Mary Ellen Schnitzler

 

image of Mary Ellen Schnitzler

Mary Ellen Schnitzler

Mary Ellen Schnitzler,  79, passed away April 8, 2023 at her home in Woodinville, WA.

image of Mary Ellen as a childMary was born on August 1, 1943 in Grafton, ND to Ralph and Merle Fitzgerald.  She graduated from Hamilton School in Hamilton, ND. Mary met her husband, Leonard, on a blind date.  They were married on June 6, 1964. In 1965, they moved to Eugene, OR along with her parents and siblings.  Their next move was in 1967 to Redmond, WA.  In 1976 Leonard and Mary built and moved into their dream home in Woodinville, WA.

Mary considered herself to be a “domestic engineer”… more commonly known as a stay-at-home mom.  She was involved in many activities with her daughters including Camp Fire Girls.  Her expertise in sewing produced many matching outfits for herself & her 3 girls.  Mary loved to hand quilt blankets for special occasions – a new baby, a wedding, a birthday.  Another hobby of Mary’s was crocheting. Throughout her life she made afghans, tablecloths, bedspreads and more.  Mary used her crocheting talent to make hundreds of hats and scarves for children in need.  She was known and celebrated for her amazing character hats.  Books were a big part of Mary’s life. She always had a book with her and could read anywhere.  She worked (and played) at McDonald’s Book Exchange in Redmond, WA for several years. Books can be found in every room of her home.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her son, Joseph Ralph Schnitzler.  She is lovingly remembered by her daughters – Vernetta J. Albert (Patrick) of Woodinville, WA; Christine A. Brackett (Arnie) of Woodinville, WA; Renae C. Schnitzler of Kirkland, WA; four grandchildren – Joshua Henderson (Ashleigh); Andrew Henderson (Tosha); Mitchell Brackett and Meghan Brackett; five great-grandsons – Leland, Kolden, Wesley, Kashton and Hayes.  She is also survived by her sister Susan Klassert and four brothers Jim Fitzgerald, Ray Fitzgerald, Dan Fitzgerald and Bill Fitzgerald.

Mary was an extraordinary woman who always had a smile to share. She lived a life filled with kindness and care for those around her, sharing her love with so many. As she often told people “…it’s not goodbye, it’s I’ll see you again.”

A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Jude Catholic Church in Redmond, WA on May 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.  A committal service will follow at Holyrood Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Assistance League of the Eastside.

7 Responses to “Mary Ellen Schnitzler”

  • Elaine (Berger)Hutchinson says:

    Met Mary in July of 1964. My life was better because I always knew she was always there for good times and also to help me weather the storms in life. Mary was there with her friendship when we added to our family and Holidays spent with the Schnitzler family. In times of not so good memories, Mary was there to help me though the stressful times and never in judgment just in love. Memories are forever.

  • Joyce Poole says:

    Mary was always so kind, and always had a smile on her. After Thanksgiving she would always send me home with leftovers. One Christmas eve my car was at Patrick and Vernetta’s home. It had snowed and I was told that I could not drive home, so Mary had me stay at her home.

    I will always miss her and miss talking with her. GOD Bless you Mary and rest in peace..

  • Renee Potts says:

    Mary was a beautiful lady. She was so good to my mom Ruth and sister Danna. My condolences to her daughters and family. Love you all.
    Carla

  • Nicole Abrahamsen says:

    Aunt Mary, words cannot describe how much I miss you. You were a huge part of my life. You were there for every first with Weston! I am so glad that we got to spend so much of our lives together! You were so kind hearted. If anyone needed anything, you were the first one to step up! I love you so much!

  • Susan Klassert says:

    For my one and only sister… I can’t believe you are in heaven now. You were always in my life. I know the story goes that you wanted a sister… and you had to wait through 3 brothers before I came along… then you said I was a pest… lol but after I grew up a little bit we were always together. I loved staying with you and Leonard and your girls. Many many summers spent in Washington. You got me into sewing, and loving books, tons of conventions about family fun and strife.. You always talked me thru it. You and Leonard raised 3 fantastic girls Vernetta, Chrissy, and Renae they were and are looking out for the best of you both. I love you with all my heart and will miss you forever after all you are my one and only sister….❤️

  • Darlene Jackson says:

    I was Orlin Jackson’s wife. He loved his family and nieces and nephews. I am very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. My sympathy to Mary’s family and siblings.
    Darlene Jackson

  • Margaret Marciniak Thomas says:

    I use to stay at Aunt Merle and Uncle Ralph’s on the farm. Then when their house burnt down. I would stay with them in summer in Hamilton. Mostly during fair time. Mary was a wonderful person and I’m sure she’ll be missed by all .wish I could have seen her more. I live too far away. ♥️To all her family.

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