Mary Skroch Grogan

1929 - 2021

Mary Skroch Grogan December 20, 1929 - January 26, 2021 Mary Skroch Grogan was born in Independence, Wisconsin, on December 20, 1929. She was the youngest of three children, born to Simon Skroch and Lucy Zilla. Simon was the local Postmaster, a well-known tenor in the area, and a prominent figure at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Independence. Lucy was an active member of women's organizations. Mary was a member of the high school band, playing the trombone, for which she received much recognition. She graduated from Independence High School and then attended the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire. Upon graduation, she moved to New York, becoming a stewardess with Eastern Airlines. Mary met her husband, Stanley J. Grogan Jr., after just two years with the airlines. They were married on September 20, 1954 in Washington, D.C. Mary lived in Europe and traveled extensively for many years in Europe and the Far East. She was a well-known breeder of Standard Poodles, Yardcastle Kennels, for over 60 years. Mary was a regular Exhibitor of Standard Poodles at dog shows regulated by the American Kennel Club, in Obedience and Conformation, winning many awards and titles. Mary had a great sense of humor, a fantastic fashion sense, and always looked like a model when she went out. Her devoted daughter, Elder Mary M. Grogan of Sausalito Presbyterian Church, said, "She was my North Star, my guide and my amazing support. She will be deeply and sorely missed." Mary is survived by her husband, Colonel Stanley J. Grogan, Jr. of Pinole, California, however, he passed away suddenly on Wednesday, February 24, 2021; her daughter, Mary M. Grogan of Larkspur, California; Mary Kay Bormann (Clark) of Bismarck, North Dakota (niece); Julie Karasch Sawyer (Tim) of La Crosse, Wisconsin (niece); Daniel Karasch (Marcy) of Fox Point, Wisconsin (nephew); John Karasch (Terri) of Phoenix, Arizona (nephew); William Skroch (Mary) of Naperville, Illinois (nephew); Brian Skroch (Janet) of Independence, Wisconsin (nephew); Barbara Skroch Nelson (Mel) of Independence, Wisconsin (niece); Betsy Skroch Brzowsky (Tom) of Holmen, Wisconsin (niece); Bridget Skroch (Chris) of Littleton, Colorado (niece); sister-in-law Bernice Skroch of Independence, Wisconsin; along with other relatives in Kentfield, California, Independence, Wisconsin and New York, New York. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law, Florence Skroch Karasch (A. J. Karasch) and her brother Robert Skroch. A memorial service will be held in Mary's honor at Sausalito Presbyterian Church on Saturday, March 27 at 2:00 p.m. Because of current health guidelines, only the immediate family will meet in the sanctuary, with virtual participation. Donations in Mary's honor may be made and sent to: Sausalito Presbyterian Church, 112 Bulkley Avenue, Sausalito, California, 94965.