Sister Marguerite Niesen (formerly Sister Maurice), Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ, died on May 5, 2019, at the Catherine Kasper Home, Donaldson, Indiana. She was 90 years of age. Sister was born in Chicago IL. Her parents John J. and Florence (Amann) Niesen preceded her in death along with her brother Gerald. Sister is survived by her brother John and her sisters Rosemary Sprague and Ruth Martinez. Sister Marguerite was the third of 5 siblings.
Sister Marguerite entered the Poor Handmaid Community on September 3, 1947, and professed her vows on June 25, 1950.
Sister Marguerite graduated from Alverno College Milwaukee WI with her B.A. in Math and History and received her Master’s Degree in History from DePaul University. Sister began her ministry as an elementary teacher from 1950 until 1964. She served at St. Joseph Mishawaka IN; St. Mark Gary IN; St. Augustine Chicago IL and St. Monica Mishawaka IN. In 1964 she moved to High School and ministered at Bishop Dwenger High School Fort Wayne IN, St. Augustine Chicago IL, Mater Dei High School Breese IL. She completed her educational ministry as a college instructor for 10 years at Ancilla College in Donaldson, IN. In 2001 she moved to Community service and pursued her hobby of photography. The many beautiful photo cards which can be purchased at Lindenwood Retreat and Conference Center are a testament to her skill as a photographer. Sister stated “My joy is to capture the beauty in the ordinary. God provides the amazing subjects in every flower, tree, sky, sunrise, sunset, lakes and all of nature. I try to preserve the moment for all to enjoy.â€
She officially retired to Catherine Kasper Home in October 2018 at The Center in Donaldson, IN and continued to create beautiful gift cards with her photography.
Visitation will be held at the Catherine Kasper Home in Donaldson, Indiana on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, from 4:30 – 8:00 p.m. EST. A Prayer Service will be held that same evening at 7:00 p.m. EDT.
The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at Catherine Kasper Home on May 9th at 11:15 a.m. EDT.
Following the Mass of Resurrection, burial will take place in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Donaldson, Indiana.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, PO Box 1, Donaldson, Indiana 46513 or on www.poorhandmaids.org.
Brooke LaBere says
It was an absolute privilege to work with and come to know Sister Marguerite during my time at the Ministry Center. I deeply admired her hard work and dedication to her photography, and always enjoyed hearing the stories behind the images she would show me. She was always quick with a warm hello and smile in passing, and never lost her patience (even when her printer would stop cooperating.) I know that she will be missed deeply by all who knew her, as she was a bright and positive presence in so many lives. My sincerest condolences and love to her family, today and always.
Barb and Bub Lowry says
Our deepest sympathy to all the PHJC Sisters for the loss of your beloved sister. Sr. Marguerite, your gentle spirit and loving smile will be missed. We know you are enjoying your eternal reward in heaven with all your family and friends. You have been a blessing to all of us and given us an example to follow. We love you.