Mary Staehle

Mary Alice Staehle, 100, formerly of Melrose Park, IL passed away December 21, 2022, at the Clarence Care Center.

Mary was born March 23, 1922, in Kansas City, Kansas to George and Viola (Hottman) Parnham.

Mary was a teletype operator for the army during WWII at Kirkland Air Force Base and married Edward Staehle October 10, 1944, in McCook, Nebraska. After the war she worked as a secretary until she retired. Mary lived in Melrose Park, IL for over 60 years before moving to Cairo in 2011.

Mary played the violin, pump organ and was an avid reader, knitter and crocheter. She devoted many hours making afghans and stuffed animals. Sundays were always spent enjoying family dinners, making pies, and working the jumbles. Mary spent countless summers in Connecticut with her family, Texas with her longtime friend Ruth and made several trips to Switzerland.

Mary loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was an avid pet lover. During World War II she gave her collie “Page” to “Dogs for Defense”, from then on, she was never without a beloved dog or cat by her side.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, brother (Robert) and sister (Betty Zook). She is survived by her son Bruce (Leilani Nixon) Staehle of Danielson, CT, daughter Patricia (Matthew) Auriene of Moberly, two grandchildren Melissa (Eric) Kachin of Frankfort, IL, James (Amy) Auriene of Huntsville and 3 great grandchildren, Mikayla Kachin and Abigail and Iain Auriene.

A private graveside and inurnment will take place at Mount Emblem Cemetery in Elmhurst Illinois at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of PATHWAY-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, Missouri 65270 (660) 263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.