Ann Margaret Stajich

MADISON-Ann Margaret (Jones) Stajich passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours of Feb. 18, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bert; parents, James A. and Helen Jones; sister, Janet (Richard Beier); brother Dr. James D. (Dr. Mary) Jones; and other relatives and friends. Ann grew up in North Fond du Lac, Wisconsin where she came to appreciate the closeness of small-town community. Ann had always been someone who got involved, going back to her early days as a Girl Scout leader and camp instructor. She was a social worker in Milwaukee and Madison, and her desire to help others carried over to the family’s move to McFarland where Ann was elected to the Village Board, was a reporter and writer for the McFarland newspaper, and was an active member of the Garden Club. Ann was also an active member and a voice in the church choir at McFarland United Church of Christ. She was instrumental in helping McFarland build a new public library and in starting its Farmers Market. In recognition of these efforts, she was honored as Citizen of the Year in McFarland. Ann was clear regarding the achievement of which she was most proud. Chosen by her alma mater Ripon College, where she also met her husband, for honor as a Distinguished Alumni she told the audience at the awards ceremony that she felt her children were her “greatest accomplishment.” Steve, Sue and Jean survive her with homes in Santa Monica, CA, Milwaukee, and Madison. All of them will remember Ann as a loving parent, an energetic partner in projects as varied as school activities and decorating bicycles for 4th of July festivities, and as a woman who helped others get things done for her community. A Celebration of Life will be held at MAPLE TREE SUPPER CLUB, 6010 US-51, McFarland, from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2019. A private burial was held. Memorials may be made to Ripon College Student Scholarships in Ann’s name. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. The family wishes to thank the staff of St. Mary’s Care Center for the loving care and friendships given to Ann and her family. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive 608-221-5420