Mary Ellen (Hickey) Kowalski

Mary Ellen (Hickey) Kowalski passed away peacefully on June 2, 2024, at the age of 80. Mary Ellen was born in Milwaukee, WI on October 29, 1943, the daughter of Andrew and Marion Hickey. She raised her family with her husband John in Greendale, WI. They enjoyed their retirement years in The Villages, FL where they spent many days traveling, golfing with friends, playing tennis, visiting Disney, and hosting family. She recently had moved to Weston, WI to be closer to her family. While she lived in many communities throughout her life, her relationship with God and strong faith remained consistent.

Mary Ellen was a beloved wife of 57 years to husband John and loving Mom to their three daughters, Beth Erdman, Lynne (Steve) Goethel, and Julie (Clay) Rice. She loved reading, crossword and Sudoku puzzles and most importantly spending time with her grandchildren, Alyssa, Jenna, Ethan, Carson, Ben, Alexis and Jake. She is also survived by siblings; Kathy Jaap, Margaret (Tom) Pezzi and Andrew (Judy Schlede) Hickey and other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by her parents, son-in-law Scott Erdman, brother-in-law Gary Jaap, and sister-in-law Barbara Klapka.

Mary Ellen attended The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where she was a proud member of Alpha Sigma Alpha where she was named Sorority Woman of the Year in 1965. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education and went on to teach English in the Milwaukee Public Schools. After spending several wonderful years raising her children, she found a new career within the banking industry and worked for U.S. Bank serving as a Teller and then later in her career as a Trust Officer. She retired after more than 20 years with the bank.

Mary Ellen will always be remembered for her kindness and warm heart. She will be greatly missed by family, friends and all who had the opportunity to know her.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, June 10th at 10:30 am. at St. John Paul II - St. Helen Church. Visitation at Church from 9:30-10:15 a.m. Interment at St. Adalbert Cemetery to follow.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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