Mary Dittman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Lou Dittman (Howsley) on December 1, 2024, at the age of 77, in the comfort of her home surrounded by family. Born on February 26, 1947, in Morrilton, Arkansas, Mary lived a life filled with love, Resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends.     Mary was the cherished daughter of Joseph William Howsley and Lottie (nee Edlemon) Howsley of Hattieville, Arkansas. Mary’s education was completed at Wauwatosa East High School, Class of 1965. Following her schooling, she dedicated many years of her life to the retail industry until her retirement at the age of 62. Throughout her life, she exemplified the true meaning of hard work and perseverance.     A woman of many interests, Mary found joy in playing bingo, going fishing, crocheting, and most notably, watching and attending baseball games. However, her greatest passion was spending time with her family. Known for her selfless and kind-hearted nature. She was a true Mama Bear to all, a fierce protector of her loved ones, and a courageous fighter in the face of life’s challenges. Mary and Dennis exchanged vows on June 7, 1975, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and their bond was a testament of love’s enduring power. Together, they created a warm and nurturing home filled with laughter, memories and unconditional support.     Mary is preceded in death by her beloved parents, her brother Tommy David Howsley, her son Anthony Joseph Dittman, and her best friend Doreen A. Deloria. Mary is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Dennis Joseph Dittman, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, along with a vibrant family that includes her children; Joseph David Howsley (Karmin) of Oak Creek, Wisconsin; Jamie Joseph Dittman (Mandy) of Marinette, Wisconsin; Tammy Rebecca Ruiz (Ricky) of Waukesha, Wisconsin; and Pamela Branch (Robert) Waukesha, Wisconsin. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Lottie Jo Bingham (Gerald) of New Berlin, Wisconsin, and a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy. Mary was a proud grandmother to Tabanga, Charlie, Hailey, Antonia, Tanya, Tiffany, Siya, Nicolas, RJ, Victoria, and Nellie Jean. She found boundless happiness in her great-grandchildren: Anthony, Robby, Carson, Hudson, Nicholas Jr., Steven, Claire, Cory, Macey, Lucy Lou, Lilly, Sophia, and Alaina Rebecca. Additionally, she is further survived by numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and countless friends who had the honor of knowing her.    The visitation is going to be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. until the start of services at 3:00 p.m. at Cesarz, Charapata & Zinnecker Funeral Home (237 N. Moreland Blvd, Waukesha, WI 53188. A Burial will follow on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. at Prairie Home Cemetery (605 S. Prairie Ave. Waukesha, WI 53186). In Lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Mary’s memory through acts of kindness, as she would have done for others. The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Jessica Joy Compton for her compassion and dedication in helping to care for Mary during her final months. Your kindness made a difference in her journey.Mary Dittman will be deeply missed, but her love will forever remain a guiding light for all who knew her.