Mary Ellen Thalacker

In Loving Memory of Mary Ellen (Thiede) Thalacker

Mary Ellen, age 85, of Harrisville, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, September 26th, 2024. She lived a wonderful life where she was married to her Husband, Glenn, for 63 years. She was also a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her life was filled with love, adventure, and a steadfast commitment to her family and community.

Born on August 29th, 1939 in Harrisville, Mary Ellen grew up on her family’s farm, where she spent her childhood doing difficult tasks including milking cows, picking pickles, and learning the value of hard work. Those early years in nature fostered a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors and a strong work ethic that shaped every stage of her life. She was also a devoted journaler, capturing her thoughts and memories every single day for over 50 years—a testament to her reflective nature and love of story keeping.

Mary Ellen attended Haney School and graduated from Westfield High School in 1957 and continued her education at St. Mary’s, where she earned her nursing degree. She spent 7 years working at St. Mary’s hospital and 27 years as a dedicated home-health nurse, caring for others with compassion and grace. Following her retirement from nursing, she served as an assistant and secretary for the Harris Town Chairman, contributing her skills and knowledge to the community she adored.

A woman of many talents and interests, Mary Ellen lived life to the fullest. She loved playing Euchre with friends and family, hunting and fishing, and spending time in nature. She was also an avid reader, rumored to have read nearly every book in the Westfield Library. 

Connecting with her community was another passion of hers, and she volunteered for local events, including the annual Harrisville Bratfest and could be found selling pull-tabs. She was also known for her spirited visits to Ho Chunk Casino and her dedication to cheering on the Brewers and Badger basketball teams. She never missed a game and was always eager to discuss the latest plays and stats with her family. Her lively enthusiasm and competitive spirit were contagious, and game days will never be the same without her. Her travels took her to breathtaking destinations, including Alaska, the Teton Mountains, Niagara Falls, and memorable trips to support her beloved Badgers at the Rose Bowl, Sweet Sixteen, and Final Four tournaments.

Mary Ellen had a sweet tooth for life’s simple pleasures, always treating herself to a small scoop of dessert when she could. She was also the family’s unofficial memory-keeper, meticulously organizing photos for future generations and preserving family memories in her journals. But most importantly, Mary Ellen was a devoted family woman who cherished every moment spent with her husband, children, and grandchildren. She was a constant cheerleader, attending sporting events, recitals, and monumental events to show her support. Her home was always a hub of activity, filled with laughter and imaginative games, egg hunts, and gatherings that kept the family close-knit.

Mary Ellen had a unique gift for making everyone feel welcome, greeting every friend, family member, and newcomer with warmth and love. Her presence made every room brighter and every event more joyful.

She is survived by her loving husband, Glenn, her children, Susie and Patrick, her grandchildren, Alyssa and Jake, her siblings, Ralph and Lucille, sister-in-law, Margie Thalacker and many other dear family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her sister, Kathleen, and her brother, Jimmy. 

In honoring Mary Ellen’s wishes, the family will host a private celebration of her life. The family requests privacy during this time and asks that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family to build a memorial in her name at one of her favorite places.

Mary Ellen’s love, generosity, and zest for life will be remembered and cherished forever. Her legacy lives on in the laughter, memories, and stories she shared with those she held dear.

May she rest in eternal peace.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall. Send your condolences or share a memory of Mary Ellen with her family & friends.