Mary Lou Pellowski

Mary Lou Pellowski passed away unexpectedly in Winona, MN on Thursday, January 23, 2020, at the of age 86.

Mary Lou is survived by her children: Lynn (John) Schmidtknecht, DeForest, WI; Michael (Sharon Stutzka) Pellowski, Winona, MN; and Kurt Pellowski, Winona, MN; grandchildren; Bil (Shannon) Schmidtknecht, Ashley (Nathan) Schroud and Alex Schmidtknecht; Shonna (James) Lipinski; Rodney (Maria) Pellowski; Mindi (Andy) Schultz; Mandi (Gordie) Johnson; Karl Pellowski; Cody Wade; and Cassidy Wade;14 great-grandchildren; sister: Jackie Denzer, Winona, MN; as well as other family and friends. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons: Anthony, Matthew and Mark; brothers: Alanson Jr. and Terry Hamernik; grandson: Andrew Schmidtknecht; and a brother in-law: Dale Denzer.

Mary Lou was born on November 22, 1933, in Winona, MN, to Alanson and Alma Hamernik, Sr, and was a graduate of Cathedral High School in Winona. On August 29, 1953 she was united in marriage to Rodney James Pellowski, her high school sweetheart, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, MN. Over seven years, Rod and Mary Lou welcomed 6 children which they raised in their hometown. The couple welcomed visitors from all over the world into their home and invited them to be a part of the Pellowski family. She was a dedicated wife and homemaker who was an avid sports fan and loved hockey, football and baseball, loved to cook, play cards and games, bowl, and her weekly match of scrabble with her sister Jackie. She also spent her time volunteering for St. Stan’s for many many years, bartended at Poot’s Tavern, was a member of the Eagles Club and also TOPS. Mary Lou will be missed by many.

Visitation will be held from 1 PM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 3 PM on Friday, January 31, 2020, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka, 625 East Fourth St. in Winona.  The Very Reverend Patrick Arens will officiate.  Following the Mass, a luncheon and reception will be held in the parish hall of the Basilica – all are welcome to attend and celebrate Mary Lou’s life.  A family burial will be held in the spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Mary Lou’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.