Mary Ellen DandanellMary Ellen Dandanell passed away on July 15, 2017 at the age of 83 at her home in Brookfield, CT while surrounded by her loving family. Mary was born on December 2, 1933 in Staten Island, NY to the late Mary (Moroney) and George Strelakos.Mary worked as a food service manager for the Marriott Corporation before her retirement. Mary loved to travel with her husband in their retirement years. Among her many talents were gourmet cooking, arts and crafts, and sharing those interests with loved ones. Her home was always open to family and friends. She had a wonderful sense of humor, and had a positive outlook on everything that came her way. Most of all, her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy.Mary is survived by her beloved husband of 64 years Richard D. Dandanell and their four children, three daughters: Maureen Dandanell, Denise Gearin, and Ann Capossela (Chris), one son Richard F. Dandanell, four grandchildren: Lance Gearin, Elise Gearin, Ricky Capossela and Kate Capossela, and many nieces and nephews, three siblings: sisters Louise Simonsen and Sophie Robie, brother George Strelakos, and sisters-in-law Janice Dandanell and Pat Strelakos. She was predeceased by her brother Peter Strelakos.Visitation will be held on Saturday July 22, 2017 from 10-11 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church (163 Whisconier Rd., Brookfield, CT) followed by a Celebration of life service to begin at 11 a.m.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's honor to Regional Hospice and Palliative Care (regionalhospicect.org), or the (donate.cancer.org).Mary's family would like to express their gratitude for the excellent care provided by the Danbury Hospital Praxair Cancer Center, and Regional Hospice and Palliative Care. To light a candle or leave a condolence please visit Danburymemorial.com.