Mary Ellen Commander

Mary Ellen Commander, 78, formerly of Adel, died Monday, April 25, 2011 at the Panora Nursing and Rehab Center in Panora. A graveside service will be held 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 27th at the Highland Memory Gardens in Des Moines. There will be no visitation. Memorials may be directed to the Dallas County Care Facility. Mary Ellen West was born in Des Moines, Iowa on August 18, 1932 to Clifford and Jessie (Vantress) West. Mary Ellen grew up in Des Moines, graduated from high school and later married Edward Commander. Mary Ellen worked for twelve years as a custodian for the State of Iowa in addition to being a homemaker. She loved to play bingo. Mary Ellen is survived by her two sons, Steve Commander of Omaha, NE and Mike Commander of Anamosa. She is also survived by her three step-sons, Terry Commander of Omaha, NE, Scott Commander of Sea Coast, CA, and Jeff Commander of Minnesota; one granddaughter, and five step-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her former husband, Edward; and her siblings.