Mary "Mitzi" Ladwig, of Pelican Lake, died Thursday, October 18, 2012 at Friendly Village Nursing Home in Rhinelander. She was 80 years old. She was born on January 15, 1932 in Milwaukee, a daughter of Thomas and Theresa (Boncyk) Rath. She married James Ladwig on May 13, 1961 at St. John Catholic Church Pelican Lake. He preceded her in death on May 17, 2012.
Early in her life she lived and worked in Milwaukee as a secretary at the Laub Agency. After marriage she moved to Pelican Lake where she raised her family. As a loving mother she was active in her children's lives serving on the Elcho PTA and board of education. She also served as the town of Enterprise clerk for over 30 years. Mrs. Ladwig was a member of St. John Catholic Church in Pelican Lake, the Women of St. John, and the Pelican Lake Civic group.
She was fond of animals, especially her dogs.
Survivors include her children Kevin Ladwig and significant other Pam Ciavarella, Plymouth, Minn, Carole Artus and significant other Justin Nueske, Pelican Lake, Tom (Shelly) Ladwig, Motley, Minn; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; two sisters Carole Hegarty, Chicago, Illinois, Gloria Watkins, South Bend, Indiana; a brother Thomas (Mary Jane) Rath, Erin, WI.
In addition to her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers-in-law Marvin Watkins and Martin "Marty" Hegarty.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church, Pelican Lake with Rev. Tom Thakadipuram officiating. Burial will take place in Enterprise Cemetery.
Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. until the time of services on Wednesday at the church.
The family thanks the staff at Friendly Village and her many friends for their care, support and love.
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Pelican Lake, Wisconsin 54463
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Pelican Lake, Wisconsin 54463
Tom, Carol, Kevin, Just wanted to let you know that you and your Parents were all a big part of growing up in Pelican Lake. Your parents both had a great sense of humor that I will remember forever. Our thought's and prayers are with you all.
Tom, I sincerely wish I could have been there to shake your hand, you were always a good friend to me, lots of memories I still think about and talk about once in a while. God Bless you all! We were all blessed that our parents chose Pelican Lake to raise their families, wouldn't trade it for the world!!
Kevin, Carol & Tom, I had the pleasure of seeing both of your parents 2 years ago in July. We docked our boat at their place as your Dad was on the bench at the end of the pier enjoying the sunshine. I have such fond memories of all the summers on Pelican Lake and the great fun we had. Your Mom was such a beautiful person. I hope that all of your wonderful memories will get you through your loss this year.
Tommy, so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love, Lisa
Tom, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. They are together again.
Mary gave so many hours as a member of the Elcho School Board. She cared deeply about children and wanting the best for them. My sympathy to her family.
Sincerely,
Sandy Carey
Kevin, Carole & Tom: My sympathy is with you. I remember your mother's fiery passion while discussing politics at our Monico tavern when she delivered Avon. She was a role model of feminism for me in that she put her own self into whatever endeavor she made a committment to. I remember her with much admiration. Lisa Ort-Sondergard
I so enjoyed the time that Mary & I served together on the Human Service Board in Rhinelander. And as a town clerk/treasurer, we had great stories to swap. She was always glad when summer was over and the "flatlanders" went home. Loved her family above all. My sympathies to you.
Mom and Dad at her retirement party
Dear Kevin, Carole, Tom, and family, It seems that it was just yesterday that we gathered to remember your dad. So sad that Mary has passed, too. Her bright smile and spirit made us appreciate life. Anytime that we were with Mary made us have a good laugh or two! May these warm memories sustain you through your grief. We are sadly unable to be there as we are out of town. God bless you all, Dave and Julee Jones
Kevin, Carole and Tommy,
So sorry to learn of Mitzi's passing. I remember her fiery spirit and passionate personality from my youth. My heart is with you today and I will take a few moments of reverent contemplation to honor her life and passing. Bless all of you.
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