Mary H. Beeler, age 86, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 31, 2021 with her devoted family by her side. A native of Wichita, Kansas, Mary was born to Jose and Juanita (Briseño) Ruiz on September 12, 1934.
An adventure of a lifetime was soon to begin when she met the love of her life during a USO dance. This hometown girl had no idea what she was in for when she married a soldier stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas. Her journey began with her loving husband Ed as they traveled to duty stations that included: Alaska, Alabama, Indiana, New York, California, Arizona, New Jersey, Germany and finally settled in El Paso, Texas with their six children. Their marriage of 68 years was filled with the joys of family, travel and civic contributions.
Mary was adored by all who knew her; she was very gracious and had a smile that would light up your heart. She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity and love of life. She was very active in the St. Rafael Parish and St. Michael’s Chapel for several decades. She served as a Eucharistic Minister and visited homebound members of the parish and area nursing homes. Some of her community involvement included Girl Scout Leader, Retrouvaille Marriage Facilitator – along with her husband. As a food kitchen volunteer she cooked and delivered dozens of holiday turkeys. She was active in the Fort Bliss Officer and Civilian Spouse Association. Mary especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends sharing her smile and jokes - but most importantly, her compassion for everyone she met. She was also an avid bowler and won several trophies. Her selfless service to our nation as a career military officer spouse, and mother of veterans from three service branches, have left an indelible contribution to the fabric of our nation.
Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children Ernest (Maria) Beeler of San Antonio, Texas; Linda (Roger) Hartwig of Grand Ledge, Michigan; Michael (Nina) Beeler of El Paso, Texas; Anthony Beeler of San Antonio, Texas; Louis (Karen) Beeler of Charlotte, North Carolina; and 13 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; sister Eva (Fidel) Rodriquez of Wichita, Kansas and brother Ralph (Eleanor) Ruiz of Wichita, Kansas. She will also be affectionately remembered by numerous nieces and nephews, and extended family and dear friends.
Mary was preceded in death by her devoted husband Ed Beeler; parents Jose and Juanita Ruiz (Briseño); brother Arthur (Mary) Ruiz; son Edward Beeler.
Visitation will be Tuesday, April 13, 2021 from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m. at Funeraria del Angel Central, 3839 Montana Avenue, El Paso, Texas. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 14, 2021 at 12:30 p.m. Private Burial will be at Fort Bliss National Cemetery - we regret that due to current circumstances, attendance will be limited to immediate family only.
To help us celebrate her life please visit:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/el-paso-tx/mary-beeler-10135632
While there, please add your own favorite stories and memories for everyone to enjoy.
Donations are welcome to the El Paso County Master Gardener Association at https://txmg.org/elpaso/about-us/donate/ or the St. Rafael Parish endowment fund at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/motcab/.
