Fennimore, WI – Mary Elizabeth Schwer, age 88 of Fennimore, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 feeling she lived a blessed life. Mary was born on February 18, 1930 in Annaton, Wisconsin the daughter of Virgil and Rebecca (Seaborn) Loy. Mary is a direct descendant of revolutionary war soldier Michael Loy and a relative of Jackson Loy whose service was honored in naming the USS Loy.
Mary graduated in 1948 as the valedictorian of Livingston High School and married the love of her life, Donald Schwer on Feb 14, 1949. They farmed his family farm in Fennimore Township until purchasing it in 1961 and continued farming until 1992. In 1989, after semi-retiring, Mary and Donald spent their winters in Eastpoint, FL through 2008. Mary was a founding member of the Fennimore Community Theatre in the 1940’s, a 4-H Leader, a member of Eastern Star, and the Stitzer United Methodist Church.
Mary owned the fabric and dress store “Mary’s of Montfort” and was an accomplished seamstress. She had a reputation for being an excellent baker and cook. Mary’s baked goods were greatly anticipated during the holidays, special events, or whenever anyone was in need of special care. But Mary’s true passions were her devotion to her husband, children, grand and great grandchildren. Her early years as a mother were filled with heartfelt prayers devoted to improving the behavior of her sons. She will be deeply missed by all her family, friends, and our community.
Mary is survived by her three children; Andrea McKenzie of Madison, Avery (Marilyn) Schwer of Omaha, NE, Samuel (Jill) Schwer of Fennimore, five grandchildren; Eliot Schwer, Ryan Schwer, Katrina (James) Edge, Rebecca Schwer, Everett Schwer, and great grandchild Amari Edge.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband, and parents. Mary’s family members are scattered across the country and around the world.
A memorial service will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Friday July 13, 2018, at the Stitzer United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. until the time of service at the church on Friday morning. Private burial of the cremains will be held at a later date at Prairie Cemetery in Fennimore. The Larson Family Funeral Home of Fennimore is assisting the family.