Mary R. Polancih
February 07, 1949 - March 19, 2019
Obituary
MADISON-Mary R. Polancih passed peacefully in her sleep at home on March 19, 2019, at the age of 70. She was preceded in death by parents, John and Doris; and sister, Peggy. She is survived by her sister, Linda of Redford, MI., numerous cousins and many very dear friends. Mary was born in Michigan, but her home and heart were in Wisconsin. She relocated in 1971 to start her “first” career as a Special Education Teacher for students with physical disabilities in the Madison Metropolitan School District. Over the course of her long teaching career she was involved in many organizations devoted to helping her students: Council for Exceptional Children, Division for Physical and Health Disabilities, Wisconsin Federation Council for Exceptional Children, United Cerebral Palsy of Wisconsin, and many more. Her ‘second’ career was as a community volunteer for local and state organizations including RSVP (a ride service to medical appointments,) The Rolling Meadows Neighborhood Association, Madison Teachers, Inc. and MTI-Retired and Olbrich Gardens. She was passionate about local politics and participated in East Side Progressives forums. Mary was also a Master Gardener and created beautiful gardens in her own yard. She was very active with the Madison Herb Society, Hosta Society and Hardy Plant Society. In addition, she was a member of the Olbrich Botanical Society, Audubon Society, Nature Conservancy and the Royal Horticultural Society. As a myeloma patient she was active in the Wisconsin Multiple Myeloma Support Group and was determined to increase awareness about myeloma. She helped push state and national representatives to support better health coverage for all: “No one should have to survive cancer and medically induced bankruptcy.” A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2019, at the LAKE EDGE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 4032 Monona Dr., Madison, fellowship room, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m., with sharing of memories at 2:30 p.m. Attendees are welcome to bring an appetizer or dessert to share. Beverages will be provided. A private burial will precede the celebration. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a cause that helps the environment, children or progressive causes. Mary's favorite charities included United Cerebral Palsy, The Nature Conservancy and the Trillium Fund – Madison Myeloma Support Group. http://madisonmultiplemyeloma.org/trilliumfund.
Gunderson East
Funeral and Cremation Care
5203 Monona Dr.
(608) 221-5420
Events
Celebration of Life
Sat May 11, 2019 @ 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM CDT
Lake Edge Lutheran Church (Monona) • 4032 Monona Drive, Monona, WI
Photos
No photos of Mary have been shared yet.
Memories
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Bonnie Kulke
Other •
I knew Mary as a long time member of the Madison Herb Society where she served as a past president. Mary was a loyal friend to all her fellow "herbies" and full participant in all the MHS activities over the years. We enjoyed lots of adventures, garden experiences and travel times together especially a once in a lifetime trip to France. Mary will be remembered for her help and guidance to new members with her warm welcoming smile as well as her steadfast friendship to longtime members like herself. Bonnie Kulke
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ricosabatini
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Mary was always active as an advocate for neighborhood unity. We will miss her spirit here in Rolling Meadows. May you rest Mary.
MK
Mary Kelly
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My sympathy to Mary's family as you mourn the loss of Ms. Mary. I always enjoyed her big smile and warm heart!
AB
ANN BLAKELY
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FROM THE BUSH SIDE OF YOUR FAMILY - REST AND BEGIN AGAIN MARY. LOVE ANN
AK
Ann Kleckner
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I met Mary initially in Grad School. We were the only 3 older students in the class and we quickly gravitated to each other. She was a knowledgeable caring teacher of children with special needs. We also shared a love of gardening, nature and Halloween. She also had a love of cooking but that never did wear off on me. I will miss her cheerful smile and sage advice.
RM
Rose Messina
Other •
My memories of Mary were of a tireless, committed, good-hearted teacher who always thought her students were capable of so much more. She maintained her love of gardening throughout her life and was an avid member of the Hardy Plant Society in Madison. We shared many interests and she was always interested in raising the boat for every student. Her involvement in Madison Teachers Incorporated was strong throughout her career and after her retirement. I will always remember her as a joyful person who loved life, friends and giving back to her community. She will be missed.