Mary Ann Maruska, 97

Mary Ann Maruska, age 97, of Lonsdale, formerly of New Prague, passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at The Villages of Lonsdale.  Mary Ann was born on September 15, 1926, on the family farm in Wheatland Township, Rice County, Minnesota to Ben A. and Anna M. (Schoenbauer) Barta.  The first of six children, she attended country school, Immaculate Conception School and St. Wenceslaus School.  She married Edward J. Maruska on September 25, 1945, at Immaculate Conception Church in Lonsdale and farmed in Helena Township, Scott County, where they raised their family.

Mary Ann enjoyed reading, baking, and spent many hours quilting with the St. Wenceslaus quilters. She was recognized by the Minnesota State Knights of Columbus Auxiliary for her service to the auxiliary, church and community. Mary Ann was a caring, helping role model in the community and was well known and loved by many.  She volunteered at St. Wenceslaus with numerous groups and committees. She was also active with the Catholic Workman Fraternal organization.

Mary Ann worked at Queen of Peace Hospital for many years as Assistant Supervisor in the dietary department.

Mary Ann’s highest priority was spending time with her 26 grandchildren and 54 great-grandchildren.

Mary Ann is survived by: children, Pat (Dr. Bill) O’Neill-Scheidt of New Prague, Larry (Kristi) Maruska of Madison Lake, Jack (Sheree) Maruska of Northfield, Barb Maruska (Scott Werner) of Minneapolis, Carol (Arv) Olson of New Prague, Margaret (Dr. Dave) Perry of Appleton, Wisc. and Paul (JoAnne) Maruska of New Prague; sister, Ann (Marvin) Schaak of New Prague; daughter-in-law, Ginny Maruska of California; son-in-law, John (Janice) Henggeler of Kansas City, KS.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Edward on August 15, 2002; son Edd, daughter Kathy Henggeler, and baby boy; also by her parents, and siblings Stanley Barta, Angela Havlicek, Benjamin T. Barta, and Adeline Barta (Mary Ann’s twin).

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 10 a.m., St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Eugene Theisen officiating. Visitation will take place at Bruzek Funeral Home Friday, from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, from 7:30- 9:30 a.m. at Bruzek Funeral Home, New Prague.

Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the KC Hall.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to an organization of your choice.

bruzekfuneralhome.com