Mary Ellen Folger

Mary Ellen Folger was born on February 16th, 1945, to Albert and Ruth Corning in Seattle, Washington. Born second to her twin brother Michael and two younger sisters Carolyn and Frances. Mary grew up in Seattle and graduated from Franklin high school where she loved to do art and had some of her work posted by the city. 

Mary was gifted with working with both children and seniors. She was a favorite among her students for her care, compassion and ability to help them learn “life lessons”. Mary was always kind and gentle and when she wasn’t at school, she would often help the elderly maintain their independence by helping them with cooking, cleaning and shopping.

Mary was married to Tom Folger for 42 years. They were blessed with three children. They lived in Seattle WA, Lake Forest Park WA, but lived most of their lives in Bothell WA. They cherished their home which doubled as a ranch, a racetrack and a forest.

When they weren’t at home they enjoyed traveling, snowmobiling, camping, and fishing. Hawaii and Alaska were her favorite destinations. She loved cards, gardening, casinos and spending time with her kids, her beloved grandchildren and friends. 

To know Mary was to know a loyal friend, a devoted sister and a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene Idaho, with her kids at her side. She had been stubbornly battling dementia for many years. Her family and friends gave their endless support and love during her journey. 

She is survived by her daughter Cassandra Selbach, sons Patrick and Jim Folger, brother Mike Corning and sister Carolyn Mullens. She has four grandsons, Josh, Nick, Mark and Aidan. Granddaughters, Stephanie and Dawn. Great granddaughters Jaelyn, Lilah, Hadley. 

Mary will be greatly missed but her legacy of compassion, courage, love and friendship will live on with those she touched.