Mary Ellmann

Mary Hawkes Ellmann, a woman of kindness and unwavering love, passed away on Monday, February 5, 2024, in Walnut Creek, California after a dramatic 11th hour rally to say goodbye to all her children and grandchildren.
Born on May 2, 1931, in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, Mary was the first of six siblings in the Hawkes family. Her parents and siblings affectionately called her "Lady," a name that reflected her grace and dignity. When Mary was 18, her father relocated the entire family to Santa Barbara, where she would go on to graduate from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Mary's passion for education led her to become an elementary school teacher. In 1957 she married Norbert, the love of her life, and they settled down in Garden Grove to raise a family. Later, Mary returned to the field of education, teaching elementary school reading. She earned Master's Degrees in Reading and Education from California State University, Fullerton, and Claremont Graduate University, respectively.
In 1979, Mary achieved her dream job at Long Beach City College. As the Chairman of the college's Reading Department, she worked tirelessly to help students improve their skills while mentoring her colleagues, setting high standards for all. After a brief 48-hour retirement at the age of 61, she retired for good at 68. Just ten days later, her twin grandchildren arrived.
Mary lived her faith. She nurtured children in Catholic teachings as director of the religious education program at church. For over 20 years, Mary met with a small group of dear friends to study Scripture. Her Catholic beliefs were never rigid, always deep, focusing on conscience formation and compassion.
Mary relished nurturing and raising her family. She was the force behind all the rich and memorable Ellmann family camping trips, many of which were shared with another set of intrepid campers, the Nurre family. When grandchildren arrived, she continued the tradition by renting beach houses at Newport Beach. These activities took so much work but were so rewarding for her and her family.
Mary's gentle kindness was combined with fierce independence. She embraced new experiences with zest, obtaining an expedited passport to visit Canada at the age of 86 and fearlessly kayaking on Lake Superior at 87. At 88, she spearheaded a Hawkes Family Reunion, again bringing loved ones together.
Mary's warm, friendly smile made everyone feel cherished and accepted. She delighted in hearing happy stories about others and had a penchant for flowers and sweets. Mary took immense pride in the diverse accomplishments of her friends and family, celebrating their achievements with unwavering support-a gift to everyone whose lives she touched.
Mary is survived by her loving children: John, Steve (Elizabeth), Mary Tang (Robert), and Susie Spitz (Marc); and grandchildren: Henry, Jane, and Clara Ellmann, Daniel and Katie Tang, and Alina and Kieran Spitz. She also leaves behind her brothers, Edward and Emmet, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Norbert, and her siblings Edmee, Kathy, and Howard.
A memorial service to celebrate Mary's life will be held on March 22, 2024, at Christ Cathedral Cemetery in Garden Grove.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Mary's name to the Long Beach City College Foundation or the Dominican Sisters of Hope
Mary's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her spirit continue to inspire us all.