Mary Ellen Dunning, 72, of St. Joseph, devoted wife and loving Mother, passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023 at a local health care facility. She was born on March 11, 1951 in Sabetha, KS, the daughter of the late Donald H. and Esther S.Wilson.
Mary Ellen grew up in St. Joseph, and graduated from Central High School in the class of 1969. She took courses at Missouri Western State College, where she studied to become a secretary. After college, she was proud of her time spent working as an executive secretary at the Columbia Union National Bank in Kansas City.
She was an accomplished pianist/organist, and enjoyed many years as a church accompanist. The time she spent making music with her father and her daughter over the years was very special to her.
Mary Ellen was preceded in death by her parents.
On May 26, 1972, she married David W. Dunning. They were married 51 years, and he survives at the home. She enjoyed walking, quilting with her friends, and her pets. She was a bright spot in the lives of her family and friends, and loved staying in touch with all of them.
Survivors include her children, Erik (Sandra) Dunning - St. Joseph, and Elizabeth (Rico McNeela) Dunning - Cincinnati, OH, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The service will be Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at Heaton, Bowman, Smith, and Sidenfaden Chapel in St. Joseph. Visitation will be at 11am, with the service to follow at 12pm. There will be a private interment at a later date.
