Mary Lee Berg
March 21, 1950 - May 11, 2022
Mary Lee (Shonka) Berg, age 72, of New Prague, died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at her home. Mary Lee was born on March 21, 1950 in Minneapolis, MN to Douglas and Alice (Nickel) Shonka. She graduated from New Prague High School and attended Mankato State College for a short time before finishing her education at a beauty school in Minneapolis. She worked as a beautician for a number of years. She met the man who would become her husband at a Sadie Hawkins dance when he came as a member of the rock band that played for the dance. She and Paul Berg were married on December 27, 1969 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and made their home in New Prague raising three beautiful children.
Mary Lee will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and loving friend. She was always there for you when you needed help with any challenge or project. Katie’s dance group benefited greatly with Mary Lee’s ability to rise to the occasion anytime the girls needed anything. She worked hard during her life, including working in the St. Wenceslaus and New Prague public schools as a paraprofessional helping elementary age children gain needed skills and support. Most importantly, she was a kind and generous mother and grandmother. She was known for cheering her family on in their endeavors. There was rarely an event of her grandchildren’s that Mary Lee missed and she was always their most ardent fan. No matter the challenge life presented, Mary Lee faced it with determination and fierceness, advocating for her family with grace and determination.
Her memory will be lovingly cherished by her husband of 52 years, Paul Sr.; sons, Paul Jr. (Terri) and Matthew (Melissa); grandchildren, Nathan, Sarah, Eric, Gabriella, Michael, & Syl; sisters, Jean (Dave) Gerold and Shelly (Rod) Tietz; brothers, Steve (Cathy) Shonka and Dave “Buzz” (Amy) Shonka; countless nieces, nephews, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents and beloved daughter, Katie.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, May 16, 2022 at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating. Mass will be live-streamed on npcatholic.org. Visitation will take place on Sunday from 4-7 pm and Monday morning from 7:30-9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the New Prague Golf Club.
I heard about your loss on K-check radio last week here in Madison Wisconsin. I lost my wife Millie two years ago this month to Alzheimer’s. It’s tough to lose your long time partner, but the band must play on.
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember the good times we had growing up on Lexington Avenue. You’re all in my thoughts and prayers.
Jean, your eulogy was a wonderful tribute to your sister.
Our sympathies to your entire family Shelly. May all your memories make you smile and remember your times together.
Harlan and I both have bad colds so we will not attend the service. We will stream on the link provided.
God’s Blessing to all.
Pat
My sympathy, Paul, to you and your family. May she rest in God’s loving arms.
Our deepest sympathy! I’m so sorry to hear this sad news!
I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed working with her!
My heart breaks for all of Mary’s family as I read this beautiful tribute. Thinking of you all during this challenging time.
Paul and my husband were in that rock band together and I met Mary Lee prior to her marrying Paul and me marrying John. The friendship continued for these past 50 plus years, through good times and bad. She will be missed by all.
I was so sorry to hear this Matt. It is so hard to lose a parent. Her obituary was sure a tribute, so many nice things were said about her, you must be proud. I will be thinking of you and the family in the coming days.