Mary J. Erdman

Mary J. Erdman, “Aunt Mary” passed away at her home on July 10, 2009. Mary was born November 15, 1925 in the town of Vinland at her home. She was the youngest of the four children born to Esther (Muttart) and Norman Erdman. Mary was a natural born caregiver all of her life. She found great joy in meeting the needs of others. Mary graduated from Loyola University as a registered nurse. She worked as a surgical operating room nurse at St. Elizabeth Hospital and later at Loyola University in the cardiac surgical unit. Mary's family was always her top priority. She interrupted her nursing career to care for her mother and brother in their time of need. Her best friend, and sister, Jane was her priority in later years. They had a bond that was unwavering. Mary's life journey on this earth ended after a courageous battle with cancer for the past five years. Many commented on her strength and perseverance during this time. She is survived by her nieces: Joyce (partner Karen Forer) Cowling, Mary (Tom) Suellentrop, Kathy (Ed) Kubichek, Patricia (Pat) Secard and Chrissy Erdman; her nephews: Louis Cowling, Tim Erdman, Dan (Chris) Erdman and Peter (Susan) Erdman. She is also survived by many more great nieces, nephews and cousins. Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Esther and Norman, her brothers, Jack and Richard and her beloved sister Jane. A funeral liturgy for Mary will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH, 312 S. State St., Appleton with Fr. Michael J. O'Rourke officiating. Family and friends may visit at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the mass. Interment will take place in St. Margaret Cemetery, Neenah. A memorial fund is being established in her name.

Mary's family would like to thank Dr. Cheng, his nurse, Katie and his physician's assistant, Jay for all of their help in the last two months. We would like to thank Mayo Clinic for the exceptional care over the past several years. Thank you to the staffs of Vallhaven Care Center and Theda Care Hospice and her nieces, Joyce and Mary for their excellent care.

Dear Mary,
There are not words to express how you have enriched our lives. You are very special and were always there for your family. Your compassion and caring attitude towards all was infectious. We will miss your love of wildlife, flowers and camping. You were a second mom to this family and for that we are grateful. Give everyone up there a kiss from us. You were an angel on earth and now you are in heaven. Love forever, The Cowling kids.
Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri-County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida St.
Menasha 831-9905