Mary Ellen Schellenbaum-Pino, 91, of Albuquerque New Mexico, residing in Shadow Hills, California, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, surrounded by love.

A devoted mother, educator, and friend, Mary Ellen's warmth, intelligence, and wry humor touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Born on October 24, 1934, in Magdalena, New Mexico, she was the beloved daughter of Eustacio J. Sanchez and Clara Armijo Sanchez. Sister to Nestor Sanchez and Kathryn Sanchez-Tafoya.

From humble beginnings, Mary Ellen's intellect and determination guided her to earn a master's degree with honors, a remarkable achievement for her time. Her curiosity for the world and her natural aptitude for numbers led her to a distinguished career as the youngest computer programmer at Sandia National Laboratories and later a career educator in mathematics where she inspired admiration for both her skill and her gracious spirit.

Mary Ellen's personal life was full of travel adventure, love, and laughter. She married first Ralph Louis Schellenbaum, a marriage of 32 years - lovingly raising their three children and later married Louis M. Pino, lovingly entering into this vibrant growing family. Both have preceded her in death.

She balanced her dedication to family with a passion for exploring the world, dancing to jazz music, and enjoying lively evenings with her bridge club. Her home reflected her appreciation for beauty-filled with Native American art she collected and antiques she lovingly restored.

Known for her kindness, wry wit, and energetic personality, Mary Ellen brought light to every gathering. She was deeply devoted to her faith and parish communities, generously supported many charitable causes, especially those dedicated to Native culture and children's education.

Mary Ellen passed on very peacefully. She was treasured and loved by her family, friends, and all who came to know her. Her spirit of joy, curiosity, humor and compassion will be remembered always, and her legacy will continue to inspire those whose lives she so beautifully enriched.

Her oldest son Timothy Louis Schellenbaum preceded her in death, in 2019.
She is survived by her Son Jay David Schellen, and her daughter Sue Ellen Schellenbaum,
Grandchildren Eamon Eustacio Doster-Schellenbaum, Ambrose Gerard Doster-Schellenbaum, and Avelicia Mairead Doster-Schellenbaum; daughter-in-laws Barbara Schellen, and Eileen Doster-Schellenbaum.

She will be forever treasured and missed by all the surviving members of the Sanchez, Tafoya and Pino families.

Services for Mary Ellen are currently pending. Her obituary will be updated once details are arranged.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Mary Ellen, please consider a donation to the Native American Children's Fund, www.nacfok.org in her name.