Mary Magdalen Bruggeman Minnick was born on June 19, 1930 in McCook, Nebraska to Aloysius and Mary Moeder Bruggeman. They resided on a farm near Leoville, Kansas, Mary loved the farm life. Her main job was to take care of the chickens. She was very happy doing it.
During her high school years she helped with the baking in the cafeteria. She also coached girls softball. After graduating, she attended Sacred Heart Girls Jr. College, now known as Newman University. She missed the farm life and returned home after the first year.
She was introduced to Jack Minnick by her cousin, Sonny. Sonny was married to Jack's sister and the adventure began! Jack and Mary were married on November 26, 1953 at Immaculate Conception Church in Leoville, Kansas, by Fr. John Wolt. They set off for a 3 week honeymoon to the New England states.
They moved to the Wichita area in the early 1960's. Mary loved being a homemaker. The family grew to 6 children, which is what Mary wanted. She was an active member at St. Cecilia. She loved gardening, canning, riding her motorcycle, and square dancing. After all the kids were in school she worked in the cafeteria at Campus High School. She did most of the baking. A highlight for her was being the "flower girl" in 2 of her grandchildren's wedding, at the age of 89 and 91 yrs young.
But most of all she loved GOD and her family. For the last several years her daily prayer has been 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
Mary is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack Minnick and son Craig; brother and sister-in-law Albert and Julie Bruggeman; brother in law and sister-in-law Sonny and Cleda Moeder; daughter in law Barbara Minnick; granddaughter Katrina Beavers.
She is survived by daughter, Ann (Bob) Schmeidler; sons Mark (Leny) Minnick: Mitch (Sherry) Minnick; Sam (Cindy) Minnick; Jay (Jane) Minnick.
She was blessed with 20 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren, with more on the way!
Visitation will be held Friday, September 11, 2026 from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm with a Recitation of the Holy Rosary immediately to follow at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 1830 W Grand Ave, Haysville, KS 67060. Funeral Mass will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church followed by a procession to the graveside service at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11800 W. Hwy 54, Wichita, KS.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions have been established with Good Shepherd Hospice.
