Racine- Mary Henrietta Ryterske, 86, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded with the love of her family, on Monday, July 20, 2009 after being diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer- just two weeks ago. Mary was born in Harlan, Iowa on May 29, 1923 to the late Henry and Mary (nee: Stoltz) Thraen. After graduating from Harlan High School in 1941, she went on to work at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington D.C., as a secretary. It was in Washington that she met a young soldier, and the love of her life, Peter Paul Ryterske, Jr. They were married at the Walter Reed Hospital Chapel in D.C. by Rev. John Dunne on June 28, 1947. Prior to her retirement, Mary was employed as an executive secretary at Massey-Ferguson. However, her main priority in life was being a full-time wife and mother – a career she completely excelled at. While her children were young, she loved being involved in all their activities, especially as an adventurous Girl Scout Leader. With a profound faith in God, Mary was a dedicated member of St. Lucy Catholic Church. She was an excellent cook, phenomenal seamstress, proud breast cancer survivor and was always up for playing a good game of Bridge – especially with her various club friends. Above all, Mary loved nothing more than being in the surroundings of her entire family. Surviving are her husband of over 62 years, Peter; their children, Constance L. (James J.) Runge, Thomas P. (Donna Zilles) Ryterske, Jeanne M. (Mark J.) Schaefer and Susan M. (Martin J.) Halcsik; grandchildren, John M. (Keri), James A., Mary Jill and Joel C. Runge; Eric P. (Toni), Stephanie J., and Michele J. Schaefer; Shawn Halcsik; Rachel E., Kathryn A. and Sarah L. Ryterske; great-grandchildren, Dylan, Mykenna, Collin, William and Jayden; sister-in-law, LaVerne Gentz; brother-in-law, Raymond Kenkel; Peter’s foster sister and brother, Kathleen (Ronald) Barth and Benjamin Hubert; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and close friends too numerous to mention by name. In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her 13 brothers and sisters. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at 10:30 am with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Interment will follow in S. Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove. Visitation will be in St. Lucy Church on Monday from 6-8 pm and on Tuesday from 9:30-10:30 am. In memory of Mary, memorials to the St. Lucy Church Building Fund have been suggested. A heartfelt note of thanks to the entire staff of Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center 3D, ICU and Hospice for the compassionate care and support that was so warmly extended to Mary and to our family during the past two weeks. May God bless all of you!
Jane E. Lehman says
Mary was a long time good friend can attest to her excellent cooking
and bridge playing. We shared many hours with our children at the zoo when they were young. Not only was Mary a good friend, wife, and mother, she was a good woman and I will miss her terribly. Good bye, Mary, with all my love.
Tina Willson says
Rachel, Kate, & Sarah –
My sympathies on the loss of your grandmother – I have always enjoyed hearing stories about her! She seemed like a wonderful lady and you were blessed to share so much of your lives with her. May she rest in peace.
Candee Schick says
Susie and Family
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers go out to you and your family. Your Mom will always be with you and your memories of her will help you through this difficult time. If you need anything Norleen and I will be there for you.
Candee and Norleen
Andrea Meyer says
Sarah,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your Grandma. I know she was very special to you. Remember and enjoy your special times with her and know that I’m remembering you and your family.
Andrea
Tracey Kaye Waite says
A human life is a story told by God. -Hans Christian Andersen
I didn’t know Mary personally, but I do know her son, Tom, and his family. When I worked with Tom, he would sometimes entertain the office with tales of his childhood. It is through the stories told by Mary’s loving family and friends, that she will continue to live on in our hearts. Her’s is such a wonderful story, you’ll want to hear it again and again.