Mary Louise ‘Mickey’ Kinnischtzke

February 21, 1923 - December 14, 2020

SAN DIEGO — Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Kenny Kinnischtzke; mother, Irene Peters; father, Dean Minesinger; stepfather, Forest Peters; and brother, Leroy Minesinger. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Patricia (Kinnischtzke) and Mark Smith; granddaughter and spouse, Brittany (Worcester) and Andrew Werdowatz; granddaughter, Ashley Hamill; great grandson, Taj Lowe Hamill; brother and sister-in-law, William and Mary Minesinger; sister, Karen Ogle; sister-in-law, Arlene James; and her many nieces and nephews. The last five years of her life were enriched and blessed by her many caregivers, primarily Felipe Marroquin, who kept her safe from the pandemic and was with her in her final days. She will also be remembered as “Nana Mickey” by all her extended family from Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church/school,

West Hills High School and San Diego State University.

Mary was born in Olean, New York. Mary was a professional singer starting in her late teens and into her early 20’s. Mary came to San Diego in 1942 while singing and touring with a USO show. She loved the San Diego area and soon found a job with Consolidated Aircraft and was one of our nation’s Rosie the Riveters! There she met her husband Kenny and was married in 1944. In 1946 she was hired at Solar Turbines (subsequently International Harvester and Caterpillar) as a Jr. Clerk and over 30 years later (1978) she retired as a Spares Sales Order

Coordinator.

Mary’s retirement years were filled with many enjoyable times spent with family and friends. She loved being involved. with Brittany’s school and sports activities and always looked forward to outings and parties with her good friends, the Cordes family. At home she loved crafting and taking care of her flowers, especially her roses, and cuddling with her constant companion, Cami.

Private service was held on 1-27-21 at Greenwood Cemetery. Details regarding a Celebration of Life will be posted later in 2021.

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