MONONA - Mary Ann Zander (née Jessop) of Monona, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, at the age of 82, from natural causes. She was born on April 24, 1942, to Addison and Elizabeth (Tordoff) Jessop.

Mary graduated from Baraboo High School in Baraboo, WI. She attended one year of college at UW-Whitewater. On June 29, 1963, Mary Ann married Melchior "Mel" Zander, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. They were blessed with three children, Tim (Becky) of Rio, Chris (Marnie) of Sun Prairie and Linda (Derrick) Trentin of Columbus. Her greatest joy was being a devoted grandmother to her eight grandchildren and recently welcoming her first great-grandchild.

Mary Ann worked for many years as the water utility billing clerk in Monona, where she was known for her diligence, kindness and warm smile. Outside of work, she cherished time with her family, found joy in simple moments, and always had a kind word for everyone she met. She enjoyed rose gardening, reading and solving jumble puzzles. More recently she developed dementia, which took away some of her memories, but did not change her love for her family.

Mary Ann is survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchild; her brother, Jerry Jessop of Montana; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mel; parents, Addison and Elizabeth; and brother, John Jessop.

Mary Ann will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her kindness, and her gentle spirit. Her legacy of love and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A funeral service to celebrate Mary Ann's life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Burial will take place at Highland Memory Gardens following a light luncheon. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Tuesday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Wisconsin Parkinson’s Association. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Mary Ann Zander

April 24, 1942 - February 02, 2025

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