Mary Ellen Justinger

Mary Ellen Justinger, 77, of La Crosse, WI and formally Tomah, WI passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 6, 1947, in La Crosse, WI to John J. “Jack” and Rita Ann (Smith) Sheetz. She married Steven N. “Jud” Justinger on December 27, 1969, at St. James Catholic Church in La Crosse.

Mary Ellen was a graduate of Aquinas High School, graduating with highest honors. She went on to graduate from Viterbo College obtaining her bachelor’s degree in history. She later pursued her master’s degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison writing her master’s thesis on “Educational Leadership Styles.”

Mary Ellen began her teaching career in Tomah, WI in 1969. During that time, she had been recognized as one of Tomah’s most dedicated educators and was presented with a plaque honoring her contributions to the district. In recognition of her quest for excellence and outstanding service to the Tomah School District. Mary Ellen taught English, History and coordinated the gifted and talented program. In 1984 Mary Ellen moved from the classroom into an administrative role and was named District Curriculum Coordinator.

Mary Ellen was a strong advocate for the Tomah Boys and Girls Club, and she was highly respected and admired by all in the Tomah community.  She loved being a member of the Tomah Shakespeare Club and serving on the Tomah City Council and Tomah District School Board. She was also very active politically and hosted many fund-raising events in her home. Mary Ellen and her husband were avid gardeners and plant experts whose garden was featured on the Garden Club Tour.

Mary Ellen’s greatest joy came into her life in 2016 when she became guardian for her “Beautiful Luxann.” Mary Ellen said “My life changed, but I couldn’t be happier. She brings me so much joy.” She continued to love, guide, cherish and protect Luxann until her last breath. Last October, Mary Ellen visited her sister-in-law, Julie, in Orlando, FL with Luxann. Julie and Mary Ellen surprised Luxann with a memorable trip to Disney World where they created many fond memories that will be cherished.

Mary Ellen cherished her time with her brother Steve and sister-in-law Karen whom she dearly loved and were always there for her and Luxann. They spent many special days at Steve and Karen’s home which Mary loved and described it as “God’s Country, full of peace and beauty.” Mary Ellen also enjoyed summer afternoons at her sister Elizabeth’s home relaxing with friends and family out on the patio. Our entire family has always been Mary’s priority. She has been our “rock” with her love, selflessness, and generosity. She will never know how much she is loved and dearly missed by us all.

She is survived by her sister, Elizabeth (Gary) Miller from La Crosse, WI; brother, Steven (Karen) Sheetz from Eastman, WI; sister-in-law, Julie Becker from Solivita, FL; brother-in-law, Carl Mahlke of Galesville, WI; sister-in-law Terry (Bruce) Stussy of La Crosse, WI; nieces and nephews John (Tracey) Sheetz, Sara (Sean) Gorman, Benjamin (Chelsea) Mahlke, Aubree Copus, Allison Knee, Lindsey Miller and Anne (Aaron) Stetzer. Mary Ellen is also survived by many great nieces and nephews including her “Beautiful Luxann.”

In addition to her husband, Jud, she was proceeded in death by her parents Rita and Jack Sheetz, two brothers, John and Douglas Sheetz, sister Kathleen Mahlke, and father and mother-in-law Luke and Ginger Justinger.

Lavender’s blue, dilly, dilly

Lavender’s green

Roses are red, dilly, dilly

Violets are blue

Because you love me, dilly, dilly

I will love you

Love you Mar-Mar,

Luxann

In keeping with Mary Ellen’s wishes there will be no services. Memorials may be directed to the family for Luxann.