Marie Kegel

Marie Kegel, 91, of Houston, Texas, passed away on June 14, 2026. Born April 22, 1935, Marie will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who had the privilege to know her. Her life reflected a steady devotion to others—marked by a sincere kindness and an unwavering belief in treating every person with equal dignity and care.

From early on, Marie’s generous spirit found its way into the everyday work of helping others. She volunteered for many years with MANNA, serving people in her neighborhood in many capacities, and she found true joy in giving her time and attention where it was needed. Marie also served on the vestry at Hope Episcopal Church, a role she embraced with quiet commitment and gratitude for the opportunity to be of service. She graduated high school and regularly took the bus to the University of Houston to further her education—an example of determination and purpose that remained part of who she was throughout her life.

In 1960, Marie married Bob Kegel at her parents’ home. She met Bob while living with her friend Sue, and at first believed he was interested in Sue—only to learn that was not the case. Together, Marie and Bob built their home in Shepherd Forest and made it the heart of their family life. They welcomed their son, Craig, and then their daughter, Karen, and raised their children there.

After Bob’s death, Marie felt profoundly lost, yet in time she found renewed companionship and comfort through sister Charlene’s group from St Ambrose, and through the many friends she met in the Lift program of Dignity Memorial. Her love for volunteering at MANNA continued, as did her appreciation for the people she met along the way. Marie also cherished her “fur babies.” With no grandchildren, her grand dogs became her babies, and the family often called her “grandma.” Her devotion to them was well known—she would put Craig or Karen out before she would her grand dogs.

Marie’s legacy is one of warmth, acceptance, and steadfast love. She will be remembered for embracing people as they were, without judgment, and for welcoming differences with grace. She loved everyone for who they were, and her life remains a lasting example of what it means to live with an open heart.

Visitation will be held at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, on July 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Committal Service will follow at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077, on July 4, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.

Marie would have wanted to thank her family for always being there to support her, her son, and her daughter. A very special thanks is also extended to Wendy and Aria at Cottage Grove (Village Green), and to the staff who always made her feel special; Marie loved them all during her time there.

Marie was blessed with many friends and family, and a special acknowledgment is due to Jennie McClelland, a best friend over many years. Though they did not always see each other often, their bond remained strong.

In honor of her grand schnauzer dogs Marie would like to ask in lieu of flowers (her daughter cannot keep a plant alive and her son does not want to) that you donate in her name to MSRH.org on line or by mail at c/o Teresa Dillard at 3024 Paisley Street - Denton, TX 76209. Marie loved her grandson schnauzers. Or you can donate to a charity of your choice as she loved helping others. Her family asks that you donate in her name and send the acknowledgement to her daughter at [email protected] or 4119 Marlborough, houston, tx 77092.