Mary E. Maller, 81, of Bluffton, passed away Tuesday afternoon, March 1, 2016, at Christian Care Retirement Community.

Born on Sept. 28, 1934, in Allen County, to Russell and Maudie (Gordon) Bickel, she married Glen W. Maller on Oct. 27, 1951; he preceded her in death on Aug. 15, 2000.

Mary worked at the Wells Community Hospital for many years, as a caregiver for the infant babies.  She was a devoted wife and mother, and after her retirement from the hospital, she continued her love for children as a babysitter for many years.  She was also a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in Bluffton.

She is survived by two grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by her three sons, Glen "Bill", John, and Donald Maller; three brothers, Carl, George, and Marvin Bickel; and a sister, Phillis Bowers.

A funeral service to celebrate Mary's life will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2016, at 11:00 AM, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Bluffton, with Pastor Jerry O'Neal officiating.  Visitation will be on Saturday, from 9:00 until 11:00 AM, at the church.  Burial will be at Covington Memorial Gardens in Ft. Wayne.

Goodwin – Cale & Harnish Memorial Chapel in Bluffton has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be given to Calvary Lutheran Church.