MaryAnne "First to Fly" Wolf

MaryAnne Wolf "First to Fly", age 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026.

MaryAnne was born on October 4, 1948, to Burton and Trudy (Bierwirtz) Wolf. MaryAnne moved through the world with curiosity, courage, and grace, never content to stay in one place for long. Her love of travel, led her to Montana, Colorado, and South Dakota, where she built a life rich with adventure, friendship, and meaning. During her years in the Black Hills of South Dakota, MaryAnne became deeply rooted in the community. She cycled the hills she loved so dearly and worked in fine dining, managing renowned five-star restaurants including Sleuce and The Midnight Star, owned by actor Kevin Costner. Through this work she met people from all over the world and formed lifelong friendships that reflected her rare ability to connect deeply and genuinely with others.

A devoted reader and true sci-fi enthusiast, MaryAnne was endlessly curious and imaginative. She loved long bike rides, hikes through nature, and being fully present in the world around her. Whether through conversation, laughter, or quiet understanding, she had a way of making people feel seen and heard. Later in life, she became a certified massage therapist, a path that reflected what she had always been at heart, a healer. Being loved by MaryAnne was the only thing more remarkable than loving her. Her warmth, quick wit, and gentle strength left an imprint on everyone lucky enough to know her.

MaryAnne is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Gina (Shannon) Krizan and Heather Hoggatt; her grandchildren, Alyssa Taylor, Jesse Wolf, Jett Hoggatt, and Archer Krizan; and her great-grandchildren, Peter Taylor, Olivia Taylor, and Amaris Wolf; her siblings, Collette Wolf and Ray "Duke" Wolf; and by the many nieces, nephews, dear friends, and community members whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Burton and Trudy Wolf, and her brothers, Michael Wolf and Pete Wolf.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Pineview Funeral Service in Hayward, WI, at a later date to be announced.