Obituary of Mary Ellen Steinman

Mary Ellen Steinman, nee Engler, 93, a beloved resident of Hawthorn Woods, left this world peacefully on June 29, 2023. Throughout her remarkable life, Mary Ellen's true passion and talent resided in the realm of music. Born in Atkinson, Nebraska, she discovered her love for melodies at a young age. She especially loved music theory which she strived to pass on to her kids and students. At a young age, she discovered her musical talent playing piano and she quickly became the cherished musician of her parish, captivating audiences with her natural ability. Her regular appearances as the requested pianist were a testament to her exceptional talent.

However, it was her move to Chicago after graduating high school that marked a pivotal moment in Mary Ellen's life, one she often referred to as her personal "miracle."    It was there that she had the privilege of living with her cousin Marlene, an experience that brought immeasurable joy to her existence. In the vibrant city of Chicago, Mary Ellen's musical journey reached new heights, unveiling a newfound passion for singing.  Her dedication led her to pursue a degree in Music  Education from the prestigious Sherwood Conservatory of Music, solidifying her commitment to the art form. It was also in Chicago where she met the love of her life, Larry.

For over six decades, Mary Ellen shared her profound love for music as a dedicated music teacher in the Lake Zurich and Hawthorn Woods areas. As a private instructor, she cultivated deep connections with her students, cherishing the opportunity to witness their growth into talented musicians. Mary Ellen's impact extended far beyond teaching; she nurtured their potential, fostering the development of their musical abilities. Her devotion to her students knew no bounds.

Her ability and desire to maintain connections with her oldest and dearest friends and family up to the last week of her life meant the world to her.

Alongside her musical pursuits, Mary Ellen remained unwavering in her faith, holding steadfast as a longtime parishioner of St. Francis Catholic Church in Lake Zurich. Her dedication to her spiritual beliefs anchored her throughout her life's journey.

While Mary Ellen held a fondness for indulging in ice cream, her greatest joy came from embracing her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Amongst her cherished loved ones, she shared an extraordinary bond with her grandson Max, forging a connection that transcended generations. She passed on her love of music to her children and grandchildren.

As we bid farewell to Mary Ellen Steinman, we celebrate her extraordinary musical talent and the profound impact she made as a teacher and mentor. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched, forever inspiring others to pursue their own passions in the realm of music. May her soul find eternal harmony in the melodies of the heavens.

Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her husband Lawrence; her parents Andrew and Elizabeth (nee Bouska) Engler, her sisters Nicole Engler, Geraldine Hollstein, and Kathleen Lynders. She is survived by her children Christopher (Robin) Steinman and Natalie (Dieter) Prim; her grandchildren Paul (Morgan Millar) Steinman, Eric (Shannyn) Steinman, Sean (Allison) Steinman, Elisabeth (Christopher) Ballinger and Jessica (Cody) O’Hara, Scott Prim, Benjamin (Jessica) Prim and Nikolas Prim; her great-grandchildren Kyllien & Banner, Violet & Judah, Maxwell & Josephine and Samuel & Hazel.

Visitation for Mary Ellen will be from 11:00AM  to 12:30 PM on Wednesday July 5 at McMurrough Funeral Chapel, 101 Park Pl, Libertyville where there will be a service at 12:30 PM. Interment to follow at Ascension Cemetery, Libertyville. In lieu of flowers memorials made to either Mount St. Scholastica, Sister Mary Agnes Patterson, OSB, Director of Development, Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, KS 66002 or to a Music Scholarship made in memory of Mary Ellen, address to Natalie Prim, c/o 101 Park Pl, Libertyville, IL 60048. Funeral info (847) 362-2626.

Mary Ellen's funeral service will be live streamed via www.zoom.com

Topic: Mary Ellen Service
Time: Jul 5, 2023 12:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)

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