Mary Ellen (Kinney) Coulson finished her last chapter on May 22nd, 2023. She continued to live life to the fullest despite the obstacles of Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis.

Every day you could find Mary Ellen with her nose in a book, yelling the answers at Alex Trebek and breaking out in song, especially Irish Folk songs.  Gardening, puzzles and baking were her favorite pastimes. She enjoyed her work and volunteering with kids. She loved hanging out with the Grange Hall Crew, the 420 Gang, coworkers, friends and family. 

She was born May 30th, 1938 to Mark and Ellen (Joyce) Kinney, raised on a dairy farm outside of Hammond and graduated from UW Stout. What started as a blind date lasted 58 years, despite the unfortunate gifting of a kitchen appliance for their First Christmas. 

She is survived by her husband Francis “Inky”; their children Cathy, Pat (Ryan), Carrie (Jeff), David; three grandchildren Casey, Christopher, Joseph; siblings Joyce (Richard), George (Ginny), Paul (Andrea); cousin Bob (Lisa); in-laws Mary (Karl), Elaine and many nieces and nephews. 

Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her parents, a brother Mark, son Daniel, in-laws Mark, Mildred, Virginia (Francis) and Hugo. 

Thank you to the caregivers at the Plum City Care Center; Jane Poeschel, APRN; Mayo Health System; and everyone that provided care and support for all these years. We are beyond grateful for your patience, understanding and commitment to her care.

In lieu of flowers please send memorials to the Plum City Library and the Plum City Senior Center.

Services will be held on June 1st, 2023 at St. John's the Baptist Church in Plum City at 11 am with visitation one hour prior, burial to follow. A Celebration of Life will be held from 12:30-4:30 pm at Molly's on Main in Plum City following the services.

Condolences

1. Donna Blegen June 3, 2023, at 4:39pm

   Beautiful photo and obituary for a very special lady. I enjoyed working with Mary Ellen in the Ellsworth Schools, quite a few years ago now, and keeping in touch each Christmas. I loved her cheerful and positive attitude toward life! Condolences to Inky and the entire family.

2. Sarah Brenner June 1, 2023, at 7:36am

   Francis and Family, While I never met Mary Ellen, I witnessed the bonds of love and commitment she and your family share. Thank you for introducing me to this extraordinary connection in our weekly visits. I know the enormous love your family has will buffer the space left in Mary Ellen’s absence. My deepest sympathies and condolences.

3. Lisa Weed May 31, 2023, at 6:13pm

   What a beautifully written tribute for Mrs. Coulson. I am thinking of you all (my favorite Irish Clan) as you navigate this chapter in your family. My condolences to all who are missing their loved and cherished family member.

4. Kathleen McCardle May 31, 2023, at 4:53pm

   I always enjoyed being around Mary Ellen. She was a happy, outgoing person! My sympathy to Inky and family.

5. Melody eiland May 30, 2023, at 9:45pm

   Dear Cathy and family, so very sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Praying for you and your family. May GOD keep and comfort you through this very difficult time.

   With Love Always, Melody Eiland

6. Grali Foley May 29, 2023, at 10:25pm

   So very sorry for your loss Carrie, Inky, Chris and family; Her soul is so radiant!???? You all are my thoughts and prayers.

7. marge binkowski May 29, 2023, at 6:43pm

   Inky and family; Dedicated family you all were. Outstanding faithful husband and caregiver for her. God Bless you. Our sympathy
   Marge and Tony Binkowski

8. Pauline Hines May 29, 2023, at 9:14am

   Inky and family,
   So sorry to hear about the loss of Mary Ellen, you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
   Love, Pauline, Payton and Brett

9. Kathy Arndt May 28, 2023, at 5:22pm

   Dear Inky and family...
   May all the wonderful memories sustain you through this difficult time.
   Mary was an inspiration to many.
   Her bright smile will be missed.

10. Ryan, Renee, Tristan and Ali Linse May 27, 2023, at 5:54pm

    We are so sorry. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. Always with the littles having so much patience, time and love. Our love and prayers are with you all.

11. Kris and Dave Polzer May 26, 2023, at 9:42am

    Inky and family,
    We were saddened to hear of Mary Ellen's passing.
    You were so very good to her following her every wish. It will seem strange not to see her face at the care center.

    Sincerely,
    Kris and Dave Polzer

12. Dennis & Ramona Schneider May 26, 2023, at 7:43am

    Our heartfelt prayers and sympathy to everyone .

13. Julie Stillman McMillan May 26, 2023, at 12:43am

    So sorry to hear this sad news. I have fond memories of Mary Ellen. She was genuine and kind. My condolences to the entire Coulson family.

14. Brigit McNeal May 25, 2023, at 11:03pm

    Cathy and Casey - May God provide comfort for you and your entire family during this difficult time.

15. Dawn Davis May 25, 2023, at 9:33pm

    My sincere condolences.

16. Jenny and Rob Funk May 25, 2023, at 3:04pm

    Sending our sincere sympathies to Mary Ellen’s family! I always enjoyed our visits…She will be missed by many. Hugs to Inky!

17. Plum City Care Center May 25, 2023, at 8:32am

    We will miss Mary Ellen at the Plum City Care Center. Our Sympathies go out to Mary Ellen's family. From all at Plum City Care Center and The Seasons

18. Susan Britton Hanson May 25, 2023, at 6:16am

    Sorry to read about your loss.

19. Irish Jade May 24, 2023, at 6:11pm

    My deepest heartfelt sympathy to Inky & family. Mary Ellen will be missed.

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