Mary Lee Pedretti, 88, of Elkader passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Elkader Care Center. She was born March 24, 1936, to Lee and Marguerite (Gaulke) Minchk in Prairie du Chien, WI. She graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in Prairie du Chien.
On April 20, 1955, Mary was united in marriage to Joseph Pedretti and to this union seven children were born. Mary and Joe made their home in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. In 1968, they moved their family to Elkader and established Pedretti’s Bakery, where she was the proud cake and cookie decorator. She would also go in very early to fry donuts. She was always proud to say that today the bakery is owned and operated by her grandson.
Mary enjoyed cooking, flower gardening and sewing. She was a very talented seamstress and quilter. Her family has many treasures made by her. She will be remembered with the Christmas stockings that hang in many family member’s homes every holiday.
Mary was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured each of her children. She especially loved her role as grandma. She truly enjoyed a houseful of grandchildren. Her family will be left with many memories for them to cherish.
She is survived by her children Dennis (Cindy Ihde) Pedretti, Monona, Steve (Molly) Pedretti, Cresco, Sue (Brad) Breitsprecher, Elkader, Cindy (Gordon) Nelson, Inver Grove Heights, MN, Heidi (Kevin) Schmidt of Center Point, son-in-law, John Reimer, Elkader; 20 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; sister Patricia (Richard) Shepherd, Mequon, WI, brother, Bill (Ellen) Minchk, Land O Lakes, WI; several nieces, nephews and many friends.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband Joe in 2010; son, Gary Pedretti; daughter, Jane Reimer; and two brothers, Fred Minchk and Tom Minchk.
The family would like to thank the Elkader Care Center staff for their kind and compassionate care. Mary truly felt at home during her time there.
Visitation: 9am until 10:15am, Friday, October 11, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elkader
Mass of Christian Burial: 10:30 AM on Friday, October 11, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elkader with Rev. John Haugen as Celebrant
Inurnment: St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Elkader
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Elkader is assisting the family.
A livestream of the funeral Mass will be available at www.vibrantcatholic.com/live.