Mary Ellen Boomhower

Mary Ellen (Saare) Boomhower, 69, of Girard, passed away at her residence on Tuesday, September 1, 2015. Her journey began in Youngstown on October 23, 1945 where she was born to Richard and Bettie (Prosser) Duncan. Mary Ellen spent the majority of her life in the valley where she attended school, married and raised her precious family. Mary Ellen began at an early age suffering the debilitating effects of juvenile diabetes, but was a pioneer of medical treatment throughout her life. Being of the first recipients of developing diabetes research, such as the insulin pump and pancreatic and kidney transplants  Her life was chronicled in her book, "FEET FIRST", in which she delivers the message that with the support and love of one's family, coupled with an unwavering faith in God, one can achieve the emotional strength necessary to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles. She then went on to travel the country as a Christian motivational speaker, addressing medical organizations and conventions, sharing her inspiring story of conquering adversity and finally receiving the local Triumph of The Human Spirit award and was  recognized in the US Congressional Record. Her life exemplified her motto of "Never, Never,Never Give Up".  She had worked as a secretary and sales for Universal Development in Liberty, and had previously worked for Standard Slag, JC Penney in Liberty and Trinity United Methodist Church. She was a member of New Life Lutheran Church in Liberty Twp, and loved to cook. Mary Ellen is survived by her loving children, Heidi (Nick) Zagotti and Philip Saare, both of Liberty Twp., her precious grandchildren, Daniel and Hannah Zagotti, her brother James (Denise) Duncan, her sister Eva Jacobson, step-son Joe (Carol) Boomhower and family, and nieces and nephews as well as her close canine companion, Andy. Mary Ellen is preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Jesse Boomhower. The funeral and celebration of life  will be held on Saturday, September 5th, 2:00 PM at Blackstone Funeral Home. The family will receive relatives and friends from 11:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Mary Ellen will be laid to rest at Lake Park Cemetery. Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary and to send condolences to the family.