Mary Beth Pingatore

Mary Beth Kurtz Pingatore, 79, of Westchester, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Mary Beth was born on March 5, 1944, to Elizabeth (Schaefer) Kurtz Zander and Bruno Kurtz. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa (Michael) Crispo; grandchildren, Erin, Kelli and Jack; brother, Thomas (Teresa) Kurtz; sister, Janet (Joseph) Desando; and many nieces, nephews and cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Lawrence Kurtz, and her stepfather, Julius Zander. Mary Beth was a beloved Kindergarten teacher for 34 years at Indian Springs school district 109 in Justice, IL. The classroom was where Mary Beth showcased her love for the arts. From decorating her classroom every holiday to putting on musical productions with her kindergarteners, her creativity inspired many students. Mary Beth’s love for the arts continued into her later years. She performed on stage and was on the board of directors for Little Mountain Community Theatre in Lemont, IL. Here, she formed valuable friendships with those who shared the same immense passion for theater. With such an incredible community, the stage felt like home. Beyond her love for performing many roles on stage, Mary Beth's most prideful role was being a Mother and Grandmother. She devoted all of her love to her family. Mary Beth will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. On Friday, March 24th, a visitation will be held at 10 a.m. at Christ Community Church, 13400 Bell Road, Lemont, IL with a Service to follow at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Little Mountain Community Theatre, 800 Porter Street, Lemont, IL 60439 (or through their website LMCT donations).