Mary Orfield

It's with great sadness that we share the news that Mary Louise Orfield, age 82, of Menomonie, Wisconsin, passed away on Monday, November 20 at her home.

Mary was born August 23, 1941, in Winona, Minnesota, to Paul and Louise Datta. Mary grew up in Berlin, Wisconsin, and graduated from Berlin High School in 1959. Mary went on to earn her bachelor's degree at UW-Eau Claire in 1963. Mary taught mathematics at Menomonie Junior High School and Science at Menomonie High School.

Mary married Bernhard Orfield on October 24, 1964, and together they recently celebrated 59 years of marriage.

Mary continued her education by earning her master's degree from UW-Stout and then her doctorate degree in materials science from the University of Minnesota in 1987. She was a tenured chemistry professor at UW-Stout until she retired in 2003.

Mary continued to be active in her community volunteering at many local agencies. She never hesitated to help others no matter their circumstances. She and Bernie opened their home to many individuals in need, and after Eric and Sue were out of the nest, they were foster parents to three children. Mary donated her time at the Menomonie Public Library, at The Bridge To Hope, mentoring inmates at the Dunn County Jail to earn their GEDs, and supporting those in need within twelve-step recovery programs.

Mary loved animals, caring for many dogs and cats over the years. She enjoyed annual summer vacations with her family, especially her time on the water. She and Bernie enjoyed live music and supported all of their daughter Sue's musical endeavors.

Mary was accomplished and creative in the kitchen, finding joy in dreaming up her own concoctions and modifying old favorites. "She never met a recipe she couldn't improve on." She also enjoyed other creative outlets, like designing and decorating their home and sewing clothes and she was a voracious reader.

Mary is survived by her husband Bernhard of Menomonie; one son, Eric (Dawn) Orfield of Green Bay; one daughter, Sue Orfield (Randy Sinz) of Eau Claire, one foster son, Robert Young; three grandchildren, Lauren (Benjamin) Flynn, Paige (Colin) Duffy, and Noah Orfield and one great-grandson Callahan Duffy, all of Green Bay. Mary will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, John Datta.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, November 30th from 4-7 p.m. at Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie, Wisconsin.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Bridge to Hope and Dunn County Humane Society.

Please share memories and condolences at www.olsonfuneral.com.