Mary Ellen Mesenbrink

Mary Ellen Mesenbrink passed away August 12, 2026. Her life was a testament of faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and a source of hope and love for everyone she encountered; a life well lived. No matter the hardships and challenges, she faced all with prayer, joy, and wisdom she attributed to the knowledge of the Bible and knowing Jesus Christ.

She was born in Myrtle Point, Oregon, February 15, 1935, to Byron and Claudia Boles. Shortly thereafter, Mary, Claudia, and her brother David joined Byron on the family homestead outside of Moyie Springs, Idaho. Her sister Beryl was born about seven years later. They did not get power and indoor plumbing until the forties. However, they never wanted for food or provisions, her father and mother were always able to provide for them. Her parents taught them to work hard, and they enjoyed wild game and especially loved the wild mushrooms and huckleberries. They were never bored as there was always plenty of work.

In 1953 she met and married Eugene “Gene” Mesenbrink and they began their life farming a “stump ranch.” Their daughter Doris, first child and only daughter, was born to them in 1955, and Karl was born just 11 months later! Gene lost all the fingers on his right hand in a haying accident, so they lost the farm and moved to Weiser for Gene to gain a certification in heavy equipment operation. During that time their son Jeff was born. Then off to Grants Pass, OR they went, where Gene got a job in road building and mill work. They lived in a tiny little trailer house, and Tim was born to them there. They were saved at a Billy Graham Crusade and were very involved at the Redwood Country Church. Their financial situation improved such that they were able to move into a small house on an acreage, so they could grow their own food and have a little extra. They loved hunting and fishing, raising animals and they always had a beautiful garden.

In 1972 they moved to Caldwell, Idaho where Gene became an electrician and Mary drove bus and later worked for the Caldwell Schools in various capacities until she retired. Their daughter Doris was married to David Paulsen in 1974 from which 3 grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren sprang. Karl was married to Kathi Jo in 1984 and were blessed with four children. Mary lost her son Jeff in 1986 but continued a lifelong love and friendship with his wife, Mara. Tim was married to Jill in 1988, and they were blessed with two children. In 1992, Gene suddenly passed away. Even so, she was able to travel to amazing and wonderful places. In 1999 she was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent painful and exhausting treatments. She trusted that God would be glorified regardless of the outcome. Mary believed that Jesus provided wonderful doctors, nurses, family and friends that helped provide the cure.

She married David Hague on April 1, 2006. They shared nearly 20 years and many wonderful times together, traveling and building a loving companionship. David and Mary made their home at 2619 S. Ohio in Caldwell where they put up fancy yard art, planted a garden and made wonderful friendships with neighbors and enjoyed the fellowship with believers at First Baptist Church. They especially loved their Sunday school class and Bible studies, and listening to the Pastors and teachers. Their love for Jesus and for each other has been a delight for the whole family, and a testimony to many.

Then in 2020 they began to need additional assistance, so we all gathered to help them move into Lenity Living assisted living (Aspen Creek). They gradually found a new routine and were able to develop relationships with caregivers and made friends with residents. But they would often look back with fondness and a little melancholy at the property they shared.

In 2024 Doris’ illness caused her to need additional care, so she moved into Aspen Creek. Mary and Doris were able to care and love each other and provide light for one another during this dark time. Doris went home to be with the Lord in August of 2025. Subsequently David departed for his heavenly home in November 2025. Though Mary’s faith was strong, her body and mind were failing leaving her dazed and often confused. She was able to move in with Tim and Jill and seemed to flourish for several months. Mary really appreciated the many visits from family and friends during these final months. She found great comfort and joy in hearing the scriptures read to her, and would respond, “thank you Lord for saving my soul.” There were many passages that filled her cup, especially the Psalms and Proverbs, and the New Testament. She passed quietly on August 12th.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Gene, second husband David, daughter Doris and son Jeff, her brother David, grandson Jonathan and granddaughter Mary. She is survived by her sons Karl (Kathi Jo), Tim (Jill), sister Beryl (Paul), sister Robin (Chris) and numerous grandchildren, and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. The family wishes to extend our appreciation to the staff of Copper Falls Hospice and especially her nurse Emily by our side all the way. We also appreciate the staff at Spring Fields, formerly Aspen Creek for the passionate care over the years she was there.