Mary L Kellbach

Mary Louise (nee Gehring) Kellbach, age 80, passed away peacefully on December 28 at her home, surrounded by the love of her family.
Mary was born on June 8, 1945, in Hartford, Wisconsin, to William and Monica (nee Goss) Gehring.
Mary was the beloved wife of Frederick Kellbach and a devoted mother to Tammy Foerster (husband Ben) and Monica Van Alstyne (husband Derek), who preceded her in death.
She was a cherished grandmother to Charles Foerster, Sophie Foerster, and August Van Alstyne, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. Mary had a true gift for nurturing others, most famously through her incredible cooking. She firmly believed that food could heal the soul and bring people together, and her kitchen was always a place of warmth, comfort, and love.
She also found joy in knitting and crocheting most people who knew Mary were lucky enough to own one of her afghans or a beautiful handmade creation. Keeping others warm and wrapped in love was simply who she was. Above all else, Mary loved her family and friends. She was the proud matriarch of the Gehring family and treasured every moment spent together-from lively parties and sporting events to weekly lunches. Watching the family grow through nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews filled her heart with happiness and pride. She felt deeply honored to be part of such a close and loving family and cherished every minute she shared with them. Mary's love, generosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
Mary is survived by her husband Frederick Kellbach; her daughter, Tammy Foerster (Ben); son-in-law, Derek Van Alstyne; her grandchildren, Charles, Sophie, and August; and her siblings, Jean Klippel (partner Mitch), Richard Gehring (wife Cheryl), Charles Gehring (wife Maureen), Michael Gehring, Thomas Gehring (wife Patty), Jane Gehring, Shirley Gehring, and Russ Hoefs (partner Cecil). She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Mary was preceded in death by her daughter, Monica Van Alstyne; her parents, Monica and William Gehring; her siblings Susan Hoefs, William "Skippy" Gehring, and David Gehring; her sister-in-law, Marion Gehring; and her brother-in-law, Jerome "Buddy" Klippel.
Memorial Mass for Mary will be held January 9th, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St Lawrence Catholic Church. Family will greet relatives and friends from 12:00p.m. until the time of mass.