Mary Ann Peterson

Mary Ann Peterson, 82, passed away peacefully not long after the midnight hour ringing in the New Year.  She was born January 24, 1943 in West Frankfort, Illinois to the late John and Anna Shanders Sr.

Mary married Harvey L. Peterson in April of 1961, meeting through her brother, John, while on duty in Michigan.  When they divorced in 1983, Mary began a long career with Bethania/United Regional for 25+ years beginning in Respiratory scheduling and later in scheduling for all hospital departments.  After retiring, Mary fully embraced life, never missing an opportunity to go on an adventure.

Mary was the proud and loving mother of two sons: Brian Keith Peterson of Wichita Falls, and Michael Leonard Peterson of Cudahy, Wisconsin.  Brian is married to Ginger Kite Peterson, and Michael is marred to Lisa Marie Peterson.  Mary adored her sons and loved them with all her heart.  She left behind two wonderful men as her legacy.

An avid bowler for more than 40 years, Mary loved going to tournaments and always focused on having a good time, whether she bowled well or not.  Her dedication to the sport earned her a Lifetime Achievement Award.  She will be fondly remembered at the bowling alley, the hospital, the nail salon, and especially for “Walmart Wednesdays”.

Mary had a deep passion for life.  At age 73, she went moped-ing underwater in the Isle of Rotan.  She loved traveling with friends and family, baking cakes, dancing (at 80, she tried to teach her daughter-in-law how to Hula-what a hoot!), reading novels by Nora Roberts, and enjoying her favorite food—strawberry pancakes.

Mary was fun-loving, always positive and smiling.  She never complained, never gossiped, and never spoke poorly of others.  Her sweet, kind disposition and her ability to see the best in everyone brought many friends into her life.

In addition to her parents and her brother, John, Mary was also preceded in death by her dear lifelong friends, Bess Shanders, Wanda Schneider, and Patsy Spraggiuns.

Mary is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law; the Shanders in Georgia; as well as many cherished lifelong friends, including Doris Dillon of Wichita Falls, and Rita Russell of Fort Worth.

Mary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her and by her cat, “Miss Priss”.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made in honor of Mary to P.E.T.S. (petsclinic.org).

Mary requested no sad funeral.  Family and Friends will gather at a later time to share stories and laughs.  Arrangements are under the direction of Owens & Brumley Funeral Home in Wichita Falls.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.owensandbrumley.com