Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Mary Agnes Alewine, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully entered God’s Kingdom on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the age of 63. Surrounded by her loving family after a brief illness, Mary’s passing leaves a profound sense of loss, but also a deep gratitude for the beautiful life she lived and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her.

 Born Mary Agnes Sandweg on April 9, 1963, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she was the beloved oldest daughter of Francis and Judith (Timpe) Sandweg. Early in her life, Mary’s family relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, where she flourished and proudly graduated from Kennedy High School in 1981. During her early years in St. Louis, Mary worked a variety of roles in the bustling banking district, displaying a work ethic and determination that carried through her entire life. 

Mary's greatest pride and joy was becoming a mother to her son, Frankie. In 1998, she sought out new opportunities in Iowa, continuing her career and her journey of life. Fate took a beautiful turn in 2004 when she decided to take a chance on love by joining Match.com. It was there that she met Kevin “K.C.” Alewine—a meeting that would change the course of her life forever. Their first date, lunch at Granite City in Cedar Rapids, swiftly blossomed into a second, both occurring the same unforgettable day. Mary felt an undeniable certainty that K.C. was special; so much so that she introduced him to her son Frankie on that very day.

Mary and K.C. were married on June 2, 2005 at Sandals Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Though she was not initially fond of the idea of a destination wedding, Mary was comforted by his promise of a second ceremony at her sister Annie’s home with their families included upon their return. Their love was celebrated with a family trip to St. Petersburg, Florida, marking the beginning of nearly 22 glorious years of marriage filled with devotion and companionship.

Settling in Cedar Falls, Mary worked at Legal Directories Publishing. During their time in Iowa, Mary also worked at Rydell Chevrolet helping the company establish their internet sales department. Her boundless curiosity and love for exploration extended beyond her work travels to shared adventures with K.C. and Frankie to Ireland, New Orleans, Nantucket, Chicago, Cancun, San Diego, a cruise to the Bahamas, a houseboat in Kentucky and a lakeside cabin in Northern Minnesota. They purchased a travel trailer and together enjoyed long weekends sitting by the campfire and dreaming of visiting many more destinations—all cherished memories that enriched their life together.

 Mary’s warm heart and creative spirit shone brilliantly in her passions. She had a true gift for interior design, personally crafting every home she lived in with care and exquisite taste. Hers was a talent that brought comfort and beauty to those spaces and to those around her. In her later years, Mary delighted in cooking and baking, especially perfecting the art of sourdough bread, sharing her creations as lovingly as she shared herself. 

Her faith was a cornerstone of her identity, guiding her throughout life. Mary was a proud and devoted member of Saint Edward Catholic Church in Waterloo, where she found solace and strength. As she approached the end of her journey, her deep connection to her faith brought a serene peace that comforted her loved ones, especially K.C.

Mary’s legacy lives on through those dear to her. She is preceded in death by her parents and many cherished aunts and uncles. She is survived by her loving husband, K.C. Alewine of Waterloo, Iowa; her son, Frankie McGlaughlin, and his fiancé Mya of Waterloo; one granddaughter, Leah Mary; her two brothers, David Sandweg and his wife Julie of Farmington, Missouri, and Steven Sandweg and his wife Renata of Katy, Texas; and her two sisters, Katy Weinke and her husband Steve, and Annie Liberman, both of Webster Groves, Missouri, and nephews & nieces Abe, Sam, Lucas, Rebecca, Dani, Jack, Clare, Ava, Leo, Tucker, and Kate. She also leaves behind a wide circle of family and friends who held her in the highest esteem.

Family, friends, and all who were touched by Mary’s grace are invited to honor her life during a visitation on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Parrott & Wood Chapel of Memories, located at 965 Home Plaza in Waterloo, Iowa. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Edward Catholic Church in Waterloo, followed by her interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Though Mary Agnes Alewine has departed this earthly life, her spirit endures in every loving memory, every thoughtful design, every warm loaf of bread, and every heart she touched with her kindness and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed, forever treasured, and eternally loved.

Memorials may be directed to Saint Edwards Catholic Church, Cedar Bend Humane Society, or Beyond Pink TEAM in Mary's honor.