Mary Ellen Graber, 90, of the GRMC Klein Center, West Burlington, IA, formerly of Niota, IL and Donnellson, IA passed away at 5:35 a.m. Friday, January 8, 2016 at the Great River Hospice House, West Burlington.
She was born on October 16, 1925 in Pekin, IL the daughter of Charles and Nellie Winkler Wilcox. On November 15, 1958 she married Pernell Graber in Fort Madison, IA. He preceded her in death in 1978. Mrs. Graber and her husband were dairy farmers near Donnellson, IA for many years. After her husbands passing she moved to Niota. Mary enjoyed collecting owl figurines, watching the geese on her pond and feeding and watching hummingbirds, she especially enjoyed her Great Danes. Mary is survived by one brother, Phillip Wilcox of Mediapolis, Iowa. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 15, 2016 at Donnell Cemetery in Donnellson, IA. Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City is in charge of arrangements. A memorial fund has been established. Memorial contributions may be sent to the Mary Graber Memorial Fund, C/O Banks & Beals Funeral Home, P.O. Box 70, Dallas City, IL 62330.