Mary Ellen (Hickey) Runk

Mary Ellen Runk, 68, of Defiance, passed away on Wednesday morning, May 24, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family.   
  
She was born on February 28, 1955 to Robert and Rita (Kernan) Hickey in Dayton, Ohio. On July 21, 1978 she married Paul W. Runk, who survives. 
  
Mary Ellen was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. She was a proud homemaker and a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. In her leisure time she enjoyed making fleece blankets for her family and friends. Mary Ellen was a fan of the Ft. Wayne Komets and she also enjoyed reading and traveling.
  
Mary Ellen is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Paul Runk of Defiance, and her children; Paul C. (Andrea) Runk of Tallahassee, FL, David R. (Krista) Runk, Stephen M. Runk, Patrick B. (Tina) Runk, Peter J. (Jamie) Runk, all of Defiance, Rita E. (Chris) Griteman of Archbold, OH, Timothy J. (Kayleigh) Runk of Sherwood, OH, and Kathaleen M. (Jerrard) Deese of Cottondale, FL, her brothers; Tim (Barb) Hickey of Columbus, OH, Robert Hickey Jr., Jim (Patti) Hickey, John Hickey, and Chris (Janine) Hickey, all of Dayton, OH, her sisters; Susie (Bob) Peterman, Cathy (Tom) Knipfer, Terri (Todd) Penney, and Patricia Batdorf, all of Dayton, OH. She also leaves behind her grandchildren; Liam D. Runk, Nolan W. Runk, Allison R. Runk, Bentley R. Runk, Carter M. Runk, Hunter J. Runk, Jaylynn Price, Kameron J. Runk, Mason P. Runk, Kinslee A. Runk, Zechariah R. Whittington, Abigail E. Whittington, Ezra W. Griteman, and Zayden P. Runk. 
  
She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Tom Hickey.
  
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, with a Rosary Service at 2:00 pm.  A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Fr. Dave Cirata officiating. Burial will follow the service at Riverside Cemetery.
  
Memorials are suggested to American Heart Association or American Cancer Society. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.