Mary Ellen Cote

Mary Ellen Cote, 76, passed away Sat. Sept. 19, 2026 after a long illness. 

She was born in Missoula, MT. Jan. 5, 1950 and attended Sacred Heart Academy. Further education included a Bachelor of Arts with Honors and a Masters in Education , both from the University of Montana. 

She taught Special Ed at Hellgate High School until she retired. Mary Ellen was loved and respected by students and staff alike. She had many interests including sewing, quilting , crochet , and loved walking through town for exercise.

 She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Barbara Cote. 

Survivors include her longtime life partner and friend, Steve Stutzbach, brothers, John (Janet) Cote, Priest River , ID. and Dennis (Joni)) Cote, Missoula, niece, Abbigail Cote, Tiffin , IA. Niece, Erin (Anthony) Martin, nephew, William Cote , Missoula as well as two great nieces. She will be missed by all who knew her. 

She did not want a service but the family will host a Celebration of Life reception at a later date. 

Should you wish to make a donation in her memory, Mary Ellen was an avid supporter of the Missoula Food Bank.

 Missoula Food Bank