Margilee Reinhart, age 91, of Merrillville, IN passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. Margilee was born in Princeton, Indiana on March 25, 1929. She was a graduate of Princeton High School and Indiana University in Bloomington, where she was a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority, and received a degree inContinue Reading
Tribute Video
Margilee Reinhart, age 91, of Merrillville, IN passed peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 3, 2021.
Margilee was born in Princeton, Indiana on March 25, 1929. She was a graduate of Princeton High School and Indiana University in Bloomington, where she was a member of the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority, and received a degree in Library Sciences.
In 1951, she married her high school sweetheart and the two moved to Merrillville in 1954 when Jerry took a teaching position at Merrillville High School. For the next 50 years, they both served the Merrillville community with their talents.
Margilee served on a variety of clubs and committees over the years, including the Suburban Federated Woman’s Club where she participated for over 20 years. She was an arts chairman at the state level and a cub scouts leader. A talented pianist, she accompanied the Liedercranz Choir, taught private lessons, and spent 20 years teaching music at Aquinis Elementary School.
Most notably, Margilee, alongside her husband Jerry, founded Ross Summer Music Theatre in 1964 and produced musical theatre productions for the next 50 years. They introduced thousands of kids and adults to the magic of the theatre, welcoming anyone who wanted to participate. Year after year, hundreds, young and old, spent their summers on the stage of Reinhart Auditorium working on stage crew, playing in the orchestra, or dancing and singing. Margilee’s attention to detail when it came to costuming was legendary and she made her mark on each and every production.
In the early 1980’s, so many kids wanted to be in RSMT shows (especially very young kids) that there simply wasn’t enough room for them on stage. Margilee created Ross Summer Youth Theatre to accommodate the overflow and the little ones, creating a rousing new musical experience for kids of all ages for the next 10 years.
Margilee raised 8 children and watched her family grow and grow over the years. She is survived by all of those children: Linda (Tom) Mesich of Portage; Steve (Jayne) Reinhart of Dallas, TX; Michael (Melinda) Reinhart of Merrillville; Christopher (Kim) Reinhart of Indianapolis, Mark (Rick Lorenz) Reinhart of Santa Clarita, CA; Lisa Hamer Reinhart of Merrillville, Bryan (Lori) Reinhart of Cottonwood, AZ; and Laurie (Tom) Carto of Cincinnati, OH. She is also survived by her 18 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 63 years, Jerry; and her parents: Reuben and Thelma McRoberts.
Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, March 7, 2021, at Geisen Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 7905 Broadway Ave., Merrillville, IN 46410, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Funeral Services will be at 10:00 AM DIRECTLY at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Merrillville, IN, on Monday, March 8, 2021, with Fr. Jon Plavcan officiating. Interment to follow at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville, IN.
Due to Covid-19, restrictions in the Funeral Home include: social distancing at 6 feet and face masks are required.
Visit Margilee’s online guestbook at www.GeisenFuneralHome.com 219-663-2500.
Laura Monteen
left a message on March 17, 2021:
To Margilee's family - She was a generous, talented, creative spirit. What a blessing she was to the Merrillvillle community. She and Jerry left an amazing legacy of love and talent that will be remembered for generations. My prayers are with you.
Laura Monteen
left a message on March 17, 2021:
To Margilee's family - She was a generous, talented, creative spirit. What a blessing she was to the Merrillvillle community. She and Jerry left an amazing legacy of love and talent that will be remembered for generations. My prayers are with you.
Melodye Busch
left a message on March 10, 2021:
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Your mom was a wonderful lady. The many years of her work with children at the Ross Summer Music Theater was truly appreciated. My sister Sheree and I have such great memories of participating in the productions put on by your parents. Their hard work will never be forgotten. God’s blessings and love to all of you.?
Mark Mazrimas
left a message on March 9, 2021:
My deepest sympathies & prayers to the Reinhart family on the passing of Mrs. Reinhart. What a grand lady she was and I hold many special memories of her & her husband & the Reinhart family in my heart. I'm sure her & Jerry are putting on their next big show in the heavens.
Ed Nemergut Jr
left a message on March 9, 2021:
What a wonderful woman. She has touched so many lives in such a positive way. I will always remember how welcoming she was my first year at RSMT, Brigadoon. Both Margilee and Jerry will always be remembered with love.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Martha Irak
left a message on March 7, 2021:
A beautiful video tribute to a lovely lady.
Mrs. Reinhart touched many people in ways you will never truely know. Thank you for sharing her with everyone. May what grief and sadness you are experiancing eventually be replaced with knowing/remembering how much she loved and was loved back.
Nikita Weaver
left a message on March 7, 2021:
My condolences to the family. She was definitely apart of the joy when I knew we had a show or a concert I was always looking forward to seeing her at the end. She will be missed as well as her husband. They were the grandma and grandpa of the theater, of our big family and they will always be with us in every song, dance step, line, set build, costume. Everything that makes the theater they will be right there. Now it’s up to us and everyone from now on to continue and keep pushing because without them we wouldn’t have had any of it. God bless you family and keep pushing.
Mary Jessen
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Dear Margilee! I thank God for your influence in my family. You taught us so much. I watched how you disciplined, and wanted to learn more. I love your sweet smile of love, happiness, and content. You were a grandmother/ mother figure for me. There are some musicals in theatre that will always hold sweet memories of you. Community theatre can learn so much from how you managed.
Margilee, you and Jerry, and your family have left an indelible mark in my life .. a mark that I will treasure and never forget.
God Bless you and I know He welcomes you Home. God give your family love as they struggle to live without you. Rest In Peace.
Jared Riddle
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Margilee, Mrs. Reinhart as you know when I was a young man, my father encouraged me to be a part of things, to join in, and to get involved, so he shared what he knew...sports!
I played Biddy basketball, and Pop Warner football, baseball, and ran cross country. I was on the swim team, competed in BMX racing, and was a somewhat decent bowler.
But, in the 1980’s you started “Ross Summer Youth Theatre” for kids too young to be in the big summer show.
So with “That’s Entertainment”, under your direction, I was completely dressed in black and able to wear white gloves, white shoes, and a white hat while performing under a black light.
Magic! I was home.
I had fun in the mud of athletics, but the glow of mysteriously floating disembodied hands was more delight than my young self ever could have envisioned.
With my “being a part of things” home found, I have continued to return to Reinhart Auditorium often since to help others feel that same magic of connection.
Your generosity of time, wisdom, talent, and kindness continue to inspire. You connected me with your entire family and so many more of our theatre family.
I am so grateful to be a part of the now closed group of like-minded folks who actually walked with you and Boss on the boards of Reinhart Auditorium, who learned under your guidance, and whose responsibility, in celebrating your lives, is to sustain the welcome, the love, and the authentic magic of connection at Reinhart Auditorium.
We honor you.
You live forever in our dreams, our songs, and our talents.
You are loved.
Your life made Northwest Indiana a better place.
Emily Elma
left a message on March 7, 2021:
I’m so sorry for your loss, Laurie and family.
Melissa Rodriguez (Nowak)
left a message on March 7, 2021:
To Mark and Family,
Condolences on the loss of your Mom.
May she rest in Gods eternal peace.Gods comfort and strength to you .
We went to merrillville high back in 1970s.
Rick, Arthur & Vincent
left a message on March 6, 2021:
In our hearts forever.
Jackson Family
left a message on March 6, 2021:
From Jeanne Jackson Blane: I'm remembering choir boosters and shopping for fabric with Margilee and Barbara Pierce. I'm grateful I had that time to get to know her better. She always did so much for the school and summer music programs and for all of the kids. This all holds such a special place in my heart because of how important these programs were for my kids, especially John.
We know Margilee will be sorely missed by so many. Sincere condolences to the entire Reinhart family from the Jackson family (Jeanne, Jody, Rick, and Linda.)
Joy Pierce
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Sending my thoughts and prayers to all of you. Take comfort in the wonderful life your mom lived. We should all be so lucky.
Joy Pierce
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Sending my thoughts and prayers to all of you. Take comfort in the wonderful life your mom lived. We should all be so lucky.
Andy Bartley
left a message on March 6, 2021:
I was one of the thousands. So were my brother and sisters. Each day is a gift, so was Mr. & Mrs. R. We were family. I could never measure the many ways I grew and learned and shared throughout my life because of them, their gifts and love. Warm thoughts and prayers of love and healing to the family.
Forever grateful,
Andy Bartley
Kathy Lucas Brundage
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Your mom was such a huge influence in my life, together with your dad. Never forgotten!
Lori Lazarian-OMalley
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Sending my heartfelt condolences for the loss of this beautiful lady, your mom. I have such fond memories all the way back to school days. Such a beautiful, full, impactful life she led. She raised such a great family and left such a legacy in all of you. Keeping each of you in my prayers during this difficult time, Linda, Steve, Mike, Chris, Mark, Lisa, Bryan and Laurie.....and all the grands and greats! Rest in Heaven ....I know you have already made heaven a brighter place.
Brenda Mecchia
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Sending my condolences to the entire Reinhart family. Your mom was one of a kind, beautiful inside & out. I will keep you all in my thoughts & prayers..
Leticia Rodriguez
left a message on March 5, 2021:
My condolences to the entire Reinhart family. Mrs. Reinhart taught music to both my sons at Aquinas school. She hand selected my youngest son as the only grade school student to perform at the MHS double performance - Amal and the Night Visitor/A Christmas Carol. Both my sons performed the same role (different years): Charlie Brown at Aquinas. What a wonderful and patient teacher. It will be difficult to fill her shoes.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Richard and Maria Velasco
left a message on March 4, 2021:
Our most heartfelt condolences.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Laura Monteen
left a message on March 17, 2021:
To Margilee's family - She was a generous, talented, creative spirit. What a blessing she was to the Merrillvillle community. She and Jerry left an amazing legacy of love and talent that will be remembered for generations. My prayers are with you.
Laura Monteen
left a message on March 17, 2021:
To Margilee's family - She was a generous, talented, creative spirit. What a blessing she was to the Merrillvillle community. She and Jerry left an amazing legacy of love and talent that will be remembered for generations. My prayers are with you.
Melodye Busch
left a message on March 10, 2021:
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Your mom was a wonderful lady. The many years of her work with children at the Ross Summer Music Theater was truly appreciated. My sister Sheree and I have such great memories of participating in the productions put on by your parents. Their hard work will never be forgotten. God’s blessings and love to all of you.?
Mark Mazrimas
left a message on March 9, 2021:
My deepest sympathies & prayers to the Reinhart family on the passing of Mrs. Reinhart. What a grand lady she was and I hold many special memories of her & her husband & the Reinhart family in my heart. I'm sure her & Jerry are putting on their next big show in the heavens.
Ed Nemergut Jr
left a message on March 9, 2021:
What a wonderful woman. She has touched so many lives in such a positive way. I will always remember how welcoming she was my first year at RSMT, Brigadoon. Both Margilee and Jerry will always be remembered with love.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Martha Irak
left a message on March 7, 2021:
A beautiful video tribute to a lovely lady.
Mrs. Reinhart touched many people in ways you will never truely know. Thank you for sharing her with everyone. May what grief and sadness you are experiancing eventually be replaced with knowing/remembering how much she loved and was loved back.
Nikita Weaver
left a message on March 7, 2021:
My condolences to the family. She was definitely apart of the joy when I knew we had a show or a concert I was always looking forward to seeing her at the end. She will be missed as well as her husband. They were the grandma and grandpa of the theater, of our big family and they will always be with us in every song, dance step, line, set build, costume. Everything that makes the theater they will be right there. Now it’s up to us and everyone from now on to continue and keep pushing because without them we wouldn’t have had any of it. God bless you family and keep pushing.
Mary Jessen
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Dear Margilee! I thank God for your influence in my family. You taught us so much. I watched how you disciplined, and wanted to learn more. I love your sweet smile of love, happiness, and content. You were a grandmother/ mother figure for me. There are some musicals in theatre that will always hold sweet memories of you. Community theatre can learn so much from how you managed.
Margilee, you and Jerry, and your family have left an indelible mark in my life .. a mark that I will treasure and never forget.
God Bless you and I know He welcomes you Home. God give your family love as they struggle to live without you. Rest In Peace.
Jared Riddle
left a message on March 7, 2021:
Margilee, Mrs. Reinhart as you know when I was a young man, my father encouraged me to be a part of things, to join in, and to get involved, so he shared what he knew...sports!
I played Biddy basketball, and Pop Warner football, baseball, and ran cross country. I was on the swim team, competed in BMX racing, and was a somewhat decent bowler.
But, in the 1980’s you started “Ross Summer Youth Theatre” for kids too young to be in the big summer show.
So with “That’s Entertainment”, under your direction, I was completely dressed in black and able to wear white gloves, white shoes, and a white hat while performing under a black light.
Magic! I was home.
I had fun in the mud of athletics, but the glow of mysteriously floating disembodied hands was more delight than my young self ever could have envisioned.
With my “being a part of things” home found, I have continued to return to Reinhart Auditorium often since to help others feel that same magic of connection.
Your generosity of time, wisdom, talent, and kindness continue to inspire. You connected me with your entire family and so many more of our theatre family.
I am so grateful to be a part of the now closed group of like-minded folks who actually walked with you and Boss on the boards of Reinhart Auditorium, who learned under your guidance, and whose responsibility, in celebrating your lives, is to sustain the welcome, the love, and the authentic magic of connection at Reinhart Auditorium.
We honor you.
You live forever in our dreams, our songs, and our talents.
You are loved.
Your life made Northwest Indiana a better place.
Emily Elma
left a message on March 7, 2021:
I’m so sorry for your loss, Laurie and family.
Melissa Rodriguez (Nowak)
left a message on March 7, 2021:
To Mark and Family,
Condolences on the loss of your Mom.
May she rest in Gods eternal peace.Gods comfort and strength to you .
We went to merrillville high back in 1970s.
Rick, Arthur & Vincent
left a message on March 6, 2021:
In our hearts forever.
Jackson Family
left a message on March 6, 2021:
From Jeanne Jackson Blane: I'm remembering choir boosters and shopping for fabric with Margilee and Barbara Pierce. I'm grateful I had that time to get to know her better. She always did so much for the school and summer music programs and for all of the kids. This all holds such a special place in my heart because of how important these programs were for my kids, especially John.
We know Margilee will be sorely missed by so many. Sincere condolences to the entire Reinhart family from the Jackson family (Jeanne, Jody, Rick, and Linda.)
Joy Pierce
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Sending my thoughts and prayers to all of you. Take comfort in the wonderful life your mom lived. We should all be so lucky.
Joy Pierce
left a message on March 6, 2021:
Sending my thoughts and prayers to all of you. Take comfort in the wonderful life your mom lived. We should all be so lucky.
Andy Bartley
left a message on March 6, 2021:
I was one of the thousands. So were my brother and sisters. Each day is a gift, so was Mr. & Mrs. R. We were family. I could never measure the many ways I grew and learned and shared throughout my life because of them, their gifts and love. Warm thoughts and prayers of love and healing to the family.
Forever grateful,
Andy Bartley
Kathy Lucas Brundage
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Your mom was such a huge influence in my life, together with your dad. Never forgotten!
Lori Lazarian-OMalley
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Sending my heartfelt condolences for the loss of this beautiful lady, your mom. I have such fond memories all the way back to school days. Such a beautiful, full, impactful life she led. She raised such a great family and left such a legacy in all of you. Keeping each of you in my prayers during this difficult time, Linda, Steve, Mike, Chris, Mark, Lisa, Bryan and Laurie.....and all the grands and greats! Rest in Heaven ....I know you have already made heaven a brighter place.
Brenda Mecchia
left a message on March 5, 2021:
Sending my condolences to the entire Reinhart family. Your mom was one of a kind, beautiful inside & out. I will keep you all in my thoughts & prayers..
Leticia Rodriguez
left a message on March 5, 2021:
My condolences to the entire Reinhart family. Mrs. Reinhart taught music to both my sons at Aquinas school. She hand selected my youngest son as the only grade school student to perform at the MHS double performance - Amal and the Night Visitor/A Christmas Carol. Both my sons performed the same role (different years): Charlie Brown at Aquinas. What a wonderful and patient teacher. It will be difficult to fill her shoes.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Richard and Maria Velasco
left a message on March 4, 2021:
Our most heartfelt condolences.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
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