Mary Ellen Banks, 79, of Superior, passed away peacefully February 21, 2013 at the Lighthouse in Superior.

Mary Ellen was born June 2, 1933 in Cumberland, Wis., to Margaret (Williamson) and Lawrence Sinclear.

She graduated from Superior Central High School in 1951 and earned a bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minn. Later she earned a Master's Degree in School Administration from the UW-Superior in Superior, Wis.

Mary Ellen spent over 23 years as an elementary music teacher in the Superior School District. Most of her teaching was at the Cooper Elementary School. Mary Ellen was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Superior. She was also a member of Sisterhood PEO Chapter BG.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, George Sinclear; Lowell's daughter, Julie who passed away in June; and a close friend she called her sister, Jill Farnings.

Mary Ellen is survived by her husband, Lowell; and her three children, Laurie (John) Cooper, Mark (Sue) Howard and Jane (Rick O'Connell) Howard; two grandchildren, Margaret and Elizabeth Howard; Lowell's children, Cheri (Terry) Olson and Larry (Kelly) Banks; sister-in-law, Marian Sinclear; and many more loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will begin at 9:30am until the 11am memorial service on Saturday, March 2 at Faith United Methodist Church. Rev. Joel Certa-Werner will officiate.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Lighthouse in Superior and the Hospice Unit from St. Luke's Hospital in Duluth, Minn.

Memorials may be sent to the Faith United Methodist Church, 1531 Hughitt Ave., Superior, Wis.

Downs Funeral Home, corner of 19th and Ogden, is assisting the family with arrangements.