On the morning of June 18th, 2019, Mary Ellen passed away after a long struggle with ovarian cancer at the age of 64. Loving daughter of the late Tom and Jean Flanagan. Also lovingly survived by her mom Beverly Flanagan, her siblings Pat (Karen), Mike Gaertner, Steve (Kathy), Paul (Melissa) Gaertner, Colleen (Joe) Borkenhagen, Barbara Jean, Susan (Jim) Claus, Beth (Mike) Bloom, Mark (Amy), and Tom (Jennifer). Also survived by her nieces and nephews Claire (Jeff) , Julia, Mark (Nicole) and their two children Bennett and Colin, Susie (Andy), Megan, Tyler, Amy (Jake), John, Sarah, Joey, Justin, Mitchel, Erin, Adam, Natalie, Ella, Michael, and Molly and many friends. She will be deeply missed by all.

Mary Ellen graduated from New Berlin Eisenhower High School, University of Wisconsin – Stout and received her Master's Degree at University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee. She spent most of her career teaching at Platteville High School and St. Francis High School. She taught Home Economics, Consumer and Family Education and worked with the School to Work/Work Experience program. She also spent several years in the Food Service Industry.

Family was Mary Ellen's top priority. No matter what the occasion, she was there to support them in any way she could. She was an avid sports fan. Her favorite teams included any team a family member participated on, Milwaukee Brewers, Wisconsin Badgers and the Green Bay Packers. She loved baking, decorating cakes and planning menus for family and friends' special occasions. Christmas cookie baking with her sisters was a tradition she never missed out on. Her other interests included gardening, sewing, cards, knitting and needlework.

Visitation Wednesday, June 26th,2019, 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM, St. Mary Catholic Faith Community, 9520 W. Forest Home Avenue, Hales Corners. Funeral Mass at 3:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers memorials appreciated to Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance https://www.ocrahope.org .