Live Stream Link:

https://www.youtube.com/@immanuellutheranchurch-fun2796/streams

Mae Negus Totz, 94, of Belvidere, IL, passed away into Her Savior's arms on February 4, 2025. Born on May 26, 1930, in Belvidere, she was the only child of Wesley and Eva (Bailey) Negus. A lifelong resident of Belvidere, Mae was a proud 1948 graduate of Belvidere High School. She went on to graduate from Evanston Hospital School of Nursing in 1951 and later earned her degree from the College of St. Francis in Peoria in 1975.

Mae dedicated her career to nursing, working at Highland Hospital until her retirement in 1992. She was a beloved figure in her community, known for her generosity, fairness, and tireless efforts to help others. She was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and was heavily involved in various church groups, including the Ladies Guild, Helping Hands, and was a Stephen Minister. Mae also held leadership roles in multiple organizations, including as a charter member of the Association of Operating Room Nurses-Rockford, a member of the Fellowship Board, A.A.L. Board, and the Belvidere Zonta Club, where she was a member for 50 years.

Her dedication to service extended beyond her church, as Mae was a longtime member of the Boone County Unit American Cancer Board and the Friends of the Library. She was actively involved with Meals on Wheels, the Boone County Arts Council, and Maple Crest Auxiliary, and she was a life member of the Women's Auxiliary VFW. In 1989, she was honored with the Chamber's "Professional Woman" award.

Mae married the love of her life Ray in 1993 after dating for over a decade. Together they built a home and enjoyed retirement adventures including traveling, gardening, fishing and volunteering for whatever needed done.

Mae had a passion for cooking, baking, and entertaining. She found joy in bringing meals to those in need, always thinking of others before herself.

Mae's life exemplified her commitment to her faith, family, and community. Her legacy of kindness, service and generosity will be cherished by all who knew her. "Well done, good and faithful servant". (Matthew 25:23)

She is survived by her granddaughter, Jessica Nunez (George), and numerous cousins Special cousins David Case & Matthew Koch (Lisa). She was preceded in death by her husband, Ray. Her parents, Eva and Wesley Negus, as well as her aunts, Pearl Fell and Anna Case, and special cousin, Mary Lou Koch.

Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, February 15th. Visitation will be at 9:30am until the time of service at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Belvidere. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church or Helping Hands.