The funeral Mass for Sister Mary Bede Weldele, RSM, was celebrated March 22 at Catherine’s Residence Chapel in Frontenac. Sister Mary Bede died on March 20 at Catherine’s Residence following a brief illness. She was 86 years old and had been a Sister of Mercy for 67 years.

Born in Kimmswick, Sister Mary Bede held a bachelor’s degree in education and studies in religious education. She taught in Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and Illinois. She was a parish religion coordinator and youth minister in Springfield, Mo. She volunteered at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center, Mercy Rehab and St. Vincent de Paul Parish.

Sister Mary Bede loved the outdoors and was an avid cross-country skier. For more than 20 years, she maintained an organic garden. She relished the beauty of God’s nature.

The Religious Sisters of Mercy will remember her for her deep contemplative and prayerful spirit. Many enjoyed her keen sense of humor, and she loved her community, family and friends.

Burial was in Calvary Cemetery.