Age 91
Inspired by her motto, “All for Thee,” Sister Mary Lou possessed a boundless capacity to teach, lead, console, and serve.
Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Sister Mary Lou graduated from the Mt. Mercy Academy in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and entered the Sisters of Mercy there at the age of 18. She received her bachelor’s degree in biology from Mt. Mercy College in Cedar Rapids and a master’s degree in counseling from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.
An elementary school teacher for over 20 years in the Dubuque, Iowa diocese, she ministered as both a teacher and principal for two years at St. John’s in Clarion, Iowa, and for four years at St. Benedict’s in Decorah, Iowa. Next, she concurrently served as the director of novices for six years at Cedar Rapids and as the alumni director of Mount Mercy College.
Her community called her to leadership as the vice president of the Sisters of Mercy in Cedar Rapids for eight years. After leadership, she studied for one year at the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley, California.
Next, she became the director of pastoral care at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids for 13 years and a registrar in admissions for six years. Her final active ministry was 12 years as chaplain at the Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha, Iowa.
After her retirement from active ministry, Sister Mary Lou volunteered with the Catherine McAuley Center in Dubuque, Iowa, and the National Czech and Slovak Museum for many years. She loved being around people and sharing her love of the Sisters of Mercy and their history, values, and legacy.