Marie Anna Neuwald

MARIE ANNA ZELTINGER NEUWALD (May 20, 1925 – September 9, 2024)

Marie Anna Zeltinger Neuwald of West Allis, Wisconsin was born to eternal life on September 9, 2024, surrounded by loving family members. Born on May 20, 1925, in Barton, Wisconsin, Marie's life was a tapestry of love, service, and enduring grace that spanned an incredible 99 years.

Beloved Wife and Sweetheart of Frank, her Devoted Husband of 70 years, who preceded her in death in 2017. Cherished Mother of Paul (Mindy Brooks), Andrew (Sandra), Peter (Gretchen), Mary (Bill) Vanik, David, Barbara (David) Kurudza, and the late infant twins Michael and Mark. Adored Grandmother of Jennifer (Everette), Heather (Nate), Elsa, Maggie (Graham), Sara, Ben (Jessica), Jon (Maribel), Matthew (Mia), Stephen, and Elena (Miko). Tenderhearted Great-Grandmother of Julia, Claire, Elise, Riley, Tristan, Ava, Miles, Tyler, Ella, Ezra, and Adaira. Loving Sister of the late Johanna Sem, and Dear Cousin of the late Marge Thorsen and the late Sr. Rita Little, CSA. Also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Marie was a beacon of light, and many were touched by her unwavering kindness and beautiful spirit, for she truly was an agent of God's grace, making everyone she encountered feel seen and heard. With her sparkling blue eyes, radiant smile and warm hug, she drew people into the circle of her love. Her passion for life was matched only by her dedication to her loved ones, whom she supported with an unshakeable strength and tenderness.

Throughout her life, Marie embodied the virtues of patience and resilience, facing life's challenges with a quiet courage that inspired those around her. Her presence was a comforting constant in an ever-changing world, and her legacy is one of enduring love and the simple, profound impact of a life well-lived. She trusted in God's Providence, writing Romans 8:28 on her heart: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose." She also abided by the Acts of Faith, Hope and Love, preaching the Gospel with her life and the outpouring of unconditional love. She enfolded her large family in her affirming care, her heart and prayers holding everyone close, both near and far.

Marie celebrated each and every day in a life that was rich in experiences and relationships. She savored the beauty of God's creation, especially enjoying His majesty as manifested in her favorite birds and flowers. Marie was also filled with humility and espoused Mother Teresa's adage to "Do Small Things with Great Love." This she did so very well, from caring for her beloved Frank and children day to day to creating her memorable homemade meals and desserts – all the while nourishing souls with the Fruits of the Spirit.

A graduate of Marquette University's College of Arts & Sciences, Marie was an avid life-long learner while raising her family and instilled in them a dedication to education and service. Her legacy lives on in her children and grandchildren, of whom she was so very proud. While enjoying a broad range of interests and having an affinity for the visual arts, literature, music, theater, theology, philosophy, and more, Marie was also known for her appreciation of simple joys.

Marie compassionately requested that memorial donations, if desired, be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, to battle cancer and other deadly diseases – a cause she supported lifelong. Lastly, it is with profound gratitude that Marie's family would like to extend special thanks to Father Alan Jurkus for his compassionate pastoral care and genuine affection for "Mama."

Visitation will be on Friday, September 27, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon in the Chapel at Clement Manor, 3939 S. 92nd Street, Greenfield. Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 12:00 Noon. Private interment for immediate family only at Holy Cross Cemetery.