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BORN
1920
DIED
2023
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Mary Schwab Obituary
October 11, 1920 - October 18, 2023
Mary Ann Schwab, a dedicated champion of faith-based human justice and an ardent advocate for the empowerment of Christian women passed away peacefully October 18, 2023. She leaves behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire and shape the lives of those she touched.
Mary Ann Wallerstedt was born in 1920 and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. Mary Ann received a Catholic education and developed a deep commitment to her faith. This Catholic foundation served as her guiding light in her pursuit of social justice toward which she achieved a Master's degree in Social Work. In accordance with Mary Ann's faith, three of her sons graduated from St. Ignatius.
Following her studies, Mary Ann moved to San Francisco where she met her future husband, Francis Schwab, and embarked on her career as a social worker with Catholic Charities. Mary Ann dedicated her life to assisting women to find their voices and speak up for human life causes. She served as president of the National Council of Catholic Women from 1983-85 where she deepened her role in the Respect Life movement and had an enlightening experience with a UN delegation to Kenya. The NCCW honored Mary Ann as Catholic Woman of the Year in 2021.
Mary Ann was the loving wife of the late Francis Schwab and the devoted mother of Tom, Anthony, Peter, Vince and Mary Ellen. Mary Ann's spirit lives on in her son, Vincent Schwab, in her grandchildren, Tony, Natalie, and Vivian Schwab, the children of Peter and Ann, and in her great-grandchildren, Lev and Tevva.
Mary Ann leaves behind a profound and enduring legacy within the San Francisco Archdiocese and Saint Brendan's parish, communities she so deeply cherished. Her life's work serves as a testament to the remarkable impact one individual can have on the world.
Friends are invited to visit on Wednesday, November 1st at 5:00 pm at St. Brendan's Catholic Church, 29 Rockaway Ave. in San Francisco where a Rosary will begin at 6:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at the church on Thursday, November 2nd at 10:00 am. Mary Ann will be laid to rest with her husband Francis at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Colma.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Schwab
Sponsored by Duggan's Serra Mortuary - Daly City.
Patrice Thompson
October 19, 2024
Mary Ann was a total inspiration and probably the smartest person I have ever known. Her engagement with life, her ability to help educate people on the life issues, her appreciation of religion and science, her faith were a beacon here in San Francisco!
Melanie
November 14, 2023
I am so glad to learn about her legacy and for the path she has paved for Catholic women today. Mary Ann Schwab, pray for us!
Joni Gallagher
November 3, 2023
Mary Ann was a super hero of Respect Life and I am proud to have known her through my work at School of Pastoral Leadership. Father Dave greeted her in heaven and many others. Mary Ann May perpetual light shine upon you.
Judith Garvey
October 26, 2023
Mary Ann and her husband were friends of the Betty & Frank Garvey family for decades. Over the years, Mary Ann became a legend in our house and we would often hear of her good works through our mom. Mary Ann helped her find work after our father passed away. Without Mary Ann, there would have been no Diamond Senior Center in the Castro. We would often hear about here work with the monthly gatherings of the ladies. It was nice to really spend time with Mary Ann on a cruise and see her at mass at St. Brendan's. She was a wonderful woman to be around and so surprised to learn of her age!
Kimberly Cáceres
October 26, 2023
Mary Ann is a true inspiration to me and my family! She lived her life for the Lord and was unapologetic in her defense of the Truth. She defended the sanctity of life with every cell of her being and she did it with with such profound mercy and love. Her devotion to her beloved family and her cherished friendships was truly an example of what it means to love like Christ. Everything Mary Ann did was in the service of the Kingdom of God. She was a dear friend and mentor to me and I will miss her deeply.
Now she is a saint in heaven and I will reach out to her in times of need. God bless her loved ones as they navigate this difficult transition. Thank you, Mary Ann, for the precious gift you are to all who knew you.
Mary Jo Schymeinsky
October 25, 2023
Mary Ann was a cherished friend and an inspiration in her generosity of time and energy to many causes for women who struggled with life issues. She will be greatly missed. Mary Jo Schymeinsky
Pamela Manick
October 25, 2023
A great lady who will never be forgotten by so many of us...MaryAnn will live on in our memories as a pilar of Catholic faith & strength. Thank you for being there for me during my time of need...
Alyce Pagano
October 25, 2023
Mary Ann was a remarkable woman. She came into my life at the right time after the lost of my husband. We enjoyed and shared many conversations. Never had I seen one with so much energy, and a great love for God and The Blessed Family. Her insight, wisdom and intellect will be greatly missed. Love you always.
My condolences to her family.
Alyce Pagano
Patrice Thompson
October 25, 2023
Mary Anne was a wonderful friend and mentor, perhaps the brightest woman I have ever known . Her grace, charisma, and clear thinking about how to achieve very worthy goals will always be a great inspiration to me and many others.
Cecelia Segurson
October 24, 2023
Mary Ann was a member of our Bible group at St. Brendan. She was the wisest one in our group. When she talked, we listened. We will miss her immensely. Mary Ann was the kindest person I have ever known.
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