Mary Catherine Tondre, 77, of Maryville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 11:28 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville.
She was born on September 21, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri, the beloved daughter of the late Eugene F. and Virginia (Koblitz) Tondre.
Mary retired from Pizza Hut in Edwardsville after several years of dedicated service as a server, where her warm smile and friendly personality made a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike. She also enjoyed many years of employment with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), working as an attendant at the Riverview Drive Rest Area, where she welcomed countless travelers with kindness and a cheerful spirit.
Raised in the Catholic faith, Mary was blessed to be among the first students to benefit from modern special education programs in the Granite City School District. Throughout her life, she met every challenge with remarkable determination, resilience, and an unwavering desire to do her very best. Her perseverance and positive outlook inspired all who knew and loved her.
Mary was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan and proudly considered herself their number one supporter. Whether attending games with family or cheering from her favorite front-row seat in her living room, she rarely missed a pitch. She was equally passionate about the St. Louis Blues and enjoyed listening to country music. Mary treasured her years participating in the Special Olympics alongside her parents, creating memories that brought her tremendous joy. An accomplished bowler in her younger years, she earned numerous trophies and awards, reflecting both her competitive spirit and natural talent.
Above all, Mary loved her family. She cherished every visit, every celebration, and every opportunity to spend time with those she loved. Her gentle heart, infectious enthusiasm, and ability to find happiness in life’s simple pleasures will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
She is survived by her sister, Patty Knobeloch of Granite City; her brother and sister-in-law, Eugene H. and Sherry Tondre of East Peoria, Illinois; her nieces and nephews, Roger and Machele Knobeloch of Granite City, Jay Tondre of East Peoria, Patricia and Marshall Black of Park City, Utah, Angela Harris of Colville, Washington, and Jeannine and Justin Wilson of West Peoria; many cherished great-nieces and great-nephews; extended family members; and many dear friends.
In addition to her beloved parents, she was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Dianna and Roy Wright, and her brother-in-law, Roger Knobeloch Sr.
In celebration of her life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026. Sister Stephanie Turck will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.
Memorial donations may be made to Cardinal Cares in Mary’s memory.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.irwinchapel.com.
