Mary Ellen "Eller" Ross

Predeceased by her husband Charles Ross; parents Michael & Margaretta Bennett; brother Michael Bennett; Aunt Mary (James) Kerwin. Survived by her son Charles (Katie Dellina); granddaughter Elladie Grace; sister Catherine (John) Hassett; brothers John (Lisa) Bennett, Christopher Bennett; brother in law Edward (Libby) Maio; nieces & nephews Michael John (Janice), Kate (Josh), Lauren, Michael Patrick, Elise (Craig); great nieces & nephews Benjamin, Elisabeth, Hannah, Avery, Maxim, Mae, Adeline, Grace, & Giovanni. Special friends Susan Sweet, Olivia Sweet, Linda Pickering and companion Joel Huhtanen.

 Eller was born in Auburn, NY. She was the oldest of five children in a traditional Irish Catholic family. Eller and her younger sister Cathy were thick as thieves’ right from the start and were frequently the instigators of mischief in their small community. Upon graduation from high school, Eller moved to Rochester and began what would become a lifelong commitment to helping others. As a teenager, Eller worked as a candy striper at Rochester General and quickly discovered this was the career path for her. Following in her Aunt Mary’s footsteps, Eller earned her Nursing certificate from Finger Lakes Community College. Eller continued to work at Rochester General with her younger sister, Cathy as her boss. In 1975 Eller’s career brought her to Strong Memorial Hospital where she earned her certification in dialysis and worked primarily with children. Eller’s strength, compassion and patience lead her to her work in the Psychiatric unit at Strong and eventually as an integral member of the URMC chemical dependency unit where she specialized in working with HIV and methadone clients. This position would also lead to her commitment as a faithful volunteer at St Joseph’s House every Thursday for the last 25 years.

Outside of work, Eller was equally as passionate and giving. Together with her husband Charlie, they raised one son, Charles (Chuck). Eller and Charlie were known for their hospitality, their generosity and their love of family. Eller took her role as caretaker very seriously. She was indeed honored, to care for her husband, mother, father and then Aunt Mary as they completed their earthly journeys. 

Eller was woman of unwavering faith. No matter what life dealt her, she firmly believed that God had a plan. One of her more common sayings was “God gives you everything you need and He expects you to use it well.” She was a parishioner at Holy Cross and worked at the food pantry every week. Eller was a fixer. It was not unusual for nieces, nephews and friends to bring her their issues and their news. She was quick to help and was always discreet. Eller had style. She was known for her colorful clothing, shoes, accessories and polished nails. She was a “thrifter” before thrifting was cool. The local Goodwills will undoubtedly miss her weekly visits. Eller was dramatic. With or without a glass of sweet wine, Eller could tell a story and captivate the room. Eller was a lover of all things fun and was always up for a new adventure. A few years after Eller lost her husband Charlie, she reconnected with an old friend from the Auburn neighborhood. Together, she and Joel would have many adventures including camping, dance lessons, casino visits, cruises, country music concerts and Wednesday nights at the beach. In recent years, Eller’s favorite role was that of “Ommi”. Eller was never happier than when she was with her beloved granddaughter, Ellie. 

We will deeply miss Eller but we know that she will continue to watch over us and remind us to find the joy in life. A mass of Christian burial will be held at Holy Cross Church 10:30 AM Friday December 27 with private Internment at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St Joseph’s House of Hospitality 417 South Ave 14620. In addition, please honor Eller’s life by volunteering your time and talent to a cause or organization that is dear to you.