Mary Alice Stegemann

Mary Alice Stegemann peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Mary was born on May 8, 1949, to Francis Joseph Lawyer and Catherine Erma (Brunett) Lawyer in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Mary was known for her warm smile and personality, sharp mind and wit, and love of life. Mary’s particular talent was her ability to comfortably welcome all people into her life.

Mary is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Allan, her loving son Erik, and granddaughter Peyton. Mary is also survived by her siblings, John Lawyer, Patrick Lawyer, and Eileen Palermo. Two siblings, Kathleen and Joseph proceeded Mary in death. She is also survived by other family members including her mother-in law, in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews and several grand nieces and nephews as well as the many friends, students, and families whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by all.

Mary graduated from Washington High School, Two Rivers, Wisconsin and from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1972. Mary was a beloved teacher and taught and administered at the Growing Place Preschool in DeForest, Wisconsin and kindergarten at the Edgewood Campus School in Madison, Wisconsin. After retirement from teaching, Mary became a successful oil painter, winning multiple regional and state awards in Wisconsin.

There will be a celebration of Mary’s life at the Stegemann home on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, for those who wish, a donation may be made in Mary’s name to the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer’s, University of Wisconsin Foundation; U.S. Bank Lockbox, Box 78807; Milwaukee, WI 53278-0807.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434