Mary E. Guengerich

Mary Elizabeth Guengerich, 99, entered her eternal heavenly home on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. She was able to live in her home on Sky Ranch Road in Spring Lake until March of this year, at which time she entered Apostolic Christian Restmor in Morton. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff of Restmor for the loving care they gave Mary. Mary was born in Mason County to Henry and Anna (Durdel) Fornoff on September 11, 1924. She had three brothers; Nelson, Harry, and Melvin Fornoff and one sister, Martha Fornoff. All preceded her in death. She married Ralph Guengerich on March 24, 1946. Ralph passed July 17, 2008. Together they were blessed with four children. Danny (Sylvia) Guengerich of Earlysville, Virginia, Darlene (Richard) Ringwald of Mapleton, Linda (Joel) DeFrates and Gene (Tina) Guengerich both of Spring Lake. They were also blessed with nine grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Mary loved children. Her eyes would brighten when they visited. She would treat them with her famous chocolate chip cookies which became an expected treat when visiting. Mary was a strong Christian of the Lutheran faith. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran of Manito. She served her Lord by being active in Ladies Guild, Altar Guild, and by being a Nursery Sunday School teacher for many years. As part of the Altar Guild, she was responsible for the altar flowers, many times using her own garden flowers. Mary was known for her love of flowers. Her yard was beautiful and meticulous. The love and success of flower gardening came from her father. She remembered as a child, following her father around as he tended to his gardens. When not outside gardening, she would be found in her basement caring for her large collection of African Violets. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 am, December 4, 2023 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manito. Visitation will be from 9:30 10:30 am, also at the church. Interment will be held in Meadow Lawn Cemetery. Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting Marys family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. Funeral Service Monday, December 4, 2023 10:30 AM Trinity Lutheran Church 110 South Park Ave. Manito,IL 61546 Visitation Monday, December 4, 2023 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Trinity Lutheran Church 110 South Park Ave. Manito,IL 61546