Mary Jean Freymiller, age 87, of Fennimore, WI passed away unexpectedly on Sunday morning July 5, 2020 at her residence in Fennimore. She was born on May 11, 1933 in Muscoda Township Grant County the daughter of Frank and Delia (Bremmer) Sikhart. Mary married John Karasek on September 13, 1952 and then was united in marriage to Rudolph “Rudy” Freymiller on December 10, 1971.
Mary graduated from Muscoda High School and then entered the work force. After having different roles throughout her career, Mary was offered a position at the U.W. Platteville as their librarian. This was a job she thoroughly enjoyed and after 39 years of dedication she retired in 2000. Mary was an active member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the St. Anne’s Sodality, a volunteer at the Fennimore Doll and Toy Museum, and the Red Hat Ladies of Fennimore. Over the years, Mary got very involved in genealogy. Mary was a curator and archivist for the Wisconsin Room and would attend many conventions throughout the area. She would also assist others with their genealogy quests. She had a heart larger than life; she was always there to help family, friends, and neighbors in need. Her door was always open and many adored her. Mary was the best mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend that will be deeply missed.
Mary is survived by her three children; Jean (David) Ward of Fort Atkinson, Sue (Craig) French of Rochester, MN, Deb. A. (Jim Rohrbeck) Childs of Breezy Point, MN, 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren, two sisters; Shirley Peterson of Delavan, Evy Bronowski of Rockford, IL along with several special nieces and nephews.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, son Kevin Karasek on July 17, 1977, husband Rudy on November 22, 1989, infant siblings; Francis and Agatha Sikhart, and her brother-in-laws; Lyle Peterson and Robert Bronowski.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday July 10, 2020 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fennimore with burial to follow in the Prairie Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church Hall. The Larson Family Funeral Home in Fennimore is assisting the family.