Obituary
Mary Jane (Meier) Peterson
Mary Jane (Meier) Peterson, age 77, of Holmen, WI, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2025. Born on June 21, 1947, in Madison, WI to Paul and June (Lemanski) Meier.
Mary lived with an open heart. Whether she was cheering proudly from the bleachers at her grandchildren’s games, carefully arranging her cherished doll collection, or joyfully listening to her favorite BTS songs, she embraced life with a rare kind of gentle enthusiasm. Her passions-rooted in the simple joys of family, music and tradition-reflected the beauty of a soul deeply in tune with what truly mattered. She carried her Irish heritage proudly, often with a twinkle in her eye and a smile that could lift any spirit. That smile, and her unforgettable laugh, will echo in our hearts forever. Mary was the person who always made time, always offered help, and always gave love freely-without expectation or condition.
She leaves behind not only a legacy of love, but of calm resilience, unwavering support, and kindness in its purest form. Her family, especially her grandchildren, were her pride and joy, and they, in turn, adored her deeply.
Though she may no longer be with us in person, Mary’s spirit lives on in every act of kindness we show, every burst of laughter we share, and every cherished moment we carry forward in her honor. We will miss her every day, but we will remember her with love, always.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and June Meier; daughter, Mindy Trevathon; and her grandson, Preston Gunderson.
Mary is survived by her husband Larry Peterson; her children Kimberly (David) Woggon, Raphael (Robert) Koss, Erin (Bart) Gunderson, Megan (Kevin) Schueller, and her son, Ryan Peterson. Mary also leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were lights in her life. Mary is also survived by her three brothers, Michael (Debbie) Meier, Thomas Meier, Daniel Meier and sister, Melissa Meier, all with whom she remained close with throughout her life.
Mary’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the Mayo Medical Hospice team for their compassionate care and support during Mary’s final days.
With hearts full of love and deep gratitude, Mary’s children would like to remember and celebrate her life as a mother whose warmth, laughter, and quiet strength touched everyone lucky enough to know her. A memorial service will be held Friday, June 27, 2025, at The Gathering Place, 133 Mason St., Onalaska, WI 54650. The visitation will be from 11-12:00 pm, with a service at 12:00 pm, and a luncheon to follow.
Mary was my Aunt, my godmother and one of the nicest women I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. It was always nice to visit her back in her Daytona and Marshall fields days and at the various homes in the area. She had an amazing smile and a warm heart. I’m gonna miss her terribly.
Such a beautiful lady inside and out. Sending love and prayers to Mary’s loved ones. She was one in a million! We were blessed to have known her for over 50 years. Rest in Peace Dear Mary, you deserve the best!
Love from Ron /Janet Bertelsen
My deepest sympathy to Mary’s family. She was a blessing to all who knew her.
Deepest condolences to the family of Mary Jane. I also enjoyed going to Macy’s to buy makeup and visiting with her. She had such a kind heart.