Mary Helen Reitz (nee Martineau) aged 97, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025. She was born on June 12, 1927 as the third of four children of John and Emma (Reichert) Martineau. She attended St. Luke’s parish grade school and graduated from Maplewood High School. On November 26, 1949, she married Joseph F. Reitz, Jr, and they enjoyed 38 happy years together until his death in 1987. She is survived by their children Mary Ann Steiner, Jeanne Russo, Tom Reitz, Bob (Lisa) Reitz, and Joe (Mary) Reitz III. Mary’s 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild will miss her cookies, playfulness, and attention.
Mary was a remarkable homemaker, cook, and seamstress. A faithful friend and generous neighbor, she loved to plan and host events, play tennis, ice skate, head out to the family farm, and visit with her many friends and large family.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Brentwood, MO at 9:30am Thursday, May 1st, 2025. Burial immediately following at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to the Missouri Conservation Department Heritage Foundation www.mochf.org.
The family is especially grateful to her good neighbors and the staffs of McKnight Place and Evelyn’s House for their exceptional care.