Marguerite Fuss
1932 – 2026
Marguerite Fuss, affectionately known as “Mamama,” passed away peacefully in North East, Pennsylvania, at the age of 94. Born in Strasbourg, France, she will be remembered for her enduring faith, courage, devotion to family, and wonderful gift for storytelling.
Marguerite grew up on her father’s farm in Melsheim, France. During World War II, she and her older sister, Berthe, courageously risked their safety to help a Polish prisoner of war escape forced labor under the Nazis. After qualifying as a teacher, Marguerite taught home economics in several French communities. She was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Nuremberg, Germany, on August 29, 1953.
In 1958, she met Frederic “Fritz” Fuss at an international convention in New York City. They became engaged two weeks later and married in Akron, Ohio, on February 21, 1959. Together, they raised three children—Frederic Jr., Anita, and Jean-Marc—in Stow, Ohio, and created a loving home known for Marguerite’s excellent cooking, meticulous organization, and generous hospitality. After Fred Senior’s death in 1984, she continued to draw strength from her faith and devoted herself increasingly to teaching the Bible, becoming a full-time minister, or pioneer, in 2000.
Marguerite treasured her six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. In 2006, she moved to North East, Pennsylvania, to be near her daughter, Anita, and family. She loved her little “cottage,” her garden, and the friends who remained close to her. Even as her health declined, she continued sharing her faith through handwritten Bible-teaching letters. Anita and her husband, Charlie, lovingly cared for her in their home during her later years.
To know Mamama was to hear one of her stories. Whether sharing everyday adventures or recalling the difficult years of wartime France, she had a special way of bringing every memory to life. Her warmth, humor, and stories will be deeply missed, and those who loved her will cherish the hope of seeing her again. (John 5:28, 29)
Marguerite was predeceased by her beloved husband, Fritz; her parents, George and Anna (Andres) Lambs; her brothers: Georges, Jean “Hans,” and Raymond Lambs; her sisters: Berthe Urban and Marie Lambs; and her daughter-in-law, Solange Fuss.
She is survived by her sister, Lucy Lambs; her children: Frederic (Rachel), Anita Rahal (Charlie), and Jean-Marc (Rachel); her grandchildren: Rachel Schwindt (Adam), Elizabeth Boettcher (Evan), Malorie Fuss, Marcella Cleckley (Darius), Benjamin Rahal (Jasmine), and Samuel Rahal (Natalie); and her seven great-grandchildren.
Marguerite was associated with congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses in France, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Her faith, kindness, resilience, and love for her family touched many lives. She will be lovingly remembered, always cherished, and deeply missed.
“They are planted in the house of Jehovah; they flourish in the courtyards of our God. Even in old age they will still be thriving; they will remain vigorous and fresh.” (Psalm 92:13, 14)
“Surely God will not reject those who keep integrity… for he will yet fill your mouth with laughter, and your lips with shouts of joy.” (Job 8:20, 21)
Memorial Service
Sunday, October 25, 1:30 p.m.
North East Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses
9335 W Main Rd, North East, PA 16428
Zoom connection available by contacting family.
Fred Fuss
Arrangements were made by Askins Cremation Funeral Services, 8354 Wattsburg Rd., Erie, Pa 16509.