Saratoga Springs, NY - Ellen Ann Salerni, whose personal bout with ovarian cancer transformed her into a tireless friend, mentor and advocate for others who faced cancer, passed away on April 18, 2016, at her home in Saratoga Springs with her family by her side. She was 64 years old.

Ellen was born on Feb. 22, 1952, in Brooklyn, N.Y., to Arlene Benson and Sol (Sam) Benson. She was raised in Valley Stream, N.Y., and earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from SUNY Albany and a master's degree in special education from the College of Saint Rose in Albany.

Ellen met her husband, Gene, when they were both students at SUNY Albany. They married on Dec. 21, 1975, and raised two children, Stephen, 35, and Karen, 31.

Throughout her life, Ellen was a passionate soul who touched many lives. Those who knew her will miss her fire, intelligence, friendship and smile.

Her academic training and love of children led her to work with those with autism spectrum disorder. Her career took her to several area schools, but her most meaningful and rewarding times were spent at Helping Hands School in Clifton Park where she was admired by her students, their parents and her colleagues.

She was also active in community events and organizations committed to helping others, including Literacy Volunteers, Special Olympics, Autism Awareness and, particularly, the Saratoga Regional YMCA's LIVESTRONG Program. She began as a participant in the cancer survivor exercise and well-being program. After her program concluded, she continued as a mentor and spent much of her time helping her new friends deal with their own cancers.  She chaired the annual LIVESTRONG luncheon fundraiser and served on other YMCA committees. In 2014, the Saratoga Regional YMCA presented her with its Volunteer of the Year Award.

Ellen faced her own disease with enormous courage and determination. For more than five years, she took on scores of chemotherapy treatments and procedures and endured every side effect with strength, hope and resilience.  In spite of these obstacles, she always presented a positive outlook to her friends and family.

Through it all, Ellen was able to maintain a focus on her most important obligations – to be a loving wife, devoted mother and dear friend.

In addition to her beloved husband, Gene, caring children Stephen of New York and Karen of San Diego, and dedicated mother Arlene of Deerfield Beach, Fla., Ellen is survived by her younger brother Mitchel (Susan) Benson of Folsom, Ca., brother-in-law Paul Salerni of Queens, N.Y., nephews Sam Benson of West Hollywood, Ca., and Jack (Shreya) Benson of San Francisco, and niece Cara Benson of San Luis Obispo, Ca. Ellen was preceded in death by her father and her niece Cassandra Benson.

She also leaves behind many other relatives and friends, including those who helped comfort and care for her when she needed it the most.

Ellen's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the entire staff of Women's Cancer Care Associates for their professionalism and compassionate care, and The Community Hospice, which allowed her to experience a meaningful life in her final months.

Services are scheduled for Thursday, April 21, at 11:00 a.m. at the Saratoga Springs Jewish Community Center, Congregation Shaara Tfille, 84 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs.  Burial will follow in the Center's cemetery, followed by a short reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Ellen's name to the local LIVESTRONG Program, with checks payable to the Saratoga Regional YMCA, c/o John Higgins, 290 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.