Mary E. Gerum, age 81, passed away on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, in Milwaukee, Wis.
A memorial service was held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. Father Schaller officiated the service. Visitation was held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial Rights were held at Calvary Cemetery in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, following the service.
Mary was born on Nov. 2, 1944, in Madison, Wis., to Matthew and Viola (Hoernke) Statz. She graduated from Edgewood High School of the Sacred Hart and then attended college at St. Teresa’s in Winona, Minn., graduating in 1966. Mary married Donald V. Gerum on Aug. 20, 1966, at Our Lady Queen of Peace in Madison, Wis.
For over 20 years, Mary proudly served the United States Department of Defense as an accountant, traveling and residing throughout the world. After a long and distinguished career, she retired in 2004. Mary was a member of the Military Wives Club and Military Comptroller. Outside of work, Mary found great joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She took pride in raising her five daughters with her husband and cherished spending time with her grandchildren and many friends and family. She also loved traveling and tending to her vibrant floral gardens. Mary had a passion for music and shared her gift by playing the piano and organ for family and friends.
Mary is survived by her loving husband, Donald; daughters, Deborah (Dan) Boskovic, Laura Gerum, Melissa (Brian) Ryder, and Heather (Brent) Schrader; grandchildren, William Cahn, Danica Boskovic, Ivana Boskovic, Brogan Canterbury, Aiden Canterbury, Mary Ann Ryder, Wesley Ryder, Otto Schrader, and Ada Schrader; and many nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; and daughter, Julie Cahn.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Mary’s School in Tomahawk or a charity of your choice.
Ritchay Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
