Mary Ellen Funk, 97, of Atchison, Kansas, died peacefully Tuesday, October 27, 2026.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 14, at 2 p.m. at Atchison United Methodist Church, with Pastor Cyd Stein officiating. Family and friends are invited to a reception and visitation beginning at 1 p.m. in the church fellowship hall.
Mary Ellen was born August 21, 1929, in Albany, Missouri, the daughter of Garner F. Young and Ida May (Chip) Young. She graduated from Albany High School and built a life centered on hard work, family, faith and kindness to others.
She married Donald Lee Funk on September 14, 1957. He preceded her in death on January 1, 1971.
Mary Ellen worked several jobs over the years before spending 21 years in the food service department at the Atchison Youth Center.
Known for her generosity and willingness to help others, she was always ready to assist someone in need.
She enjoyed cooking and baking, especially preparing large meals that brought family and friends together. She also enjoyed working in her yard.
A member of Atchison United Methodist Church, Mary Ellen participated in many aspects of church life. Her faith was an important part of her life.
Above all, she treasured time with her family. Spending time with her children and grandchildren brought her particular happiness, and her family will remember the love and kindness she shared.
Survivors include her children, Jim Ownby; Shirley Benshoof; Ida Leparski and her husband, Jeff; and Garner “Sam” Funk and his wife, Lydia; seven grandchildren, Andrew, Fred, Jimmy, Mary, Lilly, Mary Kate and Garner; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald; her brothers, Claude, Sherman “Tink,” Pete, Horace “Doc,” Elbert “Red” and Bob; her sisters, Winnie, Elizabeth, Lilly and Peggy; and an infant son, Tiny Funk.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Atchison United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home in Atchison, which is handling arrangements.
