Mary E. Gross, 78 of Sioux City, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Unity Point Hospital in Sioux City comforted by family after a brief illness. A Memorial Service will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 24, 2026, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Sioux City with Reverend James Travis officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation, with family present, will begin at 9:00 a.m. Monday morning at the church prior to services. Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, family requests memorials be made to Calvary Lutheran Church in Mary's name.

She was born on September 9, 1947, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mary’s life was defined by devotion to her family, dedication to her work, and a gentle spirit that touched all who knew her. Mary was a kind and gentle soul who consistently put others above and beyond herself. Her compassion shone through in her everyday acts, whether she was helping a neighbor, supporting her family, or showing kindness to a stranger. These qualities endured and endeared her to countless friends and loved ones over the years.  She married Albert Gross on December 5, 1965.

For twenty years, Mary worked with Wells Dairy, contributing her talent and steadfast work ethic to the company. Beyond her career, she delighted in the comforts and joys of home. A gifted cook, Mary took immense pride in preparing meals for her family. Watching her in the kitchen became a cherished memory for many who loved to see her try new foods and share these experiences. Spring and summer brought especially happy times, as Mary adored tending her beloved garden and spending peaceful moments outdoors with her cherished dog, Baby Blu Boy.

Mary’s interests were many and varied. She found relaxation and fulfillment in puzzling and her passion for diamond art—each activity a reflection of her patience and creative nature. Her home was a testament to her love of beauty and comfort, always welcoming and warm.

Above all else, Mary was most proud of her family, her home, and her fierce independence. She found joy in nurturing those around her, and her legacy is felt most profoundly among those she held nearest to her heart.

Mary is lovingly remembered and survived by her daughter, Angie Roberts; grandchildren, Justin Arens, Zachary Roberts, Tiffanie Arens, and Brittany Arens; and great-grandchildren, Melissa Valles, Analeiah Valles, Esme Keonink, Onyx Keonink, Juniper Roberts, and Hazeh Roberts, and brother Lyle Knodel. The memory of her steadfast love will live on in each of them.

She joins in rest her parents, Roland and Grace Knodel; her beloved husband, Albert Gross in 1999; her sons, Troy Gross and Kyle Gross; and her daughter, Sherie Arens, who all preceded her in death, along with sisters, and sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Dennis Knodel, John David, and Connie Knodel, Leroy Knodel, Kenneth and Judith Knodel, Sylvia and Leonard Werkmeister, Jennette and Gary Lee, and Shirley Knodel.

Mary Elizabeth Gross’s life was a tapestry woven from love, care, and quiet strength. Her kindness echoes through the lives she touched, and her memory will be cherished always.