Mary Jane (Bandfield) Tempel, a beloved matriarch and vibrant soul, transitioned from this world on February 8, 2026, at Cedar Valley Hospice home in Waterloo, surrounded by her devoted family. Born on September 1, 1946, to John and Lois (Shepard) Bandfield, Mary embraced life with warmth and a spirit of adventure. At 79 years old, her journey may have reached its conclusion, but the love she instilled in the hearts of those around her will echo for generations to come.

Mary graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1965. In 1970, she married Ron Schleusner at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa; the couple later divorced. In 1971, Mary earned her diploma from Pitzes Beauty School, where she expressed her creativity and passion for beauty. For 21 wonderful years, she dedicated herself to her work at Perkins, where her infectious personality and warm smile brightened the days of everyone she met.

Mary later found deep joy and partnership when she married Ralph Tempel on September 25, 1995, in Galena, Illinois. Their marriage was filled with companionship, laughter, and warmth as they united their families and built a life together. On May 1, 2019, Ralph passed away, leaving behind a space in Mary’s heart and a lifetime of cherished memories that would forever remind her of their love.

Mary was a proud and loving mother to her sons, Keith (Melissa) Coates of Waterloo, Travis (Brandy) Schleusner of Jesup, and Randy (Lorie) Schleusner of Waterloo. She also shared an unbreakable bond with her brother, Paul (Connie) Bandfield of Cedar Falls, and her sister, Debbie Shepard of Evansdale. The light of her life was further illuminated by her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

If you know Mary, you know how much her fur babies, Bandit, Piper, Bella, Buffy, and her kitty Mystic meant to her. She cherished every one of them and kept them close to her heart.

Laughter often filled the air as Mary chased after her children and embraced life’s festivities. She sought joy in the simplest of pleasures: a thrilling evening at the Casino, the rhythmic steps of line dancing, the thrill of bowling, and the calm of reading and fishing. Her creative spirits shined through crochet projects and adorned her home, and were gifted to loved ones, each stitch woven with care and affection. Mary also took great pride in collecting anything with angels and teddy bears.

Mary’s faith played a significant role in her life; she was an esteemed member of Grace Baptist Church, contributing her time and love to the community. Additionally, her involvement with the CF Amvets Auxiliary and the VFW Auxiliary highlighted her dedication to service and support for those in need.

Mary’s legacy is one of resilience and love, encompassing the bonds she forged and nurtured throughout her life. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph; her parents, John and Lois; her three daughters, Michaela Kotz, Sherry Schleusner-Norton, and baby Tonya Schleusner; and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Though Mary Jane Tempel has departed, her spirit remains alive in the hearts of those she touched. She leaves behind not just memories, but a profound example of love and dedication-a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire her family for years to come.

.