Mary Ellen Crose

Mary Ellen Crose, 83, of Oswego, IL, passed away October 4, 2025, at her home at Stonecroft Village in Mendota, IL.

Mary was born on December 20, 1941 in Shumway, IL, to Carl Matson and Leona (Eichelberger) Matson.

Mary was a polio survivor and was unable to walk until age 11, during which time she learned to play the piano and accordion under the care of her grandmother, Hannah Eichelberger. She went on to be a talented musician and privately taught music later in life. She was active in the Sandwich High School marching band where she graduated in 1959.

Mary also enjoyed needle arts in her later years and received immense joy making beautiful gifts for her family and friends.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, William R. Crose; her daughters, Cindy (Jeff) Saltzman and Lesa Ross; a son, Jason (Kelly) Crose; two stepdaughters, Jamie (Mark) Kleinfieldt and Kristina Patrick; 12 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; her siblings, Bill (Millie) Musson, Butch (Judy) Musson, Bettie Kinley, Rick (Debbie) Musson, Carol Sue Matson, and Linda (David) Blackerby; and her brother-in-law, Richard Pinske.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Ruth Ann Dennis and Judy Pinske; brothers, Gary Musson, Jim and David Matson; and her grandson, Sidney Schiltz.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. at Beverage Family Funeral Home, 104 Terry St. Sandwich, IL 60548. A memorial service will be held immediately following at 12:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers, as Mary loved her dogs so much, the family asks you to consider donating to your local pet shelter.