Mary Ellen Hartnett

Mary Ellen was born on May 15, 1959, and was 64 years old. She had lived in St. Louis her entire life.

Mary Ellen worked for many years as a bookkeeper and her talent for organization and attention to detail was reflected in everything she did.

Despite some serious obstacles in her life, Mary Ellen shone brightly. Through her experiences, she gained compassion for others who are struggling, and always gave selflessly to those in need.

Family was a very important part of her life, and the walls of her home are covered with photos of family and friends. Mary Ellen was very forthright; she shared what she thought honestly, which sometimes aggravated her family, but you always knew where she stood.

Mary Ellen was generous, at times to a fault. Her favorite charity was Southwest Indian Foundation; she was moved by Native American history.

Mary Ellen had lung cancer five years ago, and her tenacity and stubbornness served her in the fight against this disease, allowing her to live her last years in relatively good health. Her religion gave her the comfort to face her approaching death fearlessly. She prepared for her death with all the organization and caring for others that she had shown throughout her life.

Mary Ellen is survived by her husband of 19 years, Colin Hartnett, married April 29, 2005, her mother Jean Brugger, brothers Ron and John Brugger, and sisters Katie Brugger and Diane Foertsch, and four beloved nieces.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 17, 8:30-10:30am at Hoffmeister Colonial Mortuary, 6464 Chippewa Street 63109.. Burial will follow at 11am at Lake Charles Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Southwest Indian Foundation www.southwestindian.com or Light Bearers Ministry https://lightbearers-ministries.com/ organizations Mary Ellen was passionate about.

Please leave a fond memory of Mary Ellen for her family to cherish at the "Add a Memory" link below.