Mary Ellen Wren

Mary Ellen Wren, age 92, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, in Troy, Michigan. She was born on December 30, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late James Kiely and the late Mary Ellen (née Kelly) Kiely.

Mary Ellen was raised in Detroit and attended Cooley High School, graduating in 1951. She went on to marry the love of her life, Charles “Bill” Wren, in 1955 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Detroit. Shortly after their marriage, they settled in Madison Heights, where they lovingly raised their seven children and built a life centered on family, faith, and hard work.

Mary Ellen was the beloved wife of the late Charles “Bill.” She was the dear mother of Tim (Susan), Jim (Bertha), Sean (Laura Lee), Terry (Lynn), Kevin (Karen) Wren, Eileen Kokx, and Maureen Wren. She was the cherished grandmother of Amy, Joshua, Casey, Christopher, Jeremy, Angela, Lee Ann, Patrick, Kelley, Keith, Christopher, Matthew, Elyse, Ethan, Sandra, Sergio, Bridgette, Jessica, and Gaven, and the proud great-grandmother of 21. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Mary Ellen and Bill shared a love of travel and adventure. Whether exploring in their camper or traveling abroad, they created lasting memories together. Their journeys took them throughout the United States, including Colorado, Wyoming, and Pennsylvania for whitewater rafting, as well as overseas to Europe and Ireland.

A woman of many talents, Mary Ellen found joy in crocheting and knitting, creating beautiful handmade blankets that her grandchildren will treasure forever. She had a deep love for cooking and baking, especially for her family. Her specialties included monkey bread, apple pies, pasties, and her cherished Christmas hard candy, all made with love and tradition.

Mary Ellen enjoyed being active in her community and was a member of a bowling league for over 25 years, a time she cherished for both fun and friendship. After raising her children, she gave back by substitute teaching at Bishop Foley Catholic High School. She also used her skills to assist college students by typing dissertations and reports—many of whom went on to become doctors.

Mary Ellen was a woman of strong faith, devoted to her Lord and her church community. She found great joy in attending Mass and visiting with fellow parishioners. She will be remembered for her strength, loving spirit, joyful heart, and unwavering work ethic, which she instilled in each of her children.

Mary Ellen will lie in state on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 581 N. E. 14 Mile Road, Clawson, until the time of her Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12½ Mile Road).

Please share memories of Mary Ellen in her guestbook below.