December 10, 2024 – Slinger, Wi – Mary T. Karius (nee Degeneffe), 67, of Slinger, Wisconsin, passed away Sunday, December 1, 2024 at Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital in Mequon, Wisconsin, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Mary was born on July 15th, 1957 in Menominee, Michigan to Sarah A. “Sally” (nee Wood) and John C. “Jack” Degeneffe. She attended Slinger schools where she met Michael A. Karius in the fourth grade and became high school sweethearts; they graduated in 1975 and were married on December 5 of that same year at St. Peter Catholic Church in Slinger.
Mary earned her degree as a Master of Education from Marian University, Fond du Lac, WI. She had a sincere passion and love for teaching that shined through with her calm, nurturing and patient demeanor. She devoted 27 years to teaching science and math at Slinger Middle School before retiring in 2021. She also had an effortless talent in the ability to pick up any self-taught hobby, from sewing and soap making to handmade cards and woodworking. She enjoyed baking and quilting, but more than anything, spending time with family. She loved making t-shirts and tumblers for loved ones; and attending various sporting events, musicals, concerts and award ceremonies for which her children and grandchildren were involved.
She will be fondly remembered as a doting grandma who never missed an opportunity to be present and supportive. More recently, Mary was thankful to make more memories in Florida with her family, visiting Universal and Hollywood studios where she most enjoyed The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Mary was also passionate about giving back to the community. She was a cherished member in her sisters’ non-profit charity, D11SC, Inc., which was established in honor of their late mother. D11SC, Inc. is devoted to creating and selling crafts in Washington and neighboring counties. All proceeds are utilized to support the community in various ways. Mary also loved sewing blankets to donate to local hospitals for babies born still.
Mary is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 50 years, Michael “Pudge” Karius; loving children, Eric Karius, Sara (Matt) Schneider, and Dana (Ben) Trevino; cherished grandchildren, Cassie Karius, Ruby, Grace & Noah Schneider, Eli and Easton Trevino; dear siblings, Kathy Hefter, Bette Janz, Jacquie (Vern) Wiedmeyer, Barb (Jim) Sauer, Connie (Gary) Breuer, Nancy (Mark) Breuer, Judy (Bruce) Krueger, Cindy (Mark) Schellinger, Mike Degeneffe, Janet (Jim) Brugger, and Jenny (John) Schulteis; dear siblings-in-law, Sue Karius, Dan (Margaret) Karius, and Hank Karius. She is further survived by her loved nieces and nephews, numerous other relatives and great friends.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Sally Degeneffe, mother-in-law, Mary C. Karius, father-in-law, Donald Karius, brother-in-law, Jim Hefter, nephew, Andrew Sauer, niece-in-law, Abby Sauer, and great-nephew, Macklin Karius.
A Celebration honoring Mary’s life will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Shimon Funeral Home, 824 Union Street, Wisconsin 53027. Please come casual and feel welcome to wear Mary’s favorite color green.
Mary was sure to pen a note wanting to share her gratitude to the nurses of the Froedtert ICU for their excellent care, as well as her oncologist, Dr. Mooney, and the staff of the West Bend Cancer Care Unit for their unending support and friendship, especially Kim, whose thoughtfulness and care knew no bounds. Thank you – The Karius Family
