Marie Alexa Pongratz, 96 of Auburndale died peacefully on Sunday, March 13, 2016 at the Bethel Center in Arpin with her family at her side. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Auburndale with Fr. Jesse Burish officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitations will be from 9am until time of service at the church on Wednesday. Marie was born on October 23, 1919 in Auburndale to Joseph F. and Barbara V. (Hornick) Pongratz. She was educated at St. Mary's School and graduated from the tenth grade there. She worked in Wausau until 1947. She was then employed in Marshfield at Weinbrenner Shoe Factory. Marie was a member of the Altar Society and St. Theresa Circle. She was also secretary and treasurer for various committees. She taught CCD classes when Fr. Wagner was pastor. She loved the outdoors and especially gardening. From early spring to late fall, there were flowers in bloom. She also loved to read, thereby collecting many books and publications. She enjoyed being with family, especially the nieces and nephews. She is survived by a brother Robert Pongratz of Auburndale along with numerous nieces and nephews. Of the family members who died before her there were her parents, 4 sisters, Ann (Ignatz) Minch, Barbara Pongratz, Katherine Pongratz and Frances (Carl) Kreckler, brother Clemens (Berniece) Pongratz, an infant brother Anthony John and a sister-in-law Rita Pongratz. Rembs Funeral Home in Marshfield is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent online to www.rembsfh.com