Mary Lue Deines, age 87, passed away on July 2, 2025, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital in WaKeeney, KS.
She was born on April 29, 1938, in Aleppo, KS, to Joseph and Anna (Engelbrecht) Opat. Mary graduated from Trego Community High School with the Class of 1956. On October 20, 1958, she married the love of her life, LaVerne “Vernie” Deines, in Collyer, KS. Together, they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage until Vernie’s passing on November 28, 2015.
Mary’s working life began at the Kent Café in WaKeeney. After marrying Vernie, the two became a familiar and trusted pair in the service station world — owning and operating Vernie’s Service Station in WaKeeney before their work led them to Dodge City, Garden City, Salina, and Ellis. Wherever they went, Mary and Vernie worked side by side doing what they loved: caring for vehicles and serving customers with honesty and heart. They eventually returned to WaKeeney, continuing their shared passion for keeping cars clean and customers happy. Later in life, both took great pride in serving their community as custodians for USD 208.
Though Mary and Vernie were not blessed with children of their own, they poured their love into their many nieces and nephews, building lifelong bonds filled with laughter and care. Their home and hearts were also filled with love for their dogs, classic cars, and spirited bingo nights — simple joys that brought them genuine happiness.
Mary is survived by her brother, Eugene Opat of WaKeeney, along with many nieces and nephews who loved and cherished her deeply.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vernie; her parents, Joseph and Anna Opat; her brother, Jim Opat; and sisters, Betty Fry, Dorothy Mong, and Barbara Opat.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at WaKeeney City Cemetery, located at South 13th St. and South Ave., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to TCLMH Long-Term Care and sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.