She will be dearly missed by family and friends. The family will greet friends from 10-11 a.m. with a service immediately following at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 19, 2018, at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer and Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road.
Marie was raised in Arkansas and fought her way through the sticks of Tulip Creek Bottoms to attend Little Rock School of Nursing. She earned a BS in nursing from St. Teresa's College (now Avila University). Marie did graduate work in counseling and English Literature at UMKC. She was passionately dedicated to her hobbies: rug hooking, golfing, gardening, sewing, painting, reading, and movie watching. Marie treasured the many friendships she made while doing the things she loved.
Preceding Marie in death were: John R. Rufe, husband and Fred Gatling, brother. Surviving Marie are her daughter Rita, son-in-law Kevin Pavicic; granddaughters Meredith (husband Josh Dean) and Elise Pavicic; son Robert Rufe; brother Harrol Gatling (wife Wynelle); nephews Dave Gatling (wife Debbie), Fred Gatling (wife Vickie) and niece Ginger Gatling (partner Cassie).
The family wishes to express thanks to the loving care given by the nursing staff on the 4 North and 4 West floor of Research Hospital.
Memorials may be made to: KCPT Television, KCUR Radio, and Avila University.
