Mary Lou Zabel, 81, Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 24, 2020, at Mayo Clinic Health Systems, La Crosse Wisconsin surrounded by the comfort of her family. She was born June 22, 1939 to Vernon and Mary Esther (Fisher) Severson in Eastman, Wisconsin
While in 4-H together, Mary Lou met Leonard Zabel. On September 20, 1958, they were united in marriage at Salem United Methodist Church in Eastman, Wisconsin. Together they farmed for forty-three years in Eastman and partnered in raising purebred Hampshire and Chester White pigs. Mary Lou was an avid cook and baker. She also spent endless hours, canning, sewing, gardening and playing cards. Mary Lou made beautiful quilts for all her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Many of her sewing projects were donated to local charities. She loved horses and instilled her passion of horses onto many other friends and family. After raising her children, Mary Lou started her own business wallpapering and painting.
Mary Lou was a member of the Crawford County Homemakers and the Wisconsin State Women’s Pork Producers. She enjoyed entertaining the many friends, family and neighbors who stopped by for a meal, cup of coffee, but especially for one of Lou’s pies. Mary Lou will be greatly missed by many friends and family. She was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and community member. Mary Lou had a strong work ethic, endless energy and was committed to home, family and her community. She contributed to making life better for others.
Surviving Mary Lou are her husband, Leonard Zabel; children, Kathy Kautza of La Crosse, Sharon (Mike) Trussoni of Genoa and Susie (Todd) Myers of Prairie du Chien; brother, Larry (Sharee) Severson of Eastman; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Connie; daughter, Sara; and son-in-law, Larry.
A private graveside service will be held on Tuesday, December 29, 2020, at 11am at the National Cemetery in Eastman, WI.
Following the private graveside service and the family leaving the cemetery, those who would like to pay their respects to Mary Lou Zabel can drive past her grave at that time.
Due to covid-19, face masks and social distancing are required at all times. Those driving past the grave must remain in their vehicles at all times.
Condolences may be left with: www.graufuneralhomes.com.
Thornburg – Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Prairie du Chien, WI, is in charge of arrangements.