Marlys Mittelstadt

I have many wonderful memories of Marlys so it is hard to choose just one. But here is one. In 1976 St John's senior choir met in the summer of that year to prepare a song to celebrate the bicentennial. It was the summer before I started 9th grade. I went with my mom to this particular rehearsal and was planning on sitting in a Sunday school room while rehearsal was going on. The song being practised was God Bless America. As they were singing I was enthralled by it. I went to the choir room door to listen. My mom waved to me and Marlys looked around to see who was neing waved at. When she saw me she smiled and said Come in and join us in spite of the fact I was known as singing loud and off key . From that moment on I was hooked on Church choir. I learned so much from her.

Mrs. Mittelstadt was always so kind and generous, welcoming me into her home during my UW Madison days whether it was Thanksgiving dinner, or letting me do my laundry at her house. One of my fondest memories of all the time I spent at the Mittelstadt home, is a late afternoon in the living room, where a few of Mary’s friends were gathered. Mrs. Mittelstadt was at the Steinway, and played Chopin Études Op.10 in its entirety, sans the sheet music. It had always been one of my favorite pieces, and to hear it live was thrilling. We were in awe of Mrs. Mittelstadt’s expression of that piece and I will never forget that day. I count Mary as one of my closest friends, and I always admired the relationship that Mrs. Mittelstadt and Mary had. I shed a tear for the loss of such an accomplished woman, a phenomenal talent, an amazing mother and a good person. Denise E. Bové

I always enjoyed talking with Marlys and am grateful for the way she graced my life.

I met Marlys in 1993 a few years before I became a member at St Johns. I also have Eau Claire roots so we had that in common. I enjpyed her enthusiastic pieces on the organ. After searching thru the archives was pleased to find many articles written by Marlys in our newsletters. She was a gifted musician. May you rest in peace and know you are missed by many. Barbara Meyer

Marlys was truly the kindest and most generous woman I have met. I always loved her grace and composure. Many wonderful memories of visits through the years with Miles and his sons over Holidays and Badger football and hockey weekends. I am sure she was welcomed to Heaven with the open arms of Russell, Marc, and Miles. She lived a full and wonderful life