Mary Ann Ceballos

Mary Ann Pretnar Ceballos, 75 passed away August, 29, 2021 with family by her side. Mary Ann was born to Mary Ann and Albert Pretnar on February 2, 1946 in Hillsboro, Illinois. Mary Ann is preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Dr. Nelson Ceballos. She is survived by her daughters, Suzanna Rosenblatt and her husband David, Gina Van Zandt and her husband Donovan, grandsons, James Alan Albright, Grayson Ceballos Albright, Beau Nelson Tolmachoff and Asher Donovan Van Zandt, her sister, Linda Keeler and brother Alan Pretnar.

Mary Ann received her RN from Barnes Hospital in St. Louis where she met the love of her life of 45 years, Dr. Nelson Ceballos. Mary Ann and Nelson lived for a short time in St. Louis and eventually moved to Austin where they would raise their family.

After moving to Austin, Mary Ann worked as an ER nurse at Brackenridge Hospital. She left her career to raise two beautiful daughters. Once the kids were in school full-time, she went back to school and earned a Bachelors in Business Administration from St. Edwards University.

Mary Ann eventually went back to Brackenridge, not as a nurse but as a volunteer. After volunteering for sometime, she was asked to work in the ER as a Patient Information Coordinator. Mary Ann spent over 20 years at Brackenridge Hospital and was truly happy there. The bonds and friendships she made there were invaluable to her and brought her so much joy.

Mary Ann was a strong, tell it like it is, honest and caring person. She loved Big Band music and loved dancing to it. Mary Ann loved to eat great food, which is why she ended up being such a phenomenal cook. When eating at a restaurant, she would say, “ I can probably make that better.”, and she always did. She was always learning something new, taking art classes, painting and reading books on various topics. She always put her family first. The support, love and commitment she gave to her family was unparalleled.

Mary Ann was diagnosed with cancer last July and literally fought it till the very end. She is a legend in her own right and will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

A funeral service is scheduled for tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. September 3rd at St. Austin’s Catholic Church. Rev. Richard Andre will officiate. In lieu of flowers contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital would be appreciated. The family will be at The Driskill Hotel bar immediately following the burial to celebrate the life of Mary Ann.

*Masks and social distancing required

*PARKING is located at 500 W. MLK ( one block behind the church.)