Mary Ellen Shields

November 16, 1944 – July 10, 2026

Mary Ellen Shields, 81, passed away peacefully at home after a battle of gastric cancer. Per her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. There will be no services. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.rungemortuary.com.

Mary Ellen Shields was born November 16, 1944, in Hurstville, Iowa, the daughter of Mathias and Lula Mae (Clark) Heister. She lived in Maquoketa, Iowa for most of her younger years. She later moved to the Quad Cities where she lived out the rest of her life.

She raised three children: Debra, John Jr, and Christine. She was also a “bonus” mom with an open heart and home to: Daniel and Roni. The neighborhood kids always knew they were welcome.

Mary Ellen was employed at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, and throughout her career she also held positions as a bartender, cook, and waitress over many years. With her love of children, she was an at home babysitter for many families.

She enjoyed all things outdoors, from camping and fishing, to hunting morel mushrooms in the spring, picking wild black raspberries in the summer, and harvesting black walnuts in the fall. Most summers, she tended to a garden and canned produce for her family, and she loved cooking and baking. Her hobbies included: gardening and having beautiful flowers, reading, and traveling. She enjoyed taking drives and looking at the countryside. She spent much time in Wisconsin in her younger years; learned how to drive a tractor there. In her later years, she loved sitting on the porch of a cabin in the driftless area of Wisconsin and watching the Amish horses and buggies clip – clop by. Gertie will miss the road trips with Mabel.

Mary Ellen was known for her strong will and independence, qualities that guided her throughout her life. She approached each challenge with resilience and a cheerful outlook, always finding a way to turn adversity into something good—if she were handed lemons, she would make lemonade. Her sense of humor and fun-loving nature made her a joy to be around, and her wit brought laughter to those who knew her.

Mary Ellen’s love for animals was evident in the many pets she cared for over the years. Her compassion extended beyond her own home, and she remained a steadfast advocate for animal welfare. In honor of her memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to an animal charity, continuing her legacy of kindness and care for all creatures.

Mary Ellen will be lovingly remembered by her many family members, including her grandchildren, and by her dear friends. She shared especially close bonds with her sister, Nancy; her granddaughter, Nina; and her special friends Deb, Jeslyn, Mary Kay, and the gang at Brookside I.

With heartfelt thanks to Ashley and family, Kelly, and the entire St. Croix Team.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Patrick, and her son, John Jr.