Mary J. McIntyre

Mary J. McIntyre, who brought laughter and warmth wherever she went, passed away on June 27, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on November 9, 1941, Mary lived a life rich in spirit and brimming with unforgettable memories, her home always echoing with the sound of her infectious laugh.

Growing up, Mary attended St. Mary’s North Washington High School, graduating with the class of 1959. Shortly thereafter, she found her lifelong partner, Dale, and together they began their journey as husband and wife on December 16, 1959. Their union became the foundation for a family that Mary cherished above all else, her proudest accomplishment.

Mary occupied an irreplaceable role within her circle of family and friends. Though she worked a variety of small jobs over the years, her true vocation was found within the walls of her home—where she reigned as queen of daily life, tending to every task with equal measures of dedication and good humor. If ever there was a heart to the home, it was surely Mary, never truly comfortable anywhere but in her beloved kitchen.

She was the undisputed life of every gathering, known by all who loved her for her boundless sense of humor. Mary did not possess an indoor voice—her laughter was meant to fill rooms, her jokes were delivered with gusto, and her joy for life was utterly contagious. She delighted in slipping on her Billy Bob teeth and bursting into rooms, drawing grins with her playful antics, and she was always eager to join in a good laugh courtesy of a Snapchat filter. Mary's happy hour was legendary, and her spirit meant a gathering with her would always be filled with light.

Mary found joy in the simple pleasures—playing cards, tackling puzzles and word finds, and keeping a watchful eye as head of her neighborhood watch. Her approach to life was practical but never dull. While others braved the malls on Black Friday, Mary contentedly visited Dollar General. It was a running family joke that if her children or grandchildren ever landed in trouble while away, Mary would warn them not to call her for bail money—her humor ever present, even in advice. Her family never tired of playing pranks on her, each one another cherished story woven into the family tapestry.

Above all, Mary’s greatest joy and most lasting legacy was her family. Every milestone, every gathering, every loving tease and peal of shared laughter—these were the treasures she prized most.

Services honoring Mary’s vibrant life will be held at Saint Gabriel Catholic Church, 21275 U Avenue, Reinbeck, IA 50669. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Thursday, July 2, 2026, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Mary’s story is one of joy, wit, and an unwavering devotion to those she loved. She leaves behind a legacy that will live on in the laughter, mischievous smiles, and close-knit bonds of her family and friends, forever echoing the singular sound of her laughter through their hearts.

Mary will be missed by her two children; Denise (Chris) Coulter, Cathy (Chip) Wical, six grandchildren; Todd (Suzanne) Wical, Randi (Cole) Buseman, Danielle (Ryan) Latwesen, Tonya (Rem) Ringena, Autumn Oliver, Sarah (Collin) Mowrey, 16 great grandchildren; Mackenna (Kyle), Hadleigh, Weston, Luke, Lane, Brynn, Austyn, Elly Jo, Warren, Skylar, Kyrin, Ariel, Jaycee, Taylor, Boone, Bowan, four siblings; LaVonne Rosonke, Pat (Dietz) Tenge, Geri Papousek, Mike Weigel and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; Dale, son; Steve, one sibling; Bob Weigel, two brother-in-laws; Francis Rosonke, Milt Papousek and two sister-in-laws; Irene Weigel, and DeeAnn Weigel.