Mary Ellyn Willett

Mary Ellyn Lake of Lake Tomahawk, WI, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025 at the age of 87.

Born on December 26, 1937 in Fond du Lac, WI, Mary was the daughter of Wilma and John Lake, the eldest of two children. She graduated from St Mary Springs High School in 1956 and from Marion College (St Agnes School of Nursing) in 1959 as a Registered Nurse. She went on to work at St Agnes Hospital for over 40 years. She was a very compassionate, loving, sweet, gentle soul and loved helping others.

Mary married the love of her life, Carl (Moose) Willett, on February 13, 1960 at St. Patrick’s Church in Fond du Lac. She was a dedicated loving mother of four; Timothy, Katherine, Michael and Mary. She was an unwavering supporter of her children and a beautiful role model, teaching her children the importance of love, family and education. She also instilled a passion for travel, planning many family summer camping trips across the country. Her favorite destination was Italy where she traveled many times with family enjoying the scenery, people and a glass of vino. Carl and Mary retired in Lake Tomahawk in 1995 where they build their dream home on Lake Hodstradt and hosted many gatherings for friends and family over the years. Later in life they enjoyed their winters in Sarasota with their Florida family and friends whom they cherished.

Mary was loved by all that knew her. She was generous with her time and made everyone feel heard, valued and at home. She enjoyed knitting prayer shawls for the Holy Family Catholic Church (Woodruff) where she was a member. She was a spiritual soul and giving person.

Mary is survived by her three children: Tim (Lori) Willett, Katherine (Greg) Leifer, Mary (Dave) Schmitz and eight grandchildren: Taylor (Andrew) Winans, Sammy Schmitz, MaryRose (Young Mok) Kang, Jessica Schmitz, David Schmitz, Jake Willett, Ben Willett and Cole (Jackie) Young. She is also survived by her brother John Lake. Preceding her in death is her son Michael Willett.

She will be missed by many, but most of all by her children and grandchildren. Her legacy will live on through her loving family and friends. Her beautiful smiling face and kind nature will be remembered always.

Funeral arrangements and a celebration of life are being planned and will be held in Fond du Lac at a date to be determined shortly.