Mary Lou Kinker

Mary Lou Kinker, 81, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 15, 1944, in Sunman, Indiana, she was the daughter of August and Martha (Bedel) Brunsman and one of eight children. Mary Lou lived a life centered on her deep Catholic faith, her beloved husband, and her family.

She married Dennis Kinker, the love of her life, on August 5, 1967. Their marriage stood as a lasting example of love and devotion. Dennis survives her, along with their four children: Jane Burkert (Mark), Greg Kinker (Amy), and Andy Kinker, all of Greensburg, and Becky Gates (Jim) of Aurora, Indiana. They were blessed with ten grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one on the way.

For most of their lives, Mary Lou and Dennis lived on the family farm, where they created a quiet and meaningful life rooted in faith and family. Each evening they shared the cherished tradition of praying the rosary together, a reflection of the deep faith that guided Mary Lou throughout her days. She found simple joy in baking, gardening, sewing, crafts, and puzzles, and especially loved playing games such as Rack-O, Uno, Yahtzee, Solitaire, and Skip-Bo with her family, filling their gatherings with laughter and friendly competition. Time spent with her sisters and loved ones remained a source of great happiness.

Mary Lou will be remembered for her quiet strength, deep faith, patience, and graceful acceptance of God’s will. The simple life she cherished and the loving traditions she created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.