MADISON- Mary E. Pertzborn, age 72, peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on April 22, 2017. She was born at home in Montfort on January 2, 1945, the daughter of Mary and Michael Bisarek. She graduated from Iowa-Grant High School and married James Pertzborn, Sr., on April 11, 1964. They moved to Madison where she was a dedicated stay at home mom to their 14 children.

She was a selfless caregiver, welcoming all into their home, where she made sure everyone was fed. Her ability whip up a delicious meal for all will be greatly missed. She did not have the capacity to dislike anyone, and accepted and forgave all. Her family cannot say enough about her wise, thoughtful, and positive outlook on life. Most of all, Mary will be remembered as a champion for the underdog, whom she always rallied for no matter the cost. Mary loved country music, slots machines, had a very large collection of bells and oil lamps, was a lifelong Packers and Badgers fan and loved going to garage sales.

She is survived by her husband, James Pertzborn, Sr.; her children, Lynn (James) Koeppel, Michael Pertzborn, Lisa Whiting, Lori (Jim) Bogutski, James (Stephanie) Pertzborn, Jr., Loni (Peter) Lefeber, Doug Pertzborn, Rick Pertzborn, Kevin (Michelle) Pertzborn, Lana (Steve) Kinning, Lora (Michael) Williams, Bradley (Carley) Pertzborn, Brandon Pertzborn, and Laci Pertzborn; her grandchildren, Mary (Adam), Bridget (Mitchell), Stephanie (Lewis), Amanda (Brandon), Miranda, Nick (Tori), Noah, Kaylee, Karley, Jordan, Gabriella, Michael, Brianna, Claire, Andrew, Alex, Alivia, Taylor, Haylee, Evan, Aubrey, Addison, Connor, Jaelyn, Aliyanna and a 26th on the way; her great-grandchildren, Jolianna, Teagan, and Parker; her siblings, Terry (Daniel), Lois (William), Kenneth (Kris), Bob (Ranita), Michael (Florence), Carol and Anita; and her many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Brian and Ryan; a sister, Dorothy; a brother, Richard; and in-laws, Donald Olson, David Thackray, Donald Collins and Connie Bisarek.

Mary’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the many doctors and nurses at UW Hospital for caring for her.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 26, 2017, at RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 2418 N. Sherman Ave., from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a brief time of remembrance beginning at 8 p.m. Private family burial will take place at Rock Church Cemetery, Livingston, Wisconsin.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com

Mary Pertzborn

January 02, 1945 - April 22, 2017

Share memories of Mary