Marita R. Loddeke

Marita R. Loddeke, age 88, of Breese, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital in O'Fallon, surrounded by her loving family. A woman of great faith and warmth, Marita lived a life devoted to service, compassion, and family.

She was born on April 29, 1937, in Breese, the daughter of Elmer and Clementine (née Maue) McAllister. On January 7, 1958, Marita married William "Bingo" Loddeke at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Breese. Together, they built a loving home and family, rooted in deep values and unwavering love.

Marita is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, William "Bingo" Loddeke of Breese; her five children: Craig (Deb) Loddeke, Brad (Sharon) Loddeke, Todd (Pam) Loddeke, Mara (Terry) Jackson, all of Breese, and Jenna (Brian) Hitpas of Albers; and her adored grandchildren: Curt (January) Loddeke, Beth (Danny) Peek, Breann (Collin Bedard) Loddeke, Cara Loddeke, Eric (Sarah) Loddeke, Megan (Chris) Wiebler, Cale (Leah) Loddeke, Kelsey (Ethan Siemens) Loddeke, Luke (Megan) Jackson, Brett Jackson, Brayden (Amber) Watts, Gavin (Chloe Book) Watts, Landry Watts, and Brinley Hitpas.

Marita was a proud great-grandmother to Page, William, Emily, Hayli, Alex, Grayson, Macie, Cayden, Charlee, Trent, Ella, Axl, Briggs, Will, Vivian, Zeke, Carson, Cora, and Adelyn-and was joyfully anticipating the arrival of her twentieth great-grandchild.

She is also survived by her sister, Eunice McDowell of Chandler, AZ; sister-in-law Sr. Mildred Loddeke, SSND of St. Louis; and numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by her kind and generous spirit.

Marita was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Clementine (nee Maue) McAllister; her infant daughter, MaryBeth Loddeke; infant brother, Sean McAllister; siblings, Elmer "BJ" (Loretta) McAllister, Jr., Vernell (Bud) Willeford, and Garneau (Alice) McAllister; parents-in-law, Raymond and Marie (née Mueller) Loddeke; and in-laws Jim Langenhorst, Richard McDowell, and Shirley (Al) Jansen.

She dedicated 50 years of service as a cashier, first at Piggly Wiggly and later at Super Valu in Breese. Marita was a faithful member of St. Dominic Catholic Church and an Honorary Member of HSHS St. Joseph's Hospital Auxiliary. She was known for her love of cooking, reading, playing cards and board games, and volunteering her time generously to help others, always putting the needs of family and community before her own.

Marita's passion for life, faith, and family was evident in all she did. She spent years volunteering at local nursing homes and bringing communion to residents. She was also an active member of Clinton County Citizens for Life. She met life's end with peace, grace, and certainty, knowing she was going home.