Mary Ellen Michaels “Grammer”, 69, of Marseilles, passed away peacefully, yet unexpectedly on Thursday, February 15, 2024, following a short battle with cancer at Lightways Hospice with family by her side. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, February 19 at Seals-Campbell Funeral Home in Marseilles. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 20 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Marseilles with Fr. Sixmund Henry officiating.
She was born June 3, 1954, in Joliet, to Thomas and Clara (Zuchowski) McGann. Mary was born and raised in Joliet, where she graduated high school. In 1974, she married Larry Michaels.
In 1978, Mary moved to Marseilles where she remained. She was employed by GE/SABIC until her retirement. She had an unbelievable knack for remembering numbers and was exceptionally organized. She was very social and loved being around friends, especially the Birthday Club/Ya Ya Sisters, her grandboys, and her family. You could often find her volunteering for various positions at the Lions Club. Mary loved to travel, and she had even done a solo trip out of the country. Her passions included cooking, gambling, and swimming. She was an avid bowler, winning “Bowler of the Year” in her younger years. Mary was always so full of life and such a bright light.
She is survived by her daughter, Lisa (Dale) Baker of Sheridan; a son, Brian Michaels of Ottawa; two grandsons, Marcus and Connor Baker of Sheridan; four sisters, Marsha (Steve) Driggers, Elaine Brukwicki, Jane (Hal) Choisser, and Carol McGann; her former spouse, Larry Michaels; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Terry, Gerry, and Nib McGann.
Seals-Campbell Funeral Home
1009 E. Bluff St., Marseilles, IL 61341 815-795-5151 www.sealscampbell.com