Mary Jane Vitt
May 16, 1944 ~ June 14, 2018
Resided in:
Pueblo West, Colorado
Mary Jane (Stommes) Vitt, born May 16, 1944, in Albany, MN to Joseph and Dorothy (Schadegg) Stommes, died June 14th, 2018. With a never-ceasing smile, an infectious optimism and positive attitude, she showed us all how to live with incredible fortitude. In the same way she leaves behind a legacy of countless lives touched by her sunshine. She grew up in the St. Cloud, MN area with 6 brothers and sisters: Jim (Kay), Hank, Arline (Dave), Jerry (Ive), Lee (Anne), and Ann Marie. Graduating St. Francis High School, she went on to Presentation Junior College before continuing at Creighton University in Omaha, NE. There she met Bob (Robert George), married at Sacred Heart Parish in St. Cloud, then raised four children--Chris (Tim), Pam, Linda (Michael), and Rob (Regi), teaching at St. Bernard's before moving to Colorado. She and Bob raised their family in Arvada and Golden, followed by Pueblo before moving to Pueblo West in 2000 as empty-nesters. Along the way, Mary Jane loved to 'polish her rocks,' finding peace in maintaining an immaculate yard with beautiful flower arrangements, unknowingly reflecting her own bright and clean persona to the surrounding neighborhood. Taking care of her teeth and her home in like manner, she passed on her meticulous habits to her children and grandchildren, (Tyler, Nicole, Matthew, Derek, Ian, Theresa, Connor, Delaney, Grant, Noah, March, Tager, Elka, Finn, Fritz) through her simple but dignified daily example. Perhaps some of that came from working as an allergy and dental receptionist for many years, gracing patients and fellow employees (friends) with her cheerful demeanor and calming nature as many entered an often-dreaded procedure but suddenly found themselves smiling after a check-in with Mary. She also impacted numerous lives in her 20 years of selfless service as a Colorado Suicide Prevention Hotline volunteer during late-night chats with strangers. Her life was always enchanted with music and sweets (she loved her 'don-ies' -- donuts-- and her classical and easy-listening tapes/CD's), another window to her soul. And of course, there was the adventurous 'sure, I'll go' spirit that sent her kayaking around Island Lake with grandkids, traveling by train (and bus) cross-country, surfing the Pacific and trekking to the top of Pike's Peak. Then she would finish it off with a Long Island Iced Tea or Frappuccino, sharing the 'excessive exuberance' with everyone she encountered. She leaves to cherish her memory numerous aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces and nephews. Hon', Girl, Mom, Ralph Tiger Jones, Gramma, Aunt Midge, Mary Jane...thank you for making our lives and our world a brighter place. We will miss you here and anticipate a game of Rummikub or Nertz with you again in Heaven some day.
Rosary, 9:30 AM followed by the funeral Mass, 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 20, at St. Pius X, 3130 Morris Ave. Interment, Imperial Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3130 Morris Ave., Pueblo, CO 81008 or to Sangre De Cristo Hospice, 1207 Pueblo Blvd. Way, Pueblo, CO 81005, in memory. (a special thank you to Yudit and Diane).
Online condolences, www.montgomerysteward.com
From my time as a kid hanging out with Rob to now as an adult, I’ve always appreciated Mrs. Vitt’s kindness and authenticity. She always welcomed and treated me as if I were family. Her impact and legacy is evidenced by the character of her children and grandchildren. I will always remember and admire her dignified grace and kind heart.
My family’s thoughts are with your family.
Whenever I think of Aunt Mary Jane- I just think of her smiling and laughing. Even though the only time we really spent together was when I was a little girl in Omaha, she left a great impression on me of a very upbeat, positive person. She always seemed happy and laughing. I have become closer to her granddaughter, Nicole, in Omaha and still see that positive upbeat approach to life in Nicole. Also- her love for adventure has passed down to Nicole as well. (Much to Chris’s chagrin (I think sometimes :)). She will be sorely missed, but every time the sun comes out from behind the clouds, I will think of Aunt Mary Jane- as she was the same. When she entered the room- there was always sunshine. xoxo Jill
As the service is going on right now, know that I am with you in spirit. Though our distance in miles has been great, it always seemed you all were so close. From our beginning in Nebraska to our current locations, your friendship has been treasured. Bob and children and grandchildren feel the loving arms of the Lord around you. He will be with you and because of faith we know Mary Jane is with him. She will be with you in your heart.
I knew Mary when we worked together in the dental office several years ago. She was so sweet and genuine and always had a beautiful smile! I always heard compliments about her and her caring ways and helpfulness in dealing with our patients. She was such a joy to work with. I regret not staying in touch with her and getting together more often for a visit. She had a beautiful spirit and always a kind word. My deepest sympathy goes to her family and loved ones. May she rest in peace and until we meet again “Goodbye my sweet friend”!
My prayers are with you all. Mary is in a much better place now with no pain. My heart goes out to all the family and she will be missed by many. I did not know Mary very well but enjoyed her company when we went to lunch a few times. There are no words at times likes this.
There are no adequate words to honor a woman of such substance as Mary Vitt. I was blessed to call sweet Mary my friend for well over 30 years. She was a receptionist in a dental practice when I met her. We spent countless hours working side by side. So many patients loved and appreciated Mary’s infectious smile and her professionalism. She loved and cared about patients and many considered her a friend.
Mary was always so well dressed and her beautiful spirit was her most noticeable accessory. Mary Vitt was a timeless beauty in every way. To say she will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her would be an understatement. Rest In Peace, Sweet Mary. If there is a reception area in heaven you are sure to be its shining star. Until we meet again, my dear friend.