Mary Ellenbecker Beck Merica

1935 - 2025

Mary Beck Merica, 90, passed away peacefully on October 18 after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Born Mary Elizabeth Ellenbecker in Marysville, Kansas, she graduated from Marysville High School in 1953, briefly worked for the FBI in Washington, D.C. before marrying Bob Beck of Topeka, with whom she built both a thriving insurance business and a loving family of seven children. Following Bob's passing, Mary found love again with Walt Merica, sharing adventures, travels, and creative pursuits. Mary served others tirelessly, in her 46-year career as an AFLAC agent, in her active ministry at Omaha parishes, and her steadfast care for family and friends. She loved playing bridge, scrabble, and cheering on the Huskers. Preceded in death by first husband Bob Beck, second husband Walt Merica, siblings John Ellenbecker, Jeanette Anderson. Survived by siblings Mona Colson, Phyllis Hammett, Fred Ellenbecker, and children Barb (Terry) Graeve, Jo (Jim) Boche, Cathy Lyons, Jim (Nada) Beck, Dave (Annie) Beck, Judi (Todd) Storm, Mike (Becki) Beck, Jenifer (Scott) Anderson, Tom (Vickie) Beck, 26 grandkids, 38 great-grandkids, 1 great-great-grandchild.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, 5419 N. 114th St. Omaha, on Tuesday Oct. 28 at 10:30 a.m. Mary suggested memorials to the Greater Omaha Aquatics Foundation.