Mary Ellen Sullivan's Obituary
Mary Ellen Sullivan 65, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away November 6th surrounded by family members at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore MD.
Born in Cleveland, OH to John Joseph and Laverne (DeZort) Sullivan on November 16th 1949, Ellen is survived by her husband, Paul Bernhardy, mother-in law Pat Bernhardy, daughter Michaela Lewis (husband Shannon) and son Matthew Maras (wife Carrie) both from a previous marriage to Richard Maras, 6 grandchildren: Madeline, Henry, George, Jessi, Walter and Lucy, 3 sisters: Kathy Godic (husband Jerry and daughters Brigid Reese and Kylie Rambo and their families), Colleen Gretchko (and husband Ken), and Pat Clesh (husband Mark and sons Chuck Soja and his family and Chad Soja).
Ellen attended the Cleveland Institute of Art and Kent State University. She was a professionally recognized and accomplished tapestry weaver & fiber artist influenced by the Southwestern US and native styles and colors. Ellen was weaver in residence at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, CA for many years. She was the creator, inspiration, and co-owner with her husband of The Lavender Fields in Valley Center CA which received national acclaim and thousands of visitors each year. Ellen inspired many artists and friends through her association with the Kent Island Federation of Art in Chester MD. Ellen and Paul relocated from S Cal to the eastern shore of MD and eventually to St Michaels, MD where she continued creating in her home studio.
In tribute to Ellen, there will be a memorial celebration of her life at Ostrowski Funeral Home in St Michaels MD on Friday, December 4th at 1:00. In lieu of flowers or other considerations, the family asks that you consider donations to the St Michaels Volunteer Fire Dept and/or the Academy Art Museum in Easton, MD
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