Lou Ann Niemerg

Lou Ann Niemerg, 90, of rural Dieterich, passed away Friday, February 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Bishop Creek, with burial in St. Aloysius Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday evening at the church with a CCW rosary being said at 6:30 pm. Memorial donations may be given to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Arrangements are in the care of Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham.

Lou Ann was born September 26, 1935, the daughter of Frank and Anna (Waldhoff) Hemmen. She married Kenneth P. Niemerg on January 5, 1957, and he preceded her in death in 2020.

Lou Ann devoted her life to caring for others. She was a cook for several years at Dieterich School, where she was known for her wonderful meals. There wasn't a meal she couldn't cook-and she never once needed a recipe. At home, her kitchen was the heart of the family, and she delighted in making ice cream cones for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating simple moments they will cherish forever.

She loved to crochet and read, often enjoying quiet moments with a book or a project in her hands. Lou Ann was also an avid gardener, especially proud of her ferns, which she could keep thriving better than anyone. She enjoyed playing cards and was especially fond of pinochle, often "bringing home the bacon" with her winnings.

Family was always Lou Ann's first priority. She never refused to babysit or lend a helping hand and was extremely dedicated to her children and their families. In her later years, she was a devoted and loving caregiver to her husband, Kenneth, faithfully caring for him with patience and grace.

Lou Ann is survived by her children, Doug (Debbie) of Teutopolis, Debbie (Randy) Koester of Teutopolis, Duane (Annette) of Dieterich, Darin (Lisa) of Teutopolis, Bridget (Nick) Whiteside of O'Fallon, IL, Brenda (Steve) Hunzinger of Dieterich, and Brad of St. Louis. She adored her 21 grandchildren and her 17 great-grandchildren. Lou Ann is also survived by her sisters, Lucy Uptmor and Pauline Hoedebecke; brothers, Frank Hemmen JR and John Hemmen; and sister-in-law, Rosie Schumacher.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; great-grandson, Gavin Corum; sisters, Helen Schumachar and Caroline Verdeyen; and brother, Hank Hemmen.

A special thanks to Karen Kreke, her team, and the special nurses and aides that helped care for and loved her.