Mary Ellen Otremba facts for kids

Mary Ellen Dinkel Otremba (born September 26, 1950 – died July 16, 2014) was an American politician. She was a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. This means she helped make laws for the state of Minnesota. She represented an area called District 11B. This district included parts of Douglas and Todd counties. Mary Ellen was also a substitute teacher and a farmer. She belonged to the Democratic political party. In 2010, she decided not to run for election again.

Mary Ellen's Time in Politics

Mary Ellen Otremba first became a representative in 1997. She was elected after her husband, Ken Otremba, passed away. She worked in the House of Representatives for many years.

Important Roles in Government

Mary Ellen led a special group called the House Agriculture, Rural Economies and Veterans Affairs Committee. This group focused on farming, country areas, and helping people who served in the military. She was also part of the Ways and Means Committee. This group dealt with how the state spends its money. From 2001 to 2004, she was an assistant leader for her political party.

Her Education and Early Career

Mary Ellen Otremba finished high school in Long Prairie. She then went to the College of Saint Benedict. There, she earned a degree in Home and Community Service. Later, she studied at St. Cloud State University. She earned a master's degree in Child and Family Studies.

Working with People and Families

Mary Ellen worked as a nutritionist for Todd County from 1984 to 1989. A nutritionist helps people learn about healthy eating. She also taught at different schools. She taught in the Freshwater Educational District and at Eagle Valley High School. Before and during her first time in the Legislature, she taught Family and Consumer Science at Swanville High School. She also worked as a substitute teacher.

Community Involvement

Mary Ellen was very active in her community. She was a member of the Minnesota Agriculture Education Advisory Board. She also served on the Rural Health Advisory Board. These groups helped guide education in farming and health in country areas. She was also involved in many local clubs and groups.

Mary Ellen Otremba passed away on July 16, 2014, in Long Prairie, Minnesota.