding partners, and all animals large and small. Ellen was always in attendance at her son’s and grandchildren’s sports and after-school events, and regularly volunteered in their classrooms. She tutored reading programs, and volunteered at the Sacramento Food Bank.
Through Murphy, her four-legged love of over 12 hands, she satisfied her exhilaration for English riding. She competed and won ribbons in equestrian events. Riding lessons from Alex at her MAW stables were on her calendar.
The summer heat of the Central Valley confirmed her love of family retreats to Sea Ranch, Tuolumne Meadows, the Pacific coast, and the Sierra. She traveled. France was a favourite. Not forgotten are biking and kayaking with husband Mahlon and the Road Scholars.
Always a loyal Berkeley girl, she cheered the Blue and Gold on Fall afternoons whether seated in the end zone or at home on Cal Bears radio – “Go Bears!”. Cal buddy – friend forever – Pat Day’s dinners in her home were always looked forward to.
Words, reading, and writing were Ellen’s passion. She was an editor for the Women’s Center at Cal, for Delta Dental, and even for her son’s manuscripts. Ellen enjoyed crosswords every morning, and Bananagram was always at the ready. Delighting us were her remembrances written for family & friends on their special days.
On September 17th there will be a memorial & reception remembering Ellen at Sierra 2 Center, Curtis Hall, 10AM to Noon, 2791 24th St, Sacramento. All who knew Ellen are welcome.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Sep. 4, 2022.

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