Mary Wettig

Mary Wettig, a remarkable mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, left this world on April 15, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on April 4, 1933, in Lake City, Kansas, Mary’s life was a testament to dedication, love, and an indomitable spirit.

Mary was known for her multifaceted career. For over 22 years, she served as a devoted stay-at-home mom, fulfilling the roles of Chief Executive Officer and Domestic Engineer. In addition, she contributed her skills to establishments such as the Mexico Cafe, KTCH, KLEO, and Boeing, where she worked for 17 years. Her determination and hard work provided a nurturing environment for her family and served as a beacon of inspiration for her six children.

Education was a significant value in Mary’s life. After high school, she began teaching while attending classes at Kansas State University. She graduated from Wichita State University in 1982 with her bachelor’s degree. She broke barriers as the first in her family to earn a college degree, setting a precedent followed by her children; all six of whom graduated from college, with three going on to achieve advanced degrees and two holding CPA certifications.

Mary's unwavering love for her family shone brightly through her actions. She was the most incredible, caring, and selfless mother, with a unique ability to recall even the minutest details from decades past. Her sharp mind and quick wit stayed with her until the end. She was a true servant who put others’ needs ahead of her own. Mary delighted in expressing pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, treating each of them as if they were her favorite. She delighted in their accomplishments and lit up whenever they came to visit and spend time with her. Not only was she a second mother to many neighborhood kids, but she also actively supported her family, including working second and third shifts at Boeing, ensuring her children's needs were always prioritized.

Her interests extended beyond her family. An exceptional cook, she had a knack for creating delicious meals from scratch, often without the aid of a recipe. Among her culinary accolades, her homemade cinnamon rolls, affectionately named "Nana Rolls," earned a special place in the hearts of her loved ones. Mary had a passion for travel, enjoying excursions to the Bahamas, Hawaii, Vancouver, Italy, and Ireland. A voracious reader, she could finish a book in a single day and cherished her subscriptions to The Atlantic and The New Yorker. She was extremely intelligent, quick witted and possessed a tremendous sense of humor. She will be fondly remembered for her laugh and her left-leaning political views that she developed later in life. Mary loved her Shitzues – Sugar and Spice – who lived almost as long as she did!

Mary is survived by her devoted children: Mark from Chicago, Tracy from Wichita, Jay (Jana) from Reno, Chris (Lindi) from Wichita, Thane (Carolyn) from Indianapolis, and daughter Marcy Adams (Casey) from Atlanta. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Greg Wettig (Sofia), Hannah Owens (Al), Chelsea Hallice (TJ), Jon Wettig, Ashley Wettig (Kane), Matthew Wettig, Ali Driver (Dylan), Hampton Leigh Adams, Patrick Wettig (Courtney), Nathan Wettig, Maddie Wettig, Spencer Wettig, Max Adams, Cooper Wettig, Remi Whealy, and Ryan Adams. She also leaves behind her beloved great-grandchildren: Nora Rooney, George Driver, Winnie Driver, Tripp Hallice, Grayson Valle, Charlie Driver, Hallie Hallice, and Stevie Hallice.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Wilfred and Elizabeth Elliott, as well as her sisters, Betty Elliott and Barbara Taylor.

A memorial service will be held to honor her remarkable life on Friday, August 1st, at 1:00 pm in the chapel of Eastminster Presbyterian Church. A reception will be held immediately following at the Cozine Life Events Center.

As we reflect on the profound impact Mary had on all who knew her, we remember her as a beacon of light and love, a true matriarch, and a remarkable woman whose spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary Wettig Honors Scholarship c/o WSU Foundation, 1845 Fairmount St., Wichita, KS 67260-0002.