MADISON, WI - Mary Ann Hirsch, 88, entered eternal life Jan. 28, 2026.

Born October 29, 1937, in Hayward, to Joseph, a railroad telegrapher, and Mary Weber, she grew up riding steam trains and traveled to 48 states before high school. She graduated from Washburn High School in 1955. In 1956, she graduated from Minnesota School of Business and married Richard Hirsch while he was serving in the U.S. Army at Fort Eustis, VA. Together, they had three children.

Returning to Washburn, Mary Ann built her career in the medical field. She was a medical transcriptionist at Bayfield County Memorial Hospital for 28 years and later at Ashland Eye Clinic for five years after the hospital closed. She dressed up in festive holiday costumes to visit patients at the hospital when she wasn't working. Her deep faith was her foundation, expressed through daily prayers for herself and others, and through her service as a church pianist. She loved walking, sewing, swimming, traveling, a good restaurant, and the theater.

As a single mother, she showed unwavering determination in providing for her family which taught us strength, independence, and integrity. She was our lifelong guide and confidante, a steady source of comfort, wisdom, and love, often delivered with one of her legendary quick-witted "zingers."

Mary Ann is survived by her daughters, Teresa and Valerie Hirsch, both of Madison; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her son, Russell Lee Hirsch; her parents; her brother, Major George “Jud” Weber; her sister, Beverly Dix; and her former husband.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at St. Mary’s Care Center for their compassionate care. Services will be held privately. Memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Foundation. Online condolences may be shared at gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Mary Ann Hirsch

October 29, 1937 - January 28, 2026

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