Mary worked in the office from 1952 until 1955, leaving to raise her family. She returned in 1971 and has worked there ever since, serving as Deputy the from 1985 till elected.​

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She is  a lifelong resident of LaCrosse County, a graduate of Aquinas High School and a member of the Holy Trinity Parish in LaCrosse.

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She married Wally in 1954 and was widowed in August 1989. She has three children.

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She was a member of the board of directors LaCrosse Fire Department Credit Union.

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Her hobbies include swimming, cross-country skiing, bowling, camping, boating, fishing, biking and needlework.