“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” —Psalm 139:14
Sister Ann Marita Loosen, 101, Sister of Charity of Leavenworth (SCL) for 74 years, compassionate healthcare leader, and lifelong advocate for the underserved, passed away on January 31, 2025.
Born Mary Patricia Loosen on May 1, 1923, in Kansas City, Missouri, she was the eldest of three children born to Irving R. and Mary (née Meaney) Loosen. She grew up in the Rockhurst Jesuit parish of St. Francis Xavier, attending the parish school before transitioning to St. Teresa’s Academy and later business college.
Her call to religious life began in high school, though she initially pursued a career in the workforce, becoming a secretary for Trans World Airlines. She quickly advanced into roles traditionally held by men who were being called to military service. Though she thrived in the business world, she felt something was missing in her life. Conversations with her pastor and the example of her nurse friends, whose work inspired her with their dedication and sense of purpose, led her to realize that she was called to a vocation in nursing and service to God. After prayerful discernment, she was introduced to the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and, within weeks, was accepted as a candidate. She entered the SCL Community on August 18, 1950, beginning her 74-year journey of faith and service. Upon receiving her habit, she took the name Sister Ann Marita.
Sister Ann Marita earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Education from Saint Mary College in 1965 and a Master’s in Hospital Administration from the University of Minnesota in 1967. She quickly became a leader in Catholic healthcare, serving in hospitals across California, Colorado, and Kansas. Over her 54-year career, she held numerous leadership positions, including President and CEO of St. Francis Health Center in Topeka, Providence Medical Center in Kansas City, and Saint John Hospital in Leavenworth. Her tenure included significant advancements in hospital administration, leadership development, and patient care as she established personnel departments, mentored healthcare leaders, and advocated for patients. She was also instrumental in the founding of the Marian Clinic in Topeka, which provided essential healthcare services to uninsured and underinsured individuals.
In addition to her leadership in healthcare administration and improved patient care, Sister Ann Marita was a dedicated advocate for healthcare justice. As Advocacy and Government Affairs Coordinator for the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System, she engaged with state and national leaders, promoting healthcare initiatives. Her commitment and influence earned her the respect of congressional representatives, many of whom knew her by name.
Sister Ann Marita carried the heart of a nurse throughout her life, offering guidance and support to those who sought her wisdom on health matters. She was honored with numerous awards, including the Charles S. Billings Award for Lifetime Service, the Outstanding Kansas Citizen Award, and a Lifetime Service Award from Ingram’s magazine.
After retirement, Sister Ann Marita remained dedicated to service, volunteering at Providence Medical Center’s surgical waiting room and caring for retired Sisters at the Mother House in Leavenworth. When Sister Ann Marita moved to Ross Hall in Leavenworth in 2013, she continued to interact with other SCLs and was committed to praying for the sick and dying and for the Church.
Sister Ann Marita’s legacy is of deep faith, selfless service, and compassionate leadership. She was grateful for God’s love, her family’s support, and her SCL Sisters’ lifelong companionship. Inspired by the wisdom of the SCL foundress, Sister often said, “You do the best you can—all with God’s help—and you look forward to the good that is yet to be.”
Sister Ann Marita was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Richard Loosen. She is survived by her brother, James Loosen, of Raymore, Missouri; nieces and nephews; and the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Community.
A vigil service will be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, February 24, 2025, in Ross Chapel, SCL Mother House, Leavenworth. Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated in Ross Chapel at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Interment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Mother House grounds. Memorial contributions can be made to the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, KS 66048.
2 Responses
I was a member of Sister Ann Marita’s class in the novitiate and remember her as quietly amused at the “antics” of us much younger members. She always carried about a certain elegance and dedication that I admired.
Sister Ann Marita hired me at St. Francis to initiate a foundation. She was one of the most remarkable women and servant leaders I have ever known. She was much loved and respected by employees, medical staff, and the community at large. She was a great blessing in my life.