MaryEllen Smelko

Mary Ellen Smelko (nee Kasunic), 93 of Elyria peacefully left us on Sunday, November 24, 2024 surrounded by family. She was a cherished matriarch, whose gentle spirit, kindness, and presence was a source of peace and comfort. Born in Rochester, Pennsylvania on July 28, 1931, Mary Ellen was a woman of simple joys. She found beauty in life's little moments—a shared cup of tea, an unannounced visit, or the warmth of her family gathered around. She was a very active person and an avid member at the Lorain County Community College fitness center. She loved playing the piano, reading books, and baking the best Tollhouse cookies, brownies, and apple pie. Above everything else, she was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother who wanted to spend time with her family. She will be greatly missed by them.

Mary Ellen is survived by her children, Sharon Miller (Stuart), Leslie Porostosky (John), Tom Smelko (Mandy), and Susan Monschein; grandchildren, Andy Miller, Matthew Miller, John Porostosky, Jenna Porostosky, Nicholas Porostosky, Julia McFadian, TJ Smelko, Peter Smelko, Katie Smelko, Logan Monschein, Trey Monschein, and Chase Monschein; and great grandchildren, Lila, Ellie, Landon, Aidan, Charlotte, William, Declan, Jackson.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, John, in 2018; her parents, Joseph and Helen Kasunic; and seven brothers.

The family will receive friends at the Reichlin Roberts Bollinger Funeral Home, 327 Cleveland St., Elyria on Tuesday, December 3 from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Jude Church, 590 Poplar St., Elyria on Wednesday, December 4 at 10:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Jude Church.  You can donate on line by clicking here.