Mary E. Seidel

Mary E. Seidel,71, of Winamac, a devoted farm wife and loving aunt passed away peacefully at 12:12 p.m., Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at Franciscan Health Hospital in Lafayette.

Born on October 29, 1952 in Logansport, she was the daughter of the late Francis “Butch” and Gertrude M. (Meyer) Rausch. Mary was a devoted caregiver for her mother, “Granny.” 

She was a Winamac High School graduate of the class of 1970. After high school, Mary enjoyed playing softball as a member of the Rausch Farms women’s softball team with her friends. 

On August 16, 1997 she married the love of her life, Thomas E. Seidel, he survives. It did not matter what they were doing, they just enjoyed their time together. 

Mary formerly worked for United Telephone for several years. Then later retired from Eastern Pulaski School Corporation after working for 24 years as a custodian. 

She enjoyed helping Tom on the farm, driving her Gator, gardening, and collecting antiques. Mary could grow the best pumpkins and gourds. Mary enjoyed spending time at “Pigs.” Mary enjoyed cheering on her nieces and nephews in their sporting events. Mary was a very talented cook and was famous for her Heavenly Bars and gumbo. 

Mary will be greatly missed by her family. Survivors include her husband, Thomas Seidel of Winamac, brothers, F. David Rausch (Linda), and Larry Rausch (Cloretta) of Winamac and sisters, Helen Rausch of Logansport, Joyce Kelsey of Iowa and brothers and sisters-in-law, George and Marilyn Kreiger of Valparaiso and Allen and Shelia Seidel of Winamac. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by brothers, John Rausch, Daniel Rausch and Mose Rausch and sister, Gertrude “Trudy” Kruzick.

A Celebration of Life Service will be at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, November 2, 2024 at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Winamac Chapel, 110 N. Sally Dr., Winamac.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, Northern Indiana Power from the Past, P.O. Box 78, Winamac, IN 46996, and the Winamac Girls Softball League. 

Mary’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.