Mary Cruger

Mary Ann Cruger, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, in Verona, WI. Born on September 17, 1934, Mary led a fulfilling life marked by devotion to her family and community.

Mary graduated from high school in Mt. Horeb, WI, and quickly embarked on a career that began at the State Capitol in Madison as a bookkeeper. She later joined General Beverage Sales Company, where she worked until her retirement. Mary was a cherished wife to her late husband, Bruce Cruger, and a nurturing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She and Bruce shared many adventures, notably their road trips to visit family in Utah or to explore new golf courses. Mary and Bruce were also avid supporters of Badger football and basketball. Mary was a charter member of All Saints Lutheran Church in Fitchburg, WI, where she was deeply involved in the community and spiritual life.

She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter Sue Riley (Bob Whetstone) sister Sharon Fisher; sisters-in-law Dolores Gilbertson and Joyce Gilbertson; brother-in-law Jim Foley; daughter-in-law Susan Riley; stepdaughters Tracey Langenbacker and Toni Hassen; first husband and father to Mary's children Tom Riley; seven grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband Bruce, parents Oliver and Florence Gilbertson, three brothers, Jim, Pete, and Jerry, sister Lucy, brother-in-laws Monte Olson and Murph Fisher sons Mike and Chris Riley, and granddaughter Lindsay.

Services to honor Mary's life will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 2951 Chapel Valley Road, Fitchburg, with a visitation one hour prior. A lunch will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mary's name to All Saints Lutheran Church, honoring her commitment to her faith and community.