Mary Lou Draude

Mary Lou  Draude, nee Dugan, 95, of Waterloo, IL, died February 15, 2023, in Waterloo, IL. She was born August 12, 1927, in Burksville, IL.

    She is survived by children David James Fischer, Brady Fischer (Diane Tasler), and Julie (Terry) Jackson; step daughter Kristina (David) Cline; grandchildren Greg (Alison) Fischer, Laura Fischer, Garret Fischer (Whitney Jones), Whitney (Jon) Sones, Kyle (Kelsey) Jackson, Mark (Katherine) Jackson, Mathew Jackson, and Megan (Brian) Steen great grandchildren Everlee, Boston, & Ella Dee Jones, Gracie Fischer, Eli, Elena, and Everett Sones, Janade Fischer, Kiana Fischer, and Tuesday Fischer; great great grandchildren Adalyn Fischer, Jack Fischer, Charlie and Lucy Jackson, Juliette Jackson, and Sadie Steen; brother Joseph Dugan; nieces; nephews; and cousins.

    Mary Lou is preceded in death by her 1st husband Walter W. Fischer Jr. and 2nd husband Franklin J. Draude; parents Edward R. and Ida M. Dugan nee Hornung; brothers Raymond and Edward Dugan; sister Georgia Ann Fries.

    You have no doubt heard the phrase, "Actions speak louder than words."  Mary Lou was someone who healed the world around her through humble acts and shared words.  Her life was spent in service to God through supporting others.  She was adventurous, generous, and thoughtful.
            Mary Lou's work experience demonstrates some of her many gifts.  Mary Lou was a detailed records keeper for different businesses, including the Republic Times, her family gas station (Dugans Circle Service), and Kesler Fur Company, where she also modeled furs for customers.  Mary Lou has always shown compassion for others, especially as they faced challenges.  She supported expectant mothers, worked at the nursing home gift shop, volunteered in the community, and offered time with others who appreciated her peaceful presence and smiling eyes.
            Mary Lou valued happiness while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and some may remember tasting her homemade brownies or apricot bars that brought joy with each bite!  Walking was part of her daily routine longer than anyone would have expected, but she was motivated to keep healthy - mind, body, and spirit.
            Mary Lou's love and appreciation of art was evident in many ways.  She enjoyed visual arts, music, and the beauty of the earth.  Her face would light up as she shared stories and pictures about her travels.  She also created art of her own, and found joy in tole painting.  One of her favorite pastimes was Saturday night ballroom dancing with her husband, Frank, while adorned by a matching dress and tie made by her mother! Her home was filled with the sounds of many genres of music, and if the radio wasn't playing, a loving whistle could be heard.
            Mary Lou had an ability to see the good in everyone.  Type-written letters showered receivers with the comfort that someone cared for them.  Often, her letters were accompanied by a bookmark or prayer card that seemed to offer exactly what was needed. Her faith led her actions and words as she walked along life's path.  She was a living example of the joy, forgiveness, and love found in Christ.
            She is a member of SS Peter and Paul - Waterloo, IL.

As an expression of sympathy the family prefers memorial contributions to: 
Susan G. Komen for the Cure or Alzheimer's Association

Visitation:
    1 PM to 5 PM Sunday, February 19, 2023 at Quernheim Funeral Home
    8 AM until 9:30 AM Monday at Quernheim Funeral Home

Funeral Mass:
    10 AM Monday, February 20, 2023 at SS Peter & Paul Church in Waterloo, IL
        Father Linus Umoren C.M. officiating
    Interment at SS Peter & Paul Cemetery in Waterloo, IL