Kaiman, Marjorie “Boonie” (nee Sullivan) Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church prior to her death on February 7, 2021, at 106 years of age. Preceded in death by her parents Daniel Sullivan and Genevieve (Grieshaber) Sullivan; husband Lambert Kaiman; daughter Carol Kaiman, SL. Beloved mother of Thomas (Arlene), Gee, and Kathleen (Michael Peterson); grandmother of Daniel Roy (Jennifer), Zachary Roy (Suzanne Volpe), Meghan (Kerry) Steach, and Adrian (Meghan) Peterson; great-grandmother of Olivia and Gabby Roy, Timothy Roy, Palmer and Connor Steach, and Liam and Lydia Peterson. The nickname “Boonie” derived from Marje’s native Ste. Genevieve, Mo. and became a term of endearment for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Marje’s love of the Catholic faith began during her childhood in South St. Louis neighborhood parishes. At St. Anthony of Padua High School, she performed in plays and held class offices. As an employee at the Queen’s Work founded by Fr. Daniel A. Lord, SJ, she developed a fondness for the Jesuits and traveled nationally as a participant in the Summer School of Catholic Action.

Marje and Lam moved to their house in Webster Groves, Mo. on September 22, 1943. She would live there for the rest of her life, hosting friends and family at holidays, for Christmas caroling, on Gaudete and Laetare Sundays, or any occasion where her hospitality and storytelling could have a forum. With her daughter Gee, she lived nearly 40 years after Lam’s death.

In the 1970s, Marje went to work for Lutheran Family and Children’s Services as the organization’s first Catholic employee. Her faith, characterized by a generosity of spirit and ecumenism, enabled her to make this transition and build bridges throughout her life. In the 1980s, Marje worked for the Reform Organization of Welfare supported by the Presbyterian Church. She sustained diverse friendships near and far through visits in person and on the phone over many decades. She and three friends formed a “Birthday Club,” meeting for lunch to celebrate each other’s birthdays for more than 60 years.

As an active parishioner for over 70 years at Holy Redeemer in Webster Groves, Marje was a greeter, funeral choir singer, Renew Group participant, Altar Care Committee member, and RCIA supporter. She also volunteered with nonprofit organizations including Meals on Wheels and the Epilepsy Foundation, where she was president of the auxiliary board.

Marje loved driving, especially to Saturday evening Mass, to McDonald’s Boat with her grandchildren, and to Baraboo, Wis. for family vacations. The Perfect Manhattan was her cocktail of choice, sipped over Birthday Club lunch or during Sunday afternoon “happy hour” at her house. It was difficult to say goodbye without her handing you a cookie or handful of Dove chocolates — and as we say goodbye one last time, she leaves us with much that is sweet.

For those who wish to honor her memory, donations can be made to Saint Anthony’s Food Pantry, mailed to Saint Anthony’s Church, 3140 Meramec Street, St. Louis, MO 63118.

A celebration of life will be held when circumstances allow.