Mary Lou Ann Roete, 77, of Oelwein, IA died on Saturday March 7, 2026 at Maple Crest Manor in Fayette, IA from dementia. A service to honor her life will be held at the Geilenfeld-Buehner Funeral Home of Oelwein on Saturday March 21, 2026 with visitation from 9:30 AM-1030 AM, with funeral services beginning at 10:30 AM. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery at Oelwein, IA. Special thanks to St. Croix hospice for the wonderful care that they have given to Mary.

Mary Lou Ann McNellis was born October 27, 1948 to Vern and June McNellis. She graduated from Wapsie Valley High School in 1966. She attended Wartburg College. She met Louie Roete in high school and they married Oct 28, 1967. They lived outside of Oelwein on family farm until her placement at Maple Crest January 22, 2026.

A farmer’s wife in every sense, Mary rose before the sun and often worked long after it set. She kept the home warm, meals hearty, and spirits high through every season. Whether it was tending the garden, hauling feed, or cheering on her children at school events, she did it all with grace, patience and quiet strength.

She was the steady center of her family-a source of comfort, wisdom, and unwavering love. Her homemade meals were legendary, her advice often sought, and her laugh a blessing to all who knew her. In a world that often moves too fast, Mary was a reminder of simpler, truer things.

Mary is survived by her husband Louie of 59 years; her children: Mike Roete-Manchester, IA, Sue (Russ) Otto-Trophy Club, TX and Shelly (Andy) Shell-Mantomedi, MN; her grandchildren: Drew Otto-Irving, TX, Brooke Otto-Carrollton, TX, Amber Shell-Mantomedi, MN; her sister Kathy (Tim) Weber, brother Bill (Mary Cae) McNellis and sister Donna Strottman.

She was preceded in death by her parents Vern and June McNellis; brother-in-law Bud Strottman, mother and father-in-law Joe and Alice Roete; brother-in-laws: Roger Roete and Stan Blaue.