Obituary of Mary Theresa Dietrich

It is with heavy yet peaceful hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother. Mary, surrounded by her family, died peacefully at the Hospice of Waterloo Region on Friday, November 8, 2024, one month shy of her 98^th birthday.

Mary was a devout, kind-hearted lady who was loved by everyone who encountered her. Her greatest pleasure was spending time with her family. She was always so proud to hear of their accomplishments.

Beloved mother of Doug Dietrich (Tracey) of Waterloo, Joanne Koenig (Stephen) of St. Clements, and Julianne Dreisinger (Michael) of Waterloo. Mary was blessed with and will be dearly missed by her 8 grandchildren: Shawn (Rachael), Cheryl (Rod), Shannon (Oscar), Kelly, Ainsley (Shawn), Nicole (Jake), Kyle (Karissa), and Alex, and her 8 great-grandchildren: Tyler, Tyson, Mya, Dylan, Aysia, Brooklynn, Ava, and Camryn. Mary is survived by her sister Theresa Beaupre (Ken), and sister-in-law Bernetta Wettlaufer (Roy).

She was predeceased by Robert, her husband and soulmate of almost 60 years, her parents Albert and Hilda Esbaugh, brothers Jerome Esbaugh (Thelma), Joe Esbaugh (Theresa), Clare Esbaugh (Helen), and Harold Esbaugh (Audrey), and her sisters Rose Kraemer (Lloyd), Marcy Kellogg (Laverne), and Betty Phillips (Harry).

Along with her husband, Mary was a founding and long-time member of St. Michael RC Church in Waterloo. She was honoured to receive recognition for 75 years of service to the Catholic Women’s League.  Besides Mary’s love of family and friends, she enjoyed quilting, sewing, gardening, a good game of euchre and participating in various church activities.

Special thanks to Kate, a hospice volunteer, for her love and support over the past year. Thank you to the Hygate Retirement Living Team and residents, and the St. Mary’s Hospital 5^th floor team for their compassionate care and kindness.  Thanks to Dr. Yew, the palliative care team and the Hospice of Waterloo Region.

Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Wednesday, November 13^th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and again on Thursday, November 14^th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Michael RC Church, 80 University Ave W, Waterloo on Friday, November 15^th at 11:00 a.m. A Reception will immediately follow in the church hall. Interment at St. Clements Cemetery, 2681 Hergott Rd, St. Clements.

Condolences for the family and donations to the Hospice of Waterloo Region or St. Michael RC Church may be arranged at www.erbgood.com.