Mary Ann Masiakowski

Mary Masiakowski, age 79; “Miss Mary”, as she was known to many, passed away on February 24, 2022, at her home with family by her side, after a nearly three-year ferocious battle with cancer. She was born March 13, 1942 in Milwaukee, WI the daughter of Raymond and Sylvia Smallish.
She was employed at the Lac du Flambeau Grade School for 25 years and previously with the Lac du Flambeau Head Start program for over 10 years. She was well known in the community and well respected by staff and students alike. She had that special knack when it came to connecting with kids. It would be difficult to find anyone in Lac du Flambeau who does not know of Miss Mary, or who has not in some way been impacted by her caring manner. Whenever she was in a public setting outside of work, her students and former students would flock to her, telling her about their latest accomplishment or seeking guidance.
No matter what adversity she faced, she just kept moving forward, never complaining about her own problems. When most people would have become angry, bitter, or given up, her only response was, “it’s a bummer”. Then, she would simply move on to her next challenge.
She was a devoted wife to her husband, Marv, from 1962 until his death in 2017. In 1995, Marv suffered a brain aneurysm and massive stroke that left him paralyzed on his right side and unable to verbally communicate. While doctors told her that he may not survive and if he did, he would need to reside in a nursing home for the remainder of his life, she simply replied, “that’s not going to happen”. Then, she got to work. She and Marv worked tirelessly at his rehabilitation. He eventually returned to his home, and they developed their own unique way of communicating. She did not stop there. Mary wanted Marv to be able to have independence and purpose, so her work continued. Marv was eventually able to become independent and return to his favorite sport of deer hunting, which they have always done together.
Mary loved the outdoors. She enjoyed fishing and looked forward to deer hunting (both gun and bow) every year. She adored her beagle, Jack, and would tell everyone what a “good boy” he was, even when he was being mischievous.
She was a great listener who offered solid advice. She will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Marv, sister Barbara, and brothers Raymond, John, and Gerald. She is survived by her children Mark (Denise), Matt (Linda), Karrie (Keith), and Bart (Gwen), by grandchildren Trevor (Amy) and Marshall, great grandchildren Joseph, Isaac, and Sophia, brothers Paul and Charles and sister, Karen.
Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com
NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.