Mary Lou Burtzel

Mary Louise Burtzel, lovingly known as Mary Lou, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 98. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Mary Lou lived a full and faith-filled life rooted in love, service, and simple joys. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at St. Catherine's Catholic Church in Redwood Falls with burial to follow in the St. Catherine's Catholic Church Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 until 10:30 AM on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at the church. Live stream broadcast: https://www.youtube.com/@LOWAFC/streams

The Nelson-Hillestad Funeral and Cremation Service of Redwood Falls and Morgan are in charge of the arrangements. E-mail condolences may be sent via www.nelson-hillestad.com.

Mary Louise Burtzel, lovingly known as Mary Lou, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 98. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Mary Lou lived a full and faith-filled life rooted in love, service, and simple joys.

Mary Lou was born on May 7, 1927, to George and Leona Bliss (Shaffer). Following her graduation, she was employed at Cheney’s Café and Steinkraus Bakery before marrying Leo Burtzel in 1947. Together they built a life on a farm near Wabasso. Mary Lou worked alongside Leo, raising five children with strength and grace. After retiring from farm-life they bought a home in Redwood Falls and she worked at Wilson’s clothing store for 26 years. It was at Wilson’s where she enjoyed connecting with customers and coworkers, later volunteering at the hospital coffee shop.

Mary Lou enjoyed gathering with neighbors and friends for coffee and card parties, found joy in baking, embroidering dish towels and tending to her small garden. Her home was where she was the happiest. She had a deep and abiding faith, which she lived out in quiet service to others and was ready to lend a listening ear.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her beloved husband Leo Burtzel; her parents, George and Leona Bliss; five brothers; three sisters; her great-grandchild Broderick Moore; and her great-great grandson Cashton Pressley.

She is lovingly survived by her children: Jean Koewler (Jerry), Joan Burtzel, Susan Cooper (Gary), Steven Burtzel (Cheryl), and Janet Meyers (Chris); 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 9 great-great grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in each of them. 

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.