Mary Louise (Bezpaletz) Melde-Weiske, age 93, of La Crosse passed away February 5th, 2022 at Benedictine Manor. Mary was born March 14th, 1928 to John and Martha (Feyen) Bezpaletz in Onalaska, WI. She attended Onalaska schools through the 10th grade until she transferred to Aquinas High School in La Crosse graduating in 1946. After graduation she worked at Auto-Lite in the panel department where she met Bob Melde. They fell in love and were married August 14th,1948 at St. James Church in La Crosse. They built homes in Onalaska, WI, La Crescent, MN, and Port Huron, MI while raising five children. Bob passed away in 1985.

Mary had a gift of gab and an unending list of childhood stories. Her smile was infectious and her loud laugh was recognizable across the room. Her lengthy career at the Downtown Country Kitchen suited her well. Everyone knew Mary. She left a lasting impression with her generosity and interest in people.

Mary and Bob were very interested and supportive of their children’s interests. They enjoyed family get togethers playing cards and picnicking at Goose Island Campgrounds and Myrick Park. Mary was an accomplished knitter, seamstress, and baker. She also had a flair for fashion. There was an outfit for every occasion and a pair of shoes to match. Bob and Mary were instrumental in soliciting funds to start St. Patrick’s parish in Onalaska and very involved members of Crucifixion Church in La Crescent and Blessed Sacrament in La Crosse.

On February 8, 1986 Mary wed Robert Weiske at Blessed Sacrament Church in La Crosse.  Robert and Mary traveled, danced and cross country skied with a large circle of long time friends. Both Robert and Mary were lay ministers at Blessed Sacrament. They took many trips to Black River Falls and Prairie du Chien to try their luck. Even after Robert passed away in 2008, Mary continued to travel to the casinos by herself and with friends. She was a very Lucky Lady.

Mary is survived by her five children; Virginia (Dave Woy) Patsch-Woy, Robert Melde, Richard (Arnold Friedman) Melde, Mary Beth (James) Vach and Nancy (Ray Shows) Oliveros-Shows. She had nine grandchildren; Dustin (Michelle) Woy, Douglas (fiancée Janet) Woy, Kate Melde, Matthew Vach, Michelle (Jared) Campbell, Mark (April) Vach, Melissa Vach, Timothy (fiancée Anne) Shows and Andrew (fiancée Marie) Shows; five great-grandchildren Dawson Woy, Addison Woy, Sean Campbell, Galen Campbell and Adrianne Shows.

Mary’s husbands and infant daughter Mariann preceded her in death.

Many thanks to Benedictine Villa, Benedictine Manor and Hospice.  Mary’s life was rich with family and friends. Thank you to all.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00AM on Saturday, March 5th, 2022 at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason Street, Onalaska, WI. Msgr. Steven Kachel will officiate. Visitation will be held at 9:00AM until the time of service. Private burial will take place at the Catholic cemetery following the celebration.

Mary’s Service will be live streamed through Zoom, which can be viewed using the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86762324446?pwd=MDYwdlZYRzcxWGRaUHlFUlJYazlQdz09

In lieu of flowers Mary’s wishes were to send donations to the American Red Cross, St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Onalaska, or Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in La Crosse.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family with their arrangements.