MIDDLETON - Mary Louise Updike, age 75, passed away on Thursday, September 29, 2022, at Agrace HospiceCare. She was diagnosed with cancer on July 24th and fought incredibly hard in the short time she had, because she was always determined to “get things done.”

Mary was born on October 17, 1946, in Belfonte, PA, the daughter of Harold and Lillian Sheffer. She grew up in an Air Force family and lived many places in her earlier years, including Misawa, Japan; Seattle; and Boston. She earned a B.S. in dietetics from the University of Massachusetts and moved to West Allis, WI, where she met her neighbor, Earl, who lived across the hall in her apartment building. They were married in 1973.

Mary had many hobbies and held several jobs throughout her lifetime. She began her career as a clinical dietician for Milwaukee County Hospital and went on to become a full-time mom, part-time clerk at Hallmark, and seasonal packer for the Pleasant Rowland Company. An expert in children’s literature, she worked for four different book stores (Pooh Corner, Highsmith Education Station, UBS for Kids, and Borders) and passed on her love of books and reading to countless people. Mary shared her time with several volunteer organizations and was always searching for the perfect match with donating needed items to the right people. She was an avid gardener, talented seamstress, and baker of delicious treats.

Most of all, Mary fiercely loved her family. She was a wonderful wife and mother, offering unending love and support in everyone’s careers and activities. She helped raise her grandchildren, whom she adored, and always had books on hold for them at the library. Mary devoted herself to making each person feel special and making every holiday feel magical.

Mary is survived by her husband of 49 years, Earl; siblings, Robert and Teresa; children, Christina, Elizabeth, and David; grandchildren, Madeline and Victoria; and many good friends. She was a quiet soul who showed kindness and fairness to all people and will be greatly missed. In Mom’s words, “Love you always.”

A family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to one of the following organizations she held dear: Agrace HospiceCare, Olbrich Botanical Gardens, River Food Pantry, RSVP of Dane County, and St. Vincent de Paul. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761

Mary Louise Updike

October 17, 1946 - September 29, 2022

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