Mary E. Wenzel

Mary Elizabeth Wenzel, nee O’Dea, age 83 passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026 after a long battle with Alzheimers. She was a loving, devoted wife for 62 years to the late Raymond Wenzel who passed away in 2024.

Mary was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 16, 1943. She was a graduate of Reavis High School in Burbank, Illinois, where she met her high school and lifelong sweetheart, Ray. They were married on February 3, 1962. She devoted her life to her two children, grandchildren and family, was an amazing cook and homemaker, caretaker of many precious family pets, and volunteer at Nativity School in El Monte, California where her children attended for 8 years. Mary was known for her kindness and gentle spirit, which lives on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Mary is the loving mother of Thomas (Laurie) Wenzel and Kathleen Olson. Cherished grandmother of Jordan Wenzel, Taylor (Mark Carioscio) Wenzel, Eric Wenzel, and Lauren Olson. Dear sister of Denise Sullivan, the late James (Connie) O’Dea, the late Patricia O’Dea, and the late Jack O’Dea. Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews.

Mary will be dearly missed, but there is comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering, and is reunited with her beloved Ray, and family that preceded her in death.

Visitation Tuesday, March 10, 2026 from 3-8 PM with a Funeral Service at 6:30 PM at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. Burial private at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Alzheimer’s Association, 8430 Bryn Mawr, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60631 are appreciated.  To donate online, please use the link below.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400.