Mary Lou Winnabell Gerner (nee Kirmse)

Mary Lou Gerner, a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, with her children by her side. Born on January 28, 1937, she lived a full and vibrant life until the age of 88.

Mary Lou was united in marriage to Clyde Gerner on November 10, 1974, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Newburg. They shared over 50 years together. Clyde preceded Mary Lou in death on October 15, 2021. Mary Lou was known for her warm smile, sassy spirit, and deep love for her family. As a proud mother of three, she dedicated her life to nurturing her children and supporting their dreams. Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren, with whom she cherished spending time.

A talented crafter and artist, Mary Lou found solace and expression in the arts. Her passion for drawing and creating unique crafts became a lifelong pursuit, leaving a legacy of handmade treasures for her loved ones. Her love of cardinals was evident in her wide collection, along with her enjoyment of puzzle books and visiting family in Hayward. Additionally, she enjoyed working at The Sign Shop of West Bend with her daughter Kenlyn as her “partner in crime.”

Mary Lou proudly worked as a dietary aide at The Samaritan Nursing Home and retired in 1992. Her nurturing nature extended beyond her family and into her community, reflecting her belief in the importance of caring for others.

Those left to cherish Mary Lou’s life include her children, Kenlyn (John) Schwinn and Jerry (Lindsay Gruenwald) Seideman; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one grand pup, Kirby; brothers, Eugene Kirmse, Robert (Loretta) Kirmse, and Jack (Carol) Kirmse; sister-in-law, Susie Kirmse; and other relatives and friends.

In addition to her parents, Elmer and Julia Kirmse, and her husband, Mary Lou is preceded in death by her son, Glen Seideman; sisters, Ethel (Joe) Herriges, Winnie (Don) Race, Blanch (Walter) Battermann, Myrtle (Merlin) Wilkins, and Genevieve (Clarence) Kurtz; and brothers, Raymond (Sally) Kirmse and Orville Kirmse.

Mary Lou's life will be celebrated on October 24, 2025. Family will greet relatives and friends from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service (1315 W. Washington Street, West Bend). There will be a private burial at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff at Cornerstone for their care and compassion, along with Allay Hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s and Dementia organizations or the Ozaukee County Humane Society are welcomed.

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Mary Lou’s arrangements. Additional information and the guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.