Mary Ann Wenzel (Riese)

Mary Ann Wenzel passed peacefully into eternal life on September 23, 2025, at the age of 91, with her family at her side. She was born in Freedom, WI on May 23, 1934, to the late Ferdinand and Anna (Williamson) Riese. She graduated as Valedictorian from St. Mary High School, Menasha, in 1952. Mary Ann was united in marriage to Ronald E. Wenzel on June 19, 1954. They were blessed with 69+ years of marriage.

Mary Ann began her adult life working with Dr Krueger. She later became a devoted mother, opting to stay at home and raise her children.

She was a member of St Mary Catholic Parish for over 70 years. She volunteered for many years, well into her eighties, cleaning the church that had become an integral part of her life. She also worked at local polls. Most of her free time was lovingly focused on her family. She also enjoyed cake decorating, crafting, and completing word puzzles.

Survivors include three children and their families - Robert (Lynn): Dr Ann, Nick; Michael (Betty): Dr Theresa Weerts, Tim, Lauren Loeb; Mary Sue (Paul) Semanek: Dr Brian, Dr Sarah, Michael; and twelve “little greats”. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law Rose (Walter) Pauls, her sister-in-law Sancee Riese, and many nieces and nephews.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Ron; her parents; her father-in-law and mother-in-law Bernhard and Elizabeth Wenzel; her brothers Jerome and John Riese; her in-laws Maureen Riese, Janice and Jack Van Airsdale.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11AM, on Friday, October 3, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 528 Second St., Menasha. Visitation will be on Friday at the church from 10AM until the time of the Mass. Private interment will take place at St. Mary Cemetery, Menasha.