Mary Ahrndt

Mary Ellen Ahrndt, born on October 15, 1956, in Green Bay, WI to Clifford and Jean Durkee, passed away on July 12, 2026. Mary was a graduate of De Pere High School and went on to pursue nursing at NWTC, eventually becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Bellin Hospital. Her compassion touched the lives of countless patients, but her heart belonged to her family, especially her grandchildren. Beyond her nursing career, Mary also worked as a restaurant manager for PMI Entertainment. She was dynamic and witty but was best known for her selflessness and giving spirit to all those around her. Mary was proud to have served as a mission trip nurse. She had a fun-loving side as well, enjoying crafting and camping in her younger years, and even worked as a roadie for the band, Night Ranger.

She is survived by her children: Benjamin Heesaker and his son Qaiden, Andrea Heesaker and her daughter Teagan; Amanda Bailey and her family; sisters: Ruth Nicholson, Sue Lawyer/Durkee and Sandy Pitzen; as well as nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Clifford and Jean, Mary was preceded in death by her brother Craig Durkee; brother-in-law Robert Nicholson; and Donald Heesaker.

Family and friends may visit at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N Webster Ave, De Pere, on Friday, July 24, from 3-5pm. A sharing of memories will conclude the visitation.