Mrs. Mary Ellen Charlton of Innisfail (formerly of Bowden) passed away December 24, 2013 at the age of 89 years. Mary was born on April 22, 1924 to Percy and Hazel Parker of Maymont, Saskatchewan. She was the oldest of 10 children. She worked as a hired hand for various people around the countryside until she joined the army in 1943. She served in the women’s army corps until December 1944. This was a great honor which she was very proud of. She married Frank Charlton on October 25, 1961 where they resided in Bowden. She went to SAIT in 1971-1972 to become a professional cook and baker. She loved decorating cakes for people, events and special occasions especially for family. She lived in Bowden until she moved to Innisfail. She is survived by her son Les (Rita) Charlton, daughter in law Cheryl Hatter, 6 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren, 3 sisters, 2 brothers, 2 sister in laws and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Frank, 2 sons, Allan Charlton(as an infant) and Lyle Hatter), her parents, four brothers (Lloyd, Les, Kenneth, and Earl) , 5 brother in laws (Lyle McIvor, Wayne Addley, and Keith, Mel and Ed Charlton) and 2 sister in laws ( Jean Parker and Mona Charlton). A funeral service will be held at St. Andrews United Church in Bowden on Thursday, January 2, 2014 at 1:00pm. Memorial donations may be made to the Stollery Children’s Hospital or to St. Andrews United Church. Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Innisfail entrusted with arrangements. Phone: 403-227-0006. www.heartlandfuneralservices.com.