Mary Rita (Kirchmer) Fiala

FIALA, MARY RITA (KIRCHMER)

Age 104. Mary was born in Dayton the year before the Great Flood and led a long life of good humor and quiet faith. A world-class knitter and long time member of the Dayton Knitting Guild she first learned her skill at the age of 5 knitting bandages for soldiers serving in World War I. Mary graduated in the first class of Julienne HS in 1930, then put her education to work as an independent working woman in the 1930's and 40's. After WWII she married Herb Fiala, CPA and soon Mary bore two sons, Jim and Jack. After Herb suffered a debilitating stroke in 1965 Mary returned to work to support the household at various secretarial positions, notably 24 years at St. Leonard Seminary and St. Charles Parish. Eight years ago, through an oversight, she let her driver license expire, but studied up and passed her drivers exam and field test at age 96. She lived independently in her cottage at St. Leonard until age 103. Mary is survived by her devoted son and daughter-in-law Jack and Pauline Fiala; her adored and beloved granddaughters Kate and Christine; brother and sister-in-law Tom and Betty Kirchmer; many nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by Herb and Jim; brothers Joe and Dick; sister Jane Priske; parents Bud and Estelle Kirchmer. Her family thanks the aides and nurses at St. Leonard and Hospice of Dayton for their tender, patient care. Donations only please to St. Leonard Benevolent Fund. Visitation July 20, 10:30 AM at St. Leonard Chapel. Mass at 11:30.