Mary O'Leta Zenger

Mary O'Leta Zenger, 95, of Haddam, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 3, at the Haddam United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at the Haddam City Cemetery.

O'Leta was born on January 9, 1931, in Canadian, Oklahoma, to Simon and Lillie Lightle. She grew up in a loving family and later married John Zenger on April 12, 1948. Together, they built a life centered on family in Haddam, Kansas.

John and O'Leta were blessed with six children: Richard, Allan, Mike, Gary, Debbie, and Karen. O'Leta experienced the greatest joys of motherhood as well as the deepest sorrows a mother can know. Through every hardship, she remained a woman of strength, compassion, and grace.

O'Leta's life was shaped by her strong connection to her family, friends, and the Haddam community. She was known for her warm heart, generous spirit, and the kindness she showed to those around her.

For many years, O'Leta shared her love of cooking with the community at the Haddam Cafe. Her cooking brought people through the doors, but it was her kindness, conversation, and welcoming nature that kept them coming back. Many will remember the wonderful meals she prepared and the joy she found in serving others.

O'Leta enjoyed the little moments that made life special. Her hobbies included crocheting, playing cards, putting puzzles together, and playing bingo. Whether she was creating something by hand, enjoying a friendly game, or gathering with family and friends, she had a way of making people feel welcome and valued.

Above all, O'Leta cherished her family. The time they spent together, the meals they shared, and the memories they created will continue to be treasured for generations to come.

O'Leta is survived by her children, Richard (Sheirl) Zenger, Debbie Stanton, and Karen (Ron) Nutz; 13 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings; her husband, John Zenger; her sons, Gary, Mike, and Allan; her son-in-law, Jim Stanton; her daughters-in-law, Denice Zenger and Shirley Zenger; her grandchildren, Heather and Eric; and her great-grandson, Sailor.

O'Leta will be remembered for her resilience, warmth, and the lasting impact she had on everyone who knew and loved her. Her story is one of family, perseverance, and kindness—a legacy that will continue through those who carry her memory forward.

A memorial fund has been established to the Haddam United Methodist Church or the Haddam Cafe. Contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home, 115 W. 2nd St., Washington, KS 66968.