Mary Lou Bartelt

Mary Lou Bartelt, age 93, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025. She was born on January 11, 1932 in Malone, Wisconsin, the daughter of Emil and Fidelia (Merten) Konen. Mary Lou was a dedicated employee of Wisconsin Bell Telephone Company, where she worked for 34 years in both Fond du Lac and Appleton. She also worked as a waitress at Kinkers Korners for 10 years. In 1958 Mary Lou married Raymond DeRusha. They shared many wonderful years together until his passing in 1989. She married Richard Silah in 1990 and he preceded her in death in 1993. Richard had three sons: Rick (deceased), John (Karen) and Gary Silah. Mary Lou found love again with Myron "Doc" Bartelt, whom she married in November 1994. Doc passed away on December 24, 2022. Through this marriage Mary Lou became a beloved part of a larger family, including Doc's five children: Mary Lloyd (deceased) (Tom), Pat (Jeff) Ruhnke, Rick (Nancy) Bartelt, Linda (John) Schroeder and Mike (Karen) Bartelt. Mary Lou had a deep love for all the neighborhood animals. Whether it was a stray cat, or a dog out for a walk, she always had a soft spot and a treat for the creatures that crossed her path. She also spent many years volunteering with various local organizations, generously giving her time to help others. Her faith was a guiding part of her life and she was a devoted member of Holy Family Catholic Community. In addition to her step children and their spouses, she is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and her God children. Pauline Eldred, her niece provided Mary Lou with incredible care over the last few years, a gift for which the family is deeply grateful. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, her brother Francis "Bud" Konen and his wife Julie; her sister Alice Dreifuerst and her husband Robert, step daughter Mary Lloyd, step son Rick Silah, daughter in law Mary Silah, son in law Jim Herzig; grandson Troy Silah; and many other family members and dear friends. Mary Lou will be remembered for her kind heart, strong spirit and the love she shared with her family, friends and neighbors. Her presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her. A private family service will be held at a future date. Cremation per her request has taken place. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery. Memorials: Bailey's Gift Fund at the Fond du Lac Area Foundation - The funds mission is to provide resources and training for service, therapy and facility dogs. Fund was established by Dr. Tammy Boudry, Mary Lou's dear friend and neighbor. Address: 1020 S Main Street Suite E, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 Agnesian Healthcare Hospice Home of Hope - Address: 400 County Road K, Fond du Lac, WI 54935

Mary Lou Bartelt

January 11, 1932 - April 14, 2025