Mary Esther Witzke

Mary was a woman of deep faith, strong character, and generous spirit. She cherished her family, her many siblings, and the friendships she built throughout her life, and she knew she was loved and treasured to the end.

She set high standards for herself and brought energy, discipline, and compassion to everything she did. Over the years, she served and encouraged others through her work with the Ski Patrol, as a ski instructor, as a Welcome Wagon Co-ordinator, as a ski guide for people who were blind, and through CNIB. To Mary, the people she met were never strangers for long; she had a gift for making others feel like family.

Mary was a hiking, canoeing, and skiing partner, as well as a steady source of encouragement. She was also known as a second mom to so many people. She modelled perseverance, expected the best from those around her, and helped others believe they could reach it.

Through her marriages to Alan Mauger and Gord Witzke, Mary was blessed with five children, whom she loved and encouraged to become the best they could be. She was happiest when they gathered as a family.

Her greatest pleasure was watching her grandchildren grow up, and she was blessed to see four great-grandchildren begin their own journeys. She lived fully, loved faithfully, and remained, at heart, a prayer warrior.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2pm on October 10, 2026, at Faith Lutheran Church in Kelowna, BC.