Mary Ellen Schindler

Mary E. Schindler, age 90, of Bloomington, passed away on December 13, 2024. She was preceded in death by her husband Frank and her parents Bertha and Peter. Mary is survived by her loving family: daughter Karen, brother John (Delores), and sister Suzie (Rick). Memorials are welcome, and contributions may be made to St. Michael's Lutheran Church, the American Cancer Society, or Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida. Mary was known for her genuine caregiving nature, having taken excellent care of her husband throughout their 40-year marriage until his passing in 2013. She battled cancer for 11 years with immense strength and positivity, inspiring many, especially those on their own cancer journeys. Mary had a joyful heart and brought joy to everything she did and everyone she met. She was known as the best conversationalist, never meeting a stranger. Active in her church community, she started the funeral lunch program at St. Michael's Lutheran Church, where she had been a member since 1973. Her contributions to the church and the "church lunch ladies" will always be remembered fondly. Born in August 1934 in Luverne, MN, Mary was the firstborn of Bertha and Peter, who were farmers. Her childhood was marked by the challenges and contributions of the World War II era. Mary had vivid memories of rationing, community efforts for the war, and taking on farm responsibilities at a young age. Mary attended a small three-room school and later graduated from Laverne High School. She was an accomplished accordion player and taught accordion lessons to many children. Mary pursued business school for accounting and worked for Farm Hand for 14 years. She married Frank in 1973, welcomed their daughter Karen in 1974, and became a stay-at-home mom and seamstress; she sewed and altered many wedding gowns and formals. Mary was actively involved in Karen's grade school, teaching Art Masterpiece and assisting with Girl Scouts. Her ancestry dates back to 1635 with the name Mason, with family members who contributed significantly to American history, including the Minutemen and the Civil War. Mary's favorite restaurant was Mancini's Char House, where she celebrated her 90th birthday with friends and family. She loved traveling and enjoyed many road trips with her girlfriends before marriage, as then trips with Frank, Karen, and friends. One of her favorite vacations was the Alaskan Cruise with Karen and friends in May 2023. Mary's life was marked by kindness, dedication, and a deep sense of community. She lived her life to the fullest, always with a smile on her face and a kind word to share.

Tributes

Mary Ellen Schindler

August 7, 1934 - December 13, 2024

Tributes

Mary Ellen Schindler

August 7, 1934 - December 13, 2024

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