Mary Lou Widmer

Mary Lou Widmer, 78, of Ellendale, ND passed away Tuesday, August 15, 2017 at Villa Maria in Fargo, ND. Mary Lou was born January 23, 1939 to Louie K and Emma (Remien) Kassman in a sod house on the family farm in LaMoure County. She attended country school in Klement by Guelph-German Township south of Kulm and McIntosh County near Ashley, ND. Mary Lou worked as a live-in babysitter during the summer months when she was 10-14 years old. At age 15 she had her first waitressing job in Kulm. When she was 16-18 years old she cared for her ill mother and younger siblings. Mary Lou was the eleventh of sixteen children. There were six girls and ten boys. On July 5, 1957 Mary Lou married Ralph W. Widmer in Merricourt, ND. They had four children Michael, Julie, Bryan, and Sheila. When her children started school she went back to waitressing. Mary Lou worked as a waitress and cook in Kulm, Edgeley, and also the Cabin/Ranch in Ellendale. Mary Lou owned the Nodak Cafe from 1991 to 1997 when she retired after 27 ½ years in the restaurant business. Mary Lou enjoyed fishing with her husband and working in their garden. She enjoyed spending time with her family, teaching her grandchildren German and how to cook. Reading, playing bingo, and working on arts and crafts are among some of her favorite activities. She will be remembered for her quick-witted personality and amazing caramel rolls. Survived by her children Michael (Missi) of Memphis, TN., Julie (Jeff) Kinney of Fargo, ND., Bryan of Stanton, TN., and Sheila (Carl) Peterson of Chimacum, WA; grandchildren Jonathon Kinney, Stephanie Kinney, Shay Widmer, Markus Peterson, Zane Widmer, and Mikaela Widmer; great grandchildren Austin Cole, Alexus Kinney, and Zoë Peterson; brothers Wilbert Kassman, Walter Kassman and William Kassman; Sisters Eva Peterson and Delores Wagner. Mary Lou is preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, her parents, 7 brothers and 3 sisters. Condolences may be sent in care of: Julie Kinney 815 3rd St. N Fargo, ND 58102 A memorial service is 11am Saturday August 19, 2017 at Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale with Pastor Dave Bennett officiating. Visitation is one hour prior to services. Burial is at Ellendale City Cemetery. Arrangements by Hoven Funeral Chapel, Ellendale.