Sister Mary Charles Rydzewski, 88, Sister of Mercy of the Holy Cross, died June 22, 2013, at Bell Tower Residence in Merrill, WI, under the care of the staff at Bell Tower Residence and Aspirus Comfort Care.
Sister Mary Charles was born January 12, 1925, in Three Lakes, WI, daughter of the late Charles and Felicia (Mroczkowski) Rydzewski, and given the name Henrietta. Sister entered Holy Cross Convent in Merrill on November 9, 1954, and celebrated her First Profession on August 22, 1956. She was in her 56th year of ministry as a Holy Cross Sister.
Sister Mary Charles received her education at Three Lakes High School, Marquette University, Saint Louis University and Gonzaga University.
She spent the majority of her ministry in hospital administration. Her assignments took her to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Breese, IL, where she was instrumental in planning for the new hospital and moving to the new facility. She also ministered at St. Mary’s Hospital, Cairo, IL and Holy Cross Hospital, Merrill, WI, where she laid the foundation for an orderly transfer to another sponsor. Sister also ministered as vice-president of Health Ministry for the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System in Baton Rouge, LA. She served 5 years on the Wisconsin Health Facilities Board, a Governor appointed position. She also served as vice-president and president of the Merrill Chamber of Commerce and was named citizen of the year in Breese, IL.
Sister retired to Bell Tower Residence in 2006 where she continued her prayer ministry and also served as president of the Residents’ Council. Sister was an avid reader, enjoyed nature and visits to the lake with family and friends.
She is survived by her family of Holy Cross Sisters and Associates, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Harry, George, Adolph and Edmund Rydzewski.
Mass of Resurrection will be held on June 27, at 11 a.m. in Holy Cross Chapel at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill, with Father Dan Crosby officiating. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. on June 27, until time of service in Holy Cross Chapel.
Burial will take place in St. Francis Cemetery, Merrill. The Waid Funeral Home, Merrill, is assisting with funeral arrangements.
Memorials can be made to Bell Tower Residence and sent to: Holy Cross Sisters, 1400 O’Day Street, Merrill, WI 54452