Mary Elizabeth Welter

Mary Welter (née Gerding) passed away peacefully at the age of 89 at her home, surrounded by her family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She lived a full and beautiful life rooted in love, faith, and a deep devotion to serving others.Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband, Peter Welter, her parents, and numerous sisters and brothers. She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength in her children:

• Debbie Welter, and her children Aiden (McKenzie) and Jacob (Carley)
• Laurie Welter
• Karen Holeksa (Paul), and their children Madeline and Erica (Kevin) and their beautiful daughter Willow, moms first great granddaughter
• Carla Welter (Tim Mann), and their children Ben (Kennedy) and Jason (Sylvia)
• Lisa Welter-Mills (John Mills), and their children Johny (Mary) and Lucy
• Rob Welter (Terra)

Mary was a true caregiver throughout her life. As the eldest sibling, she helped raise her eight younger sisters and brothers. She worked tirelessly at the Bruno Parish Hall, cooking and cleaning, raised six children of her own, and lovingly supported her grandchildren. After her children were grown, she continued caring for others as a caregiver at the Lutheran Sunset Home and Nightingale Nursing.

She also gave her time generously to her community, volunteering with the German Concordia Club, where she was a member, Folkfest, and the YWCA Opportunity Shop.

A woman of deep faith, Mary lived by the simple yet powerful values of love, peace, and kindness. Her devotion to family was constant and unwavering. She and Peter created a home that celebrated togetherness—a place filled with big meals, music, laughter, and open doors. Many of her children’s friends fondly called her their “second mom,” a testament to her warmth and inclusivity.

Mary was a gifted cook and baker, a creative artist, quilter, needlepointer, and a passionate lover of nature and animals. She especially loved her walks along the river and had a deep fondness for birds, most notably the Canada goose. She raised several clutches of canaries right up until her passing. Mom had a "green thumb" and her plants and gardening were another source of joy for her her entire life. As a member of the Canadian Wildlife Federation, she generously donated portions of her land to wildlife easements, helping protect habitats for generations to come.

Mary also loved music and dancing. She and Peter were avid dancers, often found on the floor at the Elks Club where they were members, every Saturday night following the CJWW Polka Party. Music filled her home as she listened to her favourite artists often. Her all-time favourite artist was the Bee Gees, a love so strong it was even reflected in her car license plate.

Mary’s vibrant spirit, humor, and kind heart touched everyone she met. Her presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of home. She will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the blessing of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 14th at 11:00 AM at St. Philip Neri Parish, 1902 Munroe Ave S., Saskatoon, Sask.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Wildlife Federation in her memory. To leave condolences for the family, please visit martenswarman.ca. 

Martens Warman Funeral Home is honoured to be entrusted with Mary Welter's care and arrangements.