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Published February 24, 2013, 12:00 AM

MARY ELLEN BANKS

Mary Ellen Banks, 79, of Superior, passed away peacefully Feb. 21, 2013, at the Lighthouse in Superior.

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MARY ELLEN BANKS

Mary Ellen Banks, 79, of Superior, passed away peacefully Feb. 21, 2013, at the Lighthouse in Superior.

Mary Ellen was born June 2, 1933, in Cumberland, Wis., to Margaret (Williamson) and Lawrence Sinclear. She graduated from Superior Central High School in 1951 and earned a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance from the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minn. Later she earned a master’s degree in school administration from the UW-Superior in Superior.

Mary Ellen spent over 23 years as an elementary music teacher in the Superior school district. Most of her teaching was at the Cooper Elementary School. Mary Ellen was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Superior. She was also a member of Sisterhood PEO Chapter BG.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, George Sinclear; Lowell’s daughter, Julie, who passed away in June; and a close friend she called her sister, Jill Farnings.

Mary Ellen is survived by her husband, Lowell; her children, Laurie (John) Cooper, Mark (Sue) Howard and Jane (Rick O’Connell) Howard; grandchildren Margaret and Elizabeth Howard; Lowell’s children, Cheri (Terry) Olson and Larry (Kelly) Banks; sister-in-law Marian Sinclear; and many more loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Lighthouse in Superior and the Hospice unit from St. Luke’s hospital in Duluth.

VISITATION: 9:30 until the 11 a.m. memorial service Saturday, March 2, in Faith United Methodist Church. Rev. Joel Certa-Werner will officiate.

Memorials may be sent to Faith United Methodist Church, 1531 Hughitt Ave., Superior, WI 54880.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th and Ogden, is assisting the family with arrangements. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences, please visit www.downsfh.com.

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kathy e.
Duluth, MN     02/27/2013 5:34 PM

Sorry to hear about your loss. I think of you all the time, Lowell. Love Kathy (Julie's friend)

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Lyn M.
Superior, WI     02/26/2013 8:18 AM

Deepest condolences to Mary Ellen's family. I was one of her students back in the 70's-80's at Cooper as well as a co-worker at Cooper in the mid 90's! "Mrs. Banks" had an exceptional way with her students - giving them needed attention and self-confidence. I've never had a voice for singing, but I'll always remember her saying 'very nice!' after I was done. She made me realize that it wasn't the sound of my voice, but the sound of my heart that made singing fun. She'll be missed.

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Stuart P.
Fond Du Lac, WI     02/24/2013 8:54 AM

We are sending our prayers and hugs to Lowell and family!! We have been blessed to share many memories with Mary Ellen & family @ Whitefish Lake through many years!! Although she will be missed by many, we are thankful the Lord has chosen to end her suffering and take her to her heavenly home!! Mary Ellen is now singing with the angels!!!!! With Love, Stuart & Dawn Powell & family

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