Mary Ann Bisaha

1947 - 2025

Mary Ann Bisaha
Born: July 3, 1947
Died: November 26, 2025
Mary Ann Bisaha, born Mary Ann Hritz to John Hritz and Helen Kovalchik on July 3, 1947, passed away surrounded by loved ones. She lived in Woodstock, Illinois, where she built a life marked by kindness, strength, and devotion to her family and community.
She was a cherished wife of her husband of 56 years, John Bisaha; a devoted mother to daughters, Anne Lembcke and Susan Kimble; her sons-in-law, Grant Lembcke and Charles Kimble; a proud grandmother to Andrew Lembcke, Aaron Lembcke, and Jacob Kimble; sisters, Christine Cinpinski and Michele DiGuillio; and niece, Katherine Restori.
Her family was her greatest joy. She showed her love through action. She listened when others were hurting. She showed up when people needed help. She gave more of herself than most people understand how to give.
Mary was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority at Indiana University Pennsylvania where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education. Mary spent her career as an elementary and middle school teacher. While she taught, she furthered her education at Northwestern University and Valparaiso University. Her students remember her patience, humor, and the way she saw potential in every child. She encouraged curiosity. Her classrooms were safe places where children felt valued. Many of her students grew up and spoke of her influence with gratitude.
She was known for her generosity. If someone needed support, she made time for them. If someone needed comfort, she offered her presence. She believed people mattered, and she lived that belief every day. Friends and strangers walked away from conversations with her feeling stronger.
Mary loved her family fiercely. She built traditions that her children and grandchildren will carry forward. She made holidays warm. She made ordinary days special. The love she shared does not end here. It continues in the people she raised, the students she guided, and the lives she touched.
Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled. Her memory leaves a light that cannot be dimmed.
A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 312 Lincoln Ave, Woodstock, IL 60098.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Northern Plains Reservation Aid. (http://www.NPRAprogram.org