Mary Elbrecht

Mary Elbrecht, 70, passed away peacefully, surrounded with love and care on April 3, 2025. Mary lived with Multiple Sclerosis for 20 years. Despite her struggles, she lived a life with optimism, gratitude and always showed care and concern for others.

Mary was preceded in death by her younger brother Mark, her parents, grandparents, and cousins Paul and Julie. She is survived by her siblings:  Matt, Rob (Vicki), John, Susan (Daniele), Tom (Meri), Carolyn, Rebecca and Chris and many cousins. She was always interested to hear about her nieces and nephews: Kristen (Pete), Brooke, Mark, Thomas, Christopher, Modesta (Luis), McEl (Jacques), Becca, Sophia, and Lola. In addition, great-nieces, and a great-nephew: Olyvia, Aurora, Adelina, and Luca. 

Mary was the oldest of 10 children born to Virginia and Bob. She lived her first 4 years in Lake Geneva, WI. She then grew up in Glen Ellyn, IL attending St. Petronille School and Glenbard West High School (class of 1972). Mary attended St. Norbert College for 2 years then transferred to the University of Dayton, graduating in 1976.

In the summer of 1982 at age 28, Mary packed up her red Chevy Nova (with NO radio, NO a/c, NO google maps) and drove to California where she lived for 35 years before moving back to Illinois in 2017. Most of her time in CA, Mary worked at the Hyatt in La Jolla in human resources. Mary served on the board of ASF (Advancing Students Forward). She was involved in many other charitable/service activities. Mary was part of the Immaculate Heart Community. At IHC, she forged many close lifelong friendships and participated in many service ministries.

Mary was a very creative and artistic individual, especially in sketching. She had a passion for knitting and, over the years created many beautiful afghans for family and friends, and scarves to donate to the homeless.

We will gather to remember Mary from 11:00 am -1:00 pm on Sunday May 4th at Leonard Memorial Funeral Home in Glen Ellyn, 565 Duane Street.   

In lieu of flowers, donations preferred to: National MS Society or your local homeless shelter or food pantry.  The best way we can all honor Mary is to perform acts of kindness and service with a smile and live a life of gratitude, daily.

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