MaryEllen Plein

MaryEllen McCabe Plein, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and deep devotion to her family and friends.

A woman firmly rooted in her Christian beliefs, MaryEllen lived her life guided by love, service, and compassion. Her faith shaped who she was — steady, gracious, and always willing to lend a hand. She didn’t just speak of kindness; she practiced it daily.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her favorite color was red, a reflection of her vibrant spirit, and she had a special fondness for daisies, whose cheerful beauty matched her own warmth. In her free time, she could often be found volunteering at church, enjoying a latte with friends, or helping her family in whatever way was needed.

She was the kind of person you could always call. Whether it was picking up a grandchild from an event, letting a family pet outside, helping around the house, or simply being there to listen, she showed up — without hesitation and without complaint. No request was too small, and no one was ever a burden.

Her strength was evident not only in her convictions but in the steady, loving way she supported those around her. She was the heart of her family — dependable, nurturing, and full of grace.

MaryEllen is survived by her sister, Janice (Chris) Miles, brothers Jerry and Dale McCabe; her children, Teresa Plein (Jeremy Moser), Justin (Rachel) Plein, Josh Plein, and Josie Plein, her grandchildren, Daniel Newbauer, Kayla (Jacob) Rawson, Zander Fossum, Ryder and Brinley Plein, and Kourtney Knapstad, two great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Teresa (Becker) McCabe, her brothers, Patrick Leo "Pat" McCabe and Thomas John "Tom" McCabe.

A Celebration of Life will be held later in the Cedar Rapids area, and a Burial Ceremony will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Waukon. In honor of her love for daisies and her vibrant spirit, flowers are welcome, or donations may be made to Antioch Church of Marion.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who were blessed to know her.