Maria “Mariele” Katharina Meyer Votaw
Maria “Mariele” Katharina Meyer Votaw passed away peacefully after a brief illness on February 27th, 2024, at the age of 91 years. Beloved wife of Donald Votaw for 72 years. Loving mother to Jimmy Votaw (Ellen), Jeannie Narbone (Arthur), Donna Keizer (Chet), and Madge Eskew (Steve). In addition, she is survived by her sisters Gerlinde Sonntag (Werner) and Elfriede Meyer, eleven grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. Preceded in death by her parents, Johann and Maria Meyer, her grandson Donald James Votaw, other siblings and extended family members.
Maria was born in Regensburg, Germany on September 19th, 1932. She immigrated to the U.S. with her husband Donald and son (Jimmy) in December of 1952 and settled in the Milwaukee area. She worked at Pereles Bros, Inc. and F.W Woolworth Co. for many years. Upon retirement, she and Donald moved to Fond du Lac, WI.
Maria loved and cherished her family. She and Donald enjoyed weekend camping trips as the kids were growing up. She loved to reminisce about her childhood in Germany, sharing stories about growing up during World War II. She and Donald made numerous trips back to her homeland to visit family and friends. She loved to cook and was very proud of her German dishes. She enjoyed entertaining many family and friends throughout the years. Maria was an avid doll collector and loved to listen to German music and watch videos sent from family members. She loved to attend the local German festivals and enjoyed dancing to her beloved German polkas. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In lieu of funeral services, and to honor and celebrate Maria’s life, we ask that all who wish to participate, please make a donation to Faith Ev. Lutheran Church, Fond du Lac, WI., or a charity of your choice.