Cresco, IA (formerly of Racine)- Mary Lou (nee: Buisse) Mielke, 86, passed away in Cresco, Iowa (where she was residing to be close to her niece and family) on Sunday, September 21, 2008. Mary Lou was born in Racine on June 22, 1922 to the late Bernard and Alice (nee: DeBates) Buisse. On July 24, 1962, she was united in marriage with Roy A. Mielke, who preceded her in death on November 8, 1987. Mary Lou owned and operated Mary Lou’s Gift Shop on 16th Street for over 40 years until her retirement in 1991. Catholic by faith, she had been a member of St. Rose and St. Casimir Parishes. Mary Lou was also active with Citizens Against Crime and St. Monica’s Guild. She will be remembered for her kind-hearted spirit and her constant concern for the well-being of others. Surviving are her beloved nieces, Barbara Mundfrom of Harmony, MN; Cathi Meir of Rochester, MN and Pat Buisse of LaCrescent, MN; cousins, Grace Verhegge and Marcel (Helen) Desquire; and by other special nieces, nephews, other relatives and dedicated friends too numerous to mention by name. In addition to her parents and husband, Mary Lou was preceded in death by her brother, George (Beverly) Buisse. Funeral services will be held in the funeral on Monday, September 29, 2008 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Monday from 9-11 am. In memory of Mary Lou, do something kind for someone who needs a little brightness in their life. In lieu of flowers, memorials to one of Mary Lou’s favorite places :The Basilica of Holy Hill – 1525 Carmel Rd. Hubertus, WI 53033.
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