Mary Ellen Tetzlaff
December 14, 1926 - October 12, 2018
Obituary
MADISON-Mary Ellen Tetzlaff, age 91, of Madison, passed away on Friday, Oct. 12, 2018, at Oak Park Place. She was born on Dec. 14, 1926, in Madison, the daughter of Melvin and Erna (Niederklophfer) Bakken. Mary Ellen married James Tetzlaff on Sept. 19, 1945, in Madison. She had a devout faith and was active at Memorial United Church of Christ for many years and was a leader of the youth fellowship group. Mary Ellen's greatest pride and joy was her family. She was the matriarch of four generations and the cornerstone of holiday gatherings. She had a knack for baking desserts, and every family gathering would conclude with several games of cards, while the men played pool. Mary is survived by three daughters, Suzanne L. (James) Gill, Sharon (Dan) Bradford and Carol (Mark) Tormey; six grandchildren, David (Sara) Gill, Daniel (Kristina Fahlgren) Gill, Caroline (David) Crowley, Wendy Copenhefer, Lance (Elise Curio) Tormey, and Douglas (Megan Witt) Tormey; six great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Delores (William) Grady and Shirley (Jr.) Erickson; sister-in-law, Delores Bakken; brother-in-law, Karl Tetzlaff; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and caregivers. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James E. Tetzlaff; four brothers, Karl (Kathryn) Bakken, Robert Bakken, Wilbur Bakken, and Ronald (Helen) Bakken; and sister-in-law, Illa Mae Tetzlaff. A celebration of Mary Ellen's life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2018, with a time of remembrance at 6 p.m., with Pastor Kristin Gorton presiding. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Mary Ellen’s name to Heartland Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
608-221-5420
Events
Service
Tue Oct 30, 2018 @ 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Photos
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Memories
SS
Sonjia Short
Other •
Mary was a kind lady, always a quiet, positive support for more out-going husband, Jim. They will both be missed around Memorial UCC.
CG
Clarice Gensch
Other •
“To remain in hearts and memories of those left behind is not to die.” Sympathy and God’s blessings. Claire Gensch
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Karen Tetzlaff Germann
Other •
I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to the entire family. I have fond memories of times with her and her family. Karen (Tetzlaff) Germann
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Roylene Galbaith
Other •
Carol,
I was saddened to read about your mother's passing. I have fond memories of coming to your house to get a ride to school and watching your mom lovingly make a thermos of coffee for your dad each morning. I used to be mesmerized watching her put the sugar in the thermos first and then pouring the coffee in, washing the sugar down from the top, not spilling any. Silly memories, huh? :)
So sorry for your loss.
Roylene (Borchert) Galbraith
BO
Bonnie Van Overbeke
Other •
It was an honor to participate in your mom's memorial service. She was such a kind-hearted soul, always with a ready smile and hug. I still see sitting right next to your dad in "their seats" at church. They are now together again:).