Mary M. Konichek
Mary M. Konichek, 81, of Prairie du Chien, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 9, at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born Feb. 16, 1935 in Grant County, the daughter of Albert and Mildred (Wiest) Ertz. She married William “Zeke” Konichek on Nov. 10, 1956. He preceded her in death on their 32nd wedding anniversary in 1988. Mary worked for Wisconsin Power and Light and later for the Prairie du Chien Public Schools for 26 years until her retirement. She was an avid golfer and bridge player. Mary was a talented seamstress and enjoyed volunteer work; she had a “servant’s heart.”
She is survived by her children, Karen (Rad) Reilly of Prairie du Chien, Lori (Dave) Allie of Shoreview, Minn., William Konichek of Portland, Ore., and Kathy (Randy Cacic) Konichek of McFarland; her brothers, Albert (Phyllis) Ertz of Glen Haven, and Gene (Georgia) Ertz of West Salem; her sisters, Rosie (Stanley) Miles of Lancaster, Bunny Helbing of Cuba City, and Jane (Jack) Trumm of Glen Haven; her grandchildren, Nichol (Jeremy) Kraft, Breann (Jeremy) Renner, Kwynn Reilly, Will Allie and Logan Potter; and her great grandchildren, Aysla and Meryl Kraft and Presley Renner. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, Aug. 12, at 11 a.m. at St. Gabriel’s Church of the Holy Family Parish in Prairie du Chien, Rev. James Weighner officiating. According to Mary’s wishes, there will be no visitation. The family will be greeting everyone following the Mass at Huckleberry’s Restaurant. A private family interment will be held later. In lieu of flowers, Mary requests that people “pay it forward” by donating to their favorite charity in her name. She always felt that the best way to help yourself is by helping others. The Garrity Funeral Home of Prairie du Chien is assisting the family.