Mary Ellen O'Rourke

Mary Ellen O'Rourke, in Loving Memory

Mary Ellen O'Rourke, beloved wife of Richard Francis O’Rourke, mother, grandmother, and devoted church member, passed away at the age of 74 on May 18, 2024. Her life was a testament to her unwavering love of family and faith, and she will be deeply missed.

Mary Ellen was born on March 1, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, the cherished daughter of Neil and Alicemay Miles. She was the beloved sister of Kathi Wolf (deceased), Neil Miles, Jeanne Barth, Lynda Sacket, and Bob Miles, and the devoted mother of Colleen Rehfeld (Brad), Nancy Wakeman (Bill), and Kathleen O'Rourke (Trevor DaRin). Her greatest joy in life was her family, especially her adored grandchildren: Kevin Lubinski, Ava and Farrah Fuller, and Gracie Rehfeld; Olivia, William, Annabelle, and Hayden Wakeman; and Madeleine, Brooks, and Bronwyn DaRin. Mary Ellen's love for her grandchildren was boundless, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

A devout member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Naperville, Illinois, and Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Tucson, Arizona, Mary Ellen's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She found great joy and fulfillment in her church community, participating actively in church activities and services. Her unwavering faith and commitment to her church were a source of inspiration and comfort to many.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to further Pulmonary Hypertension research in honor of Mary Ellen's commitment to helping others and her enduring spirit of generosity.

A wake and visitation will be held at Bring’s Broadway Chapel, 6910 E. Broadway, Tucson AZ on May 28th from 6-9 pm, and a funeral Mass will be held at Corpus Christi Church, 300 N. Tanque Verde Loop, Tucson, AZ, at 10 am on Wednesday, May 29th. Though Mary Ellen may no longer be with us in body, her spirit and the love she shared will remain with us always. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by God's love.