Sr. Anita Pfeiffer, IHM, age 85, died Monday, June 30, surrounded by her IHM family in Monroe.
Anita Joan Pfeiffer was born Dec. 4, 1939, to Leo and Madeline (Pegouske) Pfeiffer in Wyandotte, Michigan. The family was complete with two daughters and three sons. Anita attended area schools: Maple Grove (Flat Rock), St. Joseph (Trenton), and graduated from Our Lady of Mt. Carmel High School (Wyandotte) in 1957. A few months later, she entered the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Monroe and received the religious name Sister Mary Leo.
Sister Mary Leo, later known as Anita, was a dedicated, curious lifelong learner. She earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Marygrove College. Many young students benefited from her education ministry at Gesu (Detroit), Star of the Sea (Grosse Pointe), Holy Cross (Marine City), Hall of the Divine Child (Monroe), and in Alabama and Florida at St. Matthew, Sacred Heart and Most Pure Heart of Mary.
Sister Anita was a teacher and student throughout her life. She embraced new ministry pursuits, earning certifications in Pastoral Care, Computer Technology and as a Medical Assistant. These ministries included Carnegie Institute (Troy), Boysville of Michigan, Hospice of Southeast Michigan, Our Lady of Lourdes Academy Library, and in her religious community at Visitation, River House and Monroe Campus administration. Times of transition and renewal contributed much to Sister Anita’s achievements and desire for ministry.
Throughout these placements, the people she encountered became friends through her work, pastoral caring, top-notch problem-solving skills and sense of humor. Others were inspired and encouraged by Sister Anita’s resolve in meeting various medical challenges. Even when health challenges kept her from places of ministry, she supported those around her – sisters, residents and staff on the Monroe Campus.
Sister Anita is survived by her sister, Evelyn R. Pilecky, and her family in Michigan, and her brother, Kenneth G. Pfeiffer, of California. Her parents and brothers, Frank and Donald, preceded her in death.
Services will be held at the IHM Motherhouse Chapel, 610 W. Elm Avenue, Monroe, on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Welcoming of the body begins at 9 a.m., followed by a Remembering and Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Streaming begins at 10 a.m. Per Sister’s request, green burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of Rupp Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to the IHM Retirement Fund, 610 W. Elm Avenue, Monroe, MI 48162-7909
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