Mary Jane (Fallon) Blum
February 16, 1938 - September 16, 2025
CROSS PLAINS - Mary Jane (Fallon) Blum passed away on September 16, 2025. She was born on February 16, 1938, to Michael and Irene Fallon in Milwaukee, Wis. Mary grew up in a joyful home with her two older sisters, rich with family, laughter, and traditions. Mary attended and graduated from Holy Angels High School. She then continued her education at Prospect Hall Women's Secretarial School, where she graduated as one of the top performers in her class. Mary began her career as an Executive Assistant to the president of the Milwaukee Chair Company. She later worked at General Electric in Waukesha and at Lands' End, where her dedication and strong work ethic earned her admiration.
Mary was not only dedicated to her professional career but was also actively involved in her community, particularly with the Young Republicans. One memorable day, she, a native of Milwaukee, met Ralph, who was from the small town of Potosi, while attending a friend's wedding in Wisconsin Dells. Surrounded by celebration, laughter, and the joy of new beginnings, Mary and Ralph discovered something special: each other. It felt as if they were brought together by God, a match made in heaven.
On December 27, 1969, Mary married Ralph C. Blum in Milwaukee. What started as a chance encounter blossomed into 56 years of a beautiful marriage. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter, devotion, and faith while raising two sons, Brad Blum of Waukesha and Sean Blum of Fitchburg. Mary also embraced her two daughters-in-law, Amy and Michelle, treating them as if they were her own. Mary's proudest role was that of mother and grandmother. She cherished every moment spent with her four grandchildren: Ella, Emilia, John "Jack," and Joseph Flesch Blum, whose lives she enriched with unconditional love. Whether it was singing to them as babies, cheering at their activities, or simply sharing stories around the table, Mary's presence was a constant source of comfort, encouragement, and joy.
Faith was central to Mary's life. She was a devout Catholic and a dedicated member of Saint Francis Xavier Church in Cross Plains, where she found strength, peace, and guidance throughout her journey. Her life was full of simple pleasures that brought her joy. She enjoyed boating and fishing, finding tranquility and beauty in the waters of northern Wisconsin. Dancing was another joy for her, reflecting her vibrant spirit, and she took great delight in cooking and hosting family gatherings. Her home was a welcoming place, filled with the aromas of good food, the sounds of laughter, and the warmth of her love, making every guest feel special.
Those who knew Mary will remember her as a woman of kindness, grace, and generosity. She had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, and she carried herself with a quiet strength that uplifted those around her. Her love for family and friends was unshakeable, and she treasured every relationship deeply.
Mary is survived by her husband, Ralph; her two sons, Brad Blum (Michelle Maas) and Sean Blum (Amy Flesch); her grandchildren; and numerous cousins in Colorado and Illinois. She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters. Though Mary has left this world, her spirit will continue to live on in the love she gave, the memories she created, and the example she set. Family and friends will never forget Mary for her faith, devotion to family, and the joy she brought to the lives of all who knew her. "Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her."
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2947 Thinnes St., Cross Plains, at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 26, 2025, with Father Brad Grobbel presiding. Burial will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2025, and also from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Friday.
Online condolences may be made at
www.gundersonfh.com.
Gunderson Cross Plains
Funeral & Cremation Care
2421 Church St.
(608) 798-3141
Published by Madison.com on Sep. 24, 2025.