Mary Ellen Schindler Evans

March 15, 1943 – February 8, 2025

Mary Ellen “Buck” Schindler Evans, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away at the age of 81. Born on March 15, 1943, in Lynch, Nebraska, at her Great Grandma Schindler’s house, Mary Ellen lived a life filled with love, adventure, and unwavering devotion to her family.

She traveled far and wide, calling Nebraska, Montana, Japan, Mississippi, and Oregon home throughout her life. While living in Japan, she and her husband, Ron, had the incredible opportunity to witness an American girl win a gold medal at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and to see Muhammad Ali fight—just a small glimpse into the exciting and full life she led.

Mary Ellen married the love of her life, Ron Evans, and together they built 61 years of cherished memories. Their greatest joy was their daughter, Lisa, and the family that grew around her—three grandchildren, Sarah, Ben, and Alyssa, and five great-grandchildren, Sydney, Teddy, Presley, Jack, and Lucy. She also shared a lifelong bond with her three sisters, Janie, Joni, and Lois, whose love and support meant the world to her.

Known to all as “Grammy,” not just to her own family but to anyone lucky enough to know her, Mary Ellen had a feisty spirit, a generous heart, and an unshakable commitment to supporting her loved ones. Whether it was a sporting event, class program, science fair, or recital, Grammy was there—cheering, encouraging, and making sure everyone felt celebrated. She had an unmatched ability to make people feel special and loved.

A talented legal secretary, Mary Ellen also had a creative soul. She found joy in painting Christmas decorations, knitting, crocheting, and listening to music. She was a woman of impeccable taste—her love of shopping, especially for shoes, resulted in an impressive collection of 327 pairs. She adored traveling and explored places as far as Mexico, Thailand, Japan, England, Spain, France, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, Austria and Morocco, often making memories with her family along the way.

Mary Ellen was a devoted member of Orenco Presbyterian Church, where she found community and faith, and a 40 year member of the MG Club. She had an uncanny ability to remove even the toughest stains, always knowing the perfect solution for any spill or spot. She had a quick wit and favorite sayings that will live on in the hearts of those who loved her—whether it was, “Just put it on the card” or her classic offer of help: “If you’re in trouble, call 1-800-Grandma.”

A celebration of Mary Ellen’s life will be held on February 22 at 10:30 AM at Orenco Presbyterian Church. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her boundless love, unwavering support, and joyful presence in the lives of so many.