Mary Ellen Felton, 77, passed away on April 19, 2021. Mary was born in Milwaukee, WI on August 8, 1943, and was adopted by Henry and Inez Dettenmayer. Inez later passed away from cancer; Henry later married Elizabeth. After graduating from high school, Mary began working in the administration field, which she greatly enjoyed. While raising her 2 children, she often worked 3 jobs to provide for them. Mary loved her pets and would often take in senior cats that were unwanted. She loved to travel and looked forward to camping with her friends every August. She always put her family before herself and actively encouraged their dreams, doing all she could to support them. Mary loved trying new foods and wine, and would never pass up an opportunity to go out to dinner with her friends and family. She traveled extensively and was unafraid of adventure and new experiences, an attitude in which she instilled in her children and grandchildren.Survivors include her son, William Gurley; daughter Sandra (Dean) Lautenschlager; Mary's loving step-brother Tom (Patricia) Walker: grandchildren Lucas (Malgorzata), James, James Dean, Robert (Nicole) and Idyath (Michael); great-grandchildren Matthew, Benjamin, Ean, and Lily. Mary is survived by other family members and friends, especially long-time friend and travel companion, Christine Brady.Mary was preceded in death by Henry, Inez, and Elizabeth; granddaughter Jennifer; and her best friend, Marty Helton.In keeping with Mary's wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service will take place at Lake Forest Cemetery, Lake Forest, IL at a later date.