Mary Eileen Mullen (nee: Decorah)
Mary Eileen Mullen (nee: Decorah)
Surrounded by loved ones, Mary Eileen Mullen (nee: Decorah), the matriarch of the Mullen family, passed away May 8, 2026. Mary was born in Chicago, IL, to Beverly Benjamin Decorah and Bessie Seal June 30, 1941. Coming from a life of discriminatory challenges and wealth disparity, she never let any of it control her outcome on the way she stood for her Native American culture and intrinsic grace for nature and spirituality. Spending her childhood in foster care and in Indian School, she learned the importance of family and always devoted herself to those she loved. Mary’s happiest years as a child were at the Indian School where she experienced her first ‘home life.’ Mary always acted in service to her family.
Mary raised her five sons in Buffalo Grove, IL, before moving to Tinley Park, IL, to be closer to her grandchildren where she met Ken, her fiancé. Throughout her life, Mary was very active and loved to dance, run, ski and spend time outdoors. She instilled her values in her children and grandchildren. Mary prided herself in sharing her life and culture with her family and was an amazing teacher. Mary’s dedication to her family is comparable to none. Mary was most proud that her grandchildren were more like siblings than cousins.
Mary was a proud member of the Ho-Chunk Nation and instilled a cultural responsibility in all her children. She served the nation in many capacities She was instrumental in teaching the Ho-Chunk tradition to her children and grandchildren. Most of her sons have served the Ho-Chunk Nation over the years, including her late son who served from the time he was 18 and her youngest son who is currently a legislator for the Nation.
Mary leaves behind her partner of 23 years, Ken Krauklis; four of her five sons, Michael, Daniel, Timothy and Edward; 10 grandchildren, Alexia, Brakell, Michael, Matthew, James, John, William, Abby, Mack and Guy; and one great-grandchild, Owen; siblings Paul, Patricia and Cherry; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Mary is preceded in death by her brother, Benjamin; sister Jacquoline; and son Matthew (Michelle).
Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Torgerson Funeral Home in Black River Falls. Burial will follow at Decorah Cemetery in Komensky Township. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 15, at the funeral home and for one hour prior to the service.
Torgerson Funeral Home, Black River Falls is assisting the family with arrangements.