Mary Ellen Kettner

Mary Ellen Kettner, 86, of Fremont, OH peacefully went to live with the Lord on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on September 12, 1937 to George and Helen (Balken) Kettner. Mary Ellen was a proud 1955 graduate of St. Joseph Catholic High School where she was a lifelong member and supporter.  She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, a Master of Education Degree and a Specialist in Education Degree.

Mary was an educator for forty-five years, serving as an elementary teacher at Lakota Schools, an elementary teacher and principal at several schools in the Fremont School System and Supervisor of Student Teachers at Bowling Green State University.  While retired, Mary Ellen served as interim principal at several Fremont Elementary Schools.  Education and teaching was her long time passion.  She enjoyed gardening, reading, crafts, and floral arranging.  She was an avid sewer and knitter who loved spending time with friends and being an active member of her church, school and community.  Mary Ellen volunteered with numerous organizations throughout her adult life, with focus on ProMedica Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and St. Joseph High School and Church. 

Mary is survived by her nephews, Brian (Joyce) Osborne, Tim (Jenny) Osborne, Mark Osborne, all of St. Paul MN; great nieces, Sheala (Max) Jackson, Bree (Jarrad) Osborne and Monique Osborne; great nephews, Michael (Meghan) Osborne, Mark (Ryan) Osborne, Matt Osborne, Josh Osborne and many long time friends.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Terrace Osborne; niece, Jackie Osborne and great nephew, Timothy Osborne.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 9 to 10 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 709 Croghan St, Fremont, OH 43420.

Mass of Christian Burial will take place following the visitation at St. Joseph Church beginning at 10:00 am.

Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Mary Ellen’s honor to Bishop Hoffman Catholic SJCC Campus, 702 Croghan St, Fremont, OH 43420.