Max Baucus: “18 years ago, Mary Ellen Nelson started in my Kalispell office. In that time, Mary Ellen earned the respect and…”

“18 years ago, Mary Ellen Nelson started in my Kalispell office. In that time, Mary Ellen earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues both in my offices across the State, in Washington, DC and with the Finance Committee. Staff always enjoyed getting the chance to talk with Mary Ellen and hear her words of wisdom. I have treasured her caring nature and thoughtful advice and am grateful for all her hard work over the years. It is important to note: my staff members don't just work for me--they work for all Montanans. Mary Ellen has served the young, the old, the successful, the downtrodden, and Montanans of all political stripes. It has been an honor to have her on staff and to work together for the State we cherish. Working for VISTA is what brought Mary Ellen to Montana where she met and married her husband Ray of 34 years. A few years later they moved to Kalispell where she worked for the school system and the mentally disabled children of Flathead Valley before her work in the U.S Senate. Mary Ellen's compassion to others resonates in her dedication to her family, community and the constituents of Montana. Mary Ellen has helped thousands of Montanans work their way through Social Security, Medicare, and other issues throughout the years. Her calm, nurturing character and commitment to helping others have benefitted thousands of Montanans throughout her 18 years of service.…”