Mary Louise Wittenberg
(nee Schmelzle), Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, died on July 5, 2022 at the age of 80 after a two-year valiant battle with cancer. Survived by Walter “Terry” Wittenberg, her husband of 58 years; her children Kim (Mike Sullivan), Louis (Rebecca Penniman), Ruthie (Greg Bryan); and her cherished grandchildren Sean, Danny, Lindy, Megan, and Sadie; dear sister of the late Richard A. Schmelzle; dear sister-in-law of the late Angela W. Kinsella; dear aunt, cousin, and friend to many.
Mary loved nothing more than any gathering of family and friends (“the more the merrier”). She never met a stranger and loved sitting by the pool and laughing with loved ones. She was very proud of her membership in a many decades long book club with the “Northmoron” ladies. Mary was a devoted supporter of the Muny, Kirkwood Stages, St. Louis Zoo, and Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
Mary was a graduate of Villa Duchesne High School and Marymount University. Travel was a huge passion of both her and her husband. When one granddaughter recently asked which was her favorite trip, she swiftly replied, “Africa.” The follow up question of which was her least favorite trip was also a swift, “Africa,” due to the violent stomach bug she experienced in the Maasai Mara. It was a prime example of what she knew and accepted so well in life – you take the good and the bad – often at the same time.
A huge lover of Tennis and the St. Louis Cardinals, her family can only hope she enjoys the finals of Wimbledon from heaven this weekend and perhaps a twelfth World Series ring for the Cards this Fall.
Services: Visitation and Funeral Mass will be held Sat., July 9, 2022 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 7148 Forsyth Blvd. Visitation at 9:30 am with the Mass to follow at 10:30 am. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital or The St. Louis Zoo.
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Fred and Mary Kate Donnelly says
July 11, 2022 at 4:37 pmExpressing our deepest sympathies over the loss of Kim’s mom. Mrs Wittenberg was a lovely lady, and I enjoyed getting to know her over their many visits to Notre Dame. Again, our condolences.
JOHN M. ROLWING says
July 9, 2022 at 7:26 pmTerry and family…I am so sorry to learn of Mary Lou’s passing. Please accept my sympathies and I certainly realize how difficult a time it is when you lose a spouse. Please convey my deepest condolences to your family and remembering Mary lou for the vibrant lady she was has to give comfort so needed at this time. My prayers for strength at this time are purposely sent.May the Lord Bless you and your family.
Donna Jackson says
July 9, 2022 at 12:20 pmI met Mary Lou through our Mexican Train group. She was a delightful and faithful person and a great hostess for our summertime play at the pool days. I enjoyed getting to know her. She will be sadly missed. My sincere sympathy goes out to her entire family and friends who loved her.
Betty Frank says
July 7, 2022 at 11:50 pmRuthie, I only met your Mom once but I was impressed with what a fun person she was, so friendly and kind, and no nonsense. I know that she will live on in the way you approach life. We are so sorry for your loss.
Gloria Bauer says
July 7, 2022 at 1:46 pmI have no words adequate for my relationship with Mary. She was my sister by another mother, my friend, my confidant, travel companion, phone buddy. We raised our children together on Northmoor and then Cecil. Our move to California didn’t dampen our relationship. We stayed close to the Wittenbergs… Life will not be the same without her, but we still have Terry and their wonderful, loving children. Love you, Mary!
Barb Niebruegge says
July 7, 2022 at 1:20 amA finer, more lovely, loving, generous, fun-loving woman could not be found. Her love will be felt forever.
Brian Welch says
July 7, 2022 at 1:11 amWhat found memories I have of Mary! Ruthie remains a favorite of my past students. The last time I saw Mary was at the MUNY, of course! My deepest sympathy to the entire family.