Mary J. Bouwsma, 89, of Manitowoc, WI passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025.
Mary was born on April 9, 1935, in Oak Park, IL, to the late Francis and Frances (Young) Kraus. She resided in New Lenox, IL, where she raised her two children. Mary retired after 32 years as an Economist with the U.S. Department of Labor. Upon relocating to Manitowoc, she became an active volunteer, contributing time at Holy Family Memorial Hospital and participating in the Lions Club. One of her most cherished experiences was volunteering with friends at the boarding entrance of the S.S. Badger. Mary also loved animals, especially her ponies and cats.
Mary is survived by her children, Barbara (Rodney) Harper and Dennis Bouwsma; siblings Margaret (Daniel) O’Connell and James (Patricia) Kraus; sister-in-law Judy Krause; grandchildren Chad (Cathy) Harper, Nicholas (Katie) Soja, Marcus Soja, Louis Soja, Rebecca Bouwsma, and Rachel (Kai) Bouwsma; six great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Peter and Joseph Kraus.
In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held. Condolences can be shared with the family online at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com. Memorial donations may be made in Mary’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a local animal shelter.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Shady Lane Nursing Care Center and Sharon S. Richardson Hospice for their care and support.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, 628 N. Water St., Manitowoc, WI, 920-682-0346, is assisting the family with arrangements.
