Mary Ellen Rogers “Merf”

Mary Ellen Rogers Fitzjerrells "Merf" age 67, passed away peacefully on a sunny Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2024 in Seal Beach, California. Born on September 22, 1956 in Mentor, Ohio, her family relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona when she was seven years old. She became a cherished resident of Scottsdale, where she left a lasting impact on her community and friends.

Mary Ellen graduated from Coronado High School in Scottsdale, AZ. She attended Northern Arizona University before earning her BS degree in Business from the University of Arizona. She always seemed to have two jobs. Working at the family business always came first, and also finding time to work in retail clothing and the food service industry.

Mary Ellen loved to travel and made frequent trips to the Hawaiian Islands. Arizona resort life with friends and family were always on her schedule. Her love of aerobics brought her by chance to YMCA classes, where she met her soon to be life long friends. As all young mothers, they bonded and formed a life long friendship. Girlfriend trips were often on the itinerary, be it for birthdays, holidays, no real reason was required. Cruises, wine country from desert to the sea, Merf and friends traveled and celebrated often and well together.

Mary Ellen was generous beyond words, caring, witty and beautiful. She made everyone around her a better person. We all knew Mary Ellen was something special. Merf loved shopping and wearing her cashmere sweaters, designer handbags and bling. She was such a fashion statement. Her love for socializing was matched by her passion for sun worshiping, playing sudoku, baking cookies and brownies and simply spoiling her friends. She never missed an opportunity to make every occasion special, often with a custom homemade touch, whether it was through a card, a gift, or special treat bags that she seldom left home without. Other treats were always given to her favorite Labs; Rex, Leo and Newman. They were frequent recipients of dog bones and squeaky toys. Merf cherished her Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, from movies, toys, clothes, handbags and tennis shoes, the characters could always be found close by.

Mary Ellen was most proud of her son Daniel, graduating from ASU and buying his first home. She often said "God, I just love that kid!".

Mary Ellen's heart forever belonged to Arizona, a testament to her deep connections and lasting friendships. Her life was a series of celebrated moments, created and shared with those around her.

Mary Ellen is survived by her loving husband of 32 years Brian, her son Daniel, and her dog Newman. Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her father A.B., her mother Eileen, and her brother Tom.

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Hangout Restaurant in Seal Beach, CA, on September 23rd from 2-4:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held October 5th, 12:00pm at St. Daniel Church in Scottsdale, AZ, followed by a Celebration of Life. These gatherings will honor her memory and the joy she brought to the lives of so many. Cheers, we love you Mary Ellen, and thank you for wonderful times and laughter we've shared. You are so dearly missed!