Mary Lee (Shonka) Berg, 72

Mary Lee (Shonka) Berg, age 72, of New Prague, died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, May 11, 2022, at her home.  Mary Lee was born on March 21, 1950 in Minneapolis, MN to Douglas and Alice (Nickel) Shonka.  She graduated from New Prague High School and attended Mankato State College for a short time before finishing her education at a beauty school in Minneapolis.  She worked as a beautician for a number of years.  She met the man who would become her husband at a Sadie Hawkins dance when he came as a member of the rock band that played for the dance.  She and Paul Berg were married on December 27, 1969 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and made their home in New Prague raising three beautiful children.

 Mary Lee will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and loving friend.  She was always there for you when you needed help with any challenge or project.  Katie’s dance group benefited greatly with Mary Lee’s  ability to rise to the occasion anytime the girls needed anything.  She worked hard during her life, including working in the St. Wenceslaus and New Prague public schools as a paraprofessional helping elementary age children gain needed skills and support.  Most importantly, she was a kind and generous mother and grandmother.  She was known for cheering her family on in their endeavors.  There was rarely an event of her grandchildren’s that Mary Lee missed and she was always their most ardent fan.  No matter the challenge life presented, Mary Lee faced it with determination and fierceness, advocating for her family with grace and determination.

 Her memory will be lovingly cherished by her husband of 52 years, Paul Sr.; sons, Paul Jr. (Terri) and Matthew (Melissa); grandchildren, Nathan, Sarah, Eric, Gabriella, Michael, & Syl; sisters, Jean (Dave) Gerold and Shelly (Rod) Tietz; brothers, Steve (Cathy) Shonka and Dave “Buzz” (Amy) Shonka; countless nieces, nephews, and friends.  She is preceded in death by her parents and beloved daughter, Katie.

 Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, May 16, 2022 at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating.  Mass will be live-streamed on npcatholic.org.  Visitation will take place on Sunday from 4-7 pm and Monday morning from 7:30-9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home.  Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the New Prague Golf Club.  bruzekfuneralhome.com

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