Mary Ellen Hauke

Mary Hauke of Novato passed away peacefully on February 12th 2015, surrounded by her family. Mary was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1932 and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. In 1958 Mary, along with her husband Jerry and daughter Jenny, moved to California and settled down in Mill Valley. There they had five more children; Jeff, Randy, Mike, Louise, and Will.

While living in Mill Valley, Mary continued her nursing career, taking care of patients at Marin General Hospital for over 30 years -- before retiring in 1997. She also joined the College of Marin Choir, where she pursued her passion for singing as an active member for over 50 years. She kept fit by swimming a mile each day well into her seventies.

In 1992 Mary settled down in Novato where she was very active in Our Lady of Loretto Church. She was involved in a number of charitable endeavors, including holding dinners for the homeless and supporting an orphanage in Nicaragua. For many years she entertained residents at various Marin County retirement communities by singing and playing her guitar.

Mary is survived by three of her six children; Randy, Mike and Will. She also has 12 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.