Mary Kilgust

Mary M. Kilgust, former longtime resident of Green Bay, died peacefully at her home in Waukesha on February 12, 2010.  Though a victim of Alzheimer’s Disease, Mary faced its challenges with characteristic dignity and grace.  She was born on July 26, 1922 in Nauvoo, Illinois, the daughter of George and Theresa (Krone) Leininger.  On June 24, 1951, Mary was united in marriage to the Rev. Dean Kilgust.  She was a longtime active member of Grace Lutheran Church in Green Bay, where her husband was the pastor for over 35 years. Mary was a devoted volunteer at the Red Cross in Green Bay.  With a passion for music, she enjoyed singing in the church choir.  She was also a voracious reader.  Mary will be deeply missed by her children:  Paul Kilgust of Casco, WI, Katherine (David) Marsh of Covington, WA, John (Vicki) Kilgust of Merrill, WI, and Barbara (Jeanne Solik) Kilgust of Waukesha; grandchildren:  Taylor Welch, Tucker (Keli) Welch, Kasey Welch, Tyler Welch, Jobee (Justin Molde) Solik, and Jerri (David) Solik-Fifarek; great-grandchildren:  Kiana Solik-Fifarek and Avri Solik-Fifarek; and her brother, Arthur (Marian) Leininger of IL.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Dean in 1991; brothers:  Al and Ray Leininger; and her parents.  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Grace Lutheran Church, 321 S. Madison St., Green Bay, with visitation from 9:00 AM until the time of service at the church.  Memorial donations may be made to the Rev. Dean and Mary Kilgust Pastoral Ministry Scholarship Fund, c/o Wartburg Theological Seminary, P.O. Box 5004, Dubuque, IA 52004.  For further information, please call Randle-Dable Funeral, Cremation and Preplanning Services in Waukesha at (262) 547-4035, or go to www.waukeshafunerals.com to leave an on-line tribute. In Green Bay, call Schauer & Schumacher Funeral Home, 920-432-4841 or go to www.schauer-schumacherfuneralhome.com