Sister Mary Jo Loebig
catholicmessenger.net/2014/02/sister-mary-jo-loebig/
Catholic Messenger Staff
Sister Mary Jo Loebig of the Carmelite Monastery in Eldridge died Feb. 11 at the Kahl Home in Davenport. She was 81.
She was born in Wesley, Iowa, on March 30, 1932, to Victor and Viola (Doughan) Loebig. In 1949, she entered the Sisters of St. Francis, Milwaukee, Wis., where she made her final profession Aug. 12, 1955.
Also in 1955, she received her B.A. in chemistry from Cardinal Stritch College in Milwaukee. In 1964, Sr. Loebig received her M.S. in chemistry and math from the University of Notre Dame. She spent several years teaching chemistry, physics and math at the secondary level. From 1970-73, she was a core member of the Humility House of Prayer in Davenport, during which time she taught math at Assumption High School. In 1975, Sr. Loebig received a master’s degree in religion and psychology from the University of Iowa, following which she did a year of pastoral work in St. Patrick Parish, in Fremont, Neb.
In 1976, Sister entered the Carmelite Monastery and made her solemn profession with the contemplative community in 1981. She served many years in leadership in the religious community and also contributed her gifts and talents to formation of new members and to art, writing and music. She also served as a spiritual director for a number of people in the larger community. Her desire to be of service, her compassion toward others and her upbeat approach to life were gifts to her community. She was also an avid gardener for many years.
Visitation was held Feb. 14 at St. Ann Church in Long Grove; her funeral Mass followed Feb. 15 at St. Ann’s. Burial was at Mt. Calvary in Davenport.