Lois Ida Maschmeyer

Lois Ida Maschmeyer, age 93, passed away Friday, September 2, 2022. Lois was born on March 26, 1929, in Austin, Texas. She was the daughter of Emil and Zelda Wagner, a proud farming family that were descendants of German immigrants. Lois Ida Maschmeyer lived a full and wonderful life that revolved around hard work, service, faith, and most importantly her family.

Lois was born into a farming family and developed a strong work ethic at an early age through her chores and responsibilities on the farm. She continued this hard-working lifestyle throughout her adulthood on the "farm" which has been described as her grandchildren's "most favorite place on earth". She loved being able to use the fruits of the garden in her excellent cooking and being able to serve those she loved the most at every meal. Her family looked forward to eating at her table and devouring her famous homemade pickles.

Lois was married to the love of her life, Ernest, for 72 years. Lois and Ernest exchanged love letters while Ernest was overseas in the Army. Honorably discharged, Ernest returned to Elroy to marry his sweetheart. On November 12, 1946, Lois was adorned in a wedding dress made from silk Ernest had sent her from Japan. These two were a strong example of a committed and long-lasting marriage.

Lois was a member of Salem Lutheran Church, where she served on numerous boards and committees and taught Sunday School. She was a charter member of the Pilot Knob VFW Women's Auxiliary. She enjoyed working with children and was awarded "Employee of The Year" by the Del Valle Independent School District, where she was employed for 28 years. She retired in May of 1995. She delighted in seeing her former students through the years and hearing about the impact she had on their lives. Young and old, people were drawn to Lois, as she made everyone feel welcome, important, and special.

Although Lois wasn't a stranger to hard work, she also knew how to have fun! She and Ernest enjoyed dancing, bowling, traveling, and family vacations. One of Lois's most favorite times of the year was the holidays, where they opened their home and hosted countless family meals and celebrations. She loved getting Estee Lauder perfume from Ernest every Christmas.

Lois was many things to a lot of people, but a title she was extra proud of was "Granny". She was extremely loved and admired by her grandchildren. They loved spending time with her and getting spoiled by her attention, her cooking, and the fun that followed her wherever she went.

Lois was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernest; her son, Terry Maschmeyer; parents, Emil and Zelda Wagner; brothers-in-law, Mark Woodruff, Ervin Maschmeyer, Edward Urbanski, and Jerry Mikeska; and sister-in-law, Lucille Mikeska. She is survived by her daughter, Peggy and husband, Charlie Steckman; daughter, Kathy Clarkson; sister, Alice Woodruff; sister-in-law, Mary Urbanski; 3 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She had a happy and full life. She will be greatly missed by her family and her many dear friends. We will forever cherish her sweet smile.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 9th, 2022, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Harrell Funeral Home (4435 Frontier Trail, Austin, TX 78745). A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 10th, 2022, at 10:00 AM at the Salem Lutheran Church (9322 FM812, Austin, TX 78703), with burial following at the Salem Lutheran Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Salem Lutheran Church, 9322 FM 812, Austin, TX 78719.