Mary Streff

Mary Dell Long Streff, 91, Topeka, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, Monday, July 25, 2016, in the House at Midland Care. Mary was born June 15, 1925, in Stark County IL, the daughter of James and Clara Wilson Long. She graduated from St. Mary’s Academy at Nauvoo IL. In 1949, she married Michael A. Streff. They later moved to Topeka and began their family. They celebrated 27 years together but later divorced. Mary’s career spanned administrative roles with Security Benefit Group, the Kansas Corporation Commission and the Kansas Senate. She was a former member of Holy Name Church and is a member of Our Lady of Fatima Circle. She was a current member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Church where she volunteered as a senior companion. Mary absolutely loved life though she endured many losses. Her family was her pride and joy. To know her was to enjoy her fiery Irish spirit, engaging conversation, deep faith, boisterous laughter and touching empathy for others. She leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Sandy Streff Gibson (Steve), Patti Kruggel Brennan (Kent) and Mick Streff (Susan); grandchildren, Jason Williams (Carla), Amy Whitcraft (Jeriah), Todd Kruggel (Krista), Tiffany Hansen (Dave), Adam Streff, Kristl Taylor (J), Jessica Ward (Dusty) and Colleen Brennan; and 14 great-grandchildren, Charissa and Kaylie Williams, Richard and Emily Peterson, Haylee and Hagan Whitcraft, Thompson, Kamden and Elsa Kruggel, Will and Reese Hansen, Drake and Cale Ward, and Isabelle Taylor. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings, Coral, Edward and Orin James Long. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614, followed by her eulogy and a rosary. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 11 a.m. at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church. A graveside service will take place Monday at 11a.m. in Princeville IL at St. Mary’s of the Woods Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Most Pure Heart of Mary Ministry to the Aging or Midland Care Hospice, sent in care of the funeral home.

Mary Streff

June 15, 1925 - July 25, 2016