Mary Ellen Oliveira 5/18/1937 - 3/24/2024

The family of Mary Ellen Oliveira sadly announces her passing on March 24, 2023, in Auburn California. Mary Ellen was born May 18, 1937, in Oakland, California to Swedish immigrant parents, Maja Lisa and Jacob. Growing up in Pleasant Hill, California, Mary Ellen and her family resided in Contra Costa county's oldest home. She attended elementary and high school in Pleasant Hill where she made many close and life-long friends, (the Sophia's) and was a member of the first graduating class of Pleasant Hill High School. Colleges included: University of the Pacific, UC Berkley, and California State Hayward where she received a BS degree and teaching certificate. She later received a master's degree in counseling from Western Illinois University. While in high school, Mary Ellen met the love of her life, Tony, at a Portuguese Holy Ghost Festival. They married in 1956 with three children following in quick succession.In 1969 Tony was offered a promotion through John Deere and the family relocated to Geneseo, Illinois. Mary Ellen began teaching 3rd grade at Butterworth School in Moline, Illinois – a job she held for 25 years before retiring and relocating to Auburn, California. While in Auburn she became involved in many civic groups and was a long-term active member of the Assistance League and AAUW. Both she and Tony thoroughly enjoyed participating in AAUW's gourmet group. AAUW awarded her with an honorary life membership for her 50 year commitment to the organization. She and Tony were also members of the Elks and the Congregational Church. She and Tony loved to travel and explored throughout the US in their various trailers. They also enjoyed cruises and trips to Europe, China, Australia, Sweden, Portugal … by themselves or with friends. Mary Ellen enjoyed traveling, a good book, playing bridge, good wine, and good friends. Mary Ellen is survived by her children Cynthia (Colfax, CA) and Michael (Iowa City, IA); grandchildren Andrew (Drew), Justin and Emily; great granddaughter Jinora (with a great grandson on the way!) She was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband of 64 years, Tony, and son Douglas.A Celebration of Life for both Mary Ellen and Tony will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to the Assistance League of Greater Placer: PO Box 4693, Auburn, CA 95604-4693 or to National Fragile X Foundation, 1012 14th St. NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20005.