News Summary
Sister Mary Augusta Stratz, a devoted member of the Sisters of Mercy for 74 years, passed away at the age of 93. Known for her significant contributions in education and mental health services, Sister Augusta dedicated her life to serving communities in Michigan. Her compassionate work and commitment to outreach for older adults and marginalized populations are remembered fondly. A Funeral Mass will be held shortly to honor her legacy and the impact she made throughout her life.
Grand Rapids, MI – Sister Mary Augusta Stratz, RSM, a dedicated member of the Sisters of Mercy for 74 years, passed away on May 7, 2025, at Aquinata Hall. She was 93 years old and spent her final moments surrounded by loved ones.
Sister Augusta was born Madelyn Stratz on January 20, 1932, in Lansing, Michigan, to August and Catherine Pung Stratz. She began her journey with the Sisters of Mercy on September 8, 1951, at Mercy College in Detroit, where she also completed her education. On August 8, 1957, she made her final vows, adopting the ring motto “All for You, Jesus,” which was a reflection of her devoted ministry throughout her life.
Throughout her 74 years of service, Sister Augusta primarily focused on the needs of mid- and northern Michigan communities. Initially, she served as an elementary school teacher in a variety of locations, including Port Huron, Reese, Howell, Cadillac, Auburn, and Bay City. Her teaching career laid the groundwork for her extensive commitment to education and service.
In her mid-career, Sister Augusta transitioned to a role that would allow her to serve a broader demographic. She became the Director of Aging Programs for two dioceses in Michigan, where she honed her focus on mental health, particularly for older adults and marginalized populations. Her efforts were notable in promoting outreach services designed to benefit senior citizens and those struggling with mental health challenges.
One of her significant roles included serving as the Coordinator of the pastoral care department at Leila Y. Post Hospital in Battle Creek, Michigan. Here, she utilized her training in pastoral ministry to provide compassionate care to patients, furthering her commitment to those in need.
Throughout her career, Sister Augusta was actively involved in various Boards and committees aimed at promoting mental health and wellness. She served on the North Country Community Mental Health Board, the Michigan Association of Community Mental Health Boards, and the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Her commitment to community service extended to the Diocese of Gaylord Health and Wellness Committee, as well as the Kalkaska County Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Task Force.
In recognition of her contributions, she received the Lumen Award in 2017 from the Sheriff’s Department and Corrections Department in Kalkaska County for her educational services to inmates, highlighting her dedication to helping others find a path toward recovery and reintegration.
Sister Augusta earned affectionately known as the “God bless you” Sister during her retirement years, demonstrating her enduring spirit of compassion. After residing in Kalkaska, she spent her final years at Independence Village in Grand Ledge, where she was warmly remembered for her kind interactions with both residents and staff.
She was preceded in death by her older sister Mary Schafer and her twin sister Evelyn Weitzel. Sister Augusta is survived by her nieces and nephews, including Debbie Dittmer (Jay), Mike (Dawn), Dave (Janet), Kevin (Lorie), Brian (Denise), and Cathy, along with numerous great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews and several Sisters of Mercy.
A Funeral Mass will be held on May 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Aquinata Hall, located at 153 Lakeside Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. A visitation and Mercy Prayer service will take place at 10:00 AM prior to the Mass, and interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Lansing, Michigan.
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- Detroit Catholic: Sister Mary Augusta Stratz Obituary
- Wikipedia: Sisters of Mercy
- Legacy: Monica RSM Obituary
- Google Search: Sister Mary Augusta Stratz
- Dykstra Funeral Home: Mary Louise Avery Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Mental Health
- Langeland Family Funeral Homes: Donald Gilmer Obituary
- Google News: Sr Mary Augusta Stratz
- Dignity Memorial: Beverly Kolman Obituary
