Obituary: Mary H. Ullrich (nee Houser)

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Mary H. Ullrich

(nee Houser)

Mary Ullrich, passed away peacefully at the age of 80, on Sunday, June 28, 2026. She was born in Kings Mountain, NC, on September 25, 1945, the daughter of the late Helen (James) and John Houser.As a teenager, she moved with her family to Joliet where she was raised and educated.

On April 25, 1964 she married Duane Ullrich and the newlyweds made their home in New Lenox, where Mary has resided ever since.

In addition to her beloved husband of 57 years, Duane Sr., Mary is also preceded in death by her parents; sister, Carol (late Richard) Talaga and brother-in-law, Gene Payne.

Mary is survived by her son, Duane A. (Cristina) Ullrich; daughter, Kari (Tim) Auth; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sisters, Melody Payne and Donna (David) Butler, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Mary retired from Silver Cross Hospital after 39 years of dedicated service, initially in social services and moving to home health, which she helped to establish.

Her hobbies included bowling in her younger years, travel and game night; however, her true passion was her family. Mary faithfully attended Crossroads Christian Church, where she found a welcoming community and formed many lasting friendships that enriched her life.

Visitation for Mary Ullrich will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet from 9:00 a.m. until services begin at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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