Mary Jo Sturm

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mary Jo Sturm, age 73. Mary Jo passed peacefully at home on the morning of November 29th, 2023 after an extended struggle with Alzheimer’s, with Thomas Sturm, her loving husband of 51 years, watching over her.

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mary Jo was the daughter of Bill and Jeanne Weibel, and loving sister to Tim, Tom, Sue, Jane, Dan, and Bill Jr. Mary Jo is survived by the love of her life, Thomas Sturm, and their children, Molly (Patrick), Thomas (Shannon), and Robert (BrieLynn) along with her three grandchildren, Milo, John Cecil, and August, and two grand dogs, Diggle and Gertie.

In every chapter of her life, Mary Jo was a natural caregiver and this led her to a career in nursing where she offered unwavering support to all her patients regardless of if they were confronting a terminal diagnosis, or if they were an anxious child facing the dreaded finger poke. This nurturing side of Mary Jo extended far outside of the hospital. Whether it was cuddling her kids after scraped knees, carting them around to dance competitions, cheering from stands at a football game, or assisting them with homework that they may or may not have procrastinated on, she was always there. When her own parents were in need, Mary Jo put her life on hold and moved across the state to focus on their well-being by offering them comfort, compassion, and an abundance of love as they struggled with their own ailments. If anyone in her orbit needed help, Mary Jo was the first person that would volunteer.

During Mary Jo’s prolonged battle with Alzheimer’s, her devoted husband, Thomas, tenderly showered her with unwavering love, dedication, patience, and compassion. His commitment to Mary Jo allowed her to live out her remaining days in her home surrounded with love.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at St. Sebastian Catholic Church, 9408 Wilson Ave SW, Byron Center, with Msgr. Bill Duncan officiating. Relatives and friends may meet the family at 9:30 am before mass at church. A luncheon will follow. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to Spectrum Health Hospice to support the amazing work that this group offers to families like ours.