Mary Ellen Cors (Hilsendeger), age 88 passed away on May 9th in Mesa, AZ.

Mary Ellen was born on August 16, 1937, to Alvin and Rita Cors. It was much later that her brother, Dean joined their family.

Mary Ellen graduated from nursing school in South Dakota and soon married Alex Hilsendeger. Together, they had five children. They raised their children in South Dakota and Montana. She moved to Arizona to live near her parents after her children were raised.

A dedicated nurse for many years, Mary Ellen devoted a large portion of her life to furthering her medical education and caring for others with strength and compassion.

Mary Ellen enjoyed gardening, cooking, reading and crocheting. She had friends in Montana and Arizona who accompanied her on many memorable trips. Those who knew her best will remember her as a strong community volunteer, an organizer of holiday get-togethers, and someone always willing to help if a person was in need.

Though she kept a small circle, the relationships she had were important to her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Alvin and Rita Cors; her brother, Dean Cors; and her daughter Barb Marker (Tom).

She is survived by her children: Bill (Ange) Hilsendeger, Jean (Barry) Thomas, Sandy (Doug) Jamison, and Dan (Dawn) Hilsendeger; her grandchildren: Chris, Megan, Tyler, Baker, Drew, Hannah, Troy, Tyler and Julia; and her great-grandchildren: Seth, Chloe, Bella, Elle, Nora, and Crew.

A private Catholic service will be held at a later date.

The family thanks those who offered kindness and support during her life and in recent days.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of their choice in Mary Ellen's name.