Mary Ellen Burgess

Mary Ellen Burgess, 87, of Oakfield, was called home on Sunday, June 27, 2021 at Agnesian Hospice Home of Hope. She was born July 31, 1933 in Madison, WI, the daughter of Margaret Hines. She was raised with love by her grandmother, Lucille Hines.



Mary Ellen was many things to many different people. A Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, friend, and cheerleader. She influenced the lives of all she met in some way and treated everyone as one of her own. Her hobbies included caring for animals, attending sporting events, Saturday morning pancakes, cleaning, laundry, and working as a waitress for many years. Her ultimate hobby was being a Grandma and her family's #1 fan. Her life was dedicated to those whom she loved, and everyone that met her felt and knew it.



We would like to give a special thanks to all of her caregivers for the past several years. Amidst all of her changes, transitions, ups and downs with health, a global pandemic- everyone made us feel connected, and we knew Grandma was taken care of the way we needed her to be. We have met so many amazing nurses, caregivers, social workers, providers, managers, janitors, and food service employees that we will maintain lifelong friendships with. She developed a special bond with so many of you, and it never went unseen! You all treated her and cared for her as one of your own. You all know who you are, and we thank each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts! She appreciated all of your care more than words can describe. Every gentle touch, use of comforting words, and being her voice was felt and appreciated by her and us all for all of these years.



There are no words to describe how very much she has impacted the lives of her family, and others. She will be missed beyond measure, but we will hold tight to our faith in which she instilled in us. She believed and longed for the Kingdom of Heaven for her entire life, and we find peace and comfort in knowing she is finally home. Dancing, cheering, walking, protecting, folding, bowling, slot machines, playing cards, scratch offs, reunited with her baby kitties “Fluff and Puff”, and looking over us all everyday as our angel- until we meet again Mom, Granny, & Friend.



She is survived by five children, Tom Patzer of Oxford, Bill (Vicktoria) Patzer of Scottsdale, AZ, Kristine (Daniel) Kiesow of Brandon, Dawn (George) Laiten of Freeburg, IL, and Wendy Nolan of Fond du Lac; son-in-law, Kelly Nolan; eight grandchildren, Ashley (Derek) Young, Lauren (Jake) Elmore, Megan Patzer, Nate Kiesow, Lindsay (Mike) Bevers, Casey (Harley) Truse, Nichole “Cozy” (Josh) Holz, and Hunter Laiten; twelve great grandchildren, Tj, Kenna, Walker, Ty, Kerstin, Kayla, Isaac, Laney, Nolan, Hadley, Croix, and JJ. She was preceded in death by her mother and grandmother, Lucille.



In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Fond du Lac Humane Society or “Saving Sully” Dog Rescue of the Fox Cities in Mary Ellen’s name. One of Mary Ellen’s most prized passions was her love and willingness to help any animal in need. From squirrels to stray cats- she found a way to find and give them a home with love.



The visitation will be held Thursday, July 1, 2021 from 3:00 – 7:00 PM at Community Church, N6717 Streblow Drive, Fond du Lac, and again on Friday at church from 10:00 – 11:00 AM. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 2, 2021 at Community Church with Rev. Ken Nabi officiating. Cremation will follow the services and a private burial will be held in Avoca Cemetery.



***We ask that all who attend, think about one memory that you have of Mary Ellen, that you can leave us with in our memory jar with the guestbook upon arrival.*** Also, if you have any orange clothing, wear it in her honor as it was her favorite color!



Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com.