Mary Louise Dillenberg, age 85, of the Town of Belle Plaine, passed away peacefully at home on her birthday, with her beloved son, Lance, by her side. She was born on May 26th, 1941, to Leo M. and Mavis (Buettner) Dillenberg.

Mary was a gifted artist with a remarkable ability to excel across a wide range of creative mediums. She was especially passionate about painting, pottery, and sculpture, among other art forms. Frequently participating in craft shows, Mary consistently showcased high-quality work and was known for presenting some of the finest and most unique pieces at each event. On one occasion, Mary reupholstered three chairs in one night so that her father would have use of his chair the next day.

Her artistic creativity extended into her home and garden, where she could grow almost anything with skill, care and intention. Her roses and lilies were among her favorites. She was also an exceptional cook and baker, sharing her talents by teaching her son how to make her famous oatmeal chocolate chip cookies and prepare Thanksgiving dinner. Shyla’s favorite was her pavlova and strawberry pizza after picking strawberries together at Glendale Farms each summer.

As caring and loving as Mary was, she was also a fierce protector. Mary knew how to use a gun. She had a good eye and wasn’t afraid to shoot.

Mary attended art school in Milwaukee and earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. She dedicated her life to helping people. She worked at Lakeland Center for several years, and then she served as a social worker for Menominee County Child Protective Services for 27 years. There, she selflessly helped families and mentored young social workers. She also generously donated to several charities throughout her life.

Mary was the matriarch and guiding force of wisdom for her entire family. She devotedly cared for her father, Leo, and shared an especially close bond with her three brothers, whom she raised after their mother’s passing. She remained deeply connected to them throughout their lives.

Mary was a proud and loving mother to her only son, Lance Dillenberg (Cary) of Oneida who lovingly cared for her. She treasured her role as grandmother to Shyla, who was the light of her life. Mary’s world brightened at every mention of her. She also leaves behind several children who considered Mary as a Grandmother including step-Grandson Rayan and Cary and Lance’s nephews and niece Esai, Deci, Alex, Steven, Andres, Ademar, and Nayeli.

Mary is survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Daniel and Linda Dillenberg of Shawano, and Leo J. and Karen Dillenberg of the Town of Belle Plaine, her sister, Stacy Knueppel of New Braunfels, Texas, and sister-in-law Debbie Dillenberg of the Town of Belle Plaine.

She is also survived by her nieces and nephews including John, Amy, and Amanda; Arland, Angel, Jed, and Jill; Jessa, Shanna, Stephanie, Tomi and Jered. She also leaves behind several special lifelong friends and her sweet dog Lily.

She was preceded by her parents, youngest brother Arthur Dillenberg, former sister-in-law Linda, and niece Aleena Dillenberg, and her special dogs Dolly and Herbie.

Lance and Cary would like to offer a special thanks to Rocio Grams and Amy Dillenberg for helping Lance care for Mary.

Visitation will be held at Swedberg Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., followed by a remembrance service at 6:00 p.m.